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Kogatende Serengeti plain during a 9 days great migration safari in Tanzania
Wildebeest in Ndutu during a great migration safari in Tanzania
KILIDOVE TOURS

9 Days Great Migration Safari Tour Tanzania

The 9 days Great Migration Safari in Tanzania offers an incredible journey, with key highlights including the Mara River in Serengeti (June to October) or Ndutu (December to March) for witnessing the great migration, exploring Central Serengeti for sightings of the big cats, and visiting the Ngorongoro Crater. These experiences are central to the safari's appeal.
Let's find out more about this incredible 9 Days Great Migration Safari Tanzania tour!

From $4,200

  • Tarangire National Park
  • Serengeti National Park (Central Serengeti)
  • North Serengeti’s Mara River (June to October)
  • Ndutu Plains (December to March)
  • Ngorongoro Crater
  • Arusha

WHEN IS THE BEST TO VISIT TANZANIA?

Many travelers ask themselves, ‘when is the best time to visit Tanzania?’ The best time to visit Tanzania depends on the wildlife you want to spot. The rain dictates the country’s seasons and wildlife numbers, so you’ll have a slightly different experience depending on when you choose to visit.

Tanzania’s headline attraction is the Great Migration, which unfolds year-round across the Serengeti. Between July and October, many travelers flock to witness the dramatic spectacle of massive wildebeest and zebra herds crossing the Mara River—chaos erupts as they try to evade crocodiles and other predators lying in wait. However, this season also brings an increase in vehicles throughout the park.

 

Tanzania’s ‘green season’ is much quieter between November and mid-June. While there’s a chance of rain showers, especially in March and April, it’s a fantastic time for birdwatching as migratory species arrive in their thousands. You’ll also see Great Migration herds with their newly born calves.

 

Herd of the Great Migration in the Serengeti

The mass movement of wildebeest in Tanzania each year, culminating in the Mara River crossings between July and October to mid-November.

In their search for fresh grazing, herds that can number thousands of animals risk the crocodile-infested river and the awaiting leopard on the far bank in many hazardous river crossings.

November’s short rains bring new life to the grasslands of the southern Serengeti-Ndutu. They also bring the wildebeest, who can detect rain from more than 50 kilometers away.

The herds converge on the Serengeti’s short grass plains to give birth to their young from January to February.

From March, the herd starts moving in search of new pasture through the Western and Eastern Corridor of Serengeti, which brings them to the Mara River around the Last week of June.

Tanzania weather

Tanzania's weather varies by region, but there's always a great time to visit! The coastal areas tend to be the hottest and most humid, while the northern regions and highlands enjoy cooler temperatures due to their altitude. Throughout the year, temperatures typically range from 22°C to 31°C. At night, temperatures can drop to between 10°C and 22°C. Zanzibar, located near the Equator, boasts a distinctly tropical climate, making its beaches particularly inviting.

Tanzania weather: the seasons

Tanzania has two seasons yearly: the wet and the dry season. The wet season (also called the rainy season) runs from the end of October right through to December, and then again from the end of March to the end of May. They are referred to as the ‘short-’ and ‘long rains’. These tropical rains mostly start late afternoon and continue all night till early morning. The rains of Africa are famous worldwide and are a soothing, enchanting sight to behold during a trip to Tanzania!

Tanzania Travel Advice

With almost a decade of experience, we’re proud to be able to offer customised Tanzania travel advice that is second-to-none. Here we answer your top questions regarding need-to-know Tanzania travel advice.

Is Tanzania safe to travel?

“I want to visit Tanzania, but is it safe?” This is a common question we receive from clients seeking travel advice. The short answer? Yes! Tanzania is one of the safest destinations in Africa, welcoming over a million tourists each year. Traveling with the experts at Kilidove Tours prioritizes your safety. Our private safari experiences, led by knowledgeable and professional guides, enhance your journey and provide you with complete peace of mind.Read more from us Tanzania safety tips for more information on safe travel in Tanzania.

What is the population of Tanzania?

