Exploring natural wonders in Tanzania’s protected wildlife areas: The Best Game Reserves in Tanzania stand apart when it comes to giving tourists exceptional, unforgettable memories of the African safari bush experiences during Tanzania safari.

Overall, Tanzania game reserves are 32 in total, specified into two categories: marine reserves and wildlife game reserves, brimming with plentiful animals, diverse bird species, Great Rift Valley escarpments and gorgeous landscapes.

When you book Tanzania safari packages, you can combine tours of Tanzania’s spectacular reserves with visits to national parks. Tanzania recently converted several reserves into parks in 2019.

Tanzania boasts the best wildlife destinations in East Africa. Julius Nyerere International Airport serves as the country’s main entry point. Land reserved and protected in Tanzania is close to 40% of the total land area.

Discover premium wildlife reserves in Tanzania (best game reserves in Tanzania), plus the right time of year to visit and get to know which accommodation options to book for your stay.

1. Tanzania Grumeti Reserve (The Grumeti Game Reserve in Northern Tanzania)

Grumeti Game Reserve is the most famous (prominent) game reserve in Tanzania, spanning an area of 350, 000 acres of land (411. 89 square kilometers), beside Serengeti National Park.

Tanzania safari at the reserve is well worth it, especially during the peak season. The reserve is an ideal location to escape Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area crowds. Grumeti is acclaimed for its populous pride of lions.

Grumeti river crossings during migration prove excellent Tanzania wildlife safari.

Where is the Grumeti Game Reserve?

Grumeti Game Reserve is located on the northwestern outskirts of Serengeti Park (east of Lake Victoria) and adjoins the great Masai Mara Reserve.

Historical Background of the Grumeti Game Reserve

In 1993, Grumeti Game Reserve was fundamentally formed to conserve and protect wildebeest migration herds crossing through the reserve from Serengeti to Masai Mara.

The Grumeti Wildlife Conservation Fund and the locals in the Grumeti community received permission to manage the reserved Grumeti land area in 2002.

Attractions Found in Grumeti Game Reserve

Attractions in Grumeti Game Reserve are comparable to those in Serengeti National Park. Notable attractions can be seen below:

• Grumeti River
• Annual great migration and resident wild animals
• Birds
• Beautiful landscapes

Activities (Things to Do) at Grumeti Game Reserve

African safaris to Grumeti offer tourist variant activities; some of them can be seen below:

• Wildlife watching
• Bird watching
• Hot-air balloon safaris
• Walking safaris
• Community tours

What is the Best Time to Visit Grumeti Game Reserve?

Much as Grumeti Reserve is open year-round, the best months are May, June, and early July, when wildebeests’ migrations and huge herds are present at the reserve.

Where can I Stay at Grumeti Game Reserve?

While visiting Grumeti Game Reserve, tourists can choose from a wide range of accommodations within the reserve or in Serengeti National Park. The following list illustrates some of the options available:

• Beyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge, each room comes with a private deck overlooking the vast savannah plains.
• Grumeti migration camp
• Grumeti Hills
• Singita Sabora Tented Camp

2. Dar es Salaam Marine Reserve System (DMRS) / Incredible Marine Reserves in Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam marine reserve system comprises combined marine reserves enclosed within the Dar es Salaam region of Tanzania. These reserves make up an area of 15 kilometers squared.

These marine reserves are popular day-vacation spots from the bustling city and make up the best Tanzania reserves. Dar es Salaam reserves are the best option for busy tourists who can’t travel upcountry to the northern or southern parks of Tanzania.

The reserves make up a group of nine unsettled islands, namely:

1. Pangavini Island Marine Reserve
2. Sinda Island Marine Reserve
3. Mbudya Island Reserve
4. Bongoyo Island Reserve
5. Kendwa Island Reserve
6. Makatumbi Island Reserve
7. Fungu Yasini Island Reserve
8. Kimbubu Island Reserve

Where is the location of Dar es Salaam Marine Reserves (DMRS)?

The Dar es Salaam marine reserves are located in the north and south parts of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s capital, and are spread out in Kigamboni and Kidondoni districts.

