Tanzania Luxury Safaris

Tanzania luxury safaris

When it comes to luxury safaris and tours, Tanzania definitely knows how to it. The East African country is full of gems, not only about natural sites and landscapes but also in terms of luxury infrastructures. Game-drives in the savannahs, wilderness, stunning wildlife and birdlife remote forests, mountains, silent lakes, white-sand beaches… Tanzania has them all! Do you want to treat yourself or your beloved ones with a luxury experience? Do you plan to go on a honeymoon and want the best to make it even more special and memorable? Do you want to experience a safari differently? No matter the reason, Tanzania should for sure comes to your mind when you are planning luxury holidays/safaris. Because of its authenticity, diversity and beauty, the country is a jewel in Africa’s top safari destinations.

Because we, at Laba Africa Expeditions, understand that organising a luxury tour requires professionalism, trust, high standards and an impeccable service, we have summarised some valuable information to give you an overview of the possibilities for a luxury safari. Of course, our team remains at your disposition for a tailor-made tour and more personalised recommendations. Kindly get in touch with us through WhatsApp or Email so that we can better understand your expectations and design the luxury safari of your dreams. 

Our favourite luxury places & when to go there

Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park is well known for climbing lions, its lake and pink flamingos. The park also has one of Tanzania’s biggest elephant population and stunning scenery. Lake Manyara NP is located in the northern part of the country, about 120 kilometres west from Arusha. The area of the park is around 330 square kilometres, and the lake occupies two third of it. The wildlife that can be found there is very diverse: plenty of elephants, hippos, climbing lions, a large number of birds including flamingos, wildebeests, many giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, impalas, waterbucks and warthogs. If you are lucky, you might even spot a kirk’s dik dik or a klipspringer. The road circuit for game drives can be explored in 3-4 hours. Besides game drives, the tree-top canopy walk is a good option to observe the wildlife.

When to go to Lake Manyara National Park?

The observation of wildlife in Lake Manyara is good all year. However, the best time remains the dry season, from late June to October-November. On the other hand, the park is more scenic during the wet season, from November to May, because the vegetation is lusher and the waterfalls more powerful.

Serengeti National Park

The Serengeti National Park is one of the most famous (if not the most famous) park in Africa. It is also the oldest park in Tanzania and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With classic African scenery, it is home to the spectacular great migration, when 2 million wildebeest, zebra and gazelle migrate from Serengeti to the Masai Mara Reserve (Kenya). It also offers a top wildlife viewing through the year and endless plains. Not only the Big 5 can be spotted here, but also the major safari animals as they are in great numbers.

When to go to Serengeti National Park

The best time to go to Serengeti National Park is between late June to October, when it is the dry season. This time offers the best wildlife viewing, with the wildebeest migration as an absolute highlight. The exact timing of the migration changes every year. The wildebeest calving occurs from late January to February. If the wildlife viewing is good all year round, certain areas of the park are specifically better at specific times. The low season is April-May.

Ngorongoro Crater

Visiting the Ngorongoro Crater is a lifetime experience, thanks to the density and the variety of the wildlife, the beauty of the scenery and the uniqueness of the park. Many tourists who experience the Ngorongoro Crater have the chance to see the Big 5 in one day! The crater wall is pretty impressive, with its 600 meters (1’968 feet) high. The crater also offers the opportunity to spot black rhinos.

Best time to visit Ngorongoro Crater

Every month of the year is the best time to go to Ngorongoro Crater! The wildlife viewing is amazing through the year. The grass on the crater floor is shorter during the dry season (from June to September), which makes it a bit easier to spot the animals. During the wet season (November to May), the landscapes are lusher.

Nyerere National Park (Selous National Reserve)

The former name of the Nyerere National Park is Selous Game Reserve. Located in the Eastern part of the country, Nyerere is the largest park in Tanzania – its size is twice the size of Switzerland. The Rufiji River and the numerous lakes attract many animals during the dry season. The waters are also home to hippos and crocodiles, and the birdlife is amazing. The park offers the chance to view the wildlife through game drives, but also through boat and walking safaris. Lions can easily be spotted at the lake shores. Also, Nyerere offers the opportunity to encounter wild dogs.

Best Time To Visit Nyerere National Park

The best time to go to Nyerere National Park is from late June to October, as it is the dry season and animals come to the park’s water. The vegetation is also thinner, making the wildlife spotting easier. Many lodges of the park are closed during low season (from March to May). March and April are also the wetter months.