Tanzania has a population of nearly 60 million people and is one of Africa’s most ethnically diverse countries, home to around 125 different ethnic groups. More than 100 languages are spoken across the nation, reflecting its rich cultural tapestry.

The Tanzanian people are renowned for their hospitality, warmly welcoming tourists to explore their stunning nature, wildlife, and culture. Engaging with locals is one of the best ways to gain a deeper understanding of the country and its traditions, making it highly recommended during your discovery of Tanzania!

Do I need a visa for Tanzania?

Most international travellers will need a visa to travel to Tanzania. Your visa can be requested online through the official visa website from the Tanzanian government. Please note that this is the only official link for Tanzania visa applications.

It is also possible to get a tourist or business visa for a single entry on arrival at the main ports of entry to Tanzania. This visa for Tanzania is valid for three months. You may be asked to provide proof of your return journey, and costs are $50 per person, US Citizens $100 per person.

When arranging your trip to Tanzania with Tanzania specialist, we guide you through every step of the visa and administration process.

Passport requirements

Passports should have at least six months of validity after the final day of travel.

Safety First: Our travel insurance advise

When traveling to Tanzania, we recommend booking your travel insurance through a reputable provider that offers comprehensive coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other travel-related risks. Consider the following options:
Travel Insurance Comparison Websites: Platforms like InsureMyTrip or Squaremouth allow you to compare different policies from various insurers.
Dedicated Travel Insurance Providers: Companies such as World Nomads, Allianz Travel, Axa, and SafetyWing specialize in travel insurance and are well-suited for adventurous travelers.
Your Current Insurance Provider: Check if your existing health or auto insurance covers international travel, as they may offer add-on travel insurance.
Always ensure that your policy includes essential coverage such as emergency medical expenses, evacuation, and any specific activities you plan to undertake in Tanzania.

What vaccinations are needed for Tanzania?

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is only required for travellers one year of age and older coming from – or who are in airport transit for more than 12 hours within – a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.

In addition to standard vaccinations such as MMR and TDP, the CDC and WHO recommend vaccinations for Tanzania, such as Hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid. Yellow fever and rabies vaccinations are also recommended depending on the traveller’s activities. As of January 2023 there are no more COVID-19 restrictions in Tanzania, and vaccinations or PCR-tests are no longer necessary before traveling.

As with all international travel, we always advise you to consult your physician for professional health advice before travelling to Tanzania.

What is the time in Tanzania?

Tanzania is GMT + 3. To put that into terms we all understand, check out the time difference from Tanzania to LA, New York, London and more below.

Los Angeles: -10 hours
New York: -7 hours
London: -3 hours
Berlin: -2 hours
Hong Kong: +5 hours
Tokyo: +6 hours
Sydney: + 8 hours
Auckland: +10 hours

What is the currency of Tanzania?

The local currency is the Tanzanian shilling, although dollars and euros are also accepted in most places in Tanzania.

Language in Tanzania

There are over 100 different languages spoken in Tanzania. The official languages, however, are Swahili and English. You can expect all your Tanzania Specialist guides and hosts to speak English, but if you’re looking to learn a few words of Swahili before your trip, get a few step to start learn swahili useful words in Swahili!

Swahili and English are the official languages in Tanzania, but Swahili is spoken by almost everyone. In the tourism sector, however, English is widely spoken by the majority of people.

Traveling in Tanzania, especially to East African destinations like Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and Zanzibar, is more than just a vacation; it’s a bucket-list adventure to cherish for a lifetime. For detailed travel advice on Tanzania or to start planning your custom vacation, feel free to reach out!, contact us now.

We look forward to share our beautiful places in Tanzania with you soon!

Tanzania Yellow Fever Requirements

Tanzania yellow fever requirements can sometimes seem confusing, but we’re here to help! As a yellow fever-free country, Tanzania is safe to travel when it comes to steering clear of this virus. On this page, we answer all your questions on the yellow fever virus and whether a yellow fever vaccine is required for Tanzania.

Do I need a yellow fever vaccination for Tanzania?