Historical Background of Dar es Salaam Marine Reserves 

Fisheries Act of Tanzania first established Dar es Salaam marine reserves in 1970; in 1998, the reserves underwent a transformation into marine reserves.

Major Attractions at Dar es Salaam Marine Reserves 

Dar es Salaam Marine Reserves offer a variety of attractions, as seen below:

• Indian Ocean
• White-sand beaches
• Scenic islands
• Mangrove forests
• Coral reefs
• Seagrass beds
• Marine life

Some of the marine life tourists will see at Dar es Salaam marine reserves while on safari in Tanzania include coconut crabs, dolphins, green turtles, hawksbill turtles, and numerous species of birds.

Things to Do (Activities) in Dar es Salaam Marine Reserves

Dar es Salaam marine reserves have turned out to be popular destinations for travelers from the capital of Tanzania, attracting both locals and international tourists. Some of the available activities at the reserve include the following:

• Snorkeling
• Beach relaxation
• Scuba diving
• Dhow cruises
• Hiking
• Swimming
• Bird watching
• Canoeing
• Kayaking
• Picnicking

When is the Best Time To Go/Visit Dar es Salaam Marine Reserves?

Dar es Salaam Marine Reserves are open for tourists to visit all year round, but for the best experience, it’s best to visit in June, July, August, September, and October. Tourists should avoid the rainy season.

Where should I stay at the Dar es Salaam Marine Reserves?

Most of the islands within Dar es Salaam marine reserves are unoccupied, with no accommodation available for day visitors. Tourists can stay at hotels in Dar es Salaam that offer budget, midrange, and luxury options.

3.  The Unique Pugu Hills Forest Nature Reserve

The remarkable Pugu Forest, which is considered to be one of the oldest forests on earth,. Bragging, with a diversity of exclusively endemic species, is one of the unique nature reserves to visit for a Tanzania safari.

Pugu Hills Forest Reserve encompasses an area of 120.1 square kilometers with unique animal, plant, and bird species. The reserve is home to 14 identified plant species, as well as two rare endemic mammals and one endemic bird species.

Pugu Hills Forest Nature Reserve’s Location

Pugu Hills Forest Nature Reserve is located in Tanzania’s Pwani region, specifically in Kisarawe district, on the coast of Tanzania.

Pugu Hills Forest Nature Reserve’s History

Pugu Hills Forest Nature Reserve was recently established in 2006 to protect endemic species and their natural habitat.

Main Attractions at Pugu Hills Forest Nature Reserve

Several unique attractions can be spotted while on safari to Pugu hills nature Reserve, some of which can be seen below:  

• Pugu Forest
• Pugu Hill
• Animals
• Birds
• Msimbazi River
• Bat caves
• Bamboo forests
• Lake Minaki
• Sacred sites
• Outstanding Mpunguti Tree

Animals present at Pugu Hills Forest Nature Reserve, including warthogs, African leopards, black-backed jackals, alligators, baboons, dik-dik, mongoose, Galagos, and African civets, among others can be seen at the reserve during Tanzania trips.

What Activities are There to Do at Pugu Hills Forest Nature Reserve?

Quite a number of activities are available for tourists to engage while at Pugu Hills Forest Nature Reserve; some of these can be seen below:

• Wildlife watching
• Birding
• Forest nature walks
• Hiking
• Canoeing
• Picnicking and camping
• Kayaking
• Cave exploration

When is the Best Time to Visit Pugu Hills Forest Nature Reserve?

best time to go to Pugu Hills Forest Nature Reserve is when the weather is favorable for park activities, which is from June to October during the dry season.

Where can I Stay at Pugu Hills Forest Nature Reserve?

While camping is the only available option to stay at Pugu Hill Forest Nature Reserve, tourists can sleep in resort hotels in Dar es Salaam.

4. The Beautiful Ikorongo Game Reserve 

The majestic Ikorongo game reserve, encircling an area of 602 kilometers squared, is defined by riverine woodlands, savannah grasslands, and acacia woodlands, providing habitat for brimming wildlife populations.

The name of the reserve was borrowed from the local Kiswahili word “Korongo,” a local name for the roan antelope found at the reserve. You can combine tours to the Ikorongo game reserve with trips to northern Tanzania parks.

