How Many Tanzania National Parks – Complete Guide 2026
Tanzania is famous for its incredible wildlife and safari destinations. If you are planning a trip or just curious, you might wonder how many Tanzania national parks there are. This guide provides a complete list of national parks, their locations, attractions, and tips for visiting in 2026.
1. Overview of Tanzania National Parks
Tanzania is home to some of Africa’s most famous national parks. Managed by the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA), these parks are protected areas for wildlife, nature, and tourism.
- Tanzania has 22 official national parks.
- They cover various ecosystems including savannahs, mountains, lakes, and coastal areas.
- Popular for safaris, hiking, birdwatching, and cultural experiences.
2. List of Tanzania National Parks
Here is a list of the main national parks in Tanzania:
- Serengeti National Park – famous for the Great Migration and Big Five .
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area – home to the Ngorongoro Crater .
- Tarangire National Park – known for elephants and baobab trees.
- Lake Manyara National Park – tree-climbing lions and birdlife.
- Mikumi National Park – accessible safari park near Dar es Salaam.
- Ruaha National Park – Tanzania’s largest park with diverse wildlife.
- Selous Game Reserve (now Nyerere National Park) – large safari reserve.
- Gombe Stream National Park – famous for chimpanzee trekking.
- Mahale Mountains National Park – chimpanzees and remote scenery.
- Katavi National Park – remote park with large wildlife herds.
- Saadani National Park – unique park combining safari and coastal environment.
- Mkomazi National Park – northern arid region wildlife.
- Kilimanjaro National Park – home to Mount Kilimanjaro.
- Rubondo Island National Park – island wildlife and bird sanctuary.
- Kitulo National Park – “Garden of God,” famous for flowers and orchids.
- Udzungwa Mountains National Park – biodiversity hotspot.
- Gombe National Park – chimpanzee trekking park.
- Mikumi-Kilombero corridor – part of protected safari ecosystem.
- Mahale-Kigoma corridor – remote chimpanzee habitat.
- Rubondo Island – Lake Victoria island park.
- Saadani – coastal safari park.
- Kigosi Game Reserve – wetland and wildlife reserve.
3. Tips for Visiting Tanzania National Parks
- Plan visits during dry seasons (June–October) for easier wildlife spotting.
- Book safaris in advance, especially in Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Kilimanjaro areas.
- Check entry fees, permits, and park rules via TANAPA official website.
- Hire certified guides for a safe and informative safari experience.
- Bring binoculars, cameras, sun protection, and appropriate clothing for park visits.
4. Popular National Parks for Safaris
Some parks are more famous and popular for tourists:
- Serengeti National Park: Iconic wildlife migration and Big Five.
- Ngorongoro Crater: Stunning crater with dense wildlife.
- Tarangire: Elephant herds and birdwatching.
- Lake Manyara: Flamingos, tree lions, and bird diversity.
- Kilimanjaro National Park: Trekking Africa’s highest peak.
5. Summary – How Many Tanzania National Parks
In summary:
- Tanzania has 22 national parks, each offering unique wildlife and landscapes.
- Popular parks include Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Kilimanjaro.
- Visitors should plan carefully, consider guides, and respect park regulations for a safe safari experience.
For more travel guides, safari tips, and Tanzania park information, visit www.jaynevytours.com.