Tanzania

Tanzania

Sweeping Savannas, Towering Mountains, & Beautiful Beaches

Known For: The Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Mt. Kilimanjaro, The Big Five, Adventure, World Class Beaches

Tanzania is home to some of the most stunning natural sights in Africa. From the peak of Mt. Kilimanjaro to the endless herds of wildebeest and zebra on the plains, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And the sounds of bird calls echoing through Ngorongoro Crater or the crashing waves along the white sands of Zanzibar will stay with you long after you’ve left. So whether you’re looking for an adventure-filled climb or a relaxing safari, Tanzania is the perfect destination. Let’s get started on your African checklist!

General Information:

Main Airports:

  • Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
  • Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR)

Capital City:

  • Dodoma

Currency:

  • Tanzanian Shilling but USD is widely accepted

Weather and Seasons:

  • Tanzania has a comfortable climate year-round, but with significant changes is ecosystem and elevation there can be significant variations in different regions
  • There are two rainy seasons during the year, the “short season” in November and December and the “long season” between March and May.
  • If you’re in search of the Great Migration then you’ll want to visit in late May, June or July, however if you simply want to see wildlife then the dry summer months (January, February and early March) for the herds to concentrate at watering holes, making the search much easier.

Who it’s great for:

Family Vacations

Tanzania is a great option for families of all ages and sizes! Whether you’re looking to explore with just your immediate family or the full extended crew there are amazing experiences to be found. Visit Maasai villages to learn about their history and culture, participate in conservation efforts for rhino or lion populations, or head out on a walking safari to learn about tracking animals and the native plant species.

Tanzania offers so many opportunities for romance – we love this as a destination for honeymoons, anniversary trips, or even a “just because” trip with your sweetheart! Enjoy sunset sundowners in the bush after a day’s game drive, dine under the stars at your tented camp, or hit the beach for a few days of fun in the sun – no matter your definition of romance, Tanzania has the answer!

Looking for an adventure? Tanzania is the perfect destination! With a variety of climate zones, there’s something for everyone. Climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, explore the Serengeti by hot air balloon or go surfing in Zanzibar. Whatever your interests, you’ll find it here!

Tanzania is a paradise for nature lovers, with its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. From the verdant slopes of Ngorongoro Crater to the golden plains of the Serengeti, there’s always something new to discover. Whether searching for the Big Five, hiking through rugged landscapes, or diving along the coast, Africa is sure to amaze and delight.

Advisor Tip

While the Great Migration in June and July might be the most well known “season” in East Africa (we’re looking at you National Geographic!), traveling during the shoulder seasons can be rewarding as well. Consider January and February as an alternative and get the chance to experience “baby season” when all the mammals such as wildebeest, zebra and even lions are raising their young.

Advisor Favorite Hotels

1. &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge – Ngorongoro Crater

This over the top, Maasai meets Versailles, styled property on the upper rim of Ngorongoro Crater offers guests a luxurious and often surprising experience in one of Tanzania’s most amazing destinations.

andBeyond Ngorongo Crater Lodge

2. Four Seasons Serengeti Safari Lodge

With an enviable location in the heart of the Serengeti, the Four Seasons Serengeti Lodge gives guests all the sumptuous luxuries and service that you expect of a Four Seasons and unexpected surprises like a watering hole with elephants playing and Maasai warriors dotted around the grounds, making this is a safari experience like no other.

Four Seasons Serengeti

3. &Beyond Mnemba Island

For travelers in search of seclusion, &Beyond Mnemba Island definitely fits the bill! This exclusive, private island resort off the coast of Zanzibar gives guests the daily choice of heading out on an ocean adventure (think snorkeling in the turquoise waters or drifting along the waves in a traditional Dhow) or sitting back and relaxing with experiences like yoga, spa treatments or simply enjoying the beach!

4. Singita Sasakwa Lodge

This gorgeous manor-style property, perched on a cliff line in the Western Corridor of the Serengeti, offers guests panoramic views and strikes the perfect balance between casual luxury and elegance. We love this lodge as a home base for exploring the Serengeti – especially during the Grumeti River crossing of the Great Migration.

Four Seasons Serengeti

More Inspiration

Whether you’re looking for your next safari destination or just want to be inspired, our blog is the perfect place to start. With details on our favorite hotels, experiences, and more, you’ll be able to plan your Tanzania trip.River Oaks Travel Recommends: Segera, on Kenya’s Laikipia Plateau

Ready to Plan YOUR East African safari?!

