Tanzania – Jordan Executive Travel Service

Tanzania: The Soul of Africa

east Africa

This East African gem is an absolute treasure of adventure and culture just waiting to be explored. Tanzania is home to some of the most renowned national parks and game reserves in the world, including the iconic Serengeti and the majestic Ngorongoro Crater. Experience an adventure and witness the awe-inspiring sight of the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras traverse the plains in search of greener pastures. Get ready to spot the Big Five—lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos alongside a myriad of other fascinating wildlife.

But Tanzania is not just about the wildlife; it’s also about the diversity of cultures that call this country home. From the proud Maasai warriors adorned in vibrant red shukas to the rhythmic beats of traditional Swahili music, Tanzania’s cultural heritage is as diverse as it is captivating. Immerse yourself in the traditions of the local tribes, learn about their customs, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the Tanzanian people firsthand.

Best Time to Visit Tanzania

January is fairly dry and hot, as the temperatures start rising after the short rains. There’s still a chance of rain and the temperatures and humidity are starting to rise. It’s still a fantastic time to go because the migration herds have gathered in the southeast of the Serengeti for calving season, especially towards the end of the month. The Ndutu Plains are buzzing with wildlife. You’ll find lower rates and excellent safari opportunities.

The temperatures are still rising and there’s still a chance for short rains.

February is THE time to witness wildebeest calving. We’re talking about watching these little ones take their very first steps. Around half a million little wildebeests are born during this time! Ndutu in the southern part of the Serengeti is where millions of wildebeest gather to munch on grass and welcome their newborns. Greater and Lesser flamingos flock around Lake Natron, adding a touch of pink magic to the scenery.

February is also a great time to trek Mt. Kilimanjaro or visit Zanzibar for a beach holiday.

The temperatures are still very hot. Brace yourself for some serious cloud coverage and even higher humidity levels. While the rains aren’t likely to stick around all day, they’ll make their presence known, with frequent showers pretty much every day throughout the month. Now, this might affect road accessibility and even cause some lodges and camps to temporarily close up shop. The migrating herds? Well, they’re starting to bid farewell to Ndutu and making their way westward towards Grumeti. The beginning of the month is still great for trekking, safaris, and beach trips. Towards the end of the month, there is a higher chance of rain as Tanzania moves into the long rainy season.

As April rolls in, so does the long rainy season, bringing with it the highest humidity levels of the year. This is not the recommended time for visiting Tanzania.

However, with all this rain, the wildlife is thriving, making the most of the abundant water supplies. But here’s the catch: spotting them amidst the lush foliage can be a bit of a challenge, even for the most seasoned safari-goers.

The wildebeest herds begin to drift northwest toward the fresher grass of the central Serengeti, drawing with them thousands of zebra and smaller groups of antelope.

Just like April, May is a month of rain, so conditions are not ideal for travel. The lush vegetation, while beautiful, makes wildlife spotting more difficult. With the ground still damp, there’s notably less dust swirling around, creating a cleaner and more comfortable environment for your adventures. Mating season begins toward the end of May and male wildebeest battle head-to-head. The journey back to the Serengeti continues at leisure with the wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle grazing as they go along.

And as for Zanzibar? Well, let’s just say it’s best to steer clear for now. With the possibility of daily downpours lasting for weeks on end, you’ll want to keep those beach plans on hold until the weather clears up a bit.

The long rainy season is coming to an end. With lush grasses and bush as far as the eye can see, spotting game might be a bit trickier than usual. Towards the end of the month is a great time to travel—especially for bird watchers. The parks are teeming with migratory birds, especially down south, offering up some truly spectacular sightings. And speaking of migrations, thousands of wildebeests gather at the Grumeti River, gearing up for their epic migration journey. Most of them make it across just fine, but if you’re lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time, you might catch a glimpse of a crocodile trying to stir up some drama. Bring your binoculars and get ready for a front-row seat to the wildest show on earth.

This is the start of peak season. Book early if you want to get your choice of luxury lodges. Expect crowds and higher prices. The Migration? Hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and zebra continue to head north along the western edge of the park toward an even riskier barrier: the Mara River in the north of the Serengeti. These river crossings are arguably one of the most exciting wildlife events on Earth. They usually begin at the onset of high season in July, but timing all depends on nature.