Tarangire National Park

With an area of 2’600 square kilometres, Tarangire National Park is the 6^th largest park in Tanzania. Despite not being the biggest or the most famous, this is one of our favourites at Laba Africa Expeditions! Tarangire is famous for its mini-wildlife migration, with around 250’000 animals entering the park during the dry season. It is also home to large elephant herds. Tarangire is a great alternative to Serengeti and Ngorongoro if you are looking for a less crowded experience. The park offers an exclusive chance to admire authentic African scenery and wildlife away from the crowds, which makes the wilderness even more wild.

Best Time To Visit Tarangire National Park

The best time to go to Tarangire National Park is from late June to October-November, because it is the dry season. Most animals migrate outside the park during the wet season, making the observation of the wildlife less productive.

Zanzibar

Located in the Indian Ocean, the archipelago offers beautiful tropical islands, white sand beaches, lush palm trees, azure water, beautiful Arabic architecture, unique atmosphere and beautiful seabed. Zanzibar Archipelago is a semi-autonomous island located around 30 km off the East coast of Tanzania, North of Dar Es Salaam. The most famous islands include Pemba Island, Unguja Island (known as Zanzibar Island) and Mafia Island. Zanzibar is a perfect destination to end our wild safari with some relaxing days in a paradisiac environment.

Best Time To Visit Zanzibar

The climate is hot all year round, but you should avoid April, May and November because of the monsoon.

Mount Kilimanjaro

Tanzania is not all about game-viewing in the savannahs. The country also offers a chance to hike the highest mountain in Africa and one of the Seven Summits. Kilimanjaro peaks at 5’895 meters (10’341 feet) and is a snow-capped mountain, despite being a dormant volcano. It is located in the Kilimanjaro National Park. The hike is accessible for almost anyone that has the determination the reach the top! All children from 10 years old and older generations are welcome to take the challenge.

Best Time to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro

The best months to climb Kilimanjaro are from January through early March and also from June to October. Because the skies are clearer during these periods, the chances to enjoy greater views and clear sunshine are higher. The hiking should also be more comfortable, even if weather conditions can change dramatically regardless of the season.

Our Favourite lodges for Tanzania Luxury Safaris

• Hot air ballooning over Serengeti National Park
• Candle lights fine dinner in the bush
• Sunset sailing tour in Zanzibar to watch the sunset while sipping some champagne
• Flying safari in a helicopter or small airplane – a unique way of observing the great wildebeest migration
• Romantic dinner on the beach in Pemba Island
• Outdoor massages with stunning wilderness views
• Swimming with the dolphins in the Zanzibar Archipelago
• An exclusive cultural encounter and traditional experience with the Masai tribes
• A Tanzania luxury tour during the Great Wildebeest Migrations – definitely a must on your bucket list!

When is the best time for a Tanzania luxury safaris?

Overall, the best time for a luxury safari in Tanzania is in June, July, August, September or October.

What is the typical weather in Tanzania?

The climate in Tanzania is tropical. You should expect hot and quite humid days, with cooler nights. The west season, from March to May, is characterized by heavy rainfalls. Light rains usually occur from October to January. During the dry season (June to October), the temperatures can be very high and the sun strong – pack your sunscreen! In the high mountainous areas, such as Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Mero, the temperatures can fall below 0, even during the day.

How much can a Tanzania luxury safaris cost?

The cost of your dream Tanzanian safari shall vary a lot according to the lodges, the activities and the number of domestic flights. On average, you can expect a Tanzania luxury safari to cost around 1’000 USD per person and per day minimum, including a luxury lodge, the meals and game drives. In comparison, a Tanzania budget safari costs around 250 USD per person and per day minimum. Tanzania mid-range safari starts from around 400 USD per person per day.

An air balloon safari in Serengeti costs around 600 USD.

A luxury Kilimanjaro safari usually costs between 800 USD to 1’300 USD per person (compared to 450-600 USD per person for a budget Kilimanjaro safari).

