Northern Tanzania: Serengeti, Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar

This new, thoroughly updated fifth edition of Bradt's Northern Tanzania Safari Guide remains the only full-length guidebook focussed exclusively on the country's north and on Zanzibar. Reflecting tourism's shift away from backpackers and budget camping safaris to upper-end and mid-range safaris and beach holidays, it is tailored closely to the requirements of anyone going on a safari to northern Tanzania, followed by a few days on Zanzibar. Northern Tanzania is dominated by Africa's finest safari circuit, offering spectacular game-viewing year round. Centred on the legendary Serengeti National Park and its world-famous wildebeest migration, this circuit also incorporates the Ngorongoro Crater and surrounding Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Manyara and Tarangire national parks. Geographically northern Tanzania is one of Africa's most varied regions, with a palm-fringed Indian Ocean coastline complemented by the scenic wonders of the Great Rift Valley, and several impressive volcanically formed mountains, most notably snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest peak in Africa and a popular goal for hikers. Lesser-known gems include the prehistoric rock art at Kondoa (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the forested Arusha National Park and Amani Nature Reserve, and the spectacular Ol Doinyo Lengai - Africa's most active volcano. Serviced by a well-developed safari industry, northern Tanzania's superlative reserves are complemented by a stopover on the legendary Spice Island of Zanzibar. With its atmospheric old town, idyllic beaches and offshore reefs teeming with marine life, it is every bit as evocative as its name. Written by acknowledged Africa experts and prolific guidebook writers Philip Briggs and Chris McIntyre, this guide prioritises practical information about the area's peerless collection of national parks, game reserves and other safari destinations. Accommodation listings for the safari destinations are the most detailed and authoritative available, the authors weeding through the ever-growing number of lodges and camps to create a critically selective list of the best properties across all price points. Meanwhile, a colour wildlife field guide provides great detail about wildlife and where to see it. All in all, Northern Tanzania Safari Guide is the most authoritative source available for visitors - an essential travel companion for both first-time visitors and seasoned safari-goers.