Tanzania Safaris from Zanzibar – Unforgettable Wildlife Adventures

 All Tanzania safari from Zanzibar, Zanzibar’s white sandy beaches and turquoise waters make it a perfect getaway, but for those seeking wildlife adventures, a safari from Zanzibar to mainland Tanzania is an experience like no other. Whether you’re looking for a short day trip or an extended multi-day safari, you can explore some of Africa’s most famous national parks.

Best Safari Destinations from Zanzibar

🦁 Serengeti National Park – Famous for the Great Migration and home to the Big Five. A fly-in safari offers a chance to witness nature’s most spectacular event.

🐘 Ngorongoro Crater – A natural wonder with stunning landscapes and an abundance of wildlife, including black rhinos, elephants, and lions.

🐊 Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park) – A short flight from Zanzibar, perfect for a one-day safari. Offers boat safaris, walking safaris, and classic game drives.

🦓 Tarangire National Park – Known for huge elephant herds, baobab trees, and diverse wildlife. A great option for a 3-day safari from Zanzibar.

🐆 Mikumi National Park – A hidden gem and one of the best budget safari options from Zanzibar. Easily accessible by flight or ferry via Dar es Salaam.

🦏 Ruaha National Park – A remote and wild safari destination, home to large predators and diverse bird species. Ideal for those wanting an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Types of Safaris from Zanzibar

✈️ Fly-in Safaris – Save time by flying directly to Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Selous, or other parks.
🚙 Road Safaris – For budget travelers, take a ferry to Dar es Salaam and drive to parks like Mikumi.
🦁 Day Trips – Quick getaways to Selous or Mikumi for a short but fulfilling safari experience.
🏕️ Luxury & Budget Options – Choose between luxury lodges, mid-range camps, or budget tented safaris.

Plan your Tanzania safari from Zanzibar today and experience the best of the wild. 

Dar es Salaam City Center: Walking Tour

Dar es Salaam City Center: Walking Tour, Discover the vibrant heart of Dar es Salaam on a guided walking tour that showcases the city’s cultural and historical gems. Begin your journey at St. Joseph Cathedral, an architectural marvel built during the German colonial era. Wander past the Askari Monument, a tribute to African soldiers who fought during World War I, and immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Kivukoni Fish Market, where fishermen display their fresh catch of the day.

Stroll through the serene Botanical Garden, a green oasis in the midst of the city, and visit the Old Boma, one of Dar es Salaam’s oldest buildings, reflecting the city’s colonial past. The tour offers flexibility and can be customized to include additional sites based on your interests.

Contact Ways African Safaris to plan your personalized walking experience and explore the unique charm of Dar es Salaam at your own pace.

Last-Minute Safaris: Tanzania Safari Adventures

Last-Minute Safaris: Tanzania Safari Adventures, Looking for a quick getaway to experience the thrill of Tanzania’s wildlife? Our last-minute safari packages offer an exciting 2-day adventure from Zanzibar, perfect for those seeking a spontaneous yet unforgettable experience. With one overnight stay at a comfortable camp lodge in Mikumi National Park, this safari combines convenience, comfort, and the best of Tanzania’s natural beauty.

Your journey begins with a short, early morning flight from Zanzibar to Mikumi National Park, saving valuable time and maximizing your wildlife exploration. Upon arrival, you’ll dive straight into the heart of the park with a thrilling game drive, where you can spot lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and other iconic wildlife in their natural habitat. After a day filled with adventure, you’ll unwind at the lodge, surrounded by the serene beauty of the African wilderness.

The second day includes an early morning game drive, offering another opportunity to explore Mikumi’s diverse landscapes and encounter more wildlife before your return flight to Zanzibar. This last-minute safari is ideal for travelers with tight schedules who don’t want to miss the chance to experience Tanzania’s legendary wildlife.

Whether you’re visiting Zanzibar or looking to add an exciting twist to your vacation, this 2-day safari is a hassle-free and memorable way to experience the magic of Tanzania’s southern circuit. Book your last-minute adventure today. 

Ways African Tanzania Safari: Unforgettable African Adventures

Ways African Tanzania Safari: Unforgettable African Adventures, Ways African Tanzania Safari offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of Africa’s most iconic and diverse destinations. Whether you’re captivated by the vast savannahs of the Serengeti, the wildlife-filled Ngorongoro Crater, or the pristine beaches and culture of Zanzibar, Tanzania guarantees an unforgettable adventure. Our carefully crafted safari packages are designed to immerse you in the region’s rich landscapes and wildlife.