Great news: for the vast majority of travellers to this beautiful country, you do not need this vaccine! According to the World Health Organization's classification, Tanzania currently poses a low risk for yellow fever. If you reside in a country with no risk of yellow fever, you do not need the yellow fever vaccine as part of your required travel vaccinations. 

What is yellow fever?

Yellow fever is a viral disease transmitted through mosquito bites. Symptoms usually develop within 3 to 6 days and may include fever, chills, headache, and muscle aches. It’s important to note that yellow fever can be serious; approximately 15% of those infected may develop a severe or life-threatening illness.

As Tanzania is safe from yellow fever, if you are directly travelling from Europe or the United States, there are no yellow fever vaccine requirements.

Tanzania yellow fever requirements

Proof of yellow fever vaccination is only required upon arrival if you are traveling from a country with a risk of the virus or if you are transiting for more than 48 hours through such a country. Currently, this list does not include any countries in Europe or the United States.(View the full list of Yellow Fever high-risk countries).

Receiving the yellow fever vaccination

The yellow fever vaccination is administered as a single dose and should be given at least 10 days before entering a high-risk yellow fever country. A single dose provides lifelong protection against the yellow fever virus, so be sure to obtain proof of vaccination from your doctor or healthcare provider. If you are required to get the yellow fever vaccine before traveling, you will need to present your proof of vaccination upon arrival in Tanzania. 

If your doctor advises against the vaccine due to underlying health issues or other factors, you can still travel to Tanzania with an official letter from your doctor.Presenting this letter to the immigration officer upon arrival will waive the vaccination requirement, allowing your trip to proceed as planned.

How to get your visa for Tanzania

After you’ve booked one of our Tanzania safaris or Zanzibar holidays (hooray!), Next, you’ll need to apply for your tourist visa, which can often cause some anxiety and uncertainty. How do you apply? Where should you go? What documents are necessary? Fortunately, obtaining a visa for Tanzania is quite straightforward, especially when you book with us. Read on to learn more!.

When traveling to Tanzania, you have the option to obtain your visa online or upon arrival*. Both methods are valid, although the Tanzanian government encourages the online option to highlight the country's modernity. Below, we’ve outlined the pros and cons of each method. But first, let’s discuss the costs.

TANZANIA VISA: HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

Visa costs for Tanzania vary slightly depending on your nationality. If you’re coming from Europe, the fee is $50. For US citizens, a multi-entry visa costs $100. Both visas are valid for three months, but the multi-entry visa allows you to leave the country and return using the same visa within one year.

The amounts mentioned above apply when you purchase your visa online. If you choose to apply upon arrival, the costs are either $50 or €50 (or $100 for the multi-entry visa). It’s a bit surprising since €50 is worth more than $50. Regardless, you can also pay with a credit card, in which case the fee is $50 or $100 plus any applicable credit card fees. The choice is yours!

ONLINE APPLICATION

The Tanzanian government favors online applications, and to be honest, there are several advantages to this approach:

  • The process is relatively easy, especially with the explanatory PDF you get when booking through us.
  • You board your plane knowing your visa is arranged and paid for.
  • Upon arrival, you only have to wait at one counter to get your visa stamped.

To apply for a visa online, you go to the official portal of the Tanzanian government. We advise you to NOT apply through any other website because they are either more expensive or scams. We know of several travellers who lost their money through these scams, so it’s better to be safe than sorry. The official portal is:

https://visa.immigration.go.tz/

Those who book with us receive a special PDF guide to help them through the application process, and our travel consultants are always available for advice. While we can’t apply for your visa on your behalf, this support makes it nearly foolproof. After submitting your application, it can take up to ten days for your visa to be processed and approved, so be sure to print or download it before you travel. Upon arrival, you’ll simply need to queue at the immigration counter to have your visa stamped in your passport. Then, you can collect your bags and you’re all set!.

