Renowned for its big game sightings, Tanzania has to be a priority on any safari enthusiasts list. Whilst you may have to stick to the tracks in the national parks, Tanzania is home to not only the world renowned wildebeest migration, but also a host of other lesser known attractions which we have outlined below for your ease of reference. Tanzania is a unique destination in its own rights, it also combines perfectly with the landlocked destination of Rwanda and an opportunity to track the breath-taking endangered mountain gorillas.

Follow the migration

One on every safari goers to do list, the great wildebeest migration of Tanzania is truly a once in a lifetime experience. This ‘moveable feast’ migrates around both Kenya and Tanzania following the rains as the fresh grass sprouts and the pastures make for the best grazing grounds. With wildebeest and zebras, there are always predators in tow – the months of July, August and September see some dramatic crossings as the herds cross the Grumeti and Mara Rivers making their way northward, attempting to avoid the gaping jaws of the Nile crocodiles along the way. The months of January and February see the herds return south to give birth on the lush plains of Ndutu; the young zebra and wildebeest calves make for the perfect feast for the big cats of the southern Serengeti plains…

• Best time to go: January, February, July, August and September
• Location: Serengeti National Park

Simply put, there is no better place to track chimpanzees in the world than the stunning Mahale Mountains National Park of western Tanzania. Dropping down to the lake shore itself and affording views across to the fractious DRC, your time is spent in the luxurious clutches of the beautiful Greystoke Camp. From here you set out early every morning into the forested slopes in search of the cheeky chimps of Mahale. Spending time with these elusive apes is truly the treat of a lifetime as they play, hunt, eat and groom, Mahale provides a unique experience replicated nowhere else on the continent.

• Best time to go: year round, except between March 15 and May 15
• Location: Mahale Mountain National Park
• Suggested accommodation: Mahale Greystoke Camp

If it’s true wilderness you want, then head south to the parks of Ruaha and the Selous. These areas provide you with the peace, quiet and wilderness that you will not experience on the northern circuit. In these parks you can enjoy walking safaris, boat rides, fly camping and more. Maybe not for the first time safari-goer, these parks offer you something a little bit out of the ordinary enjoying luxurious accommodation in a true African wilderness.

Locations: Selous Game Reserve and Ruaha National Park

We argue about this in the office still – should you send people to the Crater? In my opinion yes you should, as long as you do it in the right way. You must be up early and on the Crater rim ready to go down for the day as early as possible, if not, be prepared to join the crowds! The Crater has to be one of the wonders of the world, a truly stunning natural phenomenon and home to some world class game. This natural amphitheatre provides the perfect grazing ground for some huge tusker elephants, rhino, buffalo and some healthy big cats as well. Whilst you do not want to spend more than a night or two here, if you haven’t seen it before then the Crater is a must.

Best time to go: the wildlife is there year round, July to September is the dry season, and December to February is calving season, so expect high visitor numbers. April to May rainy season is often considered the best time, however it depends on what you want from your safari.

Location: Ngorongoro Crater

Right, we agree this may not be for everyone, however if you have the energy then climbing the highest mountain in Africa is a must. Touching almost 6,000m climbing Mt Kilimanjaro is roughly a 7 day adventure and one that you will definitely need to build in some time off afterwards. We can cater for both small group and private trips and for those that want a bit more comfort we can provide all the frills that you need! The best way to wind down following your climb is by heading to the coast or even the tropical island retreat of Zanzibar where you can sit back, relax and reminisce over the adventures of the last day or so.

Location: Mount Kilimanjaro
Time to climb to the summit: allow at least 5 days
Difficulty: there is a number of routes available to suit different difficulty levels. Get in touch for details
Best time to go: it is clearest and driest from December to February July to September is also a good time, but it is a little colder.

Even if you are afraid of heights, this is worth treating yourself. Don’t book on this assuming you are going to see much game as that is truly not the point. Yes, you will see some wildlife, however a hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti is all about experiencing the size and magnificence of the endless plains of Serengeti National Park. As the sun rises, your balloon takes flight over the African bush and drifts through the silent skies. Coming down to land an hour or so later, you are greeted by a welcome glass of champagne and a heart-warming bush breakfast, something truly special to remember.

Location: Serengeti National Park