tourism attractions in tanzania

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tanzania

Written by Lana Law Updated May 11, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Tanzania is home to some of Africa's most famous national parks and natural attractions, including majestic Mount Kilimanjaro. Consequently, the most popular things to do in Tanzania and the reason many people visit the country, are safaris and wildlife-related adventures .

Most visitors will find themselves passing through Dar es Salaam and heading out to the wilderness areas and other destinations. For those who want to spend some time soaking up the sun, the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar beckon.

Off Pemba and Mafia islands is another kind of natural wonder, appreciated by scuba divers and snorkelers who come here from around the world to experience the coral gardens, colorful fish, and crystal clear waters.

Explore your options and discover the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions in Tanzania.

1. Mount Kilimanjaro

2. serengeti national park, 3. zanzibar beaches, 4. ngorongoro conservation area, 5. lake manyara national park, 6. mafia island, 7. tarangire national park, 8. pemba island, 9. stone town, 10. selous game reserve, 11. arusha national park, 12. ruaha national park, 13. gombe stream national park, 14. katavi national park, 15. lake victoria, frequently asked questions, when is the best time to take a safari in tanzania, where are the best beaches in tanzania.

Highlights : A snowcapped mountain in the tropics, six-day hiking trips to the top

Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa's highest peak (5,895 m) and Tanzania's most iconic image.

Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, unlike other parks in northern Tanzania, is not visited for the wildlife but for the chance to stand in awe of this beautiful snow-capped mountain and, for many, to climb to the summit. Mount Kilimanjaro can be climbed at any time, although the best period is from late June to October, during the dry season.

Kilimanjaro, a World Heritage Site, was formed over 1 million years ago by volcanic movement along the Rift Valley. Three volcanic cones — Shira, Kibo, and Mawenzi — came to be about 750,000 years ago. The highest point is Uhuru Peak on Kibo, which is one of the Seven Summits of the world .

The mountain rises from farmland on the lower level to rainforest and alpine meadow, and then barren lunar landscape at the peaks. The slopes of rainforest are home to buffaloes, leopards, monkeys, elephants, and eland. The alpine zone is where bird watchers will find an abundance of birds of prey.

Although no immediate project is in the works, in late 2020 the government approved a plan to build a cable car on Mt. Kilimanjaro. If constructed, it would take visitors to 3,700 meters above sea level.

Highlights : Big Five wildlife spotting, wildebeest migration, 500 species of birds, UNESCO World Heritage Site

The world-famous Serengeti National Park is a vast treeless plain with millions of animals living here or passing through in search of fresh grasslands. It's most famous for the annual wildebeest migration but you can also see the Big Five here, and nearly 500 species of birds have been recorded on the Serengeti.

As the second largest national park in Tanzania , the Serengeti attracts tens of thousands of tourists each year. The best months for wildlife viewing in Serengeti National Park are between June and September . The wet season is from March to May, with the coldest period from June to October.

The annual migration of over 1.5 million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebra and gazelle takes place in May or early June. This migration is one of the most impressive natural events and the primary draw for many tourists.

Read More: Best Game Reserves in Africa

Highlights : Stunning white-sand beaches, warm water, historic Stone Town

The island of Zanzibar, also called Unguja, is a major holiday destination in Tanzania and is known for its beautiful beaches.

Part of the Zanzibar archipelago, which consists of the islands of Zanzibar and Pemba, this island has some of the best beaches in the world. The surf varies depending on what side of the island you are on, but visitors will find soft white sand and clear shallow water, along with traditional boats lining the shore.

The island has some spectacular accommodation options, with pools, luxury suites, and fine dining. One of the best is the new Emerald Zanzibar Resort & Spa on Muyuni Beach in Matemwe with 250 suites, four restaurants, its own beach, protected reef, and spectacular pool area.

The historic city of Stone Town, known for old Arabian townhouses, narrow alleyways, and a busy port, is located in the heart of Zanzibar.

Read More: Best Beaches in Africa

Highlights : Incredible numbers of animals in a stunning natural environment, Olduvai Gorge

Located between the Serengeti and Lake Manyara, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is home to the famous volcanic Ngorongoro Crater and is one of Tanzania's most popular wildlife viewing areas. This huge volcanic crater has a permanent supply of water, which draws thousands of animals who stay in this area rather than migrating.

Visitors come here primarily for viewing large animals and bird watching. Thousands of animals can be seen on the crater floor, including lions, elephants, rhinos, Thomson's gazelles, and buffaloes, but wildebeests and zebras account for over half of the animals that call the Ngorongoro Crater home.

Bird watching is superb, especially around Lake Migadi , which attracts flocks of flamingoes to the shallows. Hippos are content to submerge themselves during the day and then graze in the nearby grass in the evening.

The Ngorongoro Crater is the largest intact ancient caldera in the world, nearly three million years old. The Ngorongoro volcano was one of the world's tallest mountains before it exploded and collapsed.

Olduvai Gorge

Also of interest in the conservation area is the Olduvai Gorge. This important archeological site has revealed ancient skull and bone fragments that have delivered critical information about early mankind.

The Olduvai Gorge is an archeological site situated on a series of fault lines, where centuries of erosion have revealed fossils and remnants of early mankind. As early as 1911, a German professor found some fossil bones while looking for butterflies in Olduvai Gorge.

In a later expedition, the Leakeys collected skull fragments, a skull, and bones determined to be approximately 2 million years old. Tools and hunting weapons from 1 to 1.5 million years ago were also discovered in Olduvai Gorge.

Another exciting find were the famous footprints of a man, woman, and child at Laetoli, near Olduvai . These and other discoveries provide more evidence to the theory that at least three hominid species were in this region over two million years ago.

Highlights : Thousands of flamingos, baboons, elephants, giraffes, canoeing

The spectacular Lake Manyara National Park is comprised of forest, woodland, grasslands, and swamps. Two-thirds of the park is covered by water and Lake Manyara is host to thousands of flamingoes, at certain times of year, as well as other diverse bird life.

The highlight of Lake Manyara Park is the large population of elephants, tree-climbing lions, and hippos, which can be observed at a much closer range than in other parks. This park is also home to the largest concentration of baboons in the world .

Wildlife drives, canoeing (when water levels are high enough), mountain bike tours and bird watching are the most popular things to do in Lake Manyara National Park.

Highlights : Incredible reefs, 400 species of fish, offshore fishing for gamefish

Mafia Island draws divers and snorkelers from around the world to the undersea world protected by the Mafia Island Marine Park. The best months for diving are October to March but the best weather on Mafia Island is May to October. March and April are months of heavy rain.

The gorgeous Mafia Island Marine Park has coral gardens, an abundant variety of fish, and a relaxed diving atmosphere. Countless birds and over 400 species of fish can be seen in the area. Mafia Island is also a traditional breeding site for the green turtle, which is unfortunately endangered.

Mafia is also a desirable location for deep-sea fishing , especially tuna, marlin, sailfish and other big-game fish.

This island paradise first saw settlers in the 8th or 9th C, but Mafia became a more important settlement during the 12th to 14th C when it held a key position in the East African trading routes.

Highlights : Giant baobab trees, rivers, large elephant population, 300 species of birds

Tarangire National Park , established in 1970, is a fantastic area for wildlife viewing. It is best visited in the dry season from July to September when the animals gather along the river.

During the dry season, Tarangire National Park has one of the highest concentrations of migratory wildlife . Wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, impala, gazelle, hartebeest and eland crowd the lagoons. The park is also known for its large population of elephants , and the baobab trees that dot the grassy landscape.

The park is excellent for birdwatching , with more than 300 species recorded in Tarangire. These species include buzzards, vultures, herons, storks, kites, falcons and eagles.

Highlights : Amazing scuba diving, mountain biking, white sand beaches, warm shallow water

Pemba Island is the northernmost island in the Zanzibar archipelago. Around Pemba are many desert islands and some of the best scuba diving in the Indian Ocean , with visibility that is unparalleled. Coral gardens, colorful sponges and sea fans are all found in the underwater haven. The city of Chake Chake , the main population center of Pemba, is a popular base for scuba divers.

