Photographic Safaris in Tanzania

Tanzania is known for its vast wilderness areas. They include the plains of Serengeti National Park, a safari mecca populated by the “big five” game (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino), and Kilimanjaro National Park, home to Africa’s highest mountain.

Offshore lie the tropical islands of Zanzibar, with Arabic influences, and Mafia, with a marine park home to whale sharks and coral reefs. Wildlife, beaches, friendly people, fascinating cultures, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Mt Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar Archipelago – Tanzania has all these and more wrapped up in one adventurous, welcoming package.

More than almost any other destination, Tanzania is the land of safaris. Wildebeest stampede across the plains. Hippos jostle for space in muddy waterways. Elephants wander along seasonal migration routes and chimpanzees swing through the treetops. Throughout the country there are unparalleled opportunities to experience this natural wealth: take a boat safari down the Rufiji River past snoozing crocodiles in Selous Game Reserve; watch giraffes silhouetted against ancient baobab trees in Ruaha National Park; and hold your breath while lions pad around your vehicle in Ngorongoro Crater.

Sending its shadow across Tanzania's northern plains, Mt Kilimanjaro beckons visitors with its graceful, forested flanks and stately snow-capped summit. It is Africa's highest peak and the world's highest free-standing volcano. It is also home to the Chagga people, and to a wealth of birds and wildlife. Climbers by the thousands venture here to challenge themselves on its muddy slopes, rocky trails and slippery scree. The rewards: the thrill of standing at the top of Africa; magnificent views of Kilimanjaro's ice fields; and witnessing sunrise illuminating the plains far below.

Wherever you go in Tanzania, opportunities abound for getting to know the country's people and cultures. Meet red-cloaked Maasai warriors or spend time with semi-nomadic Barabaig near Mt Hanang. Experience the hospitality of a local meal and the rhythms of traditional dance. Chat and barter at local markets. More than anything else, it is the Tanzanian people – with their characteristic warmth and politeness, and the dignity and beauty of their cultures – that make visiting Tanzania so memorable. Chances are you'll want to come back for more, to which most Tanzanians will say ‘karibu tena’ (welcome again).

Highlights of a visit to Tanzania can include any of the following:

• The annual Wildebeest & Zebra migration
• The world famous Ngorongoro Crater
• Walking in the wilderness with an armed guard
• Climbing Arica’s highest Mountain – Mt Kilimanjaro 19,340 ft
• Visit to the spice island of Zanzibar
• Fishing for Marlin and Sailfish off the East Africa coast
• The Tarangire National Park
•  A visit to the Mahale Mountains to photograph the Chimpanzees
• Catch up with one’s ancestors at Olduvai Gorge 
• Try and photograph a tree climbing Lion in the Lake Manyara National Park
• Off the beaten track safaris 
• Explore the Selous Game Reserve 
• Camp under the stars in the Serengeti National Park
• Visit a Masai Manyatta (homestead of the Masai peoples)