If you’re looking to explore Tanzania, Kenya, or Rwanda,
our River Oaks Travel Concierge team is here to help!

With our expert knowledge and outstanding partnerships, we
can make sure that your experience is seamless.

So reach out to us today, and let’s start planning
your adventure!

Five Over the Top Holiday Decorations: Hotel Edition

We love over-the-top holiday decorations and these five properties certainly deliver!

We love the Holiday Season! It’s the happiest time of the year and destinations around the world pull out all the stops to put up lights, decorations, and lots of greenery and welcome travelers through the winter months! Is there anything as beautiful as the holiday lights of Paris twinkling in the snow? How about the over-the-top Holiday Installations at the Four Seasons George V?! Check out 5 of our favorite hotels for the holidays!

1. Four Seasons George V

With a perfect location in the heart of Paris’ Golden Triangle, the Four Seasons George V is a perennial favorite for travelers year-round. During the holiday season the hotel steps it up and takes inspiration from the sparkling light displays of the Champs Elysées to create a winter wonderland! Our favorite way to experience the holiday spirit is enjoying afternoon tea or a festive cocktail hour in the Marble Courtyard!

2. Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

Christmas at the Princess has been a Scottsdale tradition for over a decade but travelers from further afield are discovering the appeal in recent years. The resort transforms itself every year with over 6 million sparkling lights, an ice skating rink and even a full winter village with 120 ft sledding mountain! We recommend hitching a ride on the Princess Express train for a relaxing journey through the resort’s decorations!

3. Hotel Sacher Vienna

It’s hard to think of a destination more charming holiday destination than Vienna! Christmas Markets offer up great gift buying options, the notes of classical concerts echo in the streets, and – if you’re lucky – snowflakes float through the air. To top off this festive atmosphere the iconic Hotel Sacher fills their hallowed halls with holiday trees, sparkling lights, crackling fires, and delicious treats for guests to enjoy! Make sure to indulge in a warm beverage and a slice of their world famous Sacher Torte after a long day of holiday shopping.

4. St. Regis Aspen

Nothing screams “HOLIDAYS!” like a charming mountain town and Aspen is no exception! The Grande Dame of holiday decorations in Aspen has to be the St. Regis Aspen who hosts a lighting ceremony for their 30 foot Christmas tree that rivals Rockefeller Center, not to mention a variety of holiday events throughout the month of December. The real gem of their holiday decorations is the life sized gingerbread house that’s created yearly and honors the hotel’s history! We love enjoying a warm beverage and holiday treats after indulging in a horse-drawn sleigh ride.

5. Gleneagles

Nestled in the Scottish Highlands is one of our favorite places to while away the holidays, Gleneagles Hotel! Every corner of the estate hides holiday details like Poinsettia floral displays, glittering pinecones, garlands, and of course – Christmas trees! Spend your days outdoors hiking the beautiful countryside or learning how to train falcons then retreat indoors for an indulgent fireside dinner. With a fully inclusive holiday package offer all you have to do is concentrate on enjoying the time with your loved ones!

Still looking for holiday plans? Reach out to your River Oaks Travel advisor for some hotels with availability! Plus, check out our recent post about the best gifts for the traveler in your life for more holiday inspiration!

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Looking for other ways to give the gift of travel?

Ask your River Oaks Travel Concierge for more ideas on pre-set tours and experiences like:

  • Alaska Cruise with Regent Seven Seas
  • Private jet journey through Abercrombie & Kent
  • Belmond Barging through France (have you seen our blog?

Still not sure? Ask your travel advisor for more information on our travel gift certificates that can be used for customized travel planning or credit towards a future trip.

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What we can do for you:

Fully Customized Travel

No cookie-cutter packages here. We base our trips around your needs, not the other way around.

Up-To-Date Information

Our passion is staying updated on the rapidly changing rules, regulations, and quality of accommodations/experiences.

Access to Hidden Treasures

Our Industry relationships open doors that you never knew existed

We Handle the Logistics

From managing COVID regulations to arranging perks and amenities, we have your covered

We are here Every Step of the Way

We are on call 24/7 via phone, email, and our mobile app

Interested in giving the gift of travel this holiday season?