“We had been spoiled by savoring wide-open spaces at a slow pace with time to absorb, time to walk, time to see and think.”
— The New York Times
RATED AFRICA’S NUMBER 1 SAFARI OUTFITTER BY NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC
In the early days of safari, the spirit of true exploration defined the journey — deep into the broad savannas, following the rhythm of the wild. At Mark Thornton Safaris, we continue that legacy. Our Tanzanian safaris are wild, free, and deeply authentic — led by a team of veteran, widely respected professional guides.
Whether you’re walking across the Serengeti or searching for lions at sunrise, you want a guide you can trust — someone with intimate knowledge of the land, its wildlife, and its culture. That’s exactly what we offer.
We outfit only a limited number of exclusive safaris each year, with a steadfast focus on quality over quantity. More than 80% of our guests come through word of mouth, and over half return again — many becoming lifelong friends.
Every safari is completely private and custom-designed — so, whether you’re planning a walking safari, a luxury retreat, or a family adventure, our Tanzanian safaris offer the real thing — unfiltered, unforgettable, and deeply connected to the land.
“We had been spoiled by savoring wide-open spaces at a slow pace with time to absorb, time to walk, time to see and think.”
— The New York Times
WE GO WHERE NO ONE GOES
From the beginning, our niche has been “remote”. And to this day, our safaris are focused on going to places where no other tour operators go. This gives our travelers the true feeling of a safari and is the reason for our many international accolades over the years.
GREAT SERENGETI MIGRATION SAFARI
One of the natural wonders of the world is the Serengeti migration of 1.5 million wildebeest and zebra. It is the largest large mammal migration on earth, drawing exceptional numbers of cheetah, lion, and hyena. Along with the herds are other animals taking advantage of water and grazing conditions, such as topi, gazelles, eland, elephant and others. It can provide the most magical wildlife viewing experience in Africa.
PRESS & ACCOLADES
Check out Travel + Leisure’s November 2023 magazine featuring our unique group Serengeti walking safaris.
SERENGETI WALKING SAFARIs
10 days / 100 kilometers on foot across Serengeti National Park. This is the ultimate African walking safari. Easy walking terrain and tons of big game sightings from afoot each day.
FAMILY SAFARIS
“I liked sleeping in the tree with all the sounds and shooting stars.” Tucker, age 12
RWANDA & UGANDA
“Being in the presence of gorillas is like being in the presence of Buddist monks. Being in the presence of chimps is like being in the presence of the Italian mafia.” Gorilla-viewing guest, 2017.
“You are outstanding guides, companions, and friends. We have been on two trips with Mark Thornton Safaris, including the Serengeti Traverse. Walking through the bush with these guys is educational and exciting...but even more, almost a spiritual experience.”
— G. HACKBARTH