Luxury in Tanzania: 10 of the top safaris & beach holidays
No matter if you are looking for an exclusive, high-end safari or an indulgent beach retreat, Tanzania has a good selection of standout luxury accommodation.
For more luxurious beach retreats, see our 'best for luxury in Zanzibar' suggestions.
Avocet Fly-in Safari
7 days • 3 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
US$9,750 - US$15,860 per person
Lake Manyara Tree Lodge
Renowned for its unique tree houses, the Tree Lodge blends perfectly into the verdant forest which envelopes it. The design is sensitive to its surroundings; the rooms are exceedingly comfortable; and service and food are excellent. It all adds up to a truly luxurious forest hideaway.
Crater Lodge
Crater Lodge offers impressive interiors where gilded mirrors, chandeliers and sumptuous Persian rugs complement intricate wood paneling and traditional artwork. The result is a grand, opulent, theatrical atmosphere – all on the edge of one of Africa’s iconic landscapes.
Klein's Camp
Klein’s Camp provides a beautiful mix of tantalizing experiences ranging from exceptional night game drives to exploring the Maasai culture. It perfectly captures the spirit of Africa without compromising the level of comfort – truly an impeccable African luxury safari.
Flufftail Guided Safari
10 days • 3 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
US$13,020 - US$18,460 per person
Olakira Camp
Olakira has undergone a recent refurbishment, and the tents now have a luxurious star gazing deck, allowing guests to wheel the bed out to the front of the tent and sleep out under the stars. Quite a special experience!
The Highlands
With futuristic dome tents nestled amongst the trees, The Highlands is a unique and contemporary option for the Ngorongoro Crater. Expect these spacious wood-paneled domes to come complete with sumptuous furs, kingsize beds and fabulous bathoorms.
Marabou Stork Fly-in Safari
13 days • 5 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT
US$17,640 - US$25,560 per person
Namiri Plains Camp
Namiri has recently undergone a full refurbishment and reopened as a contemporary, luxury safari camp – worlds away from its traditional tented beginnings. The camp is now made up of a series of futuristic tented structures.
The Highlands
With futuristic dome tents nestled amongst the trees, The Highlands is a unique and contemporary option for the Ngorongoro Crater. Expect these spacious wood-paneled domes to come complete with sumptuous furs, kingsize beds and fabulous bathoorms.
Jabali Ridge
Jabali Ridge is an elegant retreat with beautiful views from every part of the property – a luxurious take on an African safari. This is easily one of the smartest properties ever built in Ruaha National Park!
Topi Fly-in Safari
7 days • 2 locations
DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT
US$6,870 - US$7,420 per person
Jongomero Camp
Jongomero Camp is perfect for those seeking a luxurious African adventure. The rooms are rustic, yet stylish with sumptuous sofas, huge four-poster beds and Persian rugs. This idyllic camp blends in beautifully with its surroundings and its location guarantees a remote getaway.
Superb Starling Fly-In Safari
7 days • 2 locations
DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT
US$8,500 - US$12,950 per person
Jabali Ridge
Jabali Ridge is an elegant retreat with beautiful views from every part of the property – a luxurious take on an African safari. This is easily one of the smartest properties ever built in Ruaha National Park!
Jackal Fly-in Safari
8 days • 2 locations
DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT
US$9,340 - US$12,080 per person
Beho Beho
Staying at Beho Beho is a peerless way to spend a few nights. Spacious open-fronted bandas ooze low-key style with sumptuous four-poster beds, antique safari treasures and classic furniture. But the real luxuries here are a very thoughtful service, superb food and expert guiding.
Chimpanzee Fly-in Safari
8 days • 3 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
US$13,190 - US$16,530 per person
Greystoke Mahale
Perfectly placed at the edge of a lush forest, the open-fronted rooms at Greystoke Mahale have unrivalled views of the white sandy beach and the lake beyond. From exclusive chimp tracking to eating sushi on a dhow – experiences at this luxurious lodge are as unique as its setting.
Tinkerbird Fly-in Safari
8 days • 4 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
US$9,640 - US$14,140 per person
Sayari Camp
Sayari Camp is renowned for offering a remarkable wildlife experience in the Northern Serengeti, whilst also spoiling its guests. Their incredible attention to detail, combined with natural interiors aim to help you to make an authentic and meaningful connection with nature.