Pemba is less visited than Zanzibar and as a result has a more laidback atmosphere. The island is hilly with deep valleys and it has become popular with mountain bikers who are drawn to the 1,000-meter peaks. Just offshore, one spot not to miss is Misali Island Beach. This incredible white-sand beach is on an uninhabited tropical island.

Pemba is a major world clove producer and is also well known for the juju traditions of medicine and magic. People come from throughout East Africa to learn from the voodoo and traditional healers or seek a cure.

Highlights : Historical 19th-century homes and buildings, winding alleys, ornate doors, UNESCO World Heritage site

Stone Town is the cultural heart of Zanzibar and little has changed in the last 200 years. The grand old Arabian homes lining the narrow streets and winding alleys give the city its own unique charm.

The majority of homes in Stone Town were built in the 19th C when Zanzibar was one of the most important Swahili trading towns in the Indian Ocean. Visitors will notice the bras-studded, intricately carved wooden doors on many of the houses.

As the world's oldest functioning Swahili city , many of the landmarks in Stone Town have been restored to their original glory. Some of the historic buildings are now museums and tourist attractions. The town also has a couple of interesting old churches of historical significance.

A walk along Creek Road takes visitors to the original Stone Town area and the location of the Darajani Market , Beit el-Amani , City Hall , and the Anglican Cathedral .

Some of the other key highlights include the Forodhani Gardens , the Old Dispensary with its carved wooden balconies, the former home of the sultans known as Beit el-Sahel or the People's Palace , the Hamamni Persian Baths built in 1888, and the oldest structure in Stone Town, the Old Fort .

Highlights : Rufiji River, 350 species of birds, impressive numbers of hippos

Selous is the largest game reserve in Africa . Established in 1922, it covers 5% of Tanzania's total area. The southern area is a forbidden zone that is undeveloped, heavily forested, and contains a series of steep cliffs.

Travelers are limited to the area north of the Rufiji River. This area of the Selous Game Reserve has large open grassland, woodlands, rivers, hills and plains. The best time to visit is July through October .

The Rufiji River bisects the Selous Game Reserve and has the largest catchment area of any river in East Africa. The river is an important feature of the reserve providing the opportunity to watch the diverse water-based wildlife.

A broad range of wildlife can be found including elephants, hippos, and rhinos as well as buffalo, antelope, giraffe, warthog, wildebeest, lion, leopard, and cheetah. The diversity of bird life in Selous includes over 350 recorded species.

Highlights : Multiple climatic zones, climbing opportunities on Mount Meru, Colobus monkeys

Arusha National Park , although smaller than most in Tanzania, has a range of habitats that consist of the forest of Mount Meru, Ngurdoto Crater in the southeast section of the park, and Momella Lakes, a series of seven crater lakes.

Black and white Colobus monkeys are easily spotted in the forested area while the marshy floor of the crater is dotted with herds of buffalo, zebra, and warthog. Momella Lakes is home to a large selection of resident and migrant waterbirds. People come here to see wildlife and also to climb Mount Meru .

Mount Meru is one of the most beautiful volcanoes in Africa and the second-highest mountain in Tanzania . The summit is reached by a narrow ridge, which provides stunning views of the volcanic cone lying several thousand feet below in the crater. The ascent is steep but the route passes through parkland, forest, a giant heather zone and moorland.

Highlights : Remote and pristine, high concentration of elephants, the Great Ruaha River

Ruaha National Park is Tanzania's largest park , home to large herds of buffalo and gazelle, and has one of the largest concentrations of elephants in Tanzania .

The Great Ruaha River is the main feature of Ruaha National Park, providing magnificent wildlife viewing on the banks. The river also provides much of the electricity to Tanzania through a hydroelectric dam at Kidatu.

Ruaha National Park is the least accessible park in Tanzania and as a result, the landscape remains relatively untouched. Birdwatchers can enjoy over 400 species of birds that are not found in northern Tanzania, and the river, spectacular gorges, and majestic trees are especially appealing to photographers.

Highlights : The best place to see chimpanzees in Tanzania, hiking, waterfalls

Gombe National Park, also sometimes called Gombe Stream National Park , is primarily for those who want to get a little off the beaten track and see chimpanzees .

This is one of the smallest national parks in Tanzania and is famous for the work of Jane Goodall . This British researcher arrived in 1960 to study wild chimpanzees and her work turned into what would become the longest-running behavioral research program of its kind in the world.

Guided walks take visitors into the forest to observe chimps in the wild. Many species of primates and mammals live in the park. Over 200 bird species have been recorded in the tropical forest, including barbets, starlings, sunbirds, crowned eagles, kingfishers and the palm-nut vulture.

Hiking and swimming are other popular activities; a trail leads into the forest to a waterfall in the valley.

Highlights : High concentration of hippos, crocodiles, and wading birds; Katuma River

Katavi National Park is located in a remote region offering unspoiled wilderness. A predominant feature in Katavi is the enormous flood plain, split by the Katuma River and several seasonal lakes.

The lakes support enormous groups of hippos, crocodiles, and over 400 species of birds . One of the spectacles in Katavi is the hippos at the end of the dry season, when as many as 200 try to squeeze into a pool of water. The male rivalry heats up causing territorial fights.

The dry season brings Katavi National Park to life, herds of impala, reedbuck, lions, zebras and giraffes can be seen at the remaining pools and streams. Thousands of elephants and buffaloes also converge on the park when the flood waters retreat.

Highlights : Offshore islands are wildlife sanctuaries

Lake Victoria is the largest freshwater lake in Africa and is bordered by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.

This lake is the source of the White Nile and provides an income for millions of residents along its shores. The Tanzanian section of Lake Victoria is one of the least visited regions in the country, however the towns of Bukoba, Musoma and Mwanza have a number of tourist attractions.

Near Mwanza and Musoma are many islands, some have become wildlife sanctuaries. Bird watching and fishing trips are popular excursions, and boat trips or hikes can be arranged around Lake Victoria.

Rubondo Island National Park, which includes several other smaller islands, is on the southwest shores of Lake Victoria.

Read More: Best Lakes in Africa

The best time to take a safari in Tanzania depends on the park you are visiting. For Tarangire National Park and the Selous Game Reserve, July through October is the best time to visit. If you are heading to Katavi National Park, plan for August through October. Serengeti National Park sees most of its visitors from June through September, although the high concentration of animals year-round makes any time good. That said, most people don't visit in the rainy season of March and April.

The best beaches in Tanzania are located on the island of Zanzibar, where you'll find impossibly white sands lapped by turquoise waters. Some of the top beaches include Nungwi Beach; Kendwa Beach; and Paje Beach, one of the top kiteboarding beaches on the island. Other notable runners-up are located on Pemba Island (Misali Island beach), and on Mafia Island (Utende Beach).

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Games Reserves and Safari Lodges: Africa has a large number of game reserves to choose from, which can make planning your trip a little daunting. To narrow your search, see our list of the Best Game Reserves in Africa . If South Africa is a destination you are considering visiting, have a read through article: Top-Rated Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa .

Exploring Africa: While Tanzania is one of the top places to visit in Africa, you can find wonderful sites, attractions, and more wildlife experiences in neighboring Kenya . Similarly, South Africa is a country you'll want to make a return trip to before you even leave.

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18 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Tanzania

By Kaeylen McCrea · Last updated on February 5, 2024

One of the most exceptional safari travel spots on the planet, Tanzania is home to some of the world’s richest landscapes and prosperous wildlife. Bordering Kenya and Zambia, the country is the largest in East Africa. More than 120 ethnic groups live in the country.

For example, near the Serengeti National Park are the Massai people. This semi-nomadic tribe is one of the most well-known for its elaborate clothing designs and followings of tradition.

Tanzania is famous for many tourist attractions, including homing the tallest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro, and the world’s largest migration of mammals, the Great Migration.

Grand safaris take you up close and personal with some of the largest mammals on earth, including lions, elephants, giraffes, and hippos. Hikes through the numerous national parks are among the most fun things to do in Tanzania and present the opportunity to glimpse endemic and endangered species.

A trip to Tanzania guarantees a unique and memorable experience you’ll never forget!

