5 Must-Visit Tanzania Safari Destinations: Tanzania is one of the most popular safari destinations on the planet and home to the world – renowned Serengeti National Park, location of the Great Wildebeest Migration. This annual natural phenomenon provides wildlife photographers with excellent opportunities to capture the scenes of over 1.5 million ungulates, zebras, and other herbivores crossing the plains.
The wildlife action doesn’t end there though, the country is also home to the iconic Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino), as well as cheetahs, giraffes, and hippos.
The Ngorongoro Crater is another bucket-list destination in Tanzania. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a volcanic caldera teeming with wildlife and a prime spot for capturing stunning images against the backdrops of the crater walls.
There is no shortage of professional guides in Tanzania. They are well-versed in what makes a great photographic safari experience and will lead you to best locations with their expert knowledge and guidance.
For wildlife enthusiasts, Tanzania offers photographers off-the-beaten adventures like chimpanzee trekking in Mahale Mountains National Park or exploring the remote wilderness of Selous Game Reserve by boat.
If you are looking for a fresh perspective, take on a hot air balloon safaris offering the perfect way to capture dawn’s golden light spreading over the savannah below you.
Here are our Top 5 Must-Visit Tanzania Safari Destinations:
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Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro is a majestic symbol of Africa offering a treasure trove of photographic opportunities and Mount Climbing opportunities for all levels of photographers as well as mountain climbers. Beyond capturing images of the snow-capped peaks towering above the African plains, photographic enthusiasts will have plenty to shoot on their trek to the summit – lush forests, alpine meadows, and unique fauna and flora. So there is always something to capture with your camera.
Capturing the sunrise or sunset from Kilimanjaro’s peak is guaranteed to deliver exceptional shots, and despite climate change, the mountain still boasts icefields and glaciers on its highest slopes.
For those keen to home their skills while visiting the mountain, some safari operators offer photographic workshops and guided expeditions to the summit.
Mount Kilimanjaro is surrounded by diverse cultures, such as the Chagga people, who inhabit the foothills of the mountain. Visit them to capture their customs and traditions.
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Ngorongoro Crater
With its steep crater walls enclosing a vast and fertile caldera, Ngorongoro Crater is a natural wonder and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wildlife and landscape photographers will have a wide range of settings to explore from its open grasslands to dense forests and shimmering lakes.
Expect magnificent views from the rim.
Ngorongoro Crater supports a dense wildlife population, including the Big Five and ample sightings. With over 500 bird species recorded, Ngorongoro is also a haven for avian photographers.
The crater is easily accessible from Arusha and Moshi, Tanzania’s major cities. Thanks to its proximity to popular safari destinations such as Tarangire National Park and the Serengeti a convenient stop for photographers exploring northern Tanzania.
Professional guides in the area provide tourists as well as photographers with expert knowledge and know exactly where to go to spot iconic game and other interesting photographic opportunities.
While in Ngorongoro area, visit the local Maasai people to capture their rich cultural heritage.
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Mafia Beach
Situated on Mafia Island, Mafia Beach is a picture-perfect beach with warm and crystal – clear waters.
Relatively undeveloped and off the beaten path, this stretch of coastline offers visiting photographers a slice of paradise complete with palm-fringed shores and epic sunrises and sunsets.
Mafia Island is one of the best places in the world to encounter Whale Sharks, the rich surrounding marine biodiversity includes vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, sea turtles, and dolphins – the perfect subjects to shoot while scuba diving or snorkeling.
Mafia Island is home to over 160 bird species, ideal for avian photographers looking to capture birds like sea eagles, herons and flamingoes. The island’s extensive mangrove forests can be explored by boat or kayak, offering a window into the world of these unique ecosystems.
Known for its laid-back and peaceful atmosphere, Mafia Island locals include the indigenous Chole people and Swahili Communities, and islander life.
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Serengeti National Park
Home to the Great Wildebeest Migration and the Big Five, Serengeti National Park offers all the action of this annual phenomenon, including dramatic river crossing and horrifying predator – prey interactions.
While the Wildebeest Migration is the major drawcard, the park is worth visiting all year round for its diverse array of wildlife, including iconic species such as the Big Five, cheetahs, giraffes, and hyenas. Sweeping vistas, acacia – dotted plains, and rocky outcrops provide stunning backdrops, especially at sunrise and sunset.
With over 500 bird species recorded, the park is a paradise for avian photographers looking to capture anything from raptors to tiny, colorful songbirds.
Serengeti professional guides offer expert guidance, ensuring visiting photographers have the best opportunities to capture exceptional images.
For those interested in local culture, head to traditional Maasai Village to capture ceremonies, dances, and ancient customs, or get above it all on a hot air balloon safari at dawn.
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Lake Manyara National Park
Despite being one of Tanzania’s smaller parks, Lake Manyara National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, numerous bird species, and the rare tree climbing lions.
The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its lush ground water forests and acacia woodlands to grassy plains and Lake Manyara itself, provide photographers with a wide range of scenic backdrops. These habitats support a rich avian biodiversity with over 400 species recorded.
Lake Manyara National Park is situated in the heart of Maasai Country, giving photographers the opportunity to document traditional village life and vibrant local customs and culture.
Game drives in Lake Manyara National Park are led by professional guides who help photographers locate wildlife and other interesting photographic opportunities and, with fewer crowds than other parks, the atmosphere is more intimate.
Planning a Tanzania Safari or a Photographic Safari in Tanzania doesn’t need to be complicated. Speak to a safari expert at Explore Eco Safaris Today to start planning your tailor-made Tanzania Safari.