The Highlands
With futuristic dome tents nestled amongst the trees, The Highlands is a unique and contemporary option for the Ngorongoro Crater. Expect these spacious wood-paneled domes to come complete with sumptuous furs, kingsize beds and fabulous bathoorms.
Fringe-eared Oryx Fly-in Safari
7 days • 3 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
US$7,300 - US$14,860 per person
Lamai Serengeti
Perfectly blending with its surroundings, Lamai is a haven of understated luxury. Natural materials, neutral tones and elegant design combine with fantastic, personal service to give one of the most tranquil and high-quality stays in the Serengeti.
Martial Eagle Fly-in Safari
9 days • 3 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
US$11,570 - US$17,740 per person
Olakira Camp
Olakira has undergone a recent refurbishment, and the tents now have a luxurious star gazing deck, allowing guests to wheel the bed out to the front of the tent and sleep out under the stars. Quite a special experience!
Namiri Plains Camp
Namiri has recently undergone a full refurbishment and reopened as a contemporary, luxury safari camp – worlds away from its traditional tented beginnings. The camp is now made up of a series of futuristic tented structures.
Best camps & lodges for Luxury in Tanzania
Lemala Kuria Hills
Lemala Kuria Hills is perfect if you’re looking for a luxurious hotel-like safari. It is smart and contemporary with excellent service and varied dining. After returning from safari, there are indulgent opportunities to relax, either at the peaceful spa or whilst enjoying the views from your private plunge pool.
Lake Manyara Tree Lodge
Renowned for its unique tree houses, the Tree Lodge blends perfectly into the verdant forest which envelopes it. The design is sensitive to its surroundings; the rooms are exceedingly comfortable; and service and food are excellent. It all adds up to a truly luxurious forest hideaway.
Beho Beho Tree-house
This is Beho Beho’s satellite fly-camp, used as a ‘treat’ for a night in the bush from the camp. It’s probably the most luxurious ‘fly-camp’ that we know in Africa. Expect smart cocktails and a superb campfire dinner before retiring to sleep in a sumptuous double bed under the stars.
Greystoke Mahale
Perfectly placed at the edge of a lush forest, the open-fronted rooms at Greystoke Mahale have unrivalled views of the white sandy beach and the lake beyond. From exclusive chimp tracking to eating sushi on a dhow – experiences at this luxurious lodge are as unique as its setting.
Beho Beho
Staying at Beho Beho is a peerless way to spend a few nights. Spacious open-fronted bandas ooze low-key style with sumptuous four-poster beds, antique safari treasures and classic furniture. But the real luxuries here are a very thoughtful service, superb food and expert guiding.
Thanda Island
Thanda Island offers the ultimate exclusive beach holiday. You only share the island with a few handpicked staff including an excellent private chef and enthusiastic water-sport instructors. Impressive décor includes locally hand-carved furniture and even a Steinway grand piano!
Four Seasons Serengeti
For a safari based out of truly luxurious hotel, this Four Seasons is one of the best options in Africa. High-end facilities (typical of this group) include an excellent spa, a gym, air-conditioning and internet access – complete with live streaming from the adjacent water-hole!
Jongomero Camp
Jongomero Camp is perfect for those seeking a luxurious African adventure. The rooms are rustic, yet stylish with sumptuous sofas, huge four-poster beds and Persian rugs. This idyllic camp blends in beautifully with its surroundings and its location guarantees a remote getaway.
The Manor
The Manor blends a Cape-Dutch homestead with classic architecture and luxurious Afro-European décor. Expect high ceilings, large fireplaces, Persian rugs and sumptuous soft furnishings. The tranquil surroundings and views over the coffee plantation make this an elegant choice.
Faru Faru Lodge
A very private safari retreat in the western Serengeti, Faru Faru Lodge offers a close connection to the wilderness with a real feeling of exclusivity. Luxurious features like infinity pools and rooms appointed with Swarovski telescopes reflect a modern take on tented safaris.