The elephants are starting to gather in Tarangire. Temperatures are hovering in the comfortable 80°Fs range, with humidity levels at an all-time low. July is the driest month of the year in Tanzania, which means the ground is bone dry, kicking up clouds of dust as you cruise through the plains. Packing a face mask and sunglasses isn’t a bad idea to combat the dust.

These pleasant temperatures only add to the magic of your experience. The wildebeests and zebras may have made their way over to Kenya by now, but Tanzania is still teeming with life! From majestic lions to elusive leopards, the parks are buzzing with activity.

As the landscapes transition to a more arid state, waterholes start to dry up and foliage becomes sparse. Wildlife starts searching for water sources, making their movements predictable for guides, and giving you a greater chance of seeing The Big Five. Large flocks of flamingos also arrive at Lake Natron.

Divers are happiest from August to September when the water is especially clear. Turtles also hatch on the Indian Ocean islands.

This is the last month of peak season. September can be quite busy, and prices are still high. Herds of wildebeest and Zebra are spread out across the Serengeti beginning to make their grand return from Kenya. The crocodile-infested Mara River is their biggest obstacle.

While the northern circuit may be bustling with activity, things are a bit quieter down south. So, if you’re looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more intimate safari experience, we recommend heading to the southern parks. In Zanzibar, the dry season winds down making it the perfect time to don your snorkeling gear and dive into the crystal-clear waters.

While it’s not peak season anymore, the weather is still dry and perfect for activities like trekking, safaris, or simply unwinding on the stunning beaches of Zanzibar

Even though the migration has moved on to Kenya, there’s still so much wildlife to see right here in Tanzania!

Just keep in mind that towards the end of October, you might start seeing some brief showers, so it’s a good idea to plan your trip earlier in the month for the best experience possible.

Welcome to the short rains season. Despite the occasional rain showers, it’s still a popular time to visit. The rains mostly happen overnight, but there’s a chance you might encounter a few daytime showers as well. This is also the time when migrating herds start making their way south from Kenya. You might even catch some epic crossings in the northern parts of the Serengeti! Tarangire National Park heats up from November on. You’ll have to deal with a bit of humidity along with the rains throughout the summer but the game numbers are worth it.

Now, while the short rains might still be lingering. They usually don’t stick around the whole month, and the weather can vary depending on where you’re headed. Tanzania and Zanzibar are buzzing with excitement over Christmas and New Year’s, so if you’re planning to join the festivities, it’s best to lock in your plans well in advance. Just a heads up—there might be quite a few safari vehicles out and about during your game drives, so be prepared for some company! Large herds of wildebeests gather on the plains of the Serengeti, making them super easy to spot!

And calling all bird watchers—December is your time to shine! With many migratory birds making their way to parks like Selous and Tarangire National Park, it’s a true bird watcher’s paradise.

Safari Adventures

Iconic Tanzania:
7-Day Safari Crater to Savannah

Discover Tanzania’s wild side in luxury on this 7-day safari. Traverse iconic landscapes, from the vast savannas of Serengeti to the lush forests of Tarangire, encountering extraordinary wildlife along the way. Journey into the heart of a collapsed volcano to encounter a myriad of animals in their natural habitat. As the sun sets, unwind in sumptuous lodges, where delicious cuisine and elegant comforts await. With expert guides and exclusive experiences, this luxury safari offers the perfect blend of adventure and indulgence.

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Wildside Tanzania:
8-Day Migration Safari

Prepare for a wildlife spectacle like no other: from monkeys swinging through forest canopies to lions reigning from treetop perches, and elephants navigating acacia-dotted plains. Journey into the heart of a collapsed volcano to encounter a myriad of animals in their natural habitat. Visit Serengeti National Park as we follow the wildebeest migrations, a spectacle that defines the cycle of life in the African savanna, as millions of hooves thunder across the plains in a timeless journey of survival and renewal.

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Tanzanian Honeymoon:
10-Day Luxury Safari and Beach

An unforgettable honeymoon journey through Tanzania. This stay is a blend of luxury safari experiences and the idyllic charm of Zanzibar. Over 10 days, indulge in the beauty of the Northern Circuit, staying in prestigious safari lodges and camps in the wild wonders of nature. Romantic dinners are accompanied by breathtaking views and the sounds of wildlife. The pristine beaches and turquoise waters of Zanzibar await you promising to elevate your Tanzanian honeymoon with its exotic beaches and delicious cuisine.

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About
Getting There
Entry Requirements

Tanzania’s official languages are Kiswahili and English. Although over 100 languages are spoken nationwide, English is widely understood, particularly in popular tourist areas.