From game drives in world-renowned parks like Serengeti and Tarangire, where you’ll have the chance to spot the Big Five, to exploring the untouched beauty of Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve), Ways African Tanzania Safari ensures a variety of experiences tailored to your interests. In addition to wildlife safaris, our tours include opportunities for boat rides, walking safaris, and cultural experiences with local communities.

Zanzibar’s pristine beaches and vibrant culture await, offering the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Our knowledgeable guides provide insider insights, ensuring you get the most out of your journey. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned adventurer, Ways African Tanzania Safari is your gateway to the adventure of a lifetime.

Book your dream safari with us and experience the beauty and wildlife of Tanzania in the most memorable way possible!

Mt Oldoinyo Lengai – The Sacred Mountain of God

Mt Oldoinyo Lengai – The Sacred Mountain of God Mt Oldoinyo Lengai, known as the “Mountain of God” by the Maa-speaking Maasai people, is located south of Lake Natron in the Eastern Rift Valley of northern Tanzania. Standing at 2,878 meters above sea level, it is an active volcano renowned globally for its unique natrocarbonatite lava. Unlike typical volcanic lava, natrocarbonatite lava is highly fluid and cooler, making it distinct.

The lava from Mt Oldoinyo Lengai has an intriguing behavior: it is almost devoid of silicon and flows in a way that resembles black oil, but at times, it can appear mud-like. During the rainy season, the lava turns white upon contact with moisture, maintaining its white appearance longer in the dry season. The mountain also experiences explosive eruptions with lava fountains and ash ejections, as seen in the recent eruptions of 1966-1967 and 2007-2008. Typically, Mt Oldoinyo Lengai erupts every seven years, releasing plumes of smoke from its crater.

From the summit, the view is breathtaking. To the north, the barren salt flats of Lake Natron stretch out, with the Kenyan border beyond. To the east, Mt Kilimanjaro dominates the horizon, and to the west, the Great African Rift Valley’s forested escarpments and hills are visible. The Crater Highlands to the south, including the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, are a prime wildlife haven.

The climb to the summit of Mt Oldoinyo Lengai is physically demanding due to the high daytime temperatures (often exceeding 40°C), lack of water, and steep, unstable terrain. An early start is recommended, with the best approach coming from the west, where the sun can be avoided for a while.

This fascinating trek is often combined with Tanzania’s wildlife safari packages. If you’re interested in including Mt Oldoinyo Lengai in your adventure, please let us know. Asante Sana!

Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)

The Selous Game Reserve, rebranded as Nyerere National Park in 2019, is one of Africa’s largest and most pristine wildlife sanctuaries. Located in southern Tanzania, it spans over 30,000 square kilometers, offering diverse ecosystems and an abundance of wildlife. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it provides visitors with an authentic, off-the-beaten-path safari experience.

Wildlife in Selous/Nyerere

The park is home to a rich variety of animals, making it one of the most biodiverse regions in Africa:

• Mammals: Elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and rare African wild dogs.
• Aquatic Life: Hippos and crocodiles thrive in the Rufiji River and surrounding water systems.
• Birds: Over 440 bird species, including fish eagles, herons, bee-eaters, and pelicans.
• Reptiles: Nile crocodiles are commonly spotted along the rivers.

Key Features of Selous/Nyerere

1. Rufiji River System: The largest river in Tanzania, it flows through the park, creating lagoons, sandbanks, and channels perfect for boat safaris.
2. Diverse Landscapes: From savannah plains and miombo woodlands to wetlands and volcanic hot springs, the park boasts varied terrain.
3. Low Tourist Numbers: With fewer visitors compared to northern parks like Serengeti, Selous offers a quieter, more exclusive safari.

Activities in Selous/Nyerere

• Game Drives: Explore vast open plains and woodland in search of Africa’s iconic wildlife.
• Boat Safaris: Cruise along the Rufiji River for close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and thirsty wildlife on the banks.
• Walking Safaris: Guided walking tours offer an up-close look at smaller wildlife, plants, and tracks.
• Birdwatching: Spot an array of bird species in their natural habitats.
• Fishing: Participate in catch-and-release fishing along the Rufiji River.

