Top 15 Must-Visit National Parks in Tanzania (By Statistics)
367,632. That’s the total number of tourists who visited Tanzania and its National parks from January to April 2022. If you're planning an unforgettable safari adventure, Tanzania is the perfect place to stop by.
Tanzania's national parks offer limitless wildlife experiences that attract millions of tourists from around the world; from spotting millions of animals on the great migration, to bird watching on forest tours, to discovering species you’ve only dreamt of.
What National parks in Tanzania should you visit?
Let's help you decide on the best National parks for your next Tanzania safari adventure. Here are the top 15 must-visit National parks in Tanzania, according to statistics from national databases.
Top 15 National Parks in Tanzania
For your pleasure, we’ve grouped the top 15 national parks that made it to our list into three major regions: The northern, Eastern Southern, and Western zones.
This ordered list follows 2019 tourist visitor statistics from Statista, with Serengeti National Park being the most visited and Mahale Mountains National Park being the least visited among the 15 selected national parks in Tanzania.
I'll provide descriptions, history, locations, uniqueness, tourist attractions, how to get there, and trip preparation details for each Tanzanian National Park.
1. Serengeti National Park (Western Zone)
Visitors (2019): 472,705
Serengeti National Park, located in northern Tanzania, is one of the most iconic wildlife destinations globally. It's famous for its vast plains, the annual Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras, and diverse wildlife.
Established in 1951, the park covers 13,250 square kilometers and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a living testament to nature's beauty and balance.
Arguably one of the best National parks in Tanzania, Serengeti offers the chance to witness the Big Five and the Great Migration, where millions of animals move in search of fresh grazing lands.
Tourist Attractions: Great Migration, balloon safaris, Maasai culture, and numerous lodges and camps.
How to Get There: You can fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport and then take a domestic flight to Seronera Airstrip. Alternatively, you can drive from Arusha.
Bring warm clothing for chilly mornings and evenings, good walking shoes, and binoculars for wildlife viewing.
2. Tarangire National Park (Northern Zone)
Visitors (2019): 288,645
Tarangire National Park is a gem known for its baobab trees and wildlife concentration during the dry season. It's an off-the-beaten-path destination. Established in 1970, the park spans 2,850 square kilometers and is characterized by the Tarangire River. The park's landscape is dotted with ancient baobab trees, and it's a vital ecosystem for elephant conservation.
This is the best park in the country for elephant enthusiasts.
Activities to prepare for: Night safaris, birdwatching, and scenic landscapes.
How to Get There: You can fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport and then drive to Tarangire, which is about 2-3 hours away. Bring insect repellent, a good camera for bird and wildlife photography, and comfortable walking shoes.
3. Lake Manyara National Park (Northern Zone)
Visitors (2019): 213,395
Lake Manyara National Park is a compact park known for its diverse ecosystems, including a soda lake, lush forests, and abundant wildlife. Established in 1960, the park covers 330 square kilometers and is nestled between the Great Rift Valley and Lake Manyara.
The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, a behavior not commonly seen elsewhere.
Tourist Attractions: Birdwatching, tree-climbing lions, and canoeing on Lake Manyara are the standout activities to prepare for.
How to Get There: Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport and then drive to Lake Manyara, which takes about 2-3 hours. Pack binoculars for birdwatching, a good camera, and comfortable hiking shoes.
4. Mount Kilimanjaro National Park Tanzania (Northern Tanzania)
Visitors (2019): 75,297
Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is home to Africa's highest peak and offers a challenging yet rewarding trek to its summit.
Established in 1973, the park covers 1,688 square kilometers and includes Mount Kilimanjaro, which stands at 5,895 meters above sea level.
June is the best month to visit Tanzania for a hike. It’s right at the start of the dry season, with perfect weather conditions for hiking.
Away from the Himalayan mountain rank, Kilimanjaro, also known as the “roof of Africa” is the tallest freestanding mountain in the world, featuring various climate zones from lush rainforests to glaciers.