Arusha Coffee Lodge
Arusha Coffee Lodge is the place for a luxurious stay in Arusha, perfect for an overnight stop at the beginning or end of your safari. With sumptuous four-poster beds draped in Egyptian cotton, open fireplaces and private verandas, it provides an exceptional level of comfort.
Sayari Camp
Sayari Camp is renowned for offering a remarkable wildlife experience in the Northern Serengeti, whilst also spoiling its guests. Their incredible attention to detail, combined with natural interiors aim to help you to make an authentic and meaningful connection with nature.
Singita Mara River
As well as making the most of its stunning location, Singita Mara River Camp pairs sumptuous natural fabrics with contemporary details in Bohemian-chic interiors. Incredible attention to detail results in a luxurious, stylish aesthetic with an authentic connection to nature.
Beho Beho Bailey's Banda
The private villa, Bailey’s Banda, has the same low-key opulence as its neighbor, Beho Beho. Complete with plunge pool and private dining, it’s a luxurious spot for up to five people. Expect the signature luxuries of superb food, thoughtful service and first-class guiding.
Crater Lodge
Crater Lodge offers impressive interiors where gilded mirrors, chandeliers and sumptuous Persian rugs complement intricate wood paneling and traditional artwork. The result is a grand, opulent, theatrical atmosphere – all on the edge of one of Africa’s iconic landscapes.
Klein's Camp
Klein’s Camp provides a beautiful mix of tantalizing experiences ranging from exceptional night game drives to exploring the Maasai culture. It perfectly captures the spirit of Africa without compromising the level of comfort – truly an impeccable African luxury safari.
Mkombe's House Lamai
Mkombe’s House Lamai is perfect for families or groups. Striving to maintain the highest standards of service, in a homely yet luxurious setting, whilst offering privately guided safaris with total flexibility. This is what an exclusive safari is all about.
Oyster Bay
Providing a luxurious space in a contemporary African design, with an emphasis on exceptional comfort, Oyster Bay is perfect for an opulent stay in Dar es Salaam. The rooms have four-poster beds, sumptuous linen and balconies overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Lamai Serengeti
Perfectly blending with its surroundings, Lamai is a haven of understated luxury. Natural materials, neutral tones and elegant design combine with fantastic, personal service to give one of the most tranquil and high-quality stays in the Serengeti.
The Highlands
With futuristic dome tents nestled amongst the trees, The Highlands is a unique and contemporary option for the Ngorongoro Crater. Expect these spacious wood-paneled domes to come complete with sumptuous furs, kingsize beds and fabulous bathoorms.
Chem Chem
Providing a wealth of comfort and style, Chem Chem strikes a balance between a wilderness escape and a luxurious African sanctuary. Enjoy private picnics in the middle of the bush and delicious candle-lit dinners serving gourmet fusion cuisine.
Siringit
A round on the 18-hole championship golf course is one of the many possible activities at Siringit Kilimanjaro Golf Safari Retreat. The private villa offers a luxurious stay, combining rustic and minimalist décor with African art and design.
Sabora Tented Camp
Sabora Tented Camp offers a high quality safari experience with an elegant 1920s theme. Character and charm is added by antique volumes of African literature, vintage cars and campaign furniture. This is truly a luxury safari lodge.
Namiri Plains Camp
Namiri has recently undergone a full refurbishment and reopened as a contemporary, luxury safari camp – worlds away from its traditional tented beginnings. The camp is now made up of a series of futuristic tented structures.
Olakira Camp
Olakira has undergone a recent refurbishment, and the tents now have a luxurious star gazing deck, allowing guests to wheel the bed out to the front of the tent and sleep out under the stars. Quite a special experience!
Sasakwa Lodge
Leather-backed chairs and chandeliers, a billiards room and private infinity pools –guests at Sasakwa Lodge are ensconced in ultimate luxury: it offers one of Africa’s most opulent and exclusive safari experience.
Jabali Ridge
Jabali Ridge is an elegant retreat with beautiful views from every part of the property – a luxurious take on an African safari. This is easily one of the smartest properties ever built in Ruaha National Park!
Nimali Mara
Nimali Mara is easily one of the most luxurious lodges in the northern Serengeti. With panoramic views, stylish rooms, a beautiful swimming pool and excellent food, Nimali would make for an indulgent safari.
