Let’s be honest, we’ve all progressed quite far in human civilization. Regardless of what your career pursuits may be, there is no getting around technology, and the internet increasingly becoming part of your work. None of us can imagine a day without our computers, consoles, or smartphones by our side.
Still, it’s a rejuvenating experience to leave such electronics behind and make your way to the heart of nature to experience it at its purest firsthand. But that doesn’t mean that you have to go all Bear Grylls and plan your safari with a makeshift tent in mind. Fun fact: even on his most daring expeditions, he had access to support crews and the most luxurious suites in the region.
So, it’s no shame to treat yourself to a 5-day safari. You can witness the awe-inspiring views atop the Ngorongoro crater or watch a pack of cheetahs chase down gazelles across the Serengeti. It’s quite calming to end your day relaxing in a comfortable stay and treat yourself to a nice dinner.
It can be quite difficult to find the perfect stay in Tanzania for your safari, especially when you’re not familiar with the area or the local customs. But you need not worry, as this guide will tell you all about the best safari lodges in Tanzania and how to make the most of your stay with a little safari planning.
What Sets Tanzania’s Safari Destinations Apart from the Rest?
While there are several other locations in Africa that you can consider for your safari, there are a few unique pointers that make Tanzania a special place to visit. A few notable ones include the following.
Rich Wildlife Diversity
Tanzania is not a big country, being even smaller than Nigeria at 365,794 sq. miles (947,403 sq. km.) in area. Yet, it houses 6 of the 25 globally identified biodiversity hotspots. Just one well-planned trip can help you witness the Big Five of Africa along with a few rare species of migratory birds and beautiful flora. Tanzania houses 20% of Africa’s big mammal population, making it well worth your visit if you’re into wildlife observation.
Varied and Breathtaking Scenery
Despite its relatively small area, Tanzania houses a varied vista to satisfy a wide range of tourists. From the snow-covered peaks of Mt. Kilimanjaro to the open plains of the Serengeti, there is something for everyone here. Not to mention the wet marshlands near Lake Nyasa that make for excellent boat rides.
Cultural Immersion
Tanzania is one of the few African countries that has balanced itself well between advancing infrastructure while preserving its natural resources and cultural heritage. As such, the locals are far more likely to introduce outsiders to their traditions and customs. An excellent example is the Mzalendo Halisi music festival that takes place in the north of Dar es Salaam. You can spot artists from all over Africa turning up to exhibit their passion while also indulging in the local cuisine without paying premium restaurant costs.
What Factors Determine the Cost of African Safari Tours?
There are several factors you need to consider that can determine the cost of your safari tours:
- Duration of your stay: This one is the most significant factor. The longer you stay, the more your safari package costs. Although, you should consider that longer stays may cost you less per day, particularly when you’re traveling with a large group.
- Time of your visit: The peak season in Tanzania is during the dry months of May throughout September. It’s the time of the Great Migration and several tourists often book their safaris to watch the biggest herds of wildebeests, zebras, buffaloes, and other animals make their way towards more fertile pastures. You can often get less expensive safari packages out of that season, along with more peaceful environments.
- Activities during your safari: Your Tanzania safari package includes more than just taking a drive to the nearest game reserve. Add-ons like trekking, kayaking, scuba diving, dune rallies, and paragliding, alongside various others, often make your stay more enjoyable.
- Location and transport: Lodges close to safari destinations may help you save time, but are often out in the wilds, operating and maintaining their own infrastructure. Therefore, they often charge far more than hotel stays in the city. Moreover, you must also consider what you pack for your safari as you can only haul limited cargo out in the wild.
- Number of people in your group: When you’re going on a Tanzania safari alone or with a plus one, it might cost you more than if you were part of a larger group. The more personalized an experience, the higher the cost. If you want to save on costs, renting out an entire lodge as part of a traveling group is more economical.
What Should I Consider When Listing the Best Safari Lodges in Tanzania?
