Ascend into adventure: Witness africa's majesty from above. The balloon safari offers an unforgettable wildlife experience. You glide over vast plains while spotting iconic animals in their natural habitat.
Our lodges offer serene retreats amidst nature's majesty. relax in comfort after days of exploration. Experience authentic african hospitality and cuisine.
Discover nature's spectacular offerings. Witness majestic wildlife roaming freely in their natural habitat. From the Serengeti's endless plains to Tarangire's lush Silale swamps, each destination offers unique thrills. Immerse yourself in the richness of african landscapes and cultures.
HM Safaris (Hakuna Matata) has successfully facilitated and managed hundreds of group tours to various parts of Tanzania and neighboring East African countries.
What We Offer
At HM you will find a team of cheerful, knowledgeable and enthusiastic professionals trained to rise to any occasion.
Our working tools and vehicles are always kept in exceptional condition and undergo a strict maintenance regime.
Each vehicle is designed to offer you utmost comfort and reliability during service.
Our staff are passionate, polite and engage with each guest in the most courteous and professional manner.
It will not surprise us should an extra connection be made when its time to say goodbyes, both with our land and your guide.
At HM Safaris, we pride ourselves on delivering unforgettable experiences tailored to your desires. Here's why choosing us for your next adventure is the perfect decision
Expertise
With years of experience in the industry, our team boasts unparalleled knowledge of safari hotspots thereby ensuring you explore the most captivating wildlife reserves and cultural landmarks.
Personalized Service
We understand that every traveler is unique. That's why we work closely with you to curate a bespoke itinerary that aligns with your preferences interests and budget, guaranteeing a truly personalized journey.
Ethical and Sustainable Practices
We are committed to responsible tourism practices that prioritize conservation of wildlife and support of local communities. Hence by choosing HM Safaris you contribute to preservation of the environment and empowerment of indigenous peoples.
Exceptional Guides
Our knowledgeable and friendly guides are passionate about sharing their expertise providing insightful commentary and ensuring your safety and comfort throughout your safari experience.
Seamless Logistics
Whether you are embarking on a thrilling game drive, witnessing the Great Migration or immersing yourself in the vibrant cultures of East Africa, HM Safaris guarantees unforgettable moments that will remain with you long after your journey ends.
Unforgettable Memories
Years of industry experience, knowledgeable curation of itinerary to select ideal destinations, professional and friendly guides, expert planning to provide personalized services; these all come together seamlessly to leave you with unforgettable memories of your trip
Prior to booking your safari you will need to have proof of insurance. We can recommend insurance carriers for US clients should you need to purchase this.
Money:
The currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian shilling (TZS). There is no restriction on the importation of foreign currency; however the import or the export of Tanzania shillings is prohibited. You will be able to change foreign exchange at the bank at the airport and also at any other banks in the major towns. The currency of preference is the US dollar (USD). We recommend you change enough money for smaller personal expenses such as shopping, meals and drinks in town restaurants and keep the rest in USD. Most tips, gifts, drinks, etc. can be paid for in dollars.
Credit cards are accepted at larger, upscale hotels and some restaurants.
Safaris offer an unparalleled opportunity for scenic and wildlife photography and cameras are strongly recommended. Most animal activity occurs during crepuscular hours (dusk and dawn) which provide excellent photography lighting. You may witness a kill or see a Lioness introducing her cubs to the pride for the first time and you’ll probably want to have a camera handy for this breathtaking moment! An SLR camera with a telephoto lens is advisable, and while 200mm is adequate, anything from 300mm and higher is recommended for good detailed shots. Tripods are also advisable for larger lenses (300mm and greater). For night drives, you may even wish to bring a night vision camcorder or camera. Don’t forget to bring your battery charger or spare batteries and adapter for all non UK plugs.
Clothing and miscellaneous items:
Light, neutral-colored clothing is generally advised. Bright colors aren’t recommended on game drives and dark colored clothing, particularly dark blues and black, tends to attract the diurnal (active during the day) tsetse flies more than light colors. It will get warm (or even hot!) during the day (low 30 C or high 80s F) and depending on time of year or your location, evenings can get downright chilly. Safari dress code is casual and comfortable and modest. You may wish to bring something slightly nicer for dinners at the lodge but it should still be light weight and easy to pack. Unless you will be dining with the president of Tanzania, there’s absolutely no need to pack formal clothing! A suggested packing list would be:
2 – 3 PAIRS OF LIGHTWEIGHT PANTS / TROUSERS (COTTON IS RECOMMENDED)
1 PAIR OF SHORTS
2-3 LONG SLEEVED SHIRTS
2-3 SHORT SLEEVED OR SLEEVELESS SHIRTS
WARM SWEATER OR FLEECE
UNDERGARMENTS AND SOCKS (COTTON IS RECOMMENDED)
SWIMMING SUIT
CAP OR SCARF FOR HEAD AND/OR NECK
SUNGLASSES
SUNSCREEN – WE RECOMMEND A MINIMUM SPF25
TOILETRIES – SHAMPOO, CONDITIONER, TOOTH PASTE, TOOTH BRUSH, DENTAL FLOSS, HAIR BRUSH OR COMB, BODY AND FACE LOTION, RAZOR, EYE DROPS, LIP BALM, TISSUES.
