Tanzania

Whether for a first-timer to Africa or a seasoned traveller, Tanzania is always astounding. Over a quarter of its land is protected, including some of the world’s most famous national parks along with lesser-known areas of intact East African wilderness.

The big attraction is the Serengeti. Vast plains, rocky koppie outcrops and woodland abound with wandering elephants, giraffes and lion prides lazing under acacia trees – it's what many people picture when they imagine an African safari. It is also the setting for the great migration, when two million wildebeest, accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebra and other antelope gather in megaherds following fresh grass on their grand annual circuit, braving river crossings, big cats and crocodiles as they go. The national park itself can get busy, so we prefer private reserves or more remote camps that still put you right in the heart of the action.

The Serengeti, combined with neighbouring Lake Manyara, Tarangire and famous Ngorongoro Crater, make up the popular ‘northern circuit’. For the intrepid, venture south into the heart of Tanzania to explore the vast Selous and Ruaha National Parks where just a handful of small camps with excellent guides offer a rewarding safari experience for the aficionado. Or head west to remote Katavi for its buffalo herds and lions before delving into the forests of the Mahale Mountains on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, the best spot in Africa for chimpanzee trekking.