 

APPLY FOR A VISA UPON ARRIVAL IN TANZANIA

If, for any reason, you can’t or don’t want to apply online, you can still apply upon arrival as of September 2024*. Be prepared for a bit of classic African bureaucracy, but overall, the process is quite straightforward.:

  • Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll need to fill out an application form. Make sure to have a pen handy and have the address of Kilidove Tours, along with the details of your first lodge, ready for reference.
  • Apply at the visa counter.
  • Go to a second counter to pay your visa fee, and pay either in cash or by credit card.
  • Go to a third counter, and get the visa stamped in your passport.
  • Get your bags and you’re good to go.

As you can see, when applying upon arrival, you'll need to queue three times, while applying online means just one queue at the airport. So, the old-fashioned method might slow you down a bit, but remember, you're in the land of "pole pole"—there's no rush in Africa! You might as well embrace it. And just between us, with so many people applying online these days, that single queue for online applications can be much longer than the three queues for those applying upon arrival. You might even find yourself through faster!.

THE CHOICE IS YOURS

Nowadays, most people prefer to apply online, just to be sure to have that visa in their pocket before travelling. Which is understandable. If you decide to apply online, make sure to be prepared:

  • Apply three to four weeks before travelling, in case your application gets denied. This will give you enough time to correct the mistakes and apply again.
  • Have a credit card ready for your payment, or know how to make an international bank transfer.
  • Have a digital passport-size picture, a picture of your passport’s biodata page (max 300 kB) and a PDF of your flight ticket (max 1 MB) ready.
  • Make sure your passport is valid for six months upon return from Tanzania.
  • If children travel with only one parent, you need a written document in English with the consent of the other parent for the trip and then you have to upload this into the system.
  • Make sure to have a pen at hand when arriving in Tanzania, because sometimes there is still a form they ask you to fill.

If you decide to be a bit adventurous and apply upon arrival, don’t board the plane unprepared either.

  • Carry the amount needed for the fee in cash (USD/EUR), or use your credit card.
  • No passport-size picture is needed.
  • Have a pen at hand to fill in the application form, and the addresses of Kilidove Tours as a host company, and the first hotel you stay in.
  • If children travel with only one parent, you need a written document in English with the consent of the other parent for the trip.

It’s up to you how you apply for your visa – whatever gives you the least stress. As long as you keep the end goal in mind: to get that visa. Because only with your visa in hand, you can get your bags and start your safari adventure with us.

 

*Nationals of some countries need a so-called Referral Visa and are not allowed to apply upon arrival. So make sure to check that before you decide how to apply. Visas on arrival to Tanzania wont be possible as of 1st December 2024, so make sure to check the immigration guidelines before you leave to confirm that it’s still possible.

Travel Insurance

Embarking on an African safari to Tanzania is an adventure of a lifetime. But don’t forget to pack the most important thing—travel insurance! Whether you’re spotting a stealthy leopard or navigating bumpy roads, travel insurance ensures that medical mishaps, unexpected detours, and bumps in the road won’t spoil your wild adventure.

A good travel insurance plan provides peace of mind by covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events. It’s essential to have a reliable safety net, especially in remote areas where access to medical facilities and other services can be limited. Comprehensive travel insurance lets you focus on the thrill of the safari, knowing that you’re protected against the unexpected.

Travel insurance for your trip to Tanzania : our advice.

When traveling to Tanzania, we recommend booking your travel insurance through a reputable provider that offers comprehensive coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other travel-related risks. Consider the following options:
Travel Insurance Comparison Websites: Platforms like InsureMyTrip or Squaremouth allow you to compare different policies from various insurers.
Dedicated Travel Insurance Providers: Companies such as World Nomads, Allianz Travel, Axa, and SafetyWing specialize in travel insurance and are well-suited for adventurous travelers.
Your Current Insurance Provider: Check if your existing health or auto insurance covers international travel, as they may offer add-on travel insurance.
Always ensure that your policy includes essential coverage such as emergency medical expenses, evacuation, and any specific activities you plan to undertake in Tanzania.