18. Katavi National Park

An extension of the Rift Valley, Katavi National Park is notorious for its thriving herds of buffalo. In fact, the park is home to one of the largest in the world.

Katavi National Park is home to more than buffaloes. Throughout the gloriously untouched remote park are hippo and crocodile-dotted rivers, luscious forests, and sprawling grasslands. People travel from all over the world to experience nature’s impactfulness in Katavi National Park and to find the iconic tamarind tree.

Legends say that the tamarind tree houses the spirit of Katabi, a great huntsman. So today, locals give offerings to the tree in honor of the hunter.

One of the most popular things to do in Katavi National Park is game viewing to catch sight of some of the world’s largest land animals. And at Katavi Wildlife Camp, a unique lodging within the park which blends seamlessly into the plains, you can join the buffalos and lions as they traverse the Katuma Plains. It’s an experience that can never be competed with!

17. Udzungwa Mountains National Park

Located between the Morogoro and Iringa regions, Udzungwa Mountains National Park is part of the Eastern Arc Mountains, offering up thriving ecosystems with diverse species.

Within the park are a miombo forest, a mountain forest, a tropical rainforest, a steppe, and grasslands that make Udzungwa Mountains National Park incredibly popular for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. The ecosystems feature rushing waterfalls, tall mountain peaks, dense forests, and numerous plant and animal species.

Udzungwa Mountains National Park is famous for having the most significant population of rare monkey species, including the highly endangered Sanje-Crested Mangabey monkey.

Mountaineers can take the challenge of hiking the highest peaks of Mwanihana and Luhomero. Park guides encourage guests to bring swimsuits to dip into the pools beneath the waterfalls. You can also experience traditional dances, learn native arming, and bird watch for native species like the endemic Rufous Winged Sunbird and Udzungwa Forest Patridge.

One of the most popular waterfalls is the Sonje Waterfalls. The hike to the waterfalls is one of the most sought-out by travelers. The trail is conveniently less steep than some of the other waterfalls, though its length can be challenging. Thankfully, a swim in the waters, gazing upon these glorious falls, makes it all worthwhile!

16. Lake Victoria

One of the African Great Lakes, Lake Victoria is the world’s largest tropical lake and second-largest freshwater lake by surface area.

Lake Victoria stretches across the borders of Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, near Serengeti National Park. This expansive lake makes up a collection of archipelagos dotted between the three countries, with one of the lake’s top attractions being the Rubondo Island National Park.

Rubondo Island National Park is Africa’s largest island national park, boasting a prosperous environment for giraffes, elephants, wild chimpanzees, and more fascinating animals.

These attributes make Rubondo Island National Park popular for walking, canoeing, and jungle safaris.

15. Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre

Part of the Great Rift Valley, the city of Arusha is famously known as the safari capital, and within this bustling city is the Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre.

The first of its kind in Africa, the centre has become reputedly known for its impressive collection of artifacts and unique architecture, one of its buildings made to resemble the Uhuru Peak of Kilimanjaro.

Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre’s expansive exhibits feature Verdite carvings, renowned African sculptures, antiques, cultural masks, and the rare gemstone, Tanzanite. One of the sections in the centre includes art specialized by the Makonde tribe, known for their distinguished wood pieces carved from ebony.

Nearby Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre is the famous market, Soko Mujinja, the perfect stop afterwards to purchase fresh local goods and produce.

14. Mikumi National Park

The fourth largest national park in Tanzania, the Mikumi National Park, is renowned for its large Eland and African Wild Dog population.

Near Morogoro, the park is a favored tourist attraction that connects the largest and busiest city in Tanzania, Dar es Salaam, to the town of Iringa, world-famous for its award-winning Neema Crafts Centre and woven baskets.

The Mkata Floodplain is a proud centerpiece of Mikumi National Park, full of scenic horizons and grazing wildlife species like zebras and giraffes. The waterholes are often flooded with hippos and herds of water buffalo and elephants looking to cool off and grab a drink.

There may not be any rhinos in Mikumi National Park, but that doesn’t stop the park from being one of the best safari spots in the country.

13. Gombe Stream National Park

Less than an hour from Kigoma, the capital of the Kigoma region, Gombe Stream National Park is one of the smallest national parks in the country–though just as popular as the bigger ones!

It’s here, at Gombe Stream National Park, that Jane Goodall worked with chimpanzees and other primates to complete scientific research. Jane Goodall began her studies at the park, her work becoming some of the most well-known in her craft. So it’s not hard to guess what the main attraction of Gombe Stream National Park is.

Gombe Stream National Park boasts one of Africa’s highest populations of primates. The diverse array of primates attracts visitors worldwide to the park to glimpse the different species, including chimpanzees, vervet monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, blue monkeys, and olive baboons.

On a safari, you can see these spectacular creatures in person, observe as they communicate with one another, and watch as some of them swing through the trees!

12. Stone Town

The historic Stone Town is found on the island of Zanzibar, nicknamed the “Spice Island” for its spice farming which plays a significant role in the island’s economy.

Stone Town preserves the rich historical past of the ancient city that dates back more than a thousand years. Numerous cultures have influenced the architecture and design of Stone Town, including Persian, Arabian, and European.

However, more modern notes can be seen throughout Stone Town due to the Sultan of Oman transitioning to Zanzibar in the 19th century.

Explore Stone Town by foot (don’t worry, the town isn’t exceptionally large!) to marvel at the exceptional designs, such as the wood-carved Zanzibari doors. Then, visit the Palace Museum, a massive white palace that once acted as the sultan’s home in the 19th century, at Stone Town’s waterfront.

Strolling through the cobbled streets is truly a unique experience made complete by heading to the harbor to watch as the different ships, tiny and large, come and go.

11. Arusha National Park

Spanning across a volcano and the second-highest mountain in the country, Mount Meru, Arusha National Park is known for being the home of the world’s largest giraffe population.

Much of its ecosystem features wildlife species not found in the northern circuit of national parks, thanks to Arusha National Park’s diverse alpine, savannah, and rainforest ecosystems. Some superior wildlife sightings found at Arusha National Park include the African fish eagle, white colobus monkeys, leopards, red duikers, bushbucks, and blue monkeys.

Arusha National Park attracts mountaineers and hikers looking for a challenge to hike to the summit of Mount Meru, which generally takes about three to four days on the Momella route. Canoeing the waters of the numerous lakes, big and small, are popular for visitors wishing to adventure the park by the water and see wildlife in action.

10. Ruaha National Park

West of Iringa, Ruaha National Park was once the largest national park in Tanzania. It’s now the second largest after Nyerere National Park expanded. And compared to the other parks, Ruaha National Park has fewer herds of tourists, making it more pleasant and rewarding to see the wildlife that isn’t being scared away!

Ruaha National Park is famous for hosting 10% of the world’s lion population and the largest population of elephants in East Africa. It also boasts rare animals with different antelope species, such as Lichtenstein’s hartebeest and sable antelope. Game viewing is widely popular in the park, with sightings of black-backed jackals, cheetahs, lions, bat-eared foxes, and elephants throughout Ruaha National Park.

Cultural tours are a unique attraction of the park that allows visitors to experience local culture, traditions, and history with the Hehe people. The tour opens the door to the stories and history of the Hehe people from watching them craft items to farming the land for resources.

9. Selous Game Reserve

Previously called the Selous Game Reserve, Nyerere National Park is Tanzania’s new largest national park. It is also one of the world’s biggest national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. The reserve is reached by plane from Dar es Salaam, by a 6-7 hour long drive, or by a 4-5 hour train ride on the popular TAZARA (Tanzania Zambia Railway). The train from Sar es Salaam offers awe-inspiring sights of Tanzania’s thriving wilderness.

Carved from the Selous Game Reserve, the park has one of the biggest concentrations and diverse wildlife species. Lions and cheetahs are some of the big cats found stalking the park’s grounds.

Visitors can peer at these big cats and other big game animals across Nyerere National Park, such as rhinos, elephants, wildebeests, and Elands, for an unrivaled experience in Tanzania. Take your pick of the boat, game, hot balloon, and walking safaris. For a more personal, invigorating touch for thrill seekers, the walking safari makes for a one-of-a-kind experience through the Selous Game Reserve!