Luxury elsewhere in Africa
Our top ideas and inspiration for Luxury in other countries.
Botswana
Botswana's tourism policy aims for high value, low impact tourism. This results in high prices, ...
Kenya
Kenya is distinguished by the diversity of its landscapes, wildlife and culture – but there’s an ...
Malawi
There are only a small number of high-end lodges in Malawi, but these are small, intimate and very ...
Mozambique
Mozambique is off the beaten track. The tourism industry is currently still developing and many ...
Namibia
Wide-open spaces, seemingly endless wilderness and a sense of solitude almost guaranteed: Namibia ...
Rwanda
Rwanda offers striking scenery, diverse wildlife and great cultural experiences – but until recently, ...
Seychelles
With the sun reflecting on the deep blue Indian Ocean, palm-fringed beaches and lush forests, the ...
South Africa
South Africa is an amazing place to experience a luxury holiday. Here you can relax on incredible ...
Zambia
Zambia has plentiful wildlife across huge areas and many very experienced guides. Although as its ...
Zanzibar
With endless palm-fringed beaches, turquoise waters and accommodation built with world-class comfort ...
Zimbabwe
With great game viewing, vast national parks and some stunning scenery, Zimbabwe is fantastic to ...
Where to see wildlife species in Tanzania
Maximise the chances of seeing your favourite animals based on traveller sightings reports from the field.
Lion
Panthera leo
Lions are at the top of the food chain and also most safari wish-lists, but with their numbers falling fast, any encounter with these majestic apex predators always feels like a privilege.
81% SUCCESS
3,498 sightings from 4,322 observations
Leopard
Panthera pardus
The most numerous of Africa’s big cats, leopard occur across many habitats, from wild tracts to populated areas. Their grace and their elusive nature make them a unique safari drawcard.
47% SUCCESS
2,262 sightings from 4,803 observations
Cheetah
Acinonyx jubatus
The cheetah is the fastest land animal and the only cat that hunts by pure speed. Found largely in open grasslands, its slim, elegant form is today an increasingly rare sight.
33% SUCCESS
1,203 sightings from 3,646 observations
Wild dog
Lycaon pictus
African wild dogs are among the continent’s most compelling animals. Much misunderstood, these rare, tie-dyed canids are amazingly efficient hunters with a fascinating social life.
32% SUCCESS
1,016 sightings from 3,164 observations
Spotted Hyena
Crocuta crocuta
The spotted hyena may be thought of as ‘ugly’ and ‘cowardly’. In fact, this versatile and intelligent carnivore is one of Africa’s most fascinating and warrants attention on any safari.
55% SUCCESS
2,507 sightings from 4,576 observations
Wildebeest
Connochaetes sp.
Superficially bovine in appearance, wildebeests are known for their spectacular migrations sometimes in huge numbers. These resilient animals are some of Africa’s most successful herbivores.
67% SUCCESS
2,850 sightings from 4,238 observations
Buffalo
Syncerus caffer
One of the ‘Big Five’, buffalo earned a fearsome reputation in hunters’ tales. By contrast, big herds of these sociable bovids are placid, but mount formidable defences against predators.
83% SUCCESS
2,959 sightings from 3,552 observations
Chimpanzee
Pan troglodytes
The chimpanzee is our closest living relative. This highly intelligent great ape is a forest animal with a sophisticated social life. Any encounter in the wild is a memorable experience.
100% SUCCESS
28 sightings from 28 observations
Eland
Taurotragus oryx
Africa’s largest antelope, eland are culturally important from prehistoric rock art to modern game farms. Though widespread, they are also shy so sightings are uncommon and often fleeting.
49% SUCCESS
1,672 sightings from 3,404 observations
Elephant
Loxodonta africana
By far the biggest of the so-called Big Five – indeed, the largest land animal on the planet – the elephant shapes the very landscape it inhabits and is a defining presence on any safari.
91% SUCCESS
4,227 sightings from 4,643 observations
Oryx
Oryx sp.
Oryx are impressive antelopes, with a powerful physique and elegant markings set off by rapier-like horns. They cut a distinctive dash in some of Africa’s harshest landscapes.
