Tanzania is one of our favorite countries and is a great option for families looking for a wild, adventurous safari experience where you can really get off the beaten track but stay in beautiful lodges.

SAFARI

Serengeti National Park: For a family-focused safari, the Serengeti is hard to beat. Here, you can witness the annual Great Migration, where over a million wildebeest and zebras thunder across the plains. Many family-friendly lodges in the Serengeti offer special activities for children, such as junior ranger programs.

Ngorongoro Crater: The crater offers a unique setting for a Big Five safari, with its high wildlife density and stunning scenery. Children will love the variety of animals packed into this natural “arena,” making it one of the best places for a first-time safari.

Riding Safaris: For more adventurous families, Tanzania offers horseback safaris in locations like Lake Natron or the remote areas of Kilimanjaro, where you can ride alongside zebras and giraffes. Riding safaris are ideal for older children and teens who enjoy the thrill of exploring Africa’s wilds on horseback.

Walking Safaris: Selous Game Reserve and Ruaha National Park are perfect for families seeking a more active experience. Walking safaris, led by expert guides, allow families to explore the bush on foot, learning about the smaller wonders of the African landscape—everything from animal tracks to medicinal plants. It’s a chance to see the world from a different perspective.

Mobile Tented Safaris: Families seeking a more immersive and adventurous experience can opt for a mobile tented safari, where camps move along with the wildlife. This gives you the flexibility to follow the herds and enjoy remote locations in true safari style. Mobile camps in the Serengeti or Tarangire offer an intimate, up-close experience with nature.

BEACH

After the thrill of a wildlife adventure, there’s nothing better than unwinding on the pristine shores of the Indian Ocean. Whether it’s a tranquil retreat on a private island or a bustling beach town with plenty of activities, Tanzania’s beaches are great for family holidays.

Zanzibar: Zanzibar is perhaps Tanzania’s most famous beach destination, offering a blend of powder-soft sands, vibrant marine life, and rich Swahili culture. Known as the “Spice Island,” it boasts a coastline dotted with palm-fringed beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling, diving, and sailing.

Pemba Island: Just north of Zanzibar lies Pemba Island, a less-visited gem known for its untouched coral reefs and dense mangrove forests, Pemba offers a quieter, more off-the-beaten-path beach experience.

Mafia Island: Part of the Mafia Archipelago, this island is known for its crystal-clear waters, thriving coral reefs, and the Mafia Island Marine Park, a protected area brimming with life.

Ras Kutani (mainland): Just a short drive from Dar es Salaam, Ras Kutani feels like a world away with its untouched beaches and tranquil lagoon. This barefoot-luxury retreat is perfect for families wanting to blend beach relaxation with soft adventure. Children love exploring the nearby forest, kayaking in the lagoon, or searching for turtle hatchlings along the beach.