There are several listings for luxury lodges across Tanzania. Nevertheless, if you want a memorable safari experience, any of the following should be the focus of the best safari lodges in Tanzania, depending on your preferences.
Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti
Four Seasons is a well-known international chain that specializes in a variety of luxury services for its clientele. The safari experience in Tanzania is no different. You may consider a luxury lodge in the middle of Serengeti as an isolated luxury villa. But the Four Seasons Lodge is different. Not only does it have all the facilities you might expect at a Four Seasons, but it also allows you to mingle with the local populace, along with a handy guide to keep your safari as sustainable and fun as possible.
The peak safari season costs may not be for every budget, with luxury suites going up to USD 2300 per night. However, off-peak reservations only cost about USD 800 with the right package. Most reviews online praise the professionalism of the staff, and the wide range of cuisines to choose from.
andBeyond Klein’s Camp
This is the only luxury safari lodge that shares its boundaries with both Serengeti and Masai Mara. Klein’s Camp lets you get right into the middle of the action through several vantage points within the lodge’s premises that let you observe the flora and fauna at your leisure. In fact, you can watch the Great Migration without even leaving the secure walls of the resort.
Klein’s Camp makes the most of its unique location. And Beyond enjoys a concession of more than 10010 hectares of wilderness area to the resort, making it possible to enjoy all manners of activities at reasonable prices. It’s also an insurance paradise, as the lodge has its staff conduct safaris rather than relying on third-party contractors. This makes your trip more safe and secure than most other destinations in Tanzania.
Escarpment Luxury Lodge Manyara
If the Four Seasons is a bit out of your budget, the Escarpment Luxury Lodge in Manyara is the next best thing at far less expense. It is located at the top of the Great Rift Valley, making it easier to access a wide variety of vistas from the location. The Tarangire National Park just takes a 90-minute drive through beautiful countryside, and the Ngorongoro Crater is only 25 Km. (15.53 miles) away.
Once you’ve had your fill of the wild, you can relax with a well-stocked lounge bar in the evening. You can also make your way to the restaurant that serves freshly prepared dinners each night. Even during the peak season, you need not pay more than USD 1000 per person per night.
Arusha Coffee Lodge
For all the coffee enthusiasts, the Arusha Coffee Lodge offers a vibrant and aromatic experience. Located on the outskirts of the town, it’s home to one of the country’s largest coffee plantations. The adjoining cafe and bistro observe enthusiasts coming in and out all year round, with many of them opting for exclusive private tastings with the freshest coffee beans from the nearby farm.
If the coffee tour wasn’t enough, you can also spend your day taking any of the nearby trails onto the nearby destinations, or relax in the lodge’s Health & Beauty spa to rejuvenate for a thrilling adventure the next day.
Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
The Ngorongoro crater is what remains of a dormant volcano once breathing fire in the region. Today, it’s a fascinating and lively place that holds spellbinding scenes for any visitors. So, what better way to experience it than living right at the rim? That’s what the Serena Safari Lodge offers.
The place is designed in such a way that it feels part of the crater itself. You might not spot it immediately as you approach, as it’s cloaked in riverstone and thick vines. But, once you reach it, it’s one of the best ways to experience a safari in Tanzania. The amphitheater provides a wide view of the crater. Also, it’s the fiery stones beneath the lodge that power all the heating in the rooms.
Mbali Mbali Soroi Serengeti Lodge
If an open-air viewpoint is all you care about, then the Mbali Mbali Soroi Serengeti Lodge is your perfect stay. It has several perches to let you hunker down with a glass of iced tea, and lie in wait to watch your choice of fauna across the plains.
Source: Booking.com
The lodge also features a rooftop restobar with traditional-style furniture, evoking a sense of wanderlust in every guest. You can never wait to finish your meal and get yourself ready for another safari adventure. Moreover, its proximity to the Serengeti comes at quite a reasonable price, with daily fares rarely exceeding USD 1000 per person per night, even during the peak season.