Join a nature hike with a professional tour guide to relish the beauty of Nyerere National Park. Then, experience the life of the local nomadic tribe with a traditional visit to the village.

8. Pemba Island

Part of the Zanzibar archipelago, Pemba Island is a dominant producer of cloves, with more than 70% coming from the island.

Pemba Island is adored for its stunning beaches and pristine natural beauty. The island isn’t overrun by tourists, making it the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of more crowded tourist spots. Thanks to the island’s crystal-clear waters and thriving marine ecosystems, you will find some of the best diving and swimming spots here.

The coral reef that wraps around the island is full of clownfish, sea anemones, and other marine animals that call the reef home.

Barracuda, marlins, sharks, whales, and dolphins scour the waters of the Pemba Channel, making sunset cruises another excellent opportunity to see these large species from above the surface!

7. Tarangire National Park

South of Lake Manyara in northern Tanzania, Tarangire National Park is named after the Tarangire River that intertwines through the park to provide resources to the local ecosystem.

A short journey from Arusha, the park is an excellent option for those looking to avoid fellow tourists and stick to seeing the magnificent landscapes and wild animals that call Tanzania home.

First, trek through Tarangire National Park on a walking safari to peer at ancient baobabs, learn about the ancient rock paintings near Kolo, and get a chance to see herds of elephants up close. Then, join a luxurious safari retreat within Tarangire National Park, like Sanctuary Swala Camp.

Bask in the majestic beauty of nature in the flat savannah surrounded by the shade of giant acacia trees with wildlife sighting opportunities within the camp.

6. Mafia Island

Largely protected by the Mafia Island Marine Park and part of an archipelago of its namesake, Mafia Island is widely favored for its prosperous marine life. As a result, the island is the first to be labeled a marine park in Tanzania.

This tropical island paradise is the perfect getaway from the more crowded tourist spots in Tanzania. It offers some of the best diving in the country thanks to its coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, and marine animals such as sea turtles and whale sharks.

Deep sea fishing is a popular activity on Mafia Island, with opportunities to catch yellowfin tuna, kingfish, and great barracudas. Fun fact! The author of the Sherlock Holmes novels, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, visited Mafia Island in 1950 and broke the African record for the heaviest caught dorado at 75 pounds.

5. Lake Manyara

Near the town of Mto Wa Mbu, Lake Manyara is home to the smallest national park in Tanzania, Lake Manyara National Park. It is also considered one of the best parks in the country, constructed to preserve and protect elephants from the threat of poaching.

The ecosystem thrives off Lake Manyara, helping nourish the park’s large herds of elephants, wildebeests, waterbucks, impalas, warthogs, zebras, and pink flamingos. Birdwatching around Lake Manyara is a prevalent activity thanks to the 400+ bird species that frequent the area.

Birdwatching around Lake Manyara is a prevalent activity thanks to the 400+ bird species that frequent the area.

Around Lake Manyara, you’ll find tree-climbing lions, one of the many species the park is famous for. These lions are notorious for lazing and snoozing in the acacia and other trees rather than on the ground, like most other lions in Africa.

Meeting the local Maasai people is one of the most fascinating things to do in Tanzania. The Maasai people that live on the plains have been building the huts of their homestead for thousands of years. Warriors of the Maasai people dress in red shuka, holding a spear. Don’t miss out on joining a Maasai warrior for a run, sharing a traditional meal of corn polenta, and watching the Maasai and fellow tourists participate in a leaping dance!

4. Zanzibar Beaches

The famous Zanzibar island is notorious for more than its historic Stone Town. The beaches in Zanzibar draw in crowds of tourists every year!

One of the best beaches in Zanzibar is on the island’s south coast. Here, you’ll find Kizimkazi Beach. This site is favored for its frequent bottlenose dolphin sightings, paired with the optimal location for diving and snorkeling to swimming beside other native marine species.

Kendwa Beach and Nungwi Beach are popular options in Zanzibar. Both offer prime settings for water activities. Nungwi Beach has a relaxing atmosphere for those looking to spend time soaking in the sun and exploring the water. Kendwa Beach is more upbeat, thanks to bars and resorts scattered along the beach, including Bravo Kendway Beach Resort, where you can fall asleep to the sounds of the ocean.

3. Mount Kilimanjaro

A dormant volcano and the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro is also the world’s highest free-standing mountain.

Near Moshi, Arusha, the mountain draws in mountaineers from all over the world. The snow-covered summit towers in the sky, its base surrounded by grasslands. The challenge of hiking to the peak is a hefty one, but that doesn’t stop people from traveling to Mount Kilimanjaro to take up the task!

Whether a hiker, nature lover, outdoor enthusiast, or mountaineer, Mount Kilimanjaro draws them in. As one of the Seven Summits, meaning the mountain is classified as the highest peak in its continent, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an experience you’ll never forget, with the thrill and rewarding accomplishment of reaching its peak.

The youngest person to reach Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit was six years old, and the oldest was 89. If they can do it, so can you!

2. Ngorongoro Crater

Previously a massive volcano, the Ngorongoro Crater is now the world’s largest intact caldera. Many believe the crater was higher than the highest peak in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro, before it erupted and collapsed.

Close to the town of Karatu, in the Eastern Great Rift Valley, the crater is estimated to be almost three million years old! It establishes one of the most luscious wildlife habitats on the planet.

Ngorongoro Crater’s wall soars into the sky, taller than many of the biggest skyscrapers, and stretches out to a vast expanse of thriving forests, rushing waterfalls, and marshlands.

One of the most spectacular attractions in Tanzania, the steep sides of the crater have become a natural enclosure for a wide variety of wild animals. It is also presently one of the most likely areas in Africa to see the endangered Black Rhino.

Initially, the view from above may appear as if Ngorongoro Crater is empty, but the wildlife is overflowing within, sheltering elephants and other local wildlife like baboons and leopards.

1. Serengeti National Park

Home to the iconic Serengeti featured in numerous documentaries, the Serengeti National Park is a natural wonder in the Mara region where the Great Migration finds its home. During the annual migration, millions of herbivores, including gazelles and zebras, travel to the Serengeti, their predator counterparts following along.

The ecosystem of the Serengeti is one of the oldest on the planet. People travel worldwide to witness the Great Migration to the Serengeti as impalas, elands, ostrich, and wildebeest flock to the thriving plains.

The best time of year to visit Serengeti National Park to see the migration is debatable as the herds follow the grass, frequently chasing better places to graze. However, peak season tends to the dry season (from late June to October) when the grass becomes dry and exhausted and the wildebeest and zebra start to mass in huge armies offering a spectacular wildlife show.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Tanzania

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Reader interactions.

May 18, 2014 at 1:21 am

I would love to visit Tanzania some day. It’s really a wonderful place. I love wild life and I enjoy watching wildlife TV programs.

Tanzania, here i come!!!!!

May 14, 2014 at 1:14 pm

Tanzania is a lovely place to visit

September 30, 2013 at 11:01 am

I like wildlife so much,& tanzaniya is the best place to watch different different varites of wild animal, & best islands is big attraction here like mafia island, zanzibar, really tanzaniya is best

December 3, 2012 at 9:12 pm

I loved Tanzania. These photos represent the places I saw quite well.

