The Top Safari Apps to Download Before Your Adventure

Heading out on a safari in Tanzania? Discover the best safari apps to download before your trip — from wildlife ID tools to offline maps and stargazing guides.

Why Download Safari Apps?

While the real magic of a Tanzanian safari is being unplugged and fully present, the right apps can enhance your experience in smart, practical ways. From helping you identify animals and birds to tracking your route or capturing the night sky, these apps add a new layer of insight and fun to your journey.

Bonus: Many of them work offline — perfect for remote areas with no signal!

Benson Safaris | Cheetah in safari

Mammals of Africa

This app is a must-have for wildlife lovers. It features detailed descriptions, images, range maps, and sounds of over 400 African mammal species.

Why it’s great:

  • Works offline.
  • Helps you ID animals in real-time.
  • Learn fun facts and conservation status.

Platform: iOS & Android (paid)

Sasol eBirds of East Africa

If you’re a birdwatching enthusiast — or even just curious — this is one of the most comprehensive birding apps for East Africa.

Features:

  • High-quality images and calls of 1,300+ bird species.
  • Search by color, size, or region.
  • Mark your sightings.

Platform: iOS & Android (paid)

Benson Safaris | Lioness surveying the savannah surrounded by birds

MAPS.ME

This offline map app is incredibly useful for navigating cities like Arusha or tracking your safari routes in national parks. It allows you to download detailed maps and use them without internet access.

Why it’s great:

  • Free and easy to use.
  • Includes smaller roads and paths often missed by other maps.
  • Ideal for self-drive safaris or village walks.

Platform: iOS & Android (free)

Sky Guide / SkyView

Safari nights in Tanzania offer stunning stargazing, and these apps help you identify constellations, planets, and celestial events in real time.

Why it’s great:

  • Simply point your phone at the sky.
  • Learn African myths behind the stars.
  • Works offline (basic features).

Platform: iOS (Sky Guide) & Android (SkyView)

iNaturalist

Want to contribute to conservation while you travel? iNaturalist lets you record your wildlife sightings and connect with researchers and other travelers.

Features:

  • Identify plants, insects, and animals with community help.
  • Log your sightings and locations.
  • Become a citizen scientist!

Platform: iOS & Android (free)

Benson Safaris | Drinking herd of Elephants.

Star Walk 2

Another excellent app for astronomy lovers, Star Walk 2 features real-time star tracking, augmented reality, and information about planets and satellites.

Why it’s great:

  • Gorgeous interface.
  • Great for couples or families during safari nights.
  • Works well in the remote bush.

Platform: iOS & Android (free with in-app purchases)

African Safari Tracker

This simple but effective app lets you track and log your animal sightings on safari. It also offers animal descriptions and park information.

Features:

  • Visual checklist of wildlife.
  • Create a memory log of your trip.
  • Great for families or first-timers.

Platform: Android only (free)

Why it’s great:

  • Know when and where to shoot sunrise or sunset.
  • Plan long-exposure or moonlit shots.
  • Includes tools for time-lapse, depth of field, and more.

Platform: iOS & Android (paid)

Benson Safaris | Giraffes herd in savannah

Duolingo (Swahili Course)

Want to connect with locals on a deeper level? Learn some basic Swahili phrases before your safari — greetings, thank you, and simple questions go a long way in Tanzania!

Why it’s great:

  • Fun and interactive.
  • Offline mode available.
  • Swahili is one of the easiest African languages to pick up for travelers.

Platform: iOS & Android (free with premium option)

Bonus: Travel & Health Essentials

  • Google Translate: For instant translation of signs or conversation (Swahili support included).
  • TripIt: Organize your flights, safari bookings, and hotel stays in one place.
  • First Aid by IFRC: Basic medical advice offline, great for remote travel.

Final Thoughts: Tech That Enhances, Not Distracts

Your safari should be about connecting with nature — not being glued to a screen. But with the right apps, you can deepen your experience, learn more, and create better memories. Just remember to look up often — the real magic is happening right in front of you.

Need help preparing for your trip? We offer pre-departure guides and personal safari planning to make your Tanzanian adventure seamless and unforgettable.

Ready to experience safari nights for yourself? Let us help you choose the perfect camp or lodge that offers unforgettable after-dark adventures.

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