The Best National Parks In Tanzania: Majestic Wilderness Awaits

Tanzania, a land of awe-inspiring landscapes and abundant wildlife, is home to some of the most remarkable national parks in the world. Nestled in East Africa, this enchanting country offers nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers an unparalleled safari experience. From the iconic Serengeti National Park, where the Great Migration unfolds, to the breathtaking Ngorongoro Conservation Area and beyond, national parks in Tanzania beckon adventurers to immerse themselves in the majesty of the wilderness. 

Join us on an awe-inspiring journey as we unveil the best national parks in Tanzania, inviting you to experience their untamed beauty.

How Many National Parks Are There In Tanzania?

Tanzania is a country blessed with an impressive array of natural wonders, and its national parks are the epitome of this richness. With a diverse range of ecosystems and wildlife habitats, Tanzania proudly boasts a substantial number of national parks. So, how many national parks are there in Tanzania? Let's delve into the answer and discover the abundant natural treasures that await.

Currently, Tanzania is home to a total of 22 national parks, each offering its unique charm and captivating experiences. These national parks serve as havens for a wide range of wildlife species, providing them with safe habitats to thrive and ensuring their long-term survival. Visitors to Tanzania's national parks can witness firsthand the iconic Big Five (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, and rhinoceros) and an incredible diversity of other mammals, birds, reptiles, and plant life.

Wildebeest migration at Serengeti Tanzania Park, Tanzania

List Of National Parks In Tanzania For Wildlife Encounters

When it comes to remarkable wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes, Tanzania stands in a league of its own. Here, we present to you the definitive list of national parks in Tanzania, each offering its unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, captivating wildlife encounters, and unparalleled natural wonders. Prepare to embark on a journey through Tanzania's magnificent national parks and immerse yourself in the wonders of the African wilderness.

Serengeti National Park: Witness the Iconic Great Migration

No discussion about Tanzania's national parks would be complete without mentioning the crown jewel itself, the largest national park in Tanzania, Serengeti National Park. This magnificent park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Africa's rich biodiversity. Serengeti, which translates to "endless plains" in the Maasai language, perfectly describes the vastness and beauty that await visitors.

Serengeti National Park is renowned for hosting the annual Great Migration, an awe-inspiring natural phenomenon where millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles traverse the vast savannah plains in search of fresh grazing. This breathtaking spectacle of life and survival unfolds before your eyes, leaving you in awe of nature's grandeur. But the Serengeti is not only about the Great Migration. You'll also have the opportunity to encounter a diverse array of predators, including lions, leopards, elephants, and giraffes. Embark on exhilarating game drives or take to the skies in a hot air balloon safari for an unforgettable experience in this iconic national park.

Tarangire National Park: A Haven for Elephants and Baobabs

While often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, Tarangire National Park is a hidden gem that should not be missed. As you enter the park, you'll be greeted by a landscape dotted with majestic baobab trees, creating a truly enchanting setting. Tarangire is famous for the Tarangire River, a lifeline that attracts an abundance of wildlife, particularly during the dry season. Here, you have the opportunity to witness the incredible sight of large herds of elephants congregating around the river, bathing and quenching their thirst. The sight of these gentle giants up close is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

As you explore Tarangire, you'll also encounter other magnificent wildlife, including tree-climbing lions, leopards, giraffes, and a rich variety of bird species. Tarangire offers unique experiences such as walking safaris and night game drives, allowing you to enjoy the sights and sounds of this captivating national park.

Elephant crossing the road in front of safari jeep of tourists in Tarangire National Park

Ngorongoro Conservation Area: Explore the Breathtaking Crater

Step into a world like no other as you venture into the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1980 and one of Tanzania's most remarkable natural wonders. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a testament to the intricate interplay between nature and wildlife, providing an unforgettable safari experience that transcends imagination. 

At its heart lies the Ngorongoro Crater, the largest caldera in the world with a staggering 12 miles in diameter, formed by an ancient volcanic eruption. Descending into the crater is like stepping into an Eden of wildlife. The crater floor teems with an incredible array of animals, offering you the opportunity to spot the renowned Big Five - elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, and rhinos - all in one place. In addition, the Ngorongoro Crater is a prime location for encountering the endangered black rhino. 