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Must-see attractions in Tanzania

Katavi National Park

Western Tanzania

Katavi National Park, 35km southwest of Mpanda, is Tanzania’s third-largest national park (together with two contiguous game reserves the conservation…

Serengeti National Park

Northern Tanzania

Few people forget their first encounter with the Serengeti. Perhaps it's the view from the summit of Naabi Hill at the park's entrance, from where the…

Mt Kilimanjaro National Park

Since its official opening in 1977, Mt Kilimanjaro National Park has become one of Tanzania’s most visited parks. Unlike the other northern parks, this…

Mahale Mountains National Park

It’s difficult to imagine a more idyllic combination: clear, blue waters and white-sand beaches backed by lushly forested mountains soaring straight out…

Tarangire National Park

Welcome to one of Africa's most underrated parks. Thanks to its proximity to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, Tarangire is usually assigned only a day visit…

Ruaha National Park

Southern Highlands

At approximately 22,000 sq km, Ruaha National Park is Tanzania’s largest. It forms the core of a wild and extended ecosystem covering about 40,000 sq km…

Gombe National Park

With an area of only 56 sq km, this is Tanzania’s smallest national park, but its famous primate inhabitants and its connection to Jane Goodall have given…

Selous Game Reserve

Southeastern Tanzania

The Selous is Africa's largest wildlife reserve, and Tanzania’s most extensive protected area. It’s home to large herds of elephants, plus buffaloes,…

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

This astounding conservation area and Unesco World Heritage Site encompasses the Ngorongoro Crater, Oldupai Gorge and much of the Crater Highlands. It can…

Ol Doinyo Lengai

The northernmost (and youngest) volcano in the Crater Highlands, Ol Doinyo Lengai (2878m), ‘Mountain of God’ in the Maasai language, is an almost perfect…

Empakaai Crater

Lake-filled Empakaai Crater, 23km northeast of Olmoti Crater, may not be as famous as Ngorongoro, but many travellers consider it to be its match in…

Rubondo Island National Park

Lake Victoria

Rubondo Island National Park, alluring for its tranquillity and sublime lakeshore scenery, is one of Tanzania’s best-kept secrets and there may be days…

Misali Island

Surrounded by crystal waters and stunning coral reefs, Misali offers some of the best diving in East Africa, while snorkelling is spectacular and easily…

Igeleke Rock Art

A large prehistoric frieze, similar in style to the Kondoa rock paintings, located at a spectacular site on the edge of town just west of the Dodoma road…

Lake Manyara Treetop Walkway

Lake Manyara National Park

Enjoy a guided bird's-eye view of Manyara on Tanzania's first treetop walkway (370m). It begins at ground level and climbs gently into the canopy,…

Iringa Boma

This excellent EU-funded museum is a great new development, as is its small cafe and quality gift shop. Located between Uhuru Park and Neema, Boma is…

Neema Crafts

This acclaimed vocational training centre for young deaf and disabled people sits just southeast of the Clock Tower roundabout. Operated by the Anglican…

Matvilla Beach

The best thing to do in Musoma is visit Matvilla Beach at the tip of the peninsula, with its pinky-grey granite boulders. It’s prime sunset-watching-with…

Ngorongoro Crater

At 19km wide and with a surface of 264 sq km, Ngorongoro is one of the largest unbroken calderas in the world that isn’t a lake. Its steep walls soar 400m…

Isimila Stone Age Site

Here, in the late 1950s, amid a dramatic landscape of eroded sandstone pillars, archaeologists unearthed one of the most significant Stone Age finds ever…

Selous-Niassa Wildlife Corridor

The Selous-Niassa Wildlife Corridor ('Ushoroba' in Swahili) joins the Selous Game Reserve with Mozambique’s Niassa Reserve, forming a vast conservation…

Mikumi National Park

Mikumi is Tanzania’s fourth-largest national park, and the most accessible from Dar es Salaam. With almost guaranteed year-round wildlife sightings, it…

Lake Manyara National Park is one of Tanzania’s smaller and most underrated parks. While it may lack the size and variety of other northern-circuit…

House of Wonders

Zanzibar Town

An icon of Stone Town, the House of Wonders rises in impressive tiers of slender steel pillars and balconies overlooking the waterfront. Its enormous…

Kitulo National Park

This national park protects the flower-clad Kitulo Plateau, together with sections of the former Livingstone Forest Reserve, which runs south from the…

Kilwa Kisiwani

Today, 'Kilwa on the Island' is a quiet fishing village, but in its heyday it was the centre of a vast trading network linking the old Shona kingdoms and…

Zanzibar Island

ZALA (Zanzibar Land Animals) Park was founded as a project to help local people appreciate the value of wildlife, with funds raised by tourist visits. The…

Forodhani Gardens

One of the best ways to ease into Zanzibar life is to stop by this waterfront public space. It's a social hub for tourists and locals alike; there's a…

Old Dispensary

With its peppermint-green latticework balconies and sculpted clock tower, this 19th-century charitable dispensary is one of the most attractive landmarks…

Songo Mnara

The tiny island of Songo Mnara, about 8km south of Kilwa Kisiwani, contains ruins at its northern end – including of a palace, several mosques and…

Princess Salme Museum

Carefully curated by the renowned historian Said al Gheithy, this delightful little museum tells the story of Princess Salme, a sultan's daughter who…

Mafia Island Marine Park

At around 822 sq km, Mafia Island Marine Park is the largest marine protected area in the Indian Ocean, sheltering a unique complex of estuarine, mangrove…

Livingstone’s Tembe

This deep-maroon-coloured, flat-roofed Arabic-style home, built in 1857, is the main attraction in these parts. It was Livingstone’s residence for part of…

Katuruka Heritage Site

A stop on the Bukoba Tours circuit, this site preserves the oldest-known iron-smelting furnace in east, central and southern Africa (from 500 BC; long…

Arusha National Park

The transition between unappealing urban chaos and pristine mountain hiking trails is rarely so abrupt as it is in Arusha National Park. One of Tanzania’s…

Gol Mountains

Some places are so far off well-travelled routes that there are no tracks other than those left by wildlife and traditional herders. The remote and rarely…

Amani Nature Reserve

Northeastern Tanzania

This reserve is located west of Tanga in the heart of the eastern Usambaras. Often overlooked, it’s a peaceful, lushly vegetated patch of montane forest…

Nafasi Art Space

Dar es Salaam

Aiming to be the leading contemporary art centre in Tanzania, Nafasi is a complex of studios housed in an old industrial warehouse in Mikocheni. Many…

Fenga Rock-Art Complex

Central Tanzania

One of the most impressive of the Kondoa Rock-Art Sites is the excellent Fenga complex, with its dense and lively images. The dominant feature is a…

The imposing German boma, built in 1895 as a fort and administrative centre, has been beautifully renovated as a hotel. Even if you’re not staying here,…

More destinations you need to see

• Places To Visit

15 Best Tourist Attractions and Places To Visit in Tanzania

• Modified on Apr 19, 2024

Tanzania, located in East Africa, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Tanzania, one of the most popular destinations on the continent, has a lot to offer tourists looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion. 

Geographically, Tanzania boasts a stunning array of landscapes, ranging from the snow-capped peaks of Kilimanjaro to the pristine beaches of Zanzibar. At its heart lies the Serengeti, one of the most renowned wildlife reserves in the world, where the annual migration of wildebeests and zebras mesmerizes travelers from across the globe. Moreover, Tanzania is home to the Ngorongoro Crater, often dubbed the "Eighth Wonder of the World," and the vast Selous Game Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The country's geographical diversity not only supports a rich variety of flora and fauna but also offers unparalleled opportunities for eco-tourism and adventure.

With a rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes ranging from savannahs to mountains and coastal regions, Tanzania's attractions cater to every traveler's taste. Whether seeking adventure on safari, relaxation on the beach, or cultural immersion in historical sites like Stone Town, Tanzania promises an unforgettable journey filled with awe-inspiring experiences.

Let’s delve into the enchanting land of Tanzania, where nature weaves its most captivating tapestry.

Table of Content

Top rated tourist attractions in tanzania, mount kilimanjaro.

Towering majestically over the East African landscape, Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa's highest peak and one of the most iconic natural wonders on the continent. The mountain offers several trekking routes, (Marangu, Lemosho, and Machame, being the popular ones) each providing unique perspectives of its diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests to alpine meadows and arctic-like glaciers. The climb is not just a physical challenge but also a spiritual journey, as trekkers witness awe-inspiring sunrises and sunsets from high above the clouds.

As one of the world's Seven Summits, Mount Kilimanjaro is immensely popular among adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. Its popularity stems from its iconic status as the tallest freestanding mountain in the world, offering a challenging yet achievable climb for trekkers of varying skill levels. The popularity of Mount Kilimanjaro is further enhanced by its stunning natural beauty, with diverse ecosystems ranging from lush rainforests to barren alpine landscapes. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit, Uhuru Peak, and witnessing breathtaking views of the surrounding plains and glaciers is a major draw for climbers worldwide. Additionally, Kilimanjaro holds cultural significance as a symbol of Tanzania's natural heritage, attracting travelers keen to explore its rich history and indigenous traditions.

