Tanzania Safari- What’s New in 2023

Tanzania remains one of the world’s top safari destinations, drawing hundreds of thousands of people from across the globe to experience its magnificent wildlife in a network of well-managed national parks across the East African nation. Places like the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara and Tarangire National Park are synonymous with abundant wildlife and a pleasing selection of lodgings. Together, they make up the famed Northern Circuit, while other lesser-known parks, like Gombe and Ruaha, mean that over 15% of the country is set aside for conservation. Add to this, hospitable people and tropical beach destinations like Zanzibar Island, and you can easily understand why Tanzania consistently ranks as a must-visit destination.

Safari 2023 – What’s New?

While the Covid-19 pandemic certainly did cause major disruption to tourism in Tanzania, its enduring popularity coupled with a new urgency to travel, means that it is rapidly making up for lost ground, with some destinations reporting occupancies equal to or greater than pre-pandemic levels. With the resurgence, a few changes to the way people are planning their holidays have been noted; including a tendency to book at shorter notice, looking to add more to their experience than just wildlife viewing (such as exploring the indigenous culture), spending more and staying longer, and lastly, traveling with extended family.

With the worst of the pandemic behind us, Tanzania continues to welcome visitors, applying regulations in line with international norms regarding Covid-19 and travel. You can read more about the current rules here. Also, be aware that you may need to show proof of vaccination against yellow fever, so please be sure to consult your tour operator regarding these and similar issues when making your booking enquiry.

Tanzania has a tourist-friendly policy at its ports of entry, which along with a well-established tourism infrastructure mean your visit should be hassle-free if arranged by a reputable local tour operator. Visitors continue to be warmly welcomed and your visit will greatly assist in the region’s economic recovery and growth, particularly if you use a local safari operator whose network and know-how often translate into savings of time and money. You can read more about Tanzania’s entry requirements here.

It is appropriate to note that some western norms may be frowned upon (or even illegal) in Tanzania.  Your attire should be modest; covering both the knees and shoulders.  Public displays of affection are also taboo.  As a conscientious traveler, you are encouraged to familiarize yourself with some of the local Tanzanian customs and laws, with which your tour operator should gladly assist.

Inevitably, given the recent (and ongoing) economic disruptions, coupled with a surge in demand, service providers have been forced to adjust their prices, both to recover losses and kickstart the industry.  There were huge job losses and several safari companies were forced to close for good, so there’s ample motivation in the sector, both to get back up to speed and take the opportunity to explore ways of enhancing the experience for visitors to make itself more resilient.

Safari 2023 – What Stays The Same?

Africa has long held a huge fascination for travelers from around the globe and its safari offerings are a major drawcard.  Few countries have done as much to popularize Africa’s wildlife and the expanses of wilderness where they thrive.  Thankfully, while we’ve faced numerous challenges of late, the undoubtedly restorative and inspiring traits of nature have remained constant.  

No matter when you choose to visit Tanzania, you are all but assured of an exciting and unforgettable wildlife experience.  From the tuskers that roam among the baobabs in Tarangire to the endless plains stalked by the predators, and from the depths of an extinct volcano to sparkling lakes tinged pink with flamingos, the array display is a year-round extravaganza.

Tanzania experiences distinct wet and dry seasons, which can affect game viewing.  June to October is typically dry – warm by day and cooling considerably overnight (so warm clothing is essential.  It is easier to spot wildlife in sparse vegetation, particularly near water.  November to May mark the wet season, with hot, humid days punctuated with rainfall.  The landscape is lush, baby animals abound and the birdlife is prolific.  

The other season to keep in mind is the tourist high season.  This runs from July to March and is driven by what is commonly referred to as ‘the greatest show on earth’ – the Great Migration.  Made famous by countless documentaries, a massive herd of over a million wildebeest and tens of thousands of zebra and antelope follow the rains to better grazing.  The event is marked by dramatic river crossings, lurking predators and the sheer spectacle of so much concentrated life, and is best viewed in June/July.  The herd pauses its journey in January/February when thousands of baby animals are born, perpetuating the circle of life on the plains.

With our wanderlust once again freed to explore, Tanzania; its wilderness and wildlife are bound to get ever more popular.  There is no better time to enquire about making a journey to one of the top bucket list destinations in the world for wildlife enthusiasts and those with a taste for adventure.