Some facts about Tanzania

Official name: United Republic of Tanzania

Capital city: Dodoma

Largest city: Dar es Salaam

Currency: Tanzanian shilling (1 USD = 2’300 TSH approximately)

Population: more than 61 million (2021 estimation)

Official languages: Swahili and English

Ethnic groups: over 100 ethnic groups

Area: 947’303 square kilometres (365’756 square miles)

President: Samia Suluhu (since March 2021)

Main religions: Christianity (63%), Islam (34%)

Tourist visa: 50 USD – prior arrival, application online, valid for 90 days

What is a Tanzania Fly-in Safari?

A fly-in luxury Tanzania safari involves flying between the national parks and/or beach destinations. Using light aircrafts for your transfers has the advantage of saving your precious time, so that you can optimise the discoveries; it allows you to discover more during your holidays. It is also more comfortable than driving transfers, as it will save you from struggling with dusty and potholed roads. 

The planes used for fly-in safari can be small planes with 20-40 seats, or exclusive 2-4 private jets. Helicopters can be an alternative, even if they are usually used for scenic flights and not transfer flights.

Fly-in safaris usually start where you lend with your international flight. Once the small plane drops you off at a local airstrip, expect to be welcomed by a lodge representative.

26 airports are located in Tanzanian mainland and 2 in the Zanzibar archipelago. There are also 12 airstrips. Together, they connect the most touristic destinations.

Our selection of the top luxury lodges

Amazing views, prestigious locations, gourmet food, elegant furnishing and exclusive service are key elements of the Tanzania’s luxury lodges. Laba Africa Expeditions has selected for you some of the most luxurious lodges for once in a lifetime experience.

Serengeti National Park – &Beyond Klein’s Camp

Location: Serengeti National Park (close to Kenyan border)

Highlights: Safari game drives to observe the Big 5, Bird Watching, Masai tribes, Bush walks adventure, Fine dining

Accommodation: Luxurious or Family cottages, private butler, welcoming child policy, interactive activities to discover new experiences and cultures

Amenities: Lodge pool, in-room massages, reliable WIFI, complimentary binoculars

Price from: From 850 USD per person per night (sharing)  

How to get there: Flight from Arusha to Lobo airstrip, then 1.5 – 2 hour drive to the camp (with scenic views)

 

Singita Sabora Tented Camp- Serengeti National Park

Location: Serengeti National Park (Grumeti Reserve)

Highlights: Great Wildebeest Migration, safari game drives to observe the Big 5, front-row seat to one of the most prized game reserves, tailored services.

Accommodation: Nine self-contained suites with private pantries, mediation deck, dining and fitness areas. Also views across Serengeti plains.

Amenities: Swimming pool, wellness and fitness centre, complimentary WIFI, laundry service

Price from: From 1’820 USD per person per night (full board, including twice-daily game drives and transfers from/to Sasakwa airstrip)

How to get there: Flight from Arusha or Kilimanjaro to Singita Sasakwa airstrip (approximately 1 hour). By road, from Arusha (around 7 hours) or Kilimanjaro (around 8 hours)  

Singita Faru Faru Lodge Serengeti

Location: Serengeti National Park (alongside Grumeti River)

Highlights: 350’000-acre private reserve in northern Tanzania, game drives, community visits, guided walking safaris, anti-poaching observation visit

Accommodation: 7 suites, 1 family suite and 1 2-bedroom suite with private pool, mix of contemporary, organic and traditional style, vast outdoor decks,

Amenities: Swimming pool, wellness and fitness centre, complimentary WIFI, laundry service

Price from: From 1’820 USD per person per night (full board, including twice-daily game drives and transfers from/to Sasakwa airstrip)

How to get there: Flight from Arusha or Kilimanjaro to Singita Sasakwa airstrip (approximately 1 hour). By road, from Arusha (around 7 hours) or Kilimanjaro (around 8 hours) 

&Beyond Lake Manyara Tree House

Location: Lake Manyara National Park (Mahogany Forest)

Highlights: Tranquillity, tree-climbing lions, seasonal flamingos, night game drives, community cycling tours

Accommodation: Tree-house or Family suites, interactive activities to discover new cultures and experiences, private butler, complimentary laundry service

Amenities: Spa, lodge pool, reliable wifi, complimentary binoculars

Price from: From 875 USD per person per night (sharing)

How to get there: Flight from Arusha Airport or from Dar es Salaam to Lake Manyara Airstrip, then a scenic 3.5 hour drive to the lodge (through the National Park)  

Nyerere National Park – The Retreat Selous

Location: Nyerere National Park (Selous Game Reserve)