Tanzania’s official currency is the Tanzania shilling (TSh or TZS). While ATMs are available in major cities, they may not always work. Tanzania is predominately a cash-based economy. Credit cards are accepted at certain major hotels, but expect an additional surcharge (5-10%). Tanzanian establishments, including banks, do not accept US$100 bills. It’s advisable to carry smaller denominations. Bills should be dated after 2009.

There are no direct flights from the US to Tanzania. You’ll need to make a stop. Where you stop depends on the airline you travel with. The following airlines fly from the US to Tanzania.

American Airlines
Delta Airlines
United Airlines
Qatar Airways
Emirates
Kenya Airways
Ethiopian Airways
Turkish Airlines

Visas are required for U.S. citizens traveling to Tanzania. For the latest travel advice for Tanzania, including entry requirements, health information, and the safety and security situation, please refer to the State Department website.

A passport valid for a minimum of six months beyond visa issuance and/or date of entry, and at least one blank visa page, is required. Visitors who enter on visas must present a roundtrip ticket and demonstrate they have sufficient funds for their stay. Be prepared to show your passport and explain your visa status when entering or departing Zanzibar or when traveling around the mainland.

Forget Netflix. The real drama unfolds in the wild.

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places to discover

Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park is nature’s playground, where every sunrise unveils a new spectacle and every sunset paints the sky in hues of wonder. Witness the iconic Great Wildebeest Migration, a spectacle unmatched anywhere else on earth. Explore endless savannas teeming with life, where lions reign supreme and elephants command attention.

Arguably the Eden of Africa, Ngorongoro Crater, is often dubbed the “eighth wonder of the world.” Journey into the heart of a collapsed volcano to encounter a myriad of animals in their natural habitat. Located in Tanzania’s northern circuit, this ancient volcanic caldera shelters a stunning array of wildlife. Encounter lions, herds of elephants, and pink flamingos in the lake.

Unlike the vast plains of Serengeti, Tarangire boasts a distinct landscape marked by ancient baobab trees and meandering riverbeds. The Tarangire River serves as a lifeline, drawing in an array of wildlife, including elephant herds, giraffes, and elusive predators like lions and leopards. The dense vegetation offers a stark contrast to the Serengeti’s open expanses.

Lake Manyara

Renowned for its picturesque alkaline lake and lush groundwater forest, the park presents a striking contrast to the expansive plains of neighboring reserves. Towering mahogany trees and dense foliage provide sanctuary for the iconic tree-climbing lions, playful troops of baboons, and a variety of bird species, from pink-hued flamingos to majestic raptors.

Nyerere National Park

Unlike Tanzania’s more famous northern parks, Selous offers a sense of true wilderness, with vast savannas, winding rivers, and dense forests waiting to be explored from large herds of elephants and buffalo to prowling predators like lions and leopards. What sets Selous apart is its sense of solitude and pristine wilderness, providing a safari experience away from the crowds.

Mt Kilimanjaro

Conquer the challenge of reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point on the continent, and stand at the top of the Roof of Africa. Along the way, trek diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts, and witness breathtaking landscapes that defy imagination. A Kilimanjaro trek promises not just a physical journey, but a soul-stirring odyssey of self-discovery and triumph.

Arusha

The bustling gateway to Tanzania’s iconic northern safari circuit and the picturesque gateway to Mount Kilimanjaro. Explore the Maasai markets, where colorful fabrics, handmade crafts, and souvenirs abound. Dig into the city’s culture at the Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre, showcasing traditional art, artifacts, and insights into local customs. And yes, in Arusha, you can shop for Tanzanite, the exquisite gemstone unique to Tanzania.

Dar Es Salaam

Explore the city’s rich heritage at sites like the National Museum and Village Museum, then wander through bustling markets like Kariakoo and Mwenge to experience local life. Unwind on the pristine beaches of Coco Beach or Bongoyo Island, where turquoise waters beckon for relaxation or water sports. Indulge your taste buds with a diverse array of cuisine, from traditional Swahili dishes like pilau and biryani to fresh seafood along the coastline.

Zanzibar

An island paradise off the coast of Tanzania. Dive into the crystal-clear Indian Ocean to discover vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, or snorkel alongside colorful tropical fish in the warm shallows. Zanzibar’s cuisine blends African, Arab, and Indian influences in dishes like spicy Zanzibari seafood curry and aromatic pilau rice. Explore Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.