Best Time to Visit

• Dry Season (June to October): Wildlife congregates around water sources, making it easier to spot animals. The weather is cooler and drier.
• Wet Season (November to May): The landscape becomes lush and green, perfect for birdwatching and spotting newborn animals. However, some roads may become inaccessible.

How to Get There

• By Road: A 6-7 hour drive from Dar es Salaam, passing through scenic rural Tanzania.
• By Air: Regular charter flights are available from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, or Arusha, landing at airstrips within the park.

Why Visit Selous/Nyerere?

• Untouched Wilderness: Experience Africa in its raw, unspoiled state.
• Wide Range of Activities: From traditional game drives to unique boat safaris, there’s something for every type of traveler.
• Rich Biodiversity: Encounter a variety of iconic African species in one location.
• Tranquility: The park’s remote location and fewer tourists make it a peaceful safari destination.

Whether you’re gliding along the Rufiji River or exploring the open savannah on a game drive, Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park) offers an extraordinary safari adventure for nature and wildlife lovers.

Safaris in Tanzania with Ways African Safaris

Safaris in Tanzania, Tanzania is one of Africa’s premier safari destinations, offering an exceptional blend of diverse wildlife, awe-inspiring landscapes, and unique ecosystems. Whether you’re a first-time adventurer or an experienced traveler, Tanzania guarantees an unforgettable safari experience.

Top Safari Destinations in Tanzania

1. Serengeti National Park
   • Witness the incredible Great Migration as millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles traverse the vast plains.
   • Home to the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) alongside cheetahs and hyenas.
2. Ngorongoro Crater
   • A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest intact volcanic caldera in the world.
   • Encounter black rhinos, flamingoes, lions, and hippos in a stunning self-contained ecosystem.
3. Tarangire National Park
   • Famous for its large herds of elephants and majestic baobab trees.
   • A paradise for birdwatchers, featuring over 550 bird species.
4. Lake Manyara National Park
   • Known for tree-climbing lions and vibrant flamingo populations around the alkaline lake.
   • Features a lush forest and an abundance of wildlife like baboons, giraffes, and hippos.
5. Mikumi National Park
   • A tranquil park with abundant wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, and zebras.
   • Its proximity to Dar es Salaam makes it perfect for a short safari getaway.
6. Ruaha National Park
   • Tanzania’s largest national park, with dramatic landscapes and a high predator density.
   • Offers an uncrowded, authentic safari experience.
7. Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)
   • One of the world’s largest protected reserves, ideal for game drives, boat safaris, and walking tours.
   • Spot wild dogs, crocodiles, and hippos.

Safari Activities

• Game Drives: Early morning and evening drives maximize your chances of wildlife sightings.
• Balloon Safaris: Enjoy panoramic views of the Serengeti from above.
• Walking Safaris: Experience nature up close with guided walking tours.
• Cultural Tours: Visit Maasai villages to experience Tanzania’s rich culture.
• Birdwatching: Spot rare and vibrant bird species across Tanzania’s parks.

Best Time to Visit Tanzania for a Safari

• Dry Season (June to October):
  • Ideal for wildlife viewing as animals gather near water sources.
  • Witness the Great Migration and explore Ngorongoro Crater.
• Wet Season (November to May):
  • A lush, green landscape perfect for birdwatching and seeing newborn wildlife during calving season.
  • Fewer crowds create a more intimate safari experience.

Why Choose Ways African Safaris?

• Expertly crafted itineraries tailored to your interests.
• Professional and knowledgeable guides to enhance your experience.
• Exclusive access to some of Tanzania’s most iconic and remote parks.
• A seamless blend of adventure, luxury, and cultural immersion.

Whether you dream of thrilling game drives or serene balloon safaris, Ways African Safaris will help you explore the magic of Tanzania. From world-renowned destinations like Serengeti and Ngorongoro to hidden gems like Mikumi and Ruaha, your journey promises breathtaking scenery, extraordinary wildlife, and unforgettable memories.