Highlights: Remote bush lands (complete seclusion), largest wildlife sanctuary in Africa, untouched wilderness, bird watching, fly camping (sleeping under the stars in a transparent tent), game drives, boat and walking safaris,

Accommodation: 11 spacious tented suites that blend with the surrounding habitat, striking views, window into the wildlife, privacy between the suites

Amenities: Spa, infinity pool, sunset bar, bush dining,  

Price from: From 775 USD per person per night (including full game package)

How to get there: Flight from Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Ruaha or Zanzibar to Sumbazi Airstrip, then a 30 minutes drive to the lodge (through the National Park) 

Ngorongoro Conservation area – The Highlands

Location: Ngorongoro Conservation area

Highlights: Crater walk or climb, safari game drive, soda lake, cultural visits

Accommodation: 8 domed canvas and glass suites on the edge of a forest that skirts Olmoti Volcano, en-suite bathrooms, hot-water showers, in-room wood burning stove, solar and generator power

Amenities: Cosy lounge area with stove, fine dining area with stunning view, bar and lookout deck

Price from: From 1’170 USD for a double room (2 people) for full-board and including house drinks, transfers cultural visit and game drives.

How to get there: Flight from Arusha Airport to Lake Manyara Airstrip, then 3 hours drive to the camp

Ngorongoro Crater – &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge

Location: Ngorongoro Crater

Highlights: Safari game drive, cultural interactions with the tribes, walks and hikes, crater floor dining, interaction with the Kopelion Conservation Team

Accommodation: 30 luxurious suites, family suites, private butler

Amenities: In-room massage, wine store, reliable WIFI, complementary binoculars

Price from: From 1’160 USD per person per night

How to get there: Flight from Arusha Airport to Lake Manyara Airstrip, then a scenic 1.5 hour drive to the lodge (in a game viewing vehicle to enjoy the wildlife) 

Tarangire National Park – Elewana Tarangire Treetops

Location: Tarangire National Park

Highlights: Game drives, night drives, guided bushwalks, bush meals and sundowners, cultural visits, romantic private diner, best elephants viewing location

Accommodation: 20 luxury tented rooms on elevated platforms, stunning views.

Amenities: Swimming pool, WIFI, laundry, motorised buggy for transport to/from the rooms

Price from: From 984 USD per night for a single room and 1’310 USD for a double room (full board)

How to get there: Flight from Arusha Airport to Kuro Airstrip (20 minutes) or drive from Arusha (2.5 hours).  

Zanzibar Island – Baraza Resort & Spa

Location: Zanzibar Island – along the Bwejuu – Paje Beach

Highlights: One of the best beaches in the world, romantic dinners on the beach, Swahili cultural cooking classes, under water activities (including scuba diving with PADI certified dive center), beach activities (kide surfing, wind surfing, kayaking, etc.), relaxing on the beach

Accommodation: Fully inclusive 30 villas with a fusion of Arabic, Swahili and Indian design. Beach front villas with large terrace and plunge pool.

Amenities: Spa, bar and lounge, diverse dining options, fitness centre, tennis court

Price from: From 1’300 USD per night for a double beach front villa, all inclusive

How to get there: Flight to Zanzibar International Airport (connected with many different companies) and then 1 hour drive on an excellent tarmac road (transfer can be arranged by the lodge). 

Pemba Island – The Aiyana Resort & Spa

Location: Pemba Island

Highlights: Tranquillity, simplicity, pristine beach, fine dining, diving, beach activities, fishing with a traditional Galawa boat, deep see fishing, sunset cruise, whales watching

Accommodation: 30 intimate and special villas

Amenities: Spa, bar and lounge, gourmet restaurant, pool

Price from: From 610 USD per night for a beach villa (2 adults and 2 children under 12 years old), half board

How to get there: Flight from Arusha, Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar to Pemba Airport (a ferry is also possible but less advisable for safety reason)

Pemba Island – The Manta Resort

Location: Pemba Island

Highlights: Underwater room, fishes viewing, diving, pristine water and beautiful beach

Accommodation: Floating underwater luxury rooms with bathroom and sun tanning bed

Amenities: Spa, pool, beach bar, elevated terrace, fine restaurant

Price from: From 1’840 USD per night for a double underwater room (minimum stay of 3 nights)

How to get there: Flight from Arusha, Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar to Pemba Airport (a ferry is also possible but less advisable for safety reason).