Northern Tanzania is rightly renowned as one of the world’s top safari destinations: the iconic Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater offer outstanding game viewing year-round, perfect for firs time safari goers and experienced safari enthusiasts alike. The downside of the north is that it is understandably popular, and so all but the most exclusive locations are pretty busy, and prices are also a bit higher. Activities are strictly regulated here, so most lodges only offer standard game drives (no walking, boating or night drives). It is also a little further from the beach, and takes a little longer to cover the circuit properly. This is where Southern Tanzania comes in.
. The gems of the South are Selous Game Reserve (the largest game reserve in Africa) and Ruaha National Park - both have remained unspoilt by mass tourism and as a result offer a more authentic and intimate safari experience. The South has fantastic game viewing, and is in season from early July until the end of October. The rules here are more relaxed, allowing boating, walking and fly camping in the bush. Accommodation is better value (more luxury for your money), and the parks are closer both to each other and the beach, meaning less time and budget spent on travelling. Zanzibar is a fantastic option for a beach break. There are a number of superb beach options, with prices varying hugely. Zanzibar has so much to offer, we’ve given it a whole page to itself - see Zanzibar Honeymoons. There are also other surrounding islands that cater for big diving fans (Mafia and Pemba) and a few private islands, see Mnemba and Fanjove, for the ultimate exclusive experience.