• Altitude: 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level
• Area: 947,303 square kilometers 
• Popularity: Extremely popular among trekkers for Climbing Kilimanjaro
• Best Season: January to March and June to October (Dry Seasons)
• Flora: Diverse ecosystems include montane rainforests with plant species like Giant Lobelias and Senecios.
• Fauna: Wildlife includes elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and various species of monkeys and birds at lower altitudes.

Serengeti National Park

Renowned as one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on earth, the Serengeti National Park is synonymous with the annual Great Migration. Millions of wildebeests, zebras, and other herbivores traverse the vast plains in search of fresh grazing grounds, followed closely by predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. Visitors also enjoy thrilling game drives, hot air balloon safaris, and cultural interactions with Maasai communities in the surrounding area.

Serengeti National Park is one of the Most Popular Places in Tanzania for its unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities, with the chance to witness thrilling predator-prey interactions and the Big Five in their natural habitat. Beyond the migration, the Serengeti's diverse landscapes, including grasslands, woodlands, and riverine forests, provide year-round sightings of a wide variety of wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts. To explore the Serengeti National Park with Footprint Adventure, visit here.

• Altitude: Varies; mostly flat plains with some hills
• Area: Approximately 30,000 square kilometers (12,000 square miles)
• Popularity: Highly popular for wildlife safaris, especially during the Great Migration
• Best Season: December to March (calving season) and June to October (dry season)
• Flora: Open grasslands with acacia trees, riverine forests, and rocky kopjes supporting various plant species.
• Fauna: Iconic species such as lions, leopards, elephants, and rhinos, as well as the Great Migration of wildebeests and zebras.

Tarangire National Park

Often referred to as the "Elephant Playground," Tarangire National Park is renowned for its large population of elephants, especially during the dry season when they gather around the Tarangire River. The park's landscape is characterized by vast savannah plains, acacia woodlands, and ancient baobab trees, providing a scenic backdrop for wildlife viewing and photography. 

The unique combination of baobab-studded savannahs, seasonal swamps, and ancient riverbeds of Tarange provides a haven for a wide variety of wildlife, especially during the dry season. Visitors travel to Tarangire to witness large herds of elephants around the Tarangire River, as well as sightings of predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs. Walking safaris and night drives offer unique opportunities to explore the park and observe its nocturnal inhabitants. The relatively quiet atmosphere and pristine wilderness of Tarangire add to its allure, offering an authentic wildlife safari experience away from the crowds.

• Altitude: Approximately 900 meters (2,950 feet) above sea level
• Area: Approximately 2,850 square kilometers (1,100 square miles)
• Popularity: Popular for its large elephant population and baobab trees
• Best Season: June to October (dry season)
• Flora: Acacia woodlands, baobab trees, and seasonal swamps support a diverse range of plant species adapted to dry conditions.
• Fauna: Known for its large elephant herds, as well as lions, leopards, giraffes, and various antelope species.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa's most famous safari destinations, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is home to the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater. Formed from the collapse of a massive volcano millions of years ago, the crater is now a natural amphitheater teeming with wildlife. 

Travelers are mostly drawn to the opportunity to embark on game drives along the crater floor, where they can witness an incredible concentration of animals against the backdrop of the crater walls. Beyond the crater, the conservation area's diverse habitats, including highland forests, grasslands, and soda lakes, offer additional opportunities for exploration and cultural experiences with Maasai communities.

• Altitude:1,800 meters (5,900 feet) above sea level
• Area: Approximately 8,300 square kilometers (3,200 square miles)
• Popularity: Very popular for its unique landscape and high wildlife density
• Best Season: Year-round, but June to September is drier and offers better visibility
• Flora: Varied habitats include grasslands, forests, and alkaline lakes surrounded by lush vegetation, including fig trees and ferns.
• Fauna: Diverse wildlife such as lions, elephants, rhinos, and large herds of wildebeests and zebras within the Ngorongoro Crater.

Lake Manyara

Nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara National Park is renowned for its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife. The park's most iconic feature is its alkaline lake, which attracts large flocks of flamingos, pelicans, and other waterbirds. 

Despite its relatively small area, Lake Manyara National Park is one of the Top Rated Tanzania Sights, among safari enthusiasts for its scenic beauty, diverse wildlife, and unique tree-climbing lions. Travelers are drawn to the opportunity to explore the park's varied landscapes, from dense forests inhabited by troops of baboons to open grasslands frequented by elephants and giraffes. Game drives, guided walks, and bird-watching wildlife safaris offer opportunities to immerse oneself in the park's natural splendor.

The chance to spot lions lounging in the branches of acacia trees is a major highlight for many visitors, adding to the park's appeal as a premier safari destination.

• Altitude: Approximately 960 meters (3,150 feet) above sea level
• Area: Approximately 330 square kilometers (130 square miles)
• Popularity: Known for its birdwatching and tree-climbing lions
• Best Season: Year-round, but June to September is drier and offers better wildlife viewing
• Flora: Surrounding woodlands and grasslands are home to diverse plant species, including mahogany trees, sausage trees, and acacias.
• Fauna: Tree-climbing lions, elephants, giraffes, hippos, and a wide variety of bird species, including flamingos.

Pemba Island

Tucked away in the Indian Ocean, Pemba Island is a hidden gem known for its unspoiled beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Despite being less developed than its neighbor Zanzibar, Pemba Island is highly popular among travelers seeking a secluded and unspoiled tropical paradise. The popularity is attributed to its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, which offer some of the best diving and snorkeling opportunities in this region. Travelers are drawn to Pemba's laid-back atmosphere and authentic Swahili culture, with opportunities to explore traditional fishing villages, spice plantations, and historic ruins. The island's remote location and limited tourist infrastructure add to its appeal as a hidden gem, providing an escape from the crowds and making it a great Tanzania Tourist attraction to reconnect with nature.

• Altitude: 119 m (390 feet) above sea level
• Area: Approximately 980 square kilometers (380 square miles)
• Popularity: Less crowded compared to Zanzibar, popular for diving and snorkeling
• Best Season: July to October and December to February (dry seasons)
• Flora: Dense forests, mangroves, and spice plantations with cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon are characteristic of the island's vegetation.
• Fauna: Marine life includes coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, dolphins, turtles, and occasional sightings of whale sharks.

Steeped in history and culture, Stone Town is the atmospheric heart of Zanzibar Island and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its labyrinthine streets are lined with centuries-old buildings adorned with intricately carved doors, reflecting the island's diverse architectural influences. Visitors can wander through bustling markets, visit historic landmarks such as the Old Fort and Sultan's Palace, and explore cultural attractions like the House of Wonders and the Palace Museum. The town's vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by its lively waterfront, where traditional shows set sail against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean sunset. With its blend of Swahili, Arab, Indian, and European influences, Stone Town offers a captivating glimpse into Zanzibar's rich cultural tapestry.

• Altitude: 0-9 m above sea level
• Popularity: Very popular for its historical significance and cultural attractions
• Best Season: Year-round, but June to October is drier and more comfortable for exploring
• Flora: Narrow streets lined with historic buildings feature lush gardens and courtyards with bougainvillea, jasmine, and frangipani flowers.
• Fauna: Urban wildlife such as monkeys, birds, and bats can be spotted amidst the city's bustling streets and markets.

Arusha National Park

Situated at the foothills of Mount Meru, Arusha National Park is a hidden gem known for its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife. The park encompasses a variety of habitats, from lush rainforests and alpine meadows to crater lakes and savannah plains, providing a haven for a wide range of flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and canoeing excursions, encountering iconic species such as giraffes, zebras, and flamingos. Hiking enthusiasts can tackle the challenging trails to the summit of Mount Meru, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Cultural experiences with local tribes such as the Meru and Maasai add another dimension to the park's appeal, allowing adventurers to gain insights into traditional lifestyles and customs.