Read more: A Complete Guide On The Best Time To Go To Tanzania

Selous Game Reserve: A Wildlife Wonderland

When exploring the best national parks in Tanzania, one cannot overlook the magnificent Selous Game Reserve. As one of the largest and most diverse protected areas in Africa, Selous Game Reserve offers an unrivaled wildlife experience in a pristine and untouched wilderness.

Encompassing an astounding 5,405 square miles, Selous Game Reserve is twice as big as the Serengeti and an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts. Its vastness and remoteness allow for an authentic safari experience away from the crowds, where visitors can truly delve into the wonders of the natural world.

The park is one of two destinations used by elephants for their annual migration, and if you can't see millions of wildebeest, you can find the next best thing, see thousands of elephants at Selous. The Rufiji River, which flows through the reserve, is the lifeblood of Selous and creates a magnificent ecosystem teeming with wildlife. The river offers thrilling boat safaris, where visitors can observe hippos, crocodiles, and a plethora of bird species in their natural habitat.

Members of the Lake Tagalala Pride relax on the shores of Lake Tagalala in the Selous Game Reserve

Lake Manyara National Park: Encounter Tree-Climbing Lions and Flamingos

Lake Manyara National Park, located at the foot of the Great Rift Valley, is famous for its remarkable tree-climbing lions. Observing these majestic predators perched on branches is a sight unlike any other. Lake Manyara is not only about lions; it's also a haven for bird enthusiasts. 

The captivating sight of countless birds dotting the hazy horizon leaves an indelible mark on visitors' memories. Among the 380 recorded species, herons, egrets, ospreys, ibis, pelicans, jacanas, and plovers create a vibrant avian tapestry. As you explore the park, you'll also encounter herds of elephants, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests. Those lucky enough may even see baboons gathered in herds of 30 to 100.

Now that you've witnessed the majesty of national parks in Tanzania through this article, it's time to turn your dreams into reality. With its remarkable wildlife, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, Tanzania invites you to embark on an adventure that will leave an indelible mark on your soul. 

Gombe Stream National Park

Gombe Stream National Park may be tiny in area, but its charms are impressive. The park is well-known across the world for its link to Jane Goodall and her groundbreaking chimp study. Chimpanzee tracking trips are undoubtedly the highlight, but visitors may also expect to observe a variety of other primates. Gombe has a path system that allows tourists to venture deep into the forest and experience some of the greatest vistas of the African wilderness.

Nyerere National Park

The Nyerere National Park is both vast and extremely well-protected, with no permanent structures permitted within it. The majority of the reserve was renamed Nyerere National Park in 2019, with only a tiny part retaining the old name, Selous Game Reserve. It's an excellent spot to escape off the beaten track and immerse yourself in nature; stay at the exclusive-use Kiba Point for exhilarating fly camping and complete isolation, with just four cottages available for private parties.

Ruaha National Park

Ruaha, located in the center of Tanzania, is one of the country's most isolated wildlife reserves. It is also one of the largest national parks in East Africa, around the same area as South Africa's Kruger National Park, but considerably less popular among safari enthusiasts. Big game, including as buffalo and elephants, congregate along the Ruaha River, as do wild dogs, antelope, giraffes, leopards, and an endless array of other spectacular wildlife that thrive in unspoiled ecosystems.

Mahale Mountains National Park

The majestic Mahale Mountains starkly contrast several of the country's other national parks and one of the top national parks in Tanzania. Lake Tanganyika, one of the top tourist attractions in Tanzania, is surrounded by lush slopes and heavy forests. Jane Goodall did pioneering studies on chimps nearby, and guided excursions through the jungle allow visitors to come up close to these fascinating animals. Greystoke Mahale is an ideal home base directly on the lake's beaches.

Katavi National Park

Katavi National Park is the place to go in Tanzania if you want to have an unforgettable trip. It's a marvelously natural and unique area that sees significantly fewer people than other well-known parks. Perhaps the major draw is the many hippos congregating here during the dry season. With only six bush tents, Chada Katavi is one of the greatest locations to stay in Tanzania if you want to really immerse yourself in this secluded paradise.

To make your journey to Tanzania even more seamless, we recommend applying for an eVisa through Tanzania Immigration Services website. With just a few simple steps, you can apply for a Tanzania visa online, saving time and effort. Our eVisa service streamlines the visa application process, ensuring hassle-free entry into this captivating country. 

Don't wait any longer - contact us and plan your journey, and let the majesty of Tanzania's national parks become a reality. The adventure of a lifetime awaits.