Hi there, I non-revved to Tanzania last September and had a blast! I flew US Airways into Amsterdam then took the KLM nonstop to Arusha, Tanzania which is the base for safaris to the Serengeti as well as Kilimanjaro climbs. The flight goes AMS/JRO/DAR/AMS. I had no trouble getting down there but on the return the DAR/AMS flight was full and I got the last seat on the plane.

I did a 6 day climb of Kilimanjaro and a 5 day Safari. The safari went to 3 different parks-- Serengeti, Lake Manyara, and the Ngorongoro Crater. I chose the budget option and did the camping safaris although for a bit more you could stay in lodges. Camping in the Serengeti was an an amazing experience as you could hear animals outside the tent at night! But don't worry, it's not dangerous! I chose Tanzania for a safari because of the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater which has some of the best animal viewing in all of Africa. The crater is a completely self-contained ecosystem... pretty neat!

Time of year? Well, I was there in September/October which is the dry season. If I had it to do over, I would definitely try more for the shoulder or wet season (probably April/May/Jun). It was just too dry and dusty when I was there. Also, the herds migrate north into Kenya during dry season so animal viewing isn't the best. That is definitely something to consider when choosing where and when to go. I wish I had done a bit more research.

Although I, myself, didn't make it to Zanzibar, that would be another great place to see in Tanzania. It's known for its spices and beaches.

Good luck and you'll have an amazing experience wherever you decide to go!