Frequently Asked Questions About Tanzania Private Safaris
How much does a private safari in Tanzania cost?
Private safari costs range from $400-$1,200 per person per day depending on accommodation level, season, and itinerary. A 7-day private safari typically costs $3,500-$8,500 per person. Luxury private safaris with premium lodges can exceed $1,000 per person daily. Costs include private guide, exclusive vehicle, accommodation, meals, park fees, and airport transfers. The investment ensures personalized service, flexibility, and unforgettable wildlife experiences.
What’s included in a Tanzania private safari package?
Standard private safari packages include: exclusive use of a 4×4 safari vehicle, experienced private guide throughout, all national park fees and permits, accommodation (lodge or tented camp), all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), bottled water during game drives, airport transfers, and government taxes. Most packages exclude international flights, visas, travel insurance, tips, and personal expenses like souvenirs or alcoholic beverages.
How many days should I spend on a Tanzania safari?
We recommend minimum 5-7 days for a quality Tanzania safari experience. A 5-day safari covers Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, and one Serengeti region. A 7-10 day safari allows deeper Serengeti exploration, multiple regions, and more relaxed pacing. Longer safaris of 10-14 days can include southern parks, Zanzibar beach extensions, or community visits. Quality beats quantity – it’s better to fully experience fewer parks than rush through many.
Is Tanzania safe for private safaris?
Yes, Tanzania is very safe for tourists, especially on organized private safaris. Northern safari regions (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire) are extremely safe with excellent tourism infrastructure. Your private guide ensures safety throughout. Wildlife encounters follow strict safety protocols. Political stability and government emphasis on tourism make Tanzania one of Africa’s safest safari destinations. Standard travel precautions apply in cities.
What should I pack for a Tanzania private safari?
Essential items include: neutral-colored clothing (khaki, beige, green), lightweight long-sleeved shirts, comfortable pants, wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, sunscreen SPF 50+, insect repellent with DEET, binoculars, camera with zoom lens, flashlight, personal medications, and dust-proof bags for electronics. Most lodges provide laundry services. Layers are important as mornings can be cool. Avoid bright colors and camouflage patterns.
Do I need vaccinations for Tanzania?
Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from endemic countries. Highly recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and routine vaccines. Malaria prophylaxis is strongly advised for safari regions. Consult your doctor or travel clinic 6-8 weeks before departure. Carry your yellow fever certificate as it may be checked at borders. Tanzania’s safari regions have relatively low malaria risk during dry season but prophylaxis is still recommended.
Can I see the Great Migration on a private safari?
Absolutely! Private safaris offer the best Great Migration experiences because you can follow the herds with flexibility group tours lack. The migration occurs year-round in different Serengeti regions. Calving season (January-March) in southern Serengeti, river crossings (July-October) in northern Serengeti, and movements between regions. Your private guide tracks current locations and positions you optimally for viewing without crowds competing for sightings.
What is the difference between a private and group safari?
Private safaris offer: exclusive use of vehicle and guide, complete itinerary flexibility, personalized pacing (spend longer at sightings you love), accommodation choice, ability to request specific focuses (photography, birds, specific animals), and no strangers in your vehicle. Group safaris follow fixed schedules, share vehicles with 4-6 other tourists, have predetermined itineraries, and limited flexibility. Private safaris cost more but deliver incomparably better experiences.
Are Tanzania private safaris suitable for children?
Yes, private safaris are ideal for families with children. You control the schedule allowing for rest breaks, naps, and bathroom stops. Private guides engage children with age-appropriate wildlife education. Most lodges welcome children with family rooms. Kids under 5 may have park restrictions in some areas. Private safaris eliminate concerns about disturbing other tourists. Many families find Tanzania safaris more manageable than anticipated, and children are often the most enthusiastic safari participants.
What type of accommodation is available on private safaris?
Accommodation options range from comfortable mid-range lodges ($200-400/night) to ultra-luxury properties ($800-1500/night). Options include permanent lodges with amenities like pools and wifi, tented camps offering authentic safari atmosphere with comfort, mobile camps that move with the Great Migration, and exclusive use luxury properties. All feature ensuite bathrooms, comfortable beds, and delicious meals. Private safaris allow you to mix accommodation types to balance budget and experience.
