Go Off The Beaten Path On Safari In Tanzania This Year

When it comes to Tanzania, the African nation is renowned for the Ngorongoro Crater, the Serengeti and the Great Wildebeest Migration. However, for those seeking a quieter safari adventure without the crowds, Tanzania offers off-the-beaten-path safari options, some of which are fly-in only. Read on to find out about the alternative options and what can be expected while there.

Lake Manyara National Park

Travel across the Great Rift Valley to visit Lake Manyara National Park. Here, there are forests of mahogany, giant fig and acacia trees, surrounded by gorgeous scenery.

Meanwhile, among the trees, a large number of blue monkeys are usually hanging around, along with giraffes, elephants, buffaloes and impalas. In the water of the lake itself, spot the comical hippos, as they splash around.

The park is also known for many bird species, including the crested eagle, flamingos and the ground hornbill, making it the perfect place for birders. Moreover, one unique aspect of Lake Manyara National Park is the famous, tree-climbing lions. In fact, this is one of the best locations for safari photography, with many great images to take home.

Mahale Mountains National Park, Tanzania

This national park lies in the Great Rift Valley and is only accessible by air or boat, making it a quieter destination for a safari. Mahale Mountains National Park lies on the shores of the second-largest lake in the world, Lake Tanganyika. In the lake, there are around 500 different fish species.

Meanwhile, the park is home to a lush rainforest that hosts many chimpanzees, making it the ideal place to go chimpanzee trekking to spot the animals and their families. Moreover, many colorful butterflies can be seen in the rainforest along with many species of birds. The park is also a lovely place to stay, especially Kigoma, which lies on the lakeshore. From there it is possible to also visit the Gombe Stream National Park.

Tanzania and the South Central Region

In this region, the Selous Game Reserve hosts vast numbers of the most iconic wildlife, including the famous Big Five. The reserve hosts the greatest population of lions, elephants, buffalo and hippos in Africa. It is also worthwhile to visit the Ruaha National Park, which is considered to be Tanzania’s best-kept secret.

Ruaha is a fly-in destination where visitors can spend time in one of the tented camps or riverside lodges which offer comfort and great hospitality. Moreover, the park is bordered by the Great Ruaha River where large herds of elephants can be seen, as well as leopards, cheetahs and lions.

Tarangire National Park

Last, but not least, we briefly explore Tarangire National Park, which is renowned for its diverse landscape. Here, the landscape reveals ancient baobab trees, standing proud on the plains.

Meanwhile, the river in the park attracts a large variety of wildlife, including giraffes, antelopes, leopards, buffaloes and lions, as well as many elephant families.

Here, visitors can relax in an observatory area, watching the wildlife heading to the river for a cooling drink. Alternatively, take a game drive to explore more of the park and its inhabitants.

Enjoy a quieter safari in lovely Tanzania, visiting some of the best, wildlife-packed safari destinations in the world. Find out more on Tanzania’s official tourism website.