What to See in Mikumi National Park

What to See in Mikumi National Park,  National Park, located in southern Tanzania, is renowned for its diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes. As one of the most accessible parks in Tanzania, it offers excellent opportunities for a memorable safari experience. Here’s what you can expect to see during a visit:

1. Large Herbivore Populations

Mikumi is home to a wide variety of herbivores that dominate the park’s plains. Look out for:

• Elephants: These gentle giants are one of the park’s major attractions, with large herds often seen grazing in the open savanna.
• Giraffes: Both Masai and reticulated giraffes roam the park, offering beautiful sightings as they browse the trees.
• Buffaloes: Large herds of buffaloes are frequently spotted in Mikumi’s plains, particularly in the dry season when they gather around water sources.
• Zebras and Wildebeests: These iconic animals are common in Mikumi and provide great photo opportunities as they graze together.
• Impala and Gazelle: These graceful animals can be seen in various parts of the park, often in mixed herds with other antelope species.

2. Big Cats

Mikumi is home to a variety of big cats, though sightings can be more elusive. Keep your eyes peeled for:

• Lions: Though not as commonly seen as in other parks like the Serengeti, lions do inhabit Mikumi and can sometimes be spotted lounging under trees or near waterholes.
• Leopards: Rare but present, leopards can be seen during early morning or late afternoon game drives.
• Cheetahs: Mikumi also provides a good chance to see cheetahs, especially in the open plains where they hunt.

3. Birdlife

Mikumi is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 species of birds recorded. Some notable species include:

• Greater Flamingos: These elegant birds can be spotted around the park’s lakes and marshes.
• Pelicans: Often seen in large numbers, especially near the water.
• Marabou Storks: These distinctive, large birds are common in the park.
• African Fish Eagles: Known for their impressive calls, these birds are a delight for bird enthusiasts.

4. The Mkata Floodplain

The Mkata Floodplain is one of Mikumi’s most famous landscapes. It offers expansive views of the savannah and is a prime location for wildlife sightings. Here, you may encounter:

• Large herds of elephants, zebras, and antelopes.
• Birds, especially around the waterholes and marshes.

5. The Park’s Scenic Beauty

Mikumi also offers stunning natural beauty, from the rolling savanna plains to the distant hills and mountains. The park is bordered by the Uluguru Mountains to the east, which provide a breathtaking backdrop for wildlife photography. The scenic beauty of the park, combined with wildlife sightings, makes Mikumi an ideal location for a peaceful safari experience.

6. Mikumi’s Unique Ecosystems

Mikumi is a mixture of various ecosystems, including grasslands, miombo woodlands, and riverine forests. The park’s diversity in habitats provides a great opportunity to see different types of flora and fauna in one location, from open plains to lush vegetation along the rivers.

Conclusion

Mikumi National Park offers an exciting blend of wildlife, birdlife, and natural beauty. Whether you’re observing elephants in the floodplain, seeking out elusive big cats, or marveling at the park’s landscapes, Mikumi promises a rewarding safari experience.

How to Get to Mikumi National Park

How to Get to Mikumi National Park,  National Park is one of Tanzania’s most accessible wildlife destinations, located about 283 kilometers west of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s commercial capital. It offers a great safari experience without the need for a long journey, making it perfect for short getaways.

By Road

The most common and affordable way to get to Mikumi is by road. The park is easily reachable from Dar es Salaam, which is connected to various parts of Tanzania by well-maintained roads. The drive typically takes around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Visitors can either hire a private vehicle or take a scheduled bus from Dar es Salaam or other nearby towns such as Morogoro. Once you arrive in Mikumi, your safari guide or tour operator will escort you to your accommodation within the park.

By Air

For those with limited time, flying is a quicker option. Mikumi is serviced by a small airstrip, Mikumi Airstrip, located about 5 kilometers from the park entrance. Flights from Dar es Salaam or Arusha can be arranged through private charter companies. Upon arrival at Mikumi Airstrip, a transfer will take you to your accommodation within the park. This option is ideal for travelers looking for a more direct route.

By Train

Another unique way to get to Mikumi is by taking the train from Dar es Salaam to Morogoro. The train journey offers a scenic experience through the Tanzanian countryside. After arriving at the Morogoro Railway Station, it’s a 45-minute drive to Mikumi National Park. While less common, this option provides an adventure-filled journey through rural Tanzania.

Conclusion

Mikumi National Park is easily accessible by road, air, and even rail, making it an excellent choice for a safari adventure in Tanzania. Whether you’re traveling by bus, private vehicle, or even train, the park offers incredible wildlife viewing just a short distance from major Tanzanian hubs like Dar es Salaam.