Ikorongo Game Reserve’s Location

Ikorongo Game Reserve is patched at the left edge of northern Serengeti National Park in northern Tanzania.

What is the History of the Ikorongo Game Reserve?

On June 10, 1993, Kikorongo Game Reserve was formed to safeguard and conserve wildlife, especially the great wildebeest’s migration passing through the reserve.

Attractions to see at Ikorongo Game Reserve

The following list highlights some of the main attractions at Ikorongo Game Reserve:

• Millions of wildebeests and other wildlife
• Birds
• Rivers
• Spectacular sceneries

Wild animals commonly observed at Ikorongo reserve: elephants, buffalos, rhinos, wildebeests, zebras, hyenas, greater and lesser kudus, lions, gazelles, duikers, Topis, warthogs, giraffes, duikers, and many more animals are frequently observed at the reserve during tours in Tanzania.

Ikorongo Game Reserve Activities

Tourists can partake in various activities while at Ikorongo Gam Reserve, and some of these activities can be named below:

• Wildlife watching
• Birding safaris
• Walking safaris
• Hot-air balloon safaris
• Night game drives

Best time to visit/explore Ikorongo Game Reserve

best time to go to Ikorongo Game Reserve is when the wildebeest’s migration herds are present, which is in June, July, August, and November.

Where should I stay at Ikorongo Game Reserve?

There aren’t many lodges located inside Ikorongo but tourists can also sleep at the nearby Serengeti National Park. Some of the places to book are as follows:

• Ikoma wild Camp
• Nomad camp
• Beyond Klein’s camp
• Taasa Lodge
• And beyond Serengeti under canvas

5. Maswa Game Reserve

Maswa Game Reserve is one of the famous Tanzania wildlife reserves, encompassing an area of 2763. 76 square kilometers of spectacular plains overflowing with numerous wildlife.

Tourists can also visit Serengeti National Park while on Maswa Game Reserve Tanzania tours.

Maswa Game Reserve provides a paradise haven for many animals, temporarily avoiding the drier months of Serengeti National Park. The reserve is characterized by savannah grasslands, rock outcrops, rivers, thickets, and acacia woodlands.

Location of Maswa Game Reserve/Where is Maswa Game Reserve Located?

Maswa Game Reserve is among the reserves found in northern Tanzania, positioned side by side with Serengeti National Park.

Maswa Game Reserve History

Maswa was basically first gazetted as a controlled hunting reserve but afterward transformed into a multi-land use area. It was then gazetted as a reserve in 1974.

Amazing Attractions at Maswa Game Reserve

Apart from the outstanding scenery found at the reserve, other attractions include;

• Animals
• Birds
• Kopjes
• Rolling hills
• Vast African wilderness

Maswa Game Reserve is notable for its high populations of predators, especially leopards and lions.

Things to Do (Activities) at Maswa Game Reserve

Below are the top tourist activities offered at Maswa Game Reserve.

• Guided game drives
• Nature walks
• Birding

Best/Ideal Time to Visit Maswa Game Reserve

From December to May (the dry season) is the best time to visit Maswa Game Reserve when wildlife is concentrated at the reserve water points and migratory birds are present.

Accommodation to Stay in Maswa Game Reserve

Tourists can choose from various options of accommodation available. Some of the lodges can be seen below:

• Serian Maswa Serengeti Camp
• Subeti tented camp
• Mwiba lodge
• Nyasi migration camp
• The legendary Serengeti Camp
• Serengeti pioneer camp

6. Pande Game Reserve

Pande Game Reserve is one of the closest to Dar es Salaam. Pande Game Reserve was identified by Birdlife International as an Important Bird Area.

The scenic game reserve is one of Tanzania’s most beautiful game wildlife reserves, hosting some endangered, threatened, endemic, and vulnerable animal species.

Spanning a small region of only 15. 39 kilometers squared but with eco-rich diversity, its elevations vary from 80 to 186 kilometers above sea level. This wildlife reserve in Tanzania is worth visiting while in Dar es Salaam.

Panda Game Reserve Location

In Ubungo and Kinondoni districts, northwest of Dar es Salaam city center and close to the Indian Ocean, you will find Pande Game reserve.