• Altitude: Ranges from about 1,500 meters (4,920 feet) to 4,566 meters (14,980 feet) at the summit of Mount Meru
• Area: Approximately 552 square kilometers (212 square miles)
• Popularity: Popular for its diverse landscapes and Mount Meru Trekking
• Flora: Diverse habitats encompass montane forests, grasslands, and the volcanic slopes of Mount Meru, with abundant plant species including giant heather and orchids.
• Fauna: Wildlife includes colobus monkeys, buffaloes, giraffes, and various antelope species, as well as a variety of birdlife.

Mahale National Park

Nestled on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, Mahale National Park is a remote wilderness paradise known for its population of wild chimpanzees. Trekking through dense forests to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat is the park's main attraction, offering unforgettable encounters with one of our closest relatives in the animal kingdom. Beyond chimpanzee tracking, Mahale is also home to a diverse array of other wildlife, including forest elephants, leopards, and various species of monkeys and birds. The park's pristine beaches and clear waters provide opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and fishing, making it a perfect destination for both wildlife enthusiasts and beach lovers seeking a secluded retreat.

• Altitude: Varies; from the shores of Lake Tanganyika (773 m) to the mountainous terrain of Mount Nkungwe (2,462 meters)
• Area: Approximately 1,613 square kilometers (623 square miles)
• Popularity: Popular for chimpanzee trekking and remote wilderness experiences
• Best Season: June to October and December to February (dry seasons)
• Flora: Dense tropical forests dominated by mahogany, ebony, and fig trees, interspersed with lush vegetation and colorful orchids.
• Fauna: Home to one of the largest populations of wild chimpanzees in Africa, as well as other primates, forest elephants, and diverse bird species.

Mikumi National Parkut 

Often referred to as the "Serengeti of the South," Mikumi National Park is one of Tanzania's hidden gems, offering abundant wildlife sightings without the crowds. The park's open grasslands are home to a variety of herbivores, including giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests, as well as predators such as lions, leopards, and wild dogs. Birdwatchers will also delight in the park's diverse avian population, with over 400 species recorded within its boundaries. Game drives are the primary activity in Mikumi, allowing adventurers to explore its vast expanses and encounter its resident wildlife up close. With its convenient location along the main highway connecting Dar es Salaam to Zambia, Mikumi is easily accessible and makes for an ideal stopover on a Tanzanian safari itinerary.

• Altitude: Varies; mostly lowland plains to a maximum elevation of 1,290 m above sea level
• Area: Approximately 3,230 square kilometers (1,250 square miles)
• Popularity: Popular for wildlife viewing and accessibility from Dar es Salaam
• Flora: Savannah grasslands with baobab trees, acacias, and other drought-resistant plants adapted to the park's dry climate.
• Fauna: Wildlife includes lions, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and a variety of antelope species, as well as over 400 bird species.

Ruaha National Park

Tanzania's largest national park, Ruaha is a vast wilderness area teeming with wildlife and dramatic landscapes. Situated in the heart of the country, it offers a remote and off-the-beaten-path safari experience far from the crowds of more popular destinations in Tanzania. The park's rugged terrain is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including large herds of elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes, as well as predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs. The Great Ruaha River, which meanders through the park, serves as a lifeline for its inhabitants, attracting large concentrations of animals during the dry season. Travelers can explore the park on game drives, walking safaris, and boat trips, enjoying unparalleled opportunities to observe its resident wildlife in its natural habitat.

• Altitude: Varies; from about 600 meters (1,970 feet) to 1,900 meters (6,230 feet)
• Area: Approximately 20,226 square kilometers (7,809 square miles)
• Popularity: Popular for its rugged landscapes and large wildlife populations
• Flora: Varied landscapes include riverine forests, miombo woodlands, and rocky escarpments, supporting diverse plant species such as baobabs and sausage trees.
• Fauna: Large concentrations of elephants, as well as lions, leopards, wild dogs, and rare species such as sable antelopes and greater kudus.

Beaches of Zanzibar

With its powdery white sands, turquoise waters, and swaying palm trees, the beaches of Zanzibar are the epitome of tropical paradise. From the bustling shores of Nungwi and Kendwa to the secluded coves of Matemwe and Paje, the island offers a beach experience to suit every traveler's preferences. Water sports enthusiasts can indulge in snorkeling, diving, kite surfing, and dhow cruises, exploring the vibrant coral reefs and marine life that thrive offshore. For those seeking relaxation, there are plenty of beachfront resorts and boutique hotels where you can unwind in luxury and soak up the island's laid-back vibe. As the sun sets over the Indian Ocean, beach bonfires and traditional Swahili performances add to the magic of Zanzibar's coastal evenings, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

• Altitude: Near sea level
• Area: Varies by beach; the main island of Zanzibar is approximately 1,554 square kilometers (600 square miles)
• Popularity: Extremely popular for beach vacations and water sports
• Flora: Coastal vegetation includes palm trees, coconut groves, and mangroves, with vibrant tropical flowers and shrubs adorning the sandy shores.
• Fauna: Marine life includes coral reefs with colorful fish, sea turtles, and occasional sightings of dolphins and whale sharks.

Selous Game Reserve

Covering an area larger than Switzerland, the Selous Game Reserve is one of the largest protected areas in Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Named after British explorer and hunter Frederick Selous, the reserve is renowned for its pristine wilderness and abundant wildlife. Travelers can embark on boat safaris along the Rufiji River, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of waterbirds, or explore the reserve's vast plains and woodlands on guided game drives making it unique things to do in Tanzania. With its low visitor numbers and exclusive safari lodges, Selous offers a truly remote and intimate safari experience, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the African bush away from the crowds.

• Altitude: Varies; mostly lowland plains
• Area: Approximately 50,000 square kilometers (19,300 square miles)
• Popularity: Popular for boat safaris and remote wilderness experiences
• Flora: Varied habitats encompass savannah grasslands, miombo woodlands, and riverine forests, with diverse plant species supporting abundant wildlife.
• Fauna: One of the largest populations of African wild dogs, as well as elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a wide variety of bird species.

Mafia Island

Tucked away in the Indian Ocean, Mafia Island is a hidden gem known for its unspoiled beauty and rich marine biodiversity. Protected as part of the Mafia Island Marine Park, it offers pristine coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and some of the best diving and snorkeling opportunities in East Africa. Visitors can explore vibrant underwater seascapes teeming with colorful fish, turtles, and rays, as well as larger marine species such as whale sharks and dolphins. Above the surface, the island's mangrove forests, secluded beaches, and traditional fishing villages provide opportunities for eco-friendly excursions and cultural encounters. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Mafia Island offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, where you can reconnect with nature and rejuvenate your senses.

• Area: Approximately 413 square kilometers (160 square miles)
• Popularity: Popular for diving, snorkeling, and secluded beach getaways
• Flora: Mangrove forests, coastal shrubs, and tropical fruit trees such as mangoes and papayas characterize the island's vegetation.
• Fauna: Rich marine biodiversity includes coral reefs, reef fish, octopuses, and colorful nudibranchs, as well as occasional sightings of whale sharks and humpback whales.

Materuni Waterfalls

Hidden in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, Materuni Waterfalls is a hidden gem known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. The waterfall cascades over 80 meters down a sheer rock face, creating a mesmerizing display of cascading water and mist. Visitors can hike through lush coffee plantations and banana groves to reach the falls, pass through picturesque villages, and learn about traditional Chagga culture. Swimming in the refreshing pool at the base of the falls is a popular activity, offering a welcome respite from the tropical heat. Guided tours allow travelers to explore the area with knowledgeable local guides who can share insights into the region's history, flora, and fauna. Whether you're a nature lover, adventure seeker, or cultural enthusiast, Materuni Waterfalls offers a memorable experience that showcases the best of Tanzania's natural and cultural heritage.

• Altitude: Approximately 1,500 meters (4,920 feet) above sea level
• Popularity: Popular for day trips and hiking excursions
• Best Season: Year-round, but June to September is drier and more comfortable for hiking
• Flora: Lush montane forests with coffee and banana plantations, ferns, mosses, and other vegetation adapted to the misty environment.
• Fauna: Various bird species, butterflies, and small mammals inhabit the area surrounding the waterfall, adding to its natural beauty and biodiversity.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, Tanzania is home to an array of natural wonders that attract tourists worldwide. From the snowy peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro to the vast plains of the Serengeti, there is something for everyone in this beautiful country. The national parks offer opportunities for wildlife watching, while the islands provide tranquil settings for relaxing and exploring underwater worlds. With its rich cultural heritage and stunning scenery, Tanzania truly has it all. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply a chance to experience nature at its finest, Tanzania should be on your list of must-visit destinations. For any queries relating to Tanzania, Kilimanjaro Climbing, or Wildlife Safaris, contact us, here . 