Greystoke Mahale Camp
The Greystoke Mahale camp is located on a secluded white sand beach overlooking Lake Tanganyika. It’s the place to go if you wish to include multiple safari trips within a short duration. You can go for a jeep/ATV ride, boat ride, or just go hiking the trails, depending on your mood.
There are no roads or airstrips nearby, adding to the isolation of the place and making it a perfect getaway from the crowds. It’s also one of the premium locations where you can observe the local primates in their natural habitat comfortably. But don’t be fooled by the camouflaging appearance. The interior of the lodge is something straight out of a British country club.
How Much Should I Budget for a Safari Adventure in Tanzania?
A safari adventure in Tanzania may cost widely depending on your preferences. While just the trip and observing the natural beauty may not be that draining, it’s the arrangement of the trip and all the activities that may add to the cost.
Therefore, it’s always a good idea to plan for about 40% more expenses before booking a safari adventure. Usually, USD 1500 per person per night is a good estimate for the peak season. Off-peak rates may dwindle it down to just USD 800. If you want to do other stuff, such as scuba diving, paragliding, or any other activity, reserve an additional USD 500 to spend.
In addition, it’s also critical to think of the various staff and locals during your trip. Don’t forget to tip generously to anyone who offers you a good service. Whether it’s the manager of the lodge or the taxi driver who picks you up at the airport, reserve a few bucks aside to make your visit worth their while.
Another factor you need to consider is sustainability. Tanzania is quite strict on tourists not throwing plastic bags and beer bottles everywhere. Be sure to reserve some money to invest in disposable bags and portable coolers before beginning your safari.
What Influences Price Variations Between Different Safari Destinations in Africa?
There are several factors that affect price variations between different safari destinations in Africa.
- Number of rooms and types of accommodations available
- Time of the year (The dry season often attracts the most crowds)
- Local population and industry type
- Proximity to the nearest game preserve
- Extra activities available during the safari
- Weather conditions during the time of safari
- Density of reservations for a particular type of safari
Can I Customize My Safari Experience to Fit My Budget?
Yes, you definitely can. While many travel agencies offer packages for various budgets and groups, they are often willing to adjust the cost if you trade in parts of that package. For instance, you can make your stay in a villa in Zanzibar much less expensive if you tell the agency that you don’t wish to indulge in any watersports.
Still, it depends upon the terms and conditions of each package. So, it’s a good idea to have a word with the contractor before you book your visit.
What Hidden Costs Should I Consider When Planning a Safari Tour in Tanzania?
When planning a safari, you must consider the following hidden costs before booking a tour in any of the best safari lodges in Tanzania.
- Cost of food and drinks (Both during transit and at your lodge)
- Visa and park entrance fees
- Gratuities to the staff and locals
- Laundry/purchasing clothes throughout your trip
- Souvenirs
How Can I Ensure I’m Getting Good Value for Money on My Safari Adventure?
The advent of the internet has helped millions of tourists throughout Africa to understand just what kind of experience you can expect. Before you confirm your booking, it’s a good idea to check out a vlog or visit a website like Tripadvisor to understand the perspective of someone who has already gone through the safari as you’re about to embark on.
Although, it’s a highly personal and illuminating experience. You may not always experience the safari precisely as those before you. It’s better to mingle with the local populace and make the most of your trip as per their recommendation. Your tour guide may also lead you to lesser-known destinations and activities, provided you treat them adequately and promise them a hefty tip.
Key Takeaways
The right stay during your Tanzania safari may make your trip more memorable. Thus, it’s a good idea to consider the best safari lodges in Tanzania before you start your journey into the wilderness. We hope this guide helps you get a good estimate on the costs and facilities you can take advantage of, making the most of your trip.
Contact us today for personalized safari planning and explore the wonders of Tanzania’s safari destinations with confidence, knowing that you’re in capable hands. Don’t forget to check out our Mt. Kilimanjaro and Serengeti trip guides here to know more about what might make such safaris even more fun.
