Parks and Their History:

Serengeti National Park:

One of the most iconic national parks in the world, Serengeti is renowned for the Great Wildebeest Migration, where over a million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles migrate in search of fresh grazing. The park was established in 1951 and covers 14,763 square kilometers, providing sanctuary to a diverse range of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino).

Ngorongoro Conservation Area:

Home to the Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest inactive volcanic caldera, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a unique mix of wildlife, Maasai pastoralists, and archaeological sites. Established in 1959, it protects a wide range of habitats, from savannah to dense forests. The crater floor is a self-contained ecosystem that houses a dense concentration of wildlife.

Tarangire National Park:

Named after the Tarangire River that flows through the park, Tarangire is famous for its large elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and seasonal swamps. It covers 2,850 square kilometers and provides a crucial corridor for the annual migration of wildebeest and zebras during the dry season.

Lake Manyara National Park:

A relatively small park, Lake Manyara is known for its diverse birdlife, including flocks of flamingos, pelicans, and storks. The park is also famous for its tree-climbing lions, who often rest in the branches of acacia trees. The park stretches over 330 square kilometers, two-thirds of which is occupied by Lake Manyara.

Ruaha National Park:

Tanzania’s largest national park, covering approximately 20,226 square kilometers. Ruaha is known for its rugged wilderness, massive elephant herds, and healthy populations of predators, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs. The park is named after the Great Ruaha River, which attracts many animals during the dry season.

Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park):

One of the largest faunal reserves in the world, Selous (now part of Nyerere National Park) covers over 50,000 square kilometers. It is renowned for its large elephant and African wild dog populations. Selous offers a remote and wild safari experience, with river safaris on the Rufiji River and walking safaris as key attractions.

Mikumi National Park:

Often referred to as a smaller version of the Serengeti, Mikumi is the fourth largest park in Tanzania, covering 3,230 square kilometers. The park is known for its populations of lions, elephants, giraffes, and hippos, and is a popular destination for those looking to experience a wildlife safari closer to Dar es Salaam.

Katavi National Park:

Located in the remote western part of Tanzania, Katavi is one of the country’s least visited parks, making it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and an untouched wilderness experience. Covering 4,471 square kilometers, Katavi is known for its large herds of buffalo, hippos, and crocodiles.

Gombe Stream National Park:

The smallest national park in Tanzania, covering just 52 square kilometers, Gombe is famous for its population of chimpanzees, which were studied extensively by Jane Goodall. The park is located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika and offers a unique opportunity for chimpanzee trekking.

Mahale Mountains National Park:

Also located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, Mahale Mountains is known for its lush forests, pristine beaches, and large chimpanzee population. It is one of the few places where you can combine a primate safari with a beach holiday.

Udzungwa Mountains National Park:

Part of the Eastern Arc Mountains, this park is a biodiversity hotspot with several endemic species of plants, birds, and primates. The park is ideal for hiking, with trails leading to waterfalls, forested mountains, and diverse wildlife.

Saadani National Park:

The only park in East Africa with both savannah and marine environments, Saadani offers a unique blend of wildlife and beach experiences. Located on the coast of Tanzania, the park is home to elephants, lions, buffaloes, and a variety of marine life, including dolphins and sea turtles.

Fun Facts:

• Tanzania is home to about 30% of Africa’s remaining elephant population.
• The Serengeti is the oldest and most popular national park in Tanzania, famous for hosting the Great Migration.
• Ngorongoro Crater has one of the highest densities of lions in Africa.

Best Time to Visit:

Dry Season (June to October):

Ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources. This is the best time to witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti and for game drives in the Ngorongoro Crater.

Wet Season (November to May):

Best for bird watching, as migratory birds arrive. The landscape is lush and green, and it’s also the calving season in the Serengeti.

Top Attractions for Tourists:

• Witness the Great Migration in Serengeti National Park.
• Enjoy game drives in the Ngorongoro Crater.
• Experience walking safaris in Selous Game Reserve.
• Go chimpanzee trekking in Gombe Stream and Mahale Mountains National Parks.
• Discover unique landscapes and wildlife in Ruaha and Katavi National Parks.
• Take a boat safari on the Rufiji River in Nyerere National Park.
• Explore the diversity of birds and tree-climbing lions in Lake Manyara National Park.

FAQs:

• What is the best way to see the Great Migration? The best time to see the Great Migration is between June and September in Serengeti National Park, especially near the Mara River.
• Are safaris in Tanzania safe? Yes, safaris in Tanzania are generally safe when conducted by reputable companies with experienced guides.
• How do I reach these parks? Many parks are accessible via domestic flights from major cities like Arusha and Dar es Salaam, or by road.
• What is the minimum age for chimpanzee trekking in Gombe and Mahale? The minimum age is typically 15 years.