As the sun dips below the horizon and the sky turns inky black, Tanzania’s wilderness transforms. The familiar daytime savannah hushes, and a new world awakens
As the sun dips below the horizon and the sky turns inky black, Tanzania’s wilderness transforms. The familiar daytime savannah hushes, and a new world awakens — mysterious, thrilling, and full of life. This is the realm of nocturnal wildlife, and the best way to witness it is on a night game drive.
Night game drives are a rare and unforgettable experience that takes you deep into the heart of the bush under the stars. Guided by expert rangers using high-powered spotlights, you’ll search for glowing eyes in the dark, witness secretive nocturnal animals, and feel your senses sharpen as you listen to the sounds of the African night.
A Wild Adventure After Dark
As the sun dips below the horizon and the sky turns inky black, Tanzania’s wilderness transforms. The familiar daytime savannah hushes, and a new world awakens — mysterious, thrilling, and full of life. This is the realm of nocturnal wildlife, and the best way to witness it is on a night game drive.
Night game drives are a rare and unforgettable experience that takes you deep into the heart of the bush under the stars. Guided by expert rangers using high-powered spotlights, you’ll search for glowing eyes in the dark, witness secretive nocturnal animals, and feel your senses sharpen as you listen to the sounds of the African night.
Why Choose a Night Game Drive
Unlike traditional day safaris, a night drive offers a completely different perspective on the African wilderness. This is your chance to witness rare and elusive creatures that emerge only after dusk, such as:
Civet cats, porcupines, genets, white-tailed mongooses, aardvarks, bush babies, and cape hares
Big cats like leopards and lions on the prowl
Hippos emerging from rivers to graze in open plains
The haunting sounds of hyenas and the flicker of bats overhead
The adventure begins after dinner, typically between 19:00 and 23:00, with your guide sweeping the bush with a spotlight to catch a glint of movement. Every rustle, distant roar, and twinkle in the sky adds to the magic of the experience.
Where Can You Experience a Night Game Drive in Tanzania
Night game drives are only allowed in specific parks and are conducted through licensed local operators in cooperation with park authorities.
Lake Manyara National Park
Compact yet rich in wildlife, Lake Manyara comes alive at night with leopards, civets, porcupines, and bush babies.
Location: Northern Tanzania (approx. 2.5 hours from Arusha)
Altitude: 960 meters
Tarangire National Park
Known for its baobab trees and elephants, Tarangire offers night views of genets, mongooses, jackals, hippos, and lions.
Location: Northern Tanzania (approx. 2 hours from Arusha)
Altitude: 1,100 meters
Ruaha National Park
Remote and wild, Ruaha is ideal for night drives with chances to see leopards, hyenas, owls, and aardvarks.
Location: Southern Tanzania (via flight from Dar es Salaam)
Altitude: 750–1,200 meters
Mikumi National Park
Accessible and quiet, Mikumi hosts lions, civets, mongooses, and nocturnal birds.
Location: Southern Tanzania (5 hours by road from Dar es Salaam)
Altitude: 500 meters
How It Works
Timing: 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Safety: Accompanied by TANAPA ranger and licensed guide
Forms: Indemnity form must be signed before departure
Group Size: Small (4–6 people) for personalized experience
Equipment: Spotlights and open safari vehicles used
Important Guidelines
Not available in Serengeti or Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Must be booked in advance with park and operator
Additional fee applies (includes park fee, guide, ranger, vehicle)
Is It Safe
Yes. Night drives follow strict safety regulations. You’ll be with a trained, armed ranger and a professional guide. Vehicles are night-ready and equipped with communication gear.
Add Night Magic to Your Safari
Want to experience Tanzania like never before? Add a night game drive to your itinerary. See the wild from a new angle — mysterious, silent, and alive. Contact us now to include this unique experience in your safari adventure.