Ashmita Thapa

Ashmita is a content writer at Footprint Adventure with a really positive outlook on life. She is dedicated to exploration, and enjoys going on hikes and treks. She is delighted to travel  and explore the beauty of Nepal with Footprint Adventure. She genuinely believes in promoting her native country in whatever manner she can, with the goal of making the biggest possible contribution to the travel and tourism sector.

Ashmita adds that she is extremely appreciative of Footprint Adventure for offering her the opportunity to learn more about travel and tourism. She would also like to grow here with more dedication and effort for the company. She also values the chance to meet new people, explore various regions and cultures, and broaden her knowledge about travel and tourism in Nepal.

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10 Best Tourist Attractions and Places To Visit in Tanzania

Stephen is a travel writer and avid conservationist whose work appears in prestigious magazines such as Africa Geographic and Travel Africa.

From the snowy peak of Mount Kilimanjaro to the palm-fringed Indian Ocean coast, Tanzania is a land of unrivaled variety. Big-name attractions include the thunderous wildebeest migration through Serengeti National Park, the Eden-like Ngorongoro Crater and the sultry Spice Island of Zanzibar. More low-key but equally stellar things to do include boat trips on the hippo-crammed Rufiji River in Nyerere National Park, tracking chimps in the western forests and diving the reefs off Mafia Island. It is difficult to pick just 10 must-see attractions in this diverse and captivating country, but below we focus on Tanzania’s very best travel highlights.

4,248 Tanzania Safaris

1. Serengeti National Park – Rated As Africa’s Best Safari Park

First and foremost is Serengeti National Park , one of the most popular protected areas in all of Africa. Encompassing 14,763km 2 /5,700mi 2 and making up 50% of the wider Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, this is an iconic wildlife area. Sensational scenery dominated by expansive savannah grasslands and peppered with distinctive flattop acacias and Balanites trees make this one of the most picturesque landscapes in Africa. Throw in more than 1.5 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebra and 300,000 gazelles during the great migration and you have a wildlife spectacle second to none. The Serengeti and its surrounding protected area offer a wide variety of safari accommodations and experiences to suit most budgets.

2,412 Serengeti Safaris

2. Ngorongoro Crater – Dramatic Scenery and Tons of Wildlife

Adjoining the southeast of Serengeti National Park is the extensive Ngorongoro Conservation Area . The unique Ngorongoro Crater is surrounded by towering volcanic walls on every side and blessed with prolific and extremely well-habituated wildlife. Most visitors just see the crater, but the more adventurous leave the safari hordes behind to explore the wider conservation area, which is a mixed-use zone for wildlife and Maasai pastoralists. Within this protected area, the vast Olduvai (Oldupai) Gorge is a palaeontological site made famous by the Leakey family for being home to some of the continent’s most important hominid fossils.

2,881 Ngorongoro Safaris

3. Climbing Kilimanjaro – Africa’s Highest Peak

The origin of Kilimanjaro’s name is a mystery. ‘Kilima’ means mountain in Swahili, but ‘njaro’ might derive from either the Maasai ‘ngare’ (water), an old Swahili word meaning ‘white’, or the local Chagga name for the slave caravans that once passed through the area. What is not open to dispute is that Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest peak (5,895m/19,340ft) and the tallest freestanding mountain on earth.

It is undoubtedly one of the continent’s most magnificent sights, rising up in splendid isolation from the plains below. Located virtually on the equator, this dormant volcano seems so out of place with its snowcapped peak dwarfing the surrounding lowlands. It would be wrong to come to Tanzania and not spend some time appreciating this grand mountain that forms the roof of Africa. You can climb its legendary slopes in the hope of standing atop Uhuru Peak, the highest point on the African continent, or simply gaze and photograph its majesty, as it presides over the plains and parks below.

Kilimanjaro Tours

4. Nyerere (Selous) National Park – Africa’s Largest Wildlife Reserve

Bisected by the crocodile-infested Rufiji River and home to world-renowned Stiegler’s Gorge, the 30,893km 2 /11,928mi 2 Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve) is an iconic East African safari destination. Despite ongoing poaching in some more remote parts of the park, it remains a long-standing tourist attraction in southern Tanzania. Although illegal hunting ravaged the enormous elephant herds of years gone by, Nyerere still supports around 16,000 of these grey giants, as well as a thriving population of wild dogs.

Tanzania’s government has forged ahead with the development of a huge hydroelectric dam inside Stiegler’s Gorge in the heart of this Unesco World Heritage Site. It remains to be seen whether this will have a significant impact on the park’s ecology and wildlife.

Nyerere Tours

5. Ruaha National Park – Tanzania’s Famous Wilderness Area

One of the largest national parks in East Africa, the 20,220km 2 /7,807mi 2 Ruaha National Park is almost unknown outside of Tanzania. Yet, with an estimated 10% of the surviving wild lion population in Africa, it definitely deserves to be a highlight on any trip to explore the wild south of the country. Beautiful landscapes peppered with giant baobabs, elephants and abundant plains wildlife are further good reasons to make sure Ruaha is on the itinerary of every intrepid safari enthusiast. It’s also one of the only places in Tanzania where you are likely to see the majestic greater kudu.

Ruaha Tours

6. Katavi National Park – Relatively Untouched Wildlife Paradise

Wild and remote Katavi National Park is one of the country’s most unspoiled and untouched bush settings with amazing landscapes and rich wildlife. The 4,471km 2 /1,726mi 2 park is difficult to access and so can be relatively costly to visit. As a result, few people make the effort to come here. While the popular Serengeti attracts around half a million visitors annually, remote Katavi typically sees fewer than 5,000 brave adventurers in any given year.

This is wild Africa at its very best, and if you have the time and budget it’s a park that’s absolutely worth exploring. There are only a few small, rustic safari camps, so you often come across more prides of lion than tourists on game drives in Katavi, one of Tanzania's largest national parks.

Katavi Tours

7. Mahale Mountains – Spectacular Scenery and Habituated Chimps

Nestled on Lake Tanganyika with its forested mountains rising up from the shoreline, mesmerizing Mahale Mountains National Park boasts stunning scenery and offers close encounters with habituated chimpanzees. The mist-covered peak of Mt Nkungwe stands sentinel in the background and the crystal clear waters of Lake Tanganyika lap against white-sand beaches. There is no road access, so many safari stalwarts regard 1,613km 2 /623mi 2 Mahale as Tanzania’s most remote park, but also one of its most enthralling.

The holy grail for most visitors is the 75-strong Mimikere or ‘M’ group of chimpanzees, which has been studied by Japanese researchers since the 1960s. While the M group is well habituated, finding our closest relatives can be a challenge. Be prepared for some sweaty, steep climbs through dense vegetation, but the final reward is well worth the trials and tribulations of getting there.

Mahale Mountains Tours

8. Zanzibar – An Indian Ocean Island Rich in Culture and History

Zanzibar – a beautiful tropical island dotted with aromatic spice plantations and bustling fishing villages – has reinvented itself as a tourism hot spot. It oozes culture and history in Stone Town that is seemingly at odds with its idyllic geography of white-sand beaches and coconut palms swaying lazily in the sea breeze. But it is precisely this diversity that makes Zanzibar such an attractive and varied island to explore above and below the water, as well as a dream destination for simply relaxing and recharging.

For those with deep pockets, nothing beats the exclusive satellite island of Mnemba off the northeastern tip of Zanzibar. With one exclusive &Beyond lodge, Mnemba is the very pinnacle of tropical island beach-chic luxury. For those on a tighter budget, there is a dizzying choice of hundreds of hotels, beach resorts, guesthouses and other accommodations on the main island. It almost goes without saying, but Zanzibar is not a place you should visit if you don’t want to see