Zanzibar Mandatory Travel Insurance

If you are traveling to Zanzibar from October 1st, 2024 onwards, you are required to obtain the Zanzibar Mandatory Travel Insurance, regardless of any other travel insurance you may have. Each traveler must apply for this insurance in advance. After making a payment of USD 44 per person, you will receive a QR code, which must be presented upon arrival.
The basic coverage of this mandatory travel insurance includes emergency medical expenses, repatriation costs (both medical and for the body), personal accidents, baggage delays, theft, and loss, as well as legal expenses and personal liability. To apply for Zanzibar’s Mandatory Travel Insurance, please visit https://visitzanzibar.go.tz/

If you are already in Zanzibar on October 1st, 2024, you won’t be affected by these new regulations and will not be required to have the Zanzibar Mandatory Travel Insurance

Tanzania is renowned for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, rich culture, and historical significance. Key aspects Tanzania is known for include:

  • Serengeti National Park: Home to the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move in search of fresh grazing, one of the most remarkable wildlife spectacles on Earth.
  • Mount Kilimanjaro: The highest peak in Africa and a popular destination for trekkers and climbers worldwide.
  • Zanzibar: Known for its white sandy beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and rich history as a major trade center. The historic Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Ngorongoro Crater: A large volcanic caldera with abundant wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino), and known for its beautiful landscapes.
  • Wildlife and Safaris: Tanzania is one of the best destinations in the world for safari, offering national parks such as Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Ruaha, as well as game reserves like Selous.
  • Maasai and Other Cultures: The country is rich in cultural diversity, with over 120 ethnic groups, including the Maasai, who are famous for their traditional customs and close relationship with nature.
  • Olduvai Gorge: Often referred to as the "Cradle of Mankind," this site has produced some of the earliest evidence of human ancestors.
  • Lake Victoria and Lake Tanganyika: Lake Victoria is the largest lake in Africa and one of the largest in the world, while Lake Tanganyika is the world’s longest freshwater lake and one of the deepest.
  • Spices and Agriculture: Tanzania is known for producing spices, especially on Zanzibar, and its rich agricultural products like coffee, tea, and cloves.
  • Swahili Culture and Language: Swahili, a lingua franca in East Africa, originated from this region, and Tanzania plays a significant role in promoting and preserving Swahili culture.

These highlights make Tanzania a top destination for nature, culture, and adventure seekers alike. Kilidove Tours invite you to explore Tanzania together.

KILIDOVE TOURS

9 Days Great Migration Safari in Tanzania

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KILIDOVE TOURS

9 Days Great Migration Safaris in Tanzania

Our team will create your memorable Tanzania Great Migration safari, and our guides will ensure a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Tanzania.

Mid-Luxury

400$Per day
  • Perfect Location.
  • Comfort and secure.
  • Good value accommodation.
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Luxury

600$Per day
  • Upscale stays and experience.
  • Prime location.
  • Elegance and unique experiences.
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High-End

1,200$Per day
  • Ultimate luxury.
  • Exclusivity.
  • World-class amenities.
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KILIDOVE TOURS

Total comfort and
genuine experience.

safari-ballon-tanzania
KILIDOVE TOURS

A safari from the sky?
Yes

A Hot Air Balloon Safari across the Serengeti is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Experience the thrill of a balloon safari, soaring high above the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Experience the tranquility of the sky as you glide effortlessly through the air, capturing memories that will last a lifetime. The peacefulness of the experience will leave you feeling rejuvenated and at peace.

Our Balloon safaris are organized in the Tarangire, Ruaha, and Serengeti parks.
During this 9-day Great Migration Safari Tanzania, you have the chance to do a balloon safari in Kogatende's Serengeti Mara River from June to November, Seronera Serengeti and Tarangire throughout the year, and Ndutu plains from December to March.

Join us on a 9-days Great Migration Safari in Tanzania, where you’ll witness the breathtaking Mara River crossings or the calving season in Ndutu, depending on the time of year. This adventure also includes exploring Central Serengeti, renowned for its big cats, the stunning Ngorongoro Crater with its diverse wildlife, and the elephant-rich Tarangire National Park. This safari offers an unforgettable experience of Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife and landscapes.

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