Tourist Attractions:
Hiking to the “roof of Africa”, Climbing to Uhuru Peak, Africa's highest point, and witnessing breathtaking landscapes.
How to Get to Kilimanjaro: Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport and arrange transportation to your chosen trekking route. Acclimatization is crucial, so plan a gradual ascent. Ensure you have proper trekking gear, a reputable guide, and necessary permits.
5. Mikumi National Park Tanzania (Eastern zone)
Visitors (2019): 62,497
Mikumi National Park's Mkata Floodplain offers diverse wildlife and stunning photo opportunities. Established in 1964, the park covers 3,220 square kilometers and is one of Tanzania's larger national parks.
It's often referred to as the "mini-Serengeti" due to its similar landscapes and wildlife.
Thrilling activities on Mikumi:
Abundant wildlife during the dry season, perfect for weekend getaways.
How to Get There: You can drive from Dar es Salaam or take a domestic flight to Mikumi. Bring your camera for wildlife photography and comfortable clothing for game drives.
6. Ruaha National Park Tanzania(Southern Zone)
Visitors (2019): 31,778
Ruaha National Park is Africa's largest national park, known for its dramatic landscapes, ancient baobab trees, and diverse wildlife. Established in 1964, the park covers 10,300 square kilometers and is part of a larger ecosystem.
Ruaha offers the opportunity for fly camping, and getting closer to nature in a remote setting.
Tourist Attractions: Fly camping, unusual antelope species, and thrilling game-viewing experiences.
How to Get There: You can fly into Iringa or Dodoma and then drive to Ruaha. Ensure you have a sturdy tent for fly camping, comfortable walking shoes, and a sense of adventure.
7. Saadani National Park (Eastern zone)
Visitors (2019): 19,841
Saadani National Park is a unique coastal park where wildlife meets the ocean, offering a blend of terrestrial and marine attractions. It’s the perfect place for people who enjoy combining their safari adventures with scuba diving experiences.
It's the only place where you can enjoy a game drive and then cool off with an ocean swim.
The only other place in Tanzania where this happens is the Pemba Island. Untouched beaches, crystal clear waters for observing marine wonders, and amazing forests for safari trips.
Established in 2005, this relatively young park spans 1,100 square kilometers and is the only coastal wildlife sanctuary in Tanzania.
Top activities on Saadani: Wildlife drives, Africa’s epic scuba diving adventures, boat safaris, and beach relaxation.
How to Get to Saadani: Fly into Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar and then drive to Saadani. Bring both safari and beachwear, as well as sunscreen and swim gear.
Book your scuba diving trip today with East Africa’s leading dive agency, Swahili Divers.
8. Saanane Island National Park (Eastern zone)
Visitors (2019): 16,028
Saanane Island National Park is a unique urban park located near the city of Mwanza, offering a chance to spot wildlife close to civilization. How cool is that? You could admire wildlife from your hotel window.
Established in 1964, the park covers 2.18 square kilometers and includes Saanane Island in Lake Victoria.
It's the smallest national park in Tanzania and provides an opportunity for short safaris for those with limited time. For a quick trip to Tanzania, I’d recommend the Saanane Island.
Tourist Attractions: Game drives, birdwatching, and walking safaris.
To get to Saasane, fly into Mwanza and take a boat to Saanane Island.
9. Udzungwa Mountains National Park (Southern zone)
Visitors (2019): 7,742
Udzungwa Mountains National Park is a haven for hikers, known for its lush forests and diverse flora and fauna. Established in 1992, the park covers 1,990 square kilometers and is part of the Eastern Arc Mountains.
It is home to the Iringa red colobus monkey, found nowhere else in the world. Hiking, waterfalls, and birdwatching and the top activities that draw tourists in.
To get to the Udzungwa mountains You can fly into Dar es Salaam or Kilimanjaro International Airport and then drive to Udzungwa. Pack hiking gear, a good camera for nature photography, and sturdy shoes.
10. Katavi National Park (Southern zone)
Visitors (2019): 4,278
Because of its isolation, Katavi offers an untouched safari experience.