Historical Background of the Pande Game Reserve

In 1952, during the British colonial rule in Tanzania, they formed Pande as a forest reserve. Subsequently, in 1990, the forest reserve was transformed into a game reserve.

Primary Attractions at Pande Game Reserve

Among the attractions found at the reserve, some notable ones can be seen below:

• Coastal forests
• Animal life
• Birdlife

Commonly seen animals at the reserve during safari in Tanzania include black and white colobus monkeys, olive baboons, African civets, slender mongooses, and many others.

Activities (What to Do) at Pande Game Reserve

Tourists can engage in various activities while at the reserve; some of these can be seen below:

• Forest walks
• Wildlife watching
• Bird watching
• Camping and picnicking
• Nature trail cycling

When is the Best Time to Visit Pande Game Reserve?

From November to February and June to August (dry season) is the best time to go on safari to Pande Game Reserve.

Which Lodges can I Book while at Pande Game Reserve?

Lodging is not available inside Pande Game Reserve; however, tourists can stay at the nearby hotels in Dar es Salaam city.

7. Moyowosi Game Reserve

Moyowosi massive 6,000-square-kilometer reserve is one of the largest reserves in Tanzania; it was also declared a RAMSAR site of international importance and it shows off as the third largest wetland site in the world.

Moyowosi is characterized by rivers, swamps, miombo woodlands, open grasslands, and rolling green hills. The reserve altitude varies from 800 to 1600 meters above sea level.

Location of the Moyowosi Game Reserve: Where is Moyowosi Game Reserve Located?

On the banks of the Moyowosi River, near Tanzania’s western border with Burundi, sits the Tanzanian animal reserve of Moyowosi.

History (Background) of the Moyowosi Game Reserve

In order to safeguard wildlife and its wetland habitat, the Moyowosi game-controlled area became a game reserve in 1981.

Attractions (Outstanding Features) at Moyowosi Game Reserve

Among the attractions found at the reserve are the following:

• Rivers
• Swamps
• Ample wildlife
• Birds
• Hills

Rare sitatunga antelopes, crocodiles, buffalos, hippos, giraffes, zebras, Topis, waterbucks, African wild dogs, kudus, and hartebeests, to mention a few, are some of the animals at Moyowosi Reserve.

Among the rare bird species at the reserve, the rare shoebill is also present.

Activities at Moyowosi Game Reserve: What is there to Do at Moyowosi Game Reserve?

Available activities for tourists at Moyowosi game reserve can be seen below:

• Forest walks
• Wildlife watching
• Bird watching
• Sport fishing

The Best Time to Go To Moyowosi Game Reserve

June, July, August, September, October, and November are the best months to go to Moyowosi Game Reserve.

Where to stay at Moyowosi Reserve

Jacana Tented Lodge and other campsites along the river are some of the accommodation options to book at Moyowosi Reserve.

Other popular destinations to visit in Tanzania include Game Reserves.

1. The Ngorongoro conservation Area in Northern Tanzania

Ngorongoro Conservation Area (a UNESCO world heritage site) is a must-explore destination while on a Tanzania safari. It boasts the largest caldera in the world, home to approximately 25000 large animals.

Boasting the world’s greatest, whole, and static caldera, Ngorongoro crater is the fascination of the conservation area, housing numerous wildlife in its 260-square-kilometer flow, which is 600 meters deep.

The Ngorongoro crater floor altitude is around 1800 meters above sea level. One of Africa’s seven natural wonders is the amazing Ngorongoro crater.

Ngorongoro crater formation was the result of a gigantic volcano, probably the highest in Africa, that collapsed on itself approximately 2 to 3 million years ago, leading to the creation of the massive Ngorongoro crater.

One of Africa’s seven natural wonders is the Ngorongoro conservation area, which has some of the highest concentrations of wildlife on earth and boasts as the largest uncut caldera in the world.

Over 2 million years ago, a massive volcano collapsed on itself, creating the magnificent, unfilled crater. Which is now the main attraction at Ngorongoro crater conservation Area; other attractions include;

• Animals
• Birds
• Beautiful scenery

Wildlife watching and bird spotting are the most popular activities at Ngorongoro crater.