We cannot stress it enough – less is more! You’ll most likely be taking a charter flight or two while on safari. Charter flights have a weight limit of 15 kgs (33 lbs) per person – including hand luggage – so keep it light. Please do not bring hard sided suitcases. Soft sided suitcases or duffle bags are perfect for a safari.
STAY HYDRATED. HM SAFARIS PROVIDES YOU WITH AMPLE BOTTLED WATER FOR YOUR SAFARI. YOU WILL ALSO HAVE BOTTLED WATER FOR YOUR ROOM/TENT. PARTS OF TANZANIA ARE ARID AND THE SUN GETS VERY INTENSE DURING THE DAY. ONE OF THE BEST WAYS TO HELP ADJUST TO THE NEW TIME ZONE AND CLIMATE IS TO ENSURE YOU’RE DRINKING ENOUGH WATER.
WHAT ABOUT WHEN MOTHER NATURE CALLS? OUR DRIVERS KNOW AND ANTICIPATE THAT YOU’LL NEED TO TAKE BREAKS. JUST GIVE THEM A BIT OF NOTICE AND THEY CAN FIND A SAFE, ISOLATED PLACE WHERE YOU CAN EXIT THE VEHICLE. THE BEST PLACE IS BEHIND THE VEHICLE. YOU WON’T NEED TO GO OFF THE ROAD AND YOU CAN HIDE BEHIND THE SPARE TIRE!
ONLY DRINK BOTTLED WATER. MOST OF THE TIME THIS WILL BE EASY TO REMEMBER, AND IN ALL RESTAURANTS, ETC. YOU WILL ONLY BE SERVED BOTTLED WATER. HOWEVER, DON’T FORGET TO USE IT WHEN BRUSHING TEETH AND TO TRY NOT TO OPEN YOUR MOUTH IN THE SHOWER.
STAY SHADED. TANZANIA IS LOCATED ONLY A FEW DEGREES SOUTH OF THE EQUATOR, AND DURING THE DAY YOU’LL NOTICE THE INTENSITY OF THE AFRICAN SUN. A BRIMMED HAT, SUNGLASSES AND SUN BLOCK ARE ESSENTIAL IN KEEPING THE SUN OFF YOU DURING THE PRIME HOURS. KEEPING LIMBS COVERED DURING THIS TIME OF DAY IS ALSO ADVISABLE, ESPECIALLY IF YOU BURN EASILY.
STAY BITE-FREE. WHEN IT COMES TO BITING INSECTS, THE TWO MAIN CULPRITS ARE MOSQUITOES AND TSETSE FLIES. MOSQUITOES CARRY THE RISK OF MALARIA, SO IN ADDITION TO TAKING MALARIA TABLETS, IT’S WISE TO ENSURE YOU KEEP YOURSELF COVERED WHEN THEY ARE MOST ACTIVE – ONCE THE SUN GOES DOWN.
THE TSETSE FLY IS NOT PRESENT IN ALL AREAS OF TANZANIA, BUT IN AREAS WHERE IT IS PRESENT, YOUR FIRST ENCOUNTER WITH IT WON’T TAKE LONG! TSETSE FLIES ARE DIURNAL (ACTIVE DURING DAYLIGHT). DARK COLORS DO ATTRACT THEM MORE THAN LIGHT COLORS, BUT YOU WILL INEVITABLY GET BITTEN A FEW TIMES IF YOU’RE IN AN AREA WHERE THEY ARE PRESENT. TSETSE FLIES DO CARRY TRYPANOSOMES AND SOME CAN CAUSE TRYPANOSOMIASIS – OTHERWISE KNOWN AS SLEEPING SICKNESS. HOWEVER, IT IS RARE FOR IT TO BE TRANSMITTED TO HUMAN AND MOST CASES ARE OF ANIMAL SLEEPING SICKNESS. THE BITE FEELS SIMILAR TO THAT OF A HORSEFLY. OFTEN TIMES YOU’LL SEE THE FLY LAND ON YOU AND IF YOU’RE QUICK, YOU’LL GET A CHANCE TO GET THEM BEFORE THEY GET YOU!