Katavi National Park is a remote wilderness destination known for its unspoiled landscapes and abundant wildlife. Established in 1974, the park covers 4,471 square kilometers and is one of Tanzania's least-visited parks.
Activities: Game drives, walking safaris, and the Katavi floodplains.
How to Get to Katavi National Park: You can fly into Mbeya or Kigoma and then take a charter flight to Katavi. Bring camping gear for a more immersive experience, as lodges are limited.
Need help planning your trip to Tanzania? Get in touch with a reputable local agency to help you with everything you need for a smooth, effortless travel.
11. Mkomazi National Park (Northern zone)
Visitors (2019): 3,757
If you’re concerned about wildlife conservation, Mkomazi’s story is one that you’ll love. Mkomazi National Park is a conservation success story, home to endangered species like the African wild dog and black rhino.
Established in 2006, the park covers 3,245 square kilometers and shares a border with Kenya's Tsavo West National Park. The park is a vital habitat for the African wild dog, providing opportunities for research and conservation.
Top activities: Game drives, birdwatching, and guided walks.
To get to Mkomazi, fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport and then drive to Mkomazi. Pack binoculars for birdwatching and a good camera for wildlife photography.
12. Gombe Stream National Park (Western Zone)
Visitors (2019): 2,168
Every chimpanzee enthusiast ought to come here. Gombe Stream National Park is renowned for its chimpanzee research and offers a unique opportunity to observe these primates up close.
Established in 1968, the park covers 52 square kilometers and is where Jane Goodall conducted her groundbreaking research.
Gombe Stream is one of the few places in the world where you can go trekking to observe wild chimpanzees.
Birdwatching and visiting Lake Tanganyika are some of the mesmerizing activities here, besides the legendary chimpanzee trekking.
How to Get to Gombe Stream National Park: Fly into Kigoma and take a boat to Gombe Stream National Park. Ensure you have comfortable walking shoes and a camera for documenting your chimpanzee encounters.
13. Rubondo Island National Park (Western zone)
Visitors (2019): 1,635
Meet the largest island national park in Africa, offering a tranquil escape. Rubondo Island National Park is a secluded island sanctuary known for its birdwatching and fishing. If you’re an avid birdwatcher, there’s no better place in the world to go to.
Besides Rubondo Island, Pemba Island is another haven for bird watchers with binoculars.
The Pemba green pigeon, Pemba sunbird, Pemba scops owl, Pemba white eye as well as the recently discovered Pemba Goshawk, as well as the Pemba flying fox, are some of the beautiful species found here and nowhere else.
Established in 1977, the Rubondo Island park covers 457 square kilometers and is located in Lake Victoria.
To get here, fly into Mwanza and then take a boat to Rubondo Island. Pack fishing gear, binoculars for birdwatching, and comfortable clothing for relaxation.
Away from Tanzania’s National parks, here are the top 10 must-visit places in East Africa for a safari or scuba dive adventure.
14. Kitulo Plateau National Park (Southern zone)
Visitors (2019): 1,538
Kitulo Plateau National Park is a botanical wonderland, often referred to as the "Serengeti of Flowers." It's home to over 350 species of plants, making it a paradise for botanists.
Established in 2005, the park covers 412 square kilometers and features a stunning array of wildflowers.
Why visit: Flower displays, hiking, and photography.
To get to Kitulo Plateau, fly into Mbeya and then drive to Kitulo Plateau National Park.
15. Mahale Mountains National Park (Western Zone)
Visitors (2019): 1,081
Home to one of the largest populations of chimpanzees in the wild. Mahale Mountains National Park is a remote wilderness area known for its chimpanzees and pristine landscapes.
Established in 1985, the park covers 1,613 square kilometers and is located along the shores of Lake Tanganyika.
Tourist Attractions: Chimpanzee trekking, hiking, and beach relaxation on Lake Tanganyika.
How to Get There: Fly into Kigoma and then take a boat to Mahale Mountains National Park. Ensure you have comfortable walking shoes and a camera for documenting your chimpanzee encounters and lakeside adventures.
