Optional Activities in Tanzania’s National Parks

1. Walking Safaris

Walking safaris allow visitors to explore the wilderness on foot, offering a closer connection to nature. Accompanied by experienced guides and armed rangers, guests can track wildlife, learn about plants and insects, and appreciate the smaller details often missed on game drives. Some of the best parks for walking safaris include:

• Serengeti National Park

• Tarangire National Park

• Ruaha National Park

• Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)

2. Hot Air Balloon Safaris

For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, a hot air balloon safari provides a bird’s-eye view of Tanzania’s stunning landscapes and wildlife. This early morning activity offers breathtaking sunrises and unparalleled photographic opportunities, especially over the Serengeti and Tarangire National Park. The safari typically ends with a champagne breakfast in the bush.

3. Night Game Drives

Unlike traditional daytime safaris, night game drives allow visitors to witness the nocturnal side of the African wilderness. With the aid of spotlights, you may see predators like lions and leopards on the hunt, as well as rare animals such as aardvarks, bush babies, and porcupines. Parks that offer night game drives include:

• Lake Manyara National Park

• Tarangire National Park

• Ruaha National Park

• Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)

4. Canoe Safaris

For a peaceful and unique wildlife viewing experience, canoe safaris provide an excellent opportunity to explore Tanzania’s water ecosystems. Glide across calm waters while observing hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. Recommended locations include:

• Arusha National Park (Momella Lakes)

• Lake Manyara National Park

• Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)

5. Cultural Visits

Tanzania is home to diverse cultures, and visitors can engage with local communities to learn about their traditions, customs, and daily lives. Popular cultural experiences include:

• Maasai Village Visits – Discover the lifestyle of the Maasai people, their traditional dances, and unique way of life.

• Hadzabe & Datoga Tribe Encounters – Visit the Hadzabe hunter-gatherers and the Datoga blacksmith community near Lake Eyasi.

• Iraqw and Chagga Cultural Tours – Experience the traditions of the Iraqw people near Karatu and the Chagga near Mount Kilimanjaro.

6. Boat Safaris

Some parks offer boat safaris, an exciting way to view wildlife from the water. These excursions provide incredible sightings of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and an abundance of birdlife. Ideal locations for boat safaris include:

• Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park) – Rufiji River

• Lake Victoria – Rubondo Island National Park

• Lake Tanganyika – Mahale and Gombe National Parks

7. Chimpanzee Trekking

For those interested in primates, chimpanzee trekking is a must. Visitors can hike through lush forests to observe these intelligent and social animals in their natural habitat. The best destinations for chimpanzee trekking in Tanzania are:

• Gombe Stream National Park

• Mahale Mountains National Park

8. Mountain Climbing and Hiking

For adventure enthusiasts, hiking and mountain climbing options are available in several national parks. Some of the top hikes include:

• Mount Kilimanjaro (the highest peak in Africa)

• Mount Meru (a great alternative to Kilimanjaro with stunning views)

• Udzungwa Mountains National Park (featuring waterfalls and endemic wildlife)

9. Bird Watching

Tanzania is home to over 1,100 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Specialized birding safaris can be arranged in parks such as:

• Lake Manyara National Park

• Serengeti National Park

• Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)

• Ruaha National Park

• Arusha National Park

10. Photographic Safaris

Wildlife photographers can book specialized photographic safaris, which focus on capturing high-quality images of Tanzania’s incredible wildlife and landscapes. These safaris often include expert guides and specially designed vehicles to ensure the best angles and lighting conditions.

Tanzania’s national parks offer more than just traditional safaris. These optional activities allow visitors to experience the wilderness in diverse and exciting ways, ensuring a memorable and immersive adventure. Whether you’re soaring over the Serengeti in a hot air balloon, trekking with chimpanzees in Mahale, or gliding through the waters of Selous, there is something for every traveler seeking a unique and unforgettable experience.