Namibia Safari vs Tanzania Safari Compared
Ever since the world reopened following the pandemic, travellers value freedom, adventure, and escapism more than ever before. This shift in attitude has led to a big rise in the number of people seeking an epic African safari adventure; after all nothing screams freedom more than exploring vast swathes of arid desert or grassy savannas!
According to recent estimates, over 30 million people visited the continent of Africa last year on holiday, and a growing number of those travellers were safari-goers looking to experience the joy of fascinating wildlife encounters, daring desert hikes, and engaging with intriguing nomadic tribes.
The African continent’s diverse typography makes it difficult to decide on the best region for a safari but the Southern and Eastern parts are by far the preferred choice; in this article we’re going to focus on two of the most popular African safari destinations: Namibia and Tanzania.
From comparing wildlife, to assessing accommodation options and cost, hopefully after reading this post you’ll have a better idea of which safari destination you should visit next!
Namibia Safari vs Tanzania Safari Wildlife Comparison
Namibia is renowned for its diverse abundance of wildlife and here in ‘The Soul of Africa’ you’ll find scores of different mammals including all the famous ‘Big 5’, as well as fascinating local wildlife including the Black faced Impala and Damara Dik Dik.
In the more remote regions like Damaraland, you’ll encounter incredible desert-adapted rhinos and elephants, and its enthralling to watch these mammals live their lives amongst the extremely harsh and arid conditions.
Along the coast at Cape Cross safari-goers can witness the majestic site of hundreds of thousands of busy Cape Fur seals whilst Namibia is home to over 600 bird species, a stat that is guaranteed to excite bird watchers.
Tanzania is also a haven for wildlife, home to a reported 430 species and subspecies including giraffes, elephants, zebras, wildebeest, buffaloes, and hippos-as well as predatory animals like cheetahs, leopards and lions.
Serengeti National Park, which is the oldest National Park in Tanzania, is also home to the Great Migration; a phenomenon where thousands of wildebeest migrate north seeking fresh grazing and better-quality water.
Namibia Safari vs Tanzania Safari: Landscapes & Landmarks Compared
Namibia’s landscapes are a rich tapestry of sprawling desserts, desolate coastlines and rugged mountains and this captivating Southwest African nation is considered one of the most strikingly beautiful places in all of Africa.
The planet’s oldest dessert, The Namib, lives within the Namibian borders and amongst the scorched plains safari-goers will encounter the iconic red dunes of the Sossusvlei. Other stand-out natural landmarks include the towering Fish River Canyon, the largest canyon behind only the Grand Canyon.
In the northern region of the country visitors will be greeted by the sight of the majestic Epupa Falls, whilst the incredible Skeleton Coast is as eery as it is vast, stretching for miles and hugged by the Atlantic.
If you’re considering a safari to Tanzania, you may not be greeted by such a diverse collection of natural landmarks but it’s still home to the Ngorongoro crater, considered one of the world’s most astonishing natural wonders. Once a gigantic volcano, this impressive area is now a world heritage site and here wildlife and the Maasai people live together peacefully.
Tanzania is also home to the Jozani Forest, a stunning natural forest that is brimming with striking mahogany trees and lush mangrove swamp.
Namibia Safari vs South Africa Safari Accommodation Options
Over the last few decades Namibia has developed a reputation as a luxury safari destination, mainly due to the abundance of world class lodges and camps that can be found around the country.
Amongst the high-end accommodation options is Shipwreck Lodge, which boasts a stunning collection of luxury cabins located on the Skeleton Coast, arguably the most dramatic coastline on our planet. The cabins are imaginatively designed, replicating the look of the perished ships that are synonymous with this region. As a high-end option guests can expect all the bells and whistles, top quality food, cosy amenities and around-the-clock service are the order of the day. Guests at Shipwreck Lodge can also enjoy walks and sundowner drinks on a deserted beach.
Other luxury accommodation options include Serra Cafema, Namibia’s flagship dwelling. Nestled under verdant trees on the banks of the Kunene River, this opulent safari camp is located right in the heart of the Hartmann’s Valley and offers guests the chance to escape from the stresses and strains of everyday life. The spacious chalets are set on elevated decks so visitors can enjoy incredible views of the surrounding river whilst exquisite food and unrivalled hospitality are guaranteed.
Although Tanzania is also home to an extensive array of luxury digs, they do not exude the same level of ‘wow’ factor when compared to the choices in Namibia. It’s also worth noting that some of the accommodation options in the area surrounding The Serengeti tend to be more modest in terms of the amenities on offer.
That being said, Faru Faru Lodge, located in the exclusive Singita Grumeti reserve is one of the country’s finest lodges. Elegantly designed, featuring interiors that are a mixture of contemporary and organic, the food and service here is exceptional. As an intimate camp (there are only 9 suites) it’s perfect for honeymooners and each suit comes complete with wi-fi, air conditioning and a telescope for admiring the surrounding landscapes.
Namibia Safari vs Tanzania Safari Cost
The cost of a safari to Tanzania varies a lot depending on the type of safari you choose to go on, the time of year you choose to travel and where you opt to stay. If you’re planning a safari during the Great Migration (June to August) you’ll likely pay a premium so it’s worth keeping that in mind.
Here at SecretNamibia we often get asked ‘how much does a Namibia Safari cost?’; again, this tends to vary significantly depending on the safari duration, the type of activities you’d like to try and many more factors.
If you’re thinking of booking a safari to Namibia, we advise getting in touch and our expert safari architects will put together a tailormade package and itinerary that’s right for you. Whilst you’re waiting to hear back from us feel free to check out some of our most popular luxury safari itineraries.
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