NGORONGORO CRATER

Boasting the world’s greatest, whole, and static caldera, Ngorongoro crater is the fascination of the Ngorongoro conservation area, housing numerous wildlife in its 260-square-kilometer flow, which is 600 meters deep.

Ngorongoro crater floor altitude is around 1800 meters above sea level. One of Africa’s seven natural wonders is the amazing Ngorongoro crater (a UNESCO world heritage site).

The crater formation was the result of a gigantic volcano, probably the highest in Africa, collapsing on itself approximately 2 to 3 million years ago, leading to the creation of this massive crater.

While visiting Ngorongoro crater, tourists can choose to sleep at the following lodges:

• Ngorongoro Crater Lodge
• Neptune Ngorongoro luxury lodge
• The retreat at Ngorongoro
• Lemala Ngorongoro
• Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp ( infinity swimming pool)

2. Serengeti National Park (Northern Parks) 

Esteemed for its abundant wildlife, Serengeti National Park, priding itself as the most popular national park safari, can be joined alongside Maswa Game Reserve, Grumeti Game Reserve, and Ikorongo Game Reserve.

Annually, millions of tourists travel for vacation in the park to witness the most fascinating parade of wildlife on earth known as the great wildebeest migration (over a million wildebeest). Over 3 million animals live in Serengeti National Park.

Several attractions in the park, such as the great wildebeest’s migration, other animals, birds, breathtaking landscapes, and so much more, provide unique safari activities for visitors.

The best time to go/visit is when the great migration is present and accommodation at the park is also provided in various lodges at budget, midrange and luxury.

3. Lake Manyara National Park in Northern Tanzania Safari

Lake Manyara National Park is one of the tranquil destinations to add to your Tanzania wildlife reserve safari. Only two locations in the world, Lake Manyara National Park and a national park in Uganda, are home to the famous tree-climbing lions.

The majestic lake Manyara, which gives the park its name, dominates most of the park area. The park is stationed in Tanzania’s Manyara region, which sits on the Great African Rift Valley’s floor.

Lake Manyara is one of the soda lakes found in Tanzania, Lake Manyara is on the list of the 5 most visited parks in Tanzania.

Lake Manyara National Park has several attractions, including;

• Lake Manyara
• Tree-climbing lions are famous.
• Other wildlife
• (including famous pink flamingos)
• Canoe safaris

Lake Manyara Tree Lodge, Maramboi Tented Camp, and Manyara Lake View Oasis are some of the few lodges you can book at the park.

LAKE MANYARA

The park’s main attraction, Lake Manyara, ranks seventh among Tanzania’s largest lakes. The alkaline and shallow lake is a biosphere and UNESCO world heritage site illustrious for famous pink flamingos.

Lake Manyara offers dramatic views of the park as well as a backdrop of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. Around 2 million flamingoes breed in Lake Manyara, along with several other aquatic birds.

4. The Outstanding Arusha National Park Overview (Northern parks)

Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s most miraculous national parks, renowned for the location of Momela Lakes and the magnificent Mount Meru, which many tourists traverse to acclimatize for the great Mount Kilimanjaro.

Arusha National Park is one of the most exciting parks to explore on day trips from the safari capital of Moshi or Arusha town, especially for tourists who don’t have enough time to visit Serengeti and Ngorongoro crater.

The 137-kilometer Arusha National Small Park teems with rich biodiversity.

The 1960s saw the creation of the park, despite its initial protection dating back to the 18th century. The park is positioned along the northern circuit in Arusha region of Tanzania.

Major attractions drawing tourists to Arusha National Park include:

• Momela lakes
• Mount Meru
• Ngurdoto crater
• Animals
• Birds
• Breathtaking sceneries

5. Nyerere National Park Outline (Former Selous Game Reserve)

Nyerere National Park, at one time the famous Selous Game Reserve, is among the most notable destinations to visit in Tanzania. The park is among the most popular parks in Tanzania.

During its upgrade to park status as one of the parks in Tanzania, they changed the name of Selous Game Reserve to Nyerere National Park in honor of the former Tanzanian President Julius Nyerere.

On the banks of the Great Rufiji River, Southern Tanzania is home to Nyerere National Park. The closest city to the park is Morogoro.

