Is it safe to drink the tap water?

No. Always drink bottled water or treated water provided by your lodge. Use bottled water even for brushing your teeth.

Should I tip my safari guide?

Yes. Tipping is standard. Plan for $20-$30 USD per day for your guide and $10-$15 per day for other camp staff.

When is the best time to see the Great Migration?

The migration is a cycle. June/July are best for river crossings in the North, while January/February are best for calving in the Southern Serengeti.

Planning a 10-Day Tanzania Safari

Focus your 10 days on the 'Northern Circuit' to maximize wildlife sightings without excessive travel time. Book your lodges six to nine months in advance, specifically targeting the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater for the highest density of animals.

Choose your safari style. Decide between a 'lodge safari' (fixed structures, beds, running water) or a 'tented camp' (canvas walls, often luxury amenities). Lodge safaris are better for first-timers; luxury tented camps offer a more immersive bush experience.
Select your circuit. For a 10-day trip, stick to the Northern Circuit: Arusha, Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Serengeti, and Lake Manyara. Do not attempt to add the Southern Circuit (Selous/Ruaha) as it requires extra flights and consumes too much time.
Vet your tour operator. You need a local operator with a dedicated vehicle and a licensed driver-guide. Check the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO) registry. Ensure the quote includes park fees, vehicle fuel, and crater service fees, as these are significant costs.
Optimize flight arrivals. Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). It is a one-hour drive from Arusha, the hub for all Northern Circuit safaris. If you fly into Dar es Salaam, you will waste two days traveling across the country.

Is it safe to drink the tap water?: No. Always drink bottled water or treated water provided by your lodge. Use bottled water even for brushing your teeth.
Should I tip my safari guide?: Yes. Tipping is standard. Plan for $20-$30 USD per day for your guide and $10-$15 per day for other camp staff.
When is the best time to see the Great Migration?: The migration is a cycle. June/July are best for river crossings in the North, while January/February are best for calving in the Southern Serengeti.