70% SUCCESS
1,554 sightings from 2,225 observations
Gerenuk
Litocranius walleri
With its slender frame and extraordinarily long neck, this unmistakable East African antelope resembles an attenuated impala and often stands on its back legs browse high shrubs.
76% SUCCESS
105 sightings from 138 observations
Giraffe
Giraffa camelopardalis
The world’s tallest land mammal, giraffes are herbivores which have evolved many unique adaptations. Their iconic outlines tower above the bush in many of Africa’s wildlife areas.
86% SUCCESS
4,076 sightings from 4,745 observations
Hippo
Hippopotamus amphibius
The territorial calls of the hippo create a signature soundtrack to Africa’s rivers & wetlands. Despite an endearing smile, this aquatic herbivore has a notoriously aggressive disposition.
89% SUCCESS
3,080 sightings from 3,442 observations
Roan antelope
Hippotragus equinus
Africa’s second largest antelope and one of its most handsome, with a powerful build and distinctive markings, roan are wary of people, but renowned for their bravery against predators.
25% SUCCESS
586 sightings from 2,356 observations
Sable antelope
Hippotragus niger
Perhaps Africa’s most beautiful antelope, sable are renowned for their combative nature, even holding off lions. Shy and restricted in range, sightings of sable are always special.
24% SUCCESS
560 sightings from 2,372 observations
Sitatunga
Tragelaphus spekii
The sitatunga is the most aquatic of Africa’s antelopes and specially adapted to its swampy habitats. Though widespread across Africa, only a handful of places offer reliable sightings.
19% SUCCESS
72 sightings from 380 observations
Striped Hyena
Hyaena hyaena
The striped hyena is the most widespread of the world’s hyenas, but absent from southern Africa. A rarely-seen nocturnal scavenger, it is shyer and more solitary than its spotted cousin.
13% SUCCESS
136 sightings from 1,011 observations
Zebra
Equus sp.
The zebra is a quintessential African animal: the horse in stripy pyjamas at the end of every child’s A–Z. There are three species, of which the plains zebra is much the most common.
84% SUCCESS
4,440 sightings from 5,279 observations
Aardvark
Orycteropus afer
The aardvark is one of Africa’s most bizarre and enigmatic animals. A shy, nocturnal termite-eater, signs of its presence may be scattered about the bush whilst sightings remain elusive.
2% SUCCESS
81 sightings from 3,794 observations
Pangolin
Smutsia sp.
Pangolins appear to be more pine cone than animal in their unique armoury of scales. These nocturnal, ant-eating oddities are not only highly elusive but also increasingly rare.
2% SUCCESS
65 sightings from 3,836 observations
Black Rhino
Diceros bicornis
The black rhino is the smaller and rarer of Africa’s two rhino species but has the more fearsome reputation. Shy and heavily persecuted, it tends to stick to cover.
30% SUCCESS
715 sightings from 2,354 observations
Looking for inspiration on where to travel next?
Visit our trip chooser to explore your options and find inspiration for your perfect African adventure
Inspire meOther styles of holiday in Tanzania
Discover all that Tanzania has to offer
Beach holidays
Discover Africa's coast and tropical islands.
Birdwatching
Diverse habitats, discreet hides and superb guiding.
Cultural experiences
Get an insight into Africa's cultures and history.
Diving & snorkelling
Find captivating marine life beneath the waves
Family holidays
Hand-picked camps for an incredible family safari.
Honeymoons
Romantic safaris and castaway island retreats.
Luxury
First-class service, scenic vistas and unparalleled comfort await you during these carefully selected luxury holidays.
Photography holidays
Great holidays to suit the keen photographer.
Private villas & houses
Enjoy Africa with just your friends & family
Riding holidays
Explore Africa's wilderness on horseback.
Solo Travel
Trip ideas ideally suited for a solo traveller.
Walking
Explore Africa's most scenic trails on foot.
Walking safaris
Explore Africa's untouched wildernesses on foot.
Wellbeing
Wellness escapes in stunning locations
Wildlife safaris
These trips include hard-hitting game and fascinatingly elusive species alike, as well as superb guiding and a variety of diverse ecosystems.