Various tourists’ attractions are present in the park, providing a number of activities like;

• Wildlife watching (abundant wildlife)
• Bird watching
• Boat safaris

6. Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park is one of the unique parks in Tanzania. With altitude ranges of 721 to 1863 meters, Ruaha National Park provides an authentic African wilderness experience.

Located in the central part of Tanzania, approximately west of Iringa, overlooking the Great Ruaha River, is the location of Ruaha national park. Ruaha National Park’s origins date back to 1910, during British and German colonial rule.

7. Tarangire National Park (popular northern circuit)

Tarangire National Park is often compared to Serengeti National Park, hence the name “mini Serengeti. Tarangire National Park intrigues numerous animals from the nearby conservation areas to drink from the great Tarangire River in the dry season. Tarangire National Park has a 2850-kilometer-squared land area.

List of Other reserves (parks in Tanzania)

1. Biharamulo Game Reserve ( At the Shores of Lake Victoria)
2. Mkungunero Game Reserve
3. Kijereshi Game Reserve
4. Lukwata Lemesule Game Reserve (Southern Tanzania)
5. Burigi Game Reserve (Southwest of Lake Victoria)
6. Uwanda Game Reserve
7. Lukwati Game Reserve
8. Kipengere Mpanga Game Reserve
9. Rungwa Game Reserve
10. Muhesi Game Reserve
11. Luafi Game Reserve (Western Tanzania)
12. Mahale Mountains National Park ( At the shores of Lake Tanganyika)
13. Usangu Game Reserve

FAQs

1. What is the biggest game reserve in Tanzania?

Before becoming a national park, Selous Game Reserve, which covered an area of 50,000 kilometers squared, was the largest game reserve in Tanzania.

Uwanda Game Reserve is the current biggest reserve in Tanzania, with a total area of 5000 square kilometers. It is famed for very high consecrations of elephants, with large herds easily seen during Tanzanian tours to the park.

You can combine a safari in Tarangire National Park with a visit to other national parks on the Tanzanian North Circuit.

2. How many game reserves are there in Tanzania? How many national reserves are there in Tanzania?

Tanzania boasts 32 game reserves, categorized into marine reserves, nature forest reserves, and wild reserves.

3. What is the difference between a game reserve and a national park in Tanzania?

In Tanzania, there are no significant differences between a national park and a game reserve; both are protected areas that are home to a wide variety of wildlife and bird species.

National parks are usually larger and contain more animals than reserves, although some reserves can also provide exceptional Tanzanian and African safari experiences.

Communities sometimes privately own some reserves, while the government completely owns and manages national parks through TANAPA.

Other famous national parks and reserves in Tanzania

• Serengeti national park
• The Ngorongoro conservation area
• Arusha national park
• Tarangire National Park
• Lake Manyara National Park
• Kilimanjaro National Park
• Mikumi National Park
• Mahale Mountains National Park
• Gombe Stream National Park
• Nyerere national park
• Ruaha national park
• Katavi National Park is near Lake Tanganyika.
• Kitulo park
• Mkomazi national park
• Rubondo Island National Park
• Saanane Islands Park

4. Does Tanzania have private game reserves? 

Private reserves are conservation areas owned by organizations or communities; nevertheless, they also provide exclusive African safaris, equaling Tanzania parks and reserves.

Most of these reserves in the country are located near national parks. Tanzania’s private reserves can be seen below:

• Mwiba game reserve
• Grumeti game reserve

5. What are the private reserves in Tanzania?

Private reserves in the country are not managed by TANAPA, a governing body in charge of Tanzania’s national parks, wild reserves, conservation areas, and game-controlled areas.

6. What is the famous game reserve in Tanzania?

Once known as Selous Game Reserve but later converted to a national park, Selous used to be the most famous game reserve in Tanzania; however, Grumeti National Reserve is the current famous game reserve.

Conclusively, during the Tanzania holiday, visitors can explore reserves and parks in Tanzania in one single trip for a memorable African safari.

You can access most reserves in northern Tanzania either by road or by international flight, or domestic flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport or a scheduled charter flight to Arusha Airport or Nyerere International Airport and other airstrips are also available daily.