TANZANIA USES THE UNITED KINGDOM THREE PRONGED PLUG AND 220V. MOST CHARGERS HAVE CONVERTERS SO YOU WILL ONLY NEED AN ADAPTER IF YOU ARE TRAVELLING FROM A COUNTRY THAT DOES NOT USE THE UK PLUG. IT IS NOT UNCOMMON FOR HOTELS AND CAMPS TO TURN OFF THE ELECTRICITY DURING THE DAY AS MOST OF THEM ARE USING GENERATORS. HOURS OF ELECTRICITY WILL BE POSTED AND YOU CAN CHARGE ALL CAMERA/PHONE/LAPTOP BATTERIES THEN.
FOR CELL/MOBILE PHONES FREQUENCY, ALL PUBLIC OPERATORS USE GSM 900/1800 MHZ. MANY PHONES ARE QUAD BAND, WHICH COVERS ALL THE MAIN FREQUENCIES AND WILL WORK IN TANZANIA. THERE IS GOOD RECEPTION IN MOST OF THE TOWNS AND AT SOME OF THE HOTELS. YOUR DRIVER WILL ALSO BE ABLE TO TELL YOU WHERE YOU CAN GET GOOD RECEPTION.
VISITORS SHOULD HAVE AN INTERNATIONAL CERTIFICATE OF VACCINATION AGAINST YELLOW FEVER. THESE MUST BE ISSUED AT LEAST 10 DAYS BEFORE DEPARTURE.
A HEPATITIS A VACCINATION IS RECOMMENDED
WHERE APPLICABLE, A BOOSTER FOR TETANUS-DIPHTHERIA IS ALSO RECOMMENDED. PLEASE CHECK WITH YOUR LOCAL PHYSICIAN / GP FOR YOUR MEDICAL RECORDS.
ANTI-MALARIA TABLETS ARE RECOMMENDED TO BE TAKEN A FEW DAYS PRIOR TO ARRIVAL, DURING YOUR STAY AND FOR A PERIOD AFTER RETURNING. MALARIA IS ONE OF THE LARGEST HEALTH RISKS TO VISITORS, AND LOCALS, AND WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND ALL GUESTS TAKE THE FULL, PRESCRIBED DOSAGE OF MEDICATION. IT ALSO HELPS TO KEEP YOUR ARMS AND LEGS COVERED, PARTICULARLY AT DUSK AND DAWN, AND TO USE DEET (N,N-DIETHYL-META-TOLUAMIDE) BASED MOSQUITO REPELLENT.
IF YOU SUFFER FROM SENSITIVE DIGESTION YOU MIGHT WISH TO BRING UPSET STOMACH MEDICATION SUCH AS IMMODIUM OR KAOPECTATE. CHANGES IN FOOD, WATER, ETC. CAN CAUSE MINOR UPSETS IN SOME PEOPLE AND MOST OVER THE COUNTER MEDICATIONS ARE NORMALLY ADEQUATE.
We will be collecting you from the Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which is a small, manageable airport that has many connections from neighboring international airports including Nairobi (NBO) and Dar es Salaam (DAR). The only major carrier to fly directly into KIA is KLM / Northwestern airlines. For our guests flying in from Europe and North America, you will most likely need to fly via Amsterdam if taking KLM. Another option is to fly into Nairobi (NBO) and catch a connecting flight to JRO. Many major airlines fly into Nairobi. Some are: British Airways, Kenya Airways, Qatar Airways and Virgin Atlantic. Precision Air and Kenya Airways offer flights from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro and the flight time from Nairobi to JRO is just under an hour. It is also possible to fly into Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and catch a connecting flight to JRO. Flight time between Dar es Salaam and JRO is around 75 minutes. It is also possible to come via South Africa.
There are three main domestic airlines inTanzania:
Coastal Aviation – which flies along the eastern coast of Tanzania. Many flights to Zanzibar and southeastern Tanzania are with Coastal Aviation. Precision Air – offers several flights from DAR and NBO Regional Air – We use them for most of the flights from Arusha into the Serengeti.
We can help arrange layovers and hotels for late arrivals and we can also advise you on the best connecting flights to take once you’ve booked your main flight into Africa.
We can also arrange transportation to and from the airport and layover hotels to ensure a stress-free journey from the moment you land in Africa.
Departure taxes: in most cases the departure tax is already factored into the price of your ticket. Zanzibar airport does impose a departure tax which varies according to flight destination.
Most non-Tanzanian citizens are required to have a Visa for entry into Tanzania. While it is advisable to obtain the visa at your local embassy prior to arrival in Tanzania, it is possible to purchase them at most major points of entry to the United Republic of Tanzania: principally Namanga, Tunduma, Sirari, Horohoro, Kigoma port, Dar es Salaam International Airport, Kilimanjaro International Airport, Zanzibar Harbour and Zanzibar Airport.
Many people come to Tanzania via Nairobi, Kenya, in which case two visas will need to be purchased, one for Kenya and one for Tanzania. It is not difficult to purchase your visa at the Tanzanian airport and the price of the visa will not be higher if it is purchased there. However, during peak travel times queues/lines are likely to be long, so please consider which option is best for your needs.
Visas are valid 90 days from date of issue and passports must have six months remaining before expiration. More information on the various types of Tanzanian visas can be found here.
Exemptions: Citizens of Commonwealth countries are not required to obtain visas unless they are citizens of the United Kingdom, Canada, Nigeria, or India.
Achievements
2000+Satisfied Travellers
333 Tour Success
99%Positive Reviews
Our Testimonials
Raphael Family
Thank you Mr Gideon , Dev and Enocke for making our Tanzania trip memorable and this visit will be cherished forever
Want to express our heartfelt thanks for organizing such a wonderful wildlife trip. The experience was truly unforgettable, and every detail was perfectly planned. Your dedication and passion for wildlife shone through, making the journey not only enjoyable but also incredibly enriching.
Thank you once again for all your hard work and for creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Rick M
Best vacation ever!
My spouse and I have been on two two week trips with this company, and plan to do it again in the future. The company owner and guides are all native Tanzanians and are the best wildlife spotters on the planet. They do everything humanly possible to ensure your comfort and safety. I have not had a more enjoyable vacation in my life and I have lived nearly seven decades, and been on hundreds of trips.
The guides are all very knowledgeable about Tanzanian history, culture, wildlife, ecology, geography, geology...you name it.
Libbiesgrammy
Trip of a lifetime!
No one can explain the awesome site viewing thousands of roaming Wildebeest, Zebra, gazelle, Impala as they migrate--It must be seen. No one can guarantee a tree filled with 17 napping Lionesses, but there they were. Traveling with a local, reputable company brings Africa to life. All 3 of my safaris included the expert staff of H M Safari. H M Safari customizes each trip, changing the pace and the lodgings. Luxury lodges and unique tented camps add to the pleasure.
H S Safari takes advantage of every opportunity, from stopping to watch a dung beetle to watching Cheetah and their cubs. Each of my safaris brought the “Big Five” into view at various sightings.
As for safety…you are in responsible hands with H S Safari. I always felt safe. Your trip will be the highlight of your life.
Jorja H California, USA
Trip of a lifetime!
I have enjoyed 2 wonderful safari trips with Gideon, the owner of HM SARFARIS, and rate them 5-Star (5/5). Gideon has worked as a Guide in Tanzania for 15 years and he, along with all the Guides at HM Safaris, are extremely knowledgeable, professional, reliable, personable, and speak fluent English.
My first safari with Gideon was 12-days / 11-nights in November, 2017. After telling family/friends about it and showing pictures, 10 people wanted to go so we did a 13-day / 12-night safari in November, 2019. Both safaris were OUTSTANDING!!! We saw a great number of Elephants, Giraffes, Lions, Zebras, Cape Buffalo, Wildebeests, rhinoceros, monkeys, Warthogs, antelope/Impala/gazelle, hippopotamus, Hyenas, Ostriches, Jackals, mongoose, birds of various varieties, plus Leopards, Cheetahs, and more. Four people on my second safari had done safaris in other African countries and agreed the Tanzanian safari with HM Safaris was better and more affordable.
In addition, the lodges we stayed in were exceptionally clean, the beds were comfortable, and the views spectacular (we preferred the Tanzanian-owned and operated lodges). The food was fabulous (I gained weight on both safaris) and the people were kind, friendly, helpful, and all spoke fluent English. Contact Gideon to personally design a safari that fits your budget and length of stay – you will be glad you did!
Read More
George H United States
Don't let the small # of reviews scare you
This is a WONDERFUL safari operation. We dod an 12 day trip with ten people and EVERYONE thought it was fantastic! One individual in the group was making her second trip, and is planning to do a third. My wife and I will be returning. They can customize the trip as much as your like. Very honest, very hard working, and very knowledgeable guides who stopped to show us things that other guided vehicles drove right by. Their website does not do them justice, and they are in the process of updating/upgrading. I cannot recommend them enough.
Vivian B
Knowledgeable, honest, dependable
Our trip was for 14 days in November, 2019. Can’t say enough good things about our experience in Tanzania with HM Safaris. We traveled from Arusha, to Ngorongo Crater, Olduvai Gorge and Museum, Serengeti National Park, Lake Manyara NP and Tarangire NP. The accommodations, food and sightings of locales, people and animals were all to our complete satisfaction. Our guides, Gideon and Omar, were great. Both are very knowledgeable, conversational, outgoing and willing to share their knowledge and experiences. They were very accommodating as to amount of time to view the animals and take photos. They were also very willing to help us no matter what situation arose and to assist in any manner possible. I left something at a camp and they went above and beyond to have it returned to me before the end of the trip. They are easy to work with, reliable, diligent, efficient and trustworthy guides for any trip you plan with them. We kept track and recorded sightings of over 130 different animals and birds, including the big five. Excellent experience! Highly recommend.
Phil S Melbourne, Australia60 contributions
Simply Amazing
My wife and I were recommended to view the HM Safaris web site and go from there. Sue from HM was abundantly capable and knowledgeable on all aspects related to this Tanzanian experience. We simply provided her with advice on what attractions we would like to see over the 12 day duration of our journey, and Sue came back to us promptly with appropriate recommendations including our private and customised safari experience. We were indeed very lucky to have our guide, Edward, who has several years of experience and knows all the tracks and best locations which included the Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti, Tarangire, Lake Manyara and Mara River. And yes, we were indeed lucky enough not only to see the Big Five, but experience a total of four Wildebeest crossings. I cannot speak highly enough of their abilities to plan and execute an enjoyable safari experience that will have lifetime memories.
Jcmi21
A wonderful safari in Tanzania
I did a lot of research to find a great safari company. I emailed many, some replied and a few replied very quickly. Sue from HM was one of the latter and was extremely responsive to all the queries we had and eventually provided us with an excellent itinerary at an extremely competitive price. We left Australia feeling very confident that we were headed for a great experience, but you never know until you're there!
We very much enjoyed our flight from Arusha across the Serengeti, and I would recommend this as it provides a particular perspective on the landscape. Ralph met us at Grumeti airstrip and it didn't take long for us to know that we were in the hands of someone who was extremely knowledgable, good humoured and absolutely passionate about the wildlife and people of Tanzania. On the whole we selected mid-range accommodation and we were delighted with every place we stayed - we were always comfortable and well catered for. Our favourite area and camp was the Moru Kopjes and Kirurumu Tented Camp. The scenery in this location is gorgeous, we saw many many animals and the camp is small (only 7 tents) and intimate with outstanding service. We fell in love with the Serengeti, though that doesn't mean that we didn't enjoy the likes of Tarangire. Ralph was an excellent driver, spotter and educator. We always felt very safe. The whole experience was top rate, and I am looking for opportunities to return! I have no hesitation in recommending HM to those looking for a great value, captivating safari in Tanzania.
Read More
Kenneth B
A great safari experience
From start to finish this was a well organised and executed 10 day Tanzanian safari for the four of us. It encompassed the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire and Lake Manyara.
Our first contact,Sue, was quick to respond to our initial enquiry and offer advice then organise the trip according to our preferences, both locations and cost. (By the way, the fact that she operates out of Jackson Hole in Wyoming doesn't mean it's an internet scam, nor does it affect her organisational skills!) On ground organisation was excellent by William and our driver and guide Ralph was priceless. He excelled in both his driving over the rougher terrains and in finding us wildlife. His English was excellent but we managed to augment his vocabulary with a few Aussie words and phrases. His enthusiasm about his country and its wildlife was infectious, as was his sense of humour, a necessity when you are in the same vehicle with four antipodeans.
His experience is vast and his local knowledge an asset. He made our requests effortless in their fulfilment. I won't say anymore about him except to say that I had some serious convincing to do with my 3 female companions that we could NOT take him home with us!
All accommodation whether in lodges or tented was excellent and the food provided remarkable under the circumstances. And I can recommend the South African wines.
If we were to go again, HM safaris would be our first choice.
Read More
;
Let us customize your travel needs.
Would you like a safari tailored exclusively catering to your requirements?
Talk to one of our travel specialists to help curate a spectular vacation itinerary just for you.