Overview of all top 15 National Parks in Tanzania
| National Park | Total Visitors in 2019 | Location | Size (Square Kilometers) | Uniqueness |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Serengeti National Park | 472,705 | Northern Tanzania | 13,250 | Great Migration, Big Five, Balloon Safaris |
| Tarangire National Park | 288,645 | Northern Tanzania | 2,850 | Baobab Trees, Concentrated Wildlife |
| Lake Manyara National Park | 213,395 | Northern Tanzania | 330 | Tree-Climbing Lions, Bird-Watching |
| Kilimanjaro National Park | 75,297 | Northern Tanzania | Unspecified | Highest Peak in Africa, Climbing Adventures |
| Mikumi National Park | 62,497 | Central Tanzania | 3,220 | Concentrated Wildlife, Photo Opportunities |
| Ruaha National Park | 31,778 | Central Tanzania | 10,300 | Ancient Baobab Trees, Wildlife Diversity |
| Saadani National Park | 19,841 | Eastern Tanzania | Unspecified | Beach Safari, Wildlife by the Ocean |
| Saanane Island National Park | 16,028 | Eastern Tanzania | 2.18 | Bird Watching, Island Experience |
| Udzungwa Mountains National Park | 7,742 | Southern Tanzania | 1,990 | Primate Species, Hiking Trails |
| Katavi National Park | 4,278 | Western Tanzania | 4,471 | Remote Wilderness, Hippo Pools |
| Mkomazi National Park | 3,757 | Northeastern Tanzania | 3,234 | Endangered Species, Black Rhino |
| Gombe Stream National Park | 2,168 | Western Tanzania | 52.7 | Chimpanzee Trekking, Jane Goodall Research |
| Rubondo Island National Park | 1,635 | Western Tanzania | 2,236 | Island Wildlife, Bird Watching |
| Kitulo National Park | 1,538 | Southern Highlands Tanzania | 412.9 | Orchid Blooms, Scenic Landscapes |
| Mahale Mountains National Park | 1,081 | Western Tanzania | Unspecified | Chimpanzee Trekking, Remote Wilderness |
Map of Tanzania National Parks – The Map Tanzania
Here’s a detailed look into the map of Tanzania National Parks.
Source: safaribookings.com
FAQ
How many national parks are in Tanzania?
Tanzania has 22 official national parks, 4 game reserves, 3 forest reserves, and 1 marine park .
What is the largest National Park in Tanzania?
The largest national park in Tanzania is Nyerere National Park. It covers an area of 30,893 square kilometers (11,920 sq mi). The park is located in the western part of Tanzania, bordering Lake Tanganyika to the west.
How many game reserves are there in Tanzania?
There are 32 game reserves in Tanzania. Here are some of the most popular game reserves in Tanzania:
Biharamulo Game Reserve
Burigi-Chato Game Reserve
Ikorongo Game Reserve
Katavi Game Reserve
Kilombero Game Reserve
Kigosi Game Reserve
Mkomazi Game Reserve
What is the most famous national park in Tanzania?
The most famous park in Tanzania is the Serengeti National Park. It is home to the annual migration of over 1.5 million wildebeest and zebra, as well as lions, elephants, giraffes, and many other animals.
Bonus Tip:
Always consider weather conditions before you visit Tanzania. What activity you get to do here will depend on the weather.
For example, if you’re scuba diving the warm weather of January and February are just perfect. June is perfect month for Safari adventures.
Learn more about Tanzania’s weather in our complete guide.
Conclusion
This guide will help you make an informed choice, whether you're chasing Great Migration's drama, desire intimate encounters with chimpanzees, or prefer the tranquility of unspoiled wilderness, Tanzania has a park to fulfill your dream safari.
Remember to plan, book your accommodations, and respect the natural environment and wildlife during your visit.
Happy safari!
Need help planning your safari trip to Tanzania? Let’s take the headache away. Feel free to reach out to our tour guides today for custom guidance on planning your trip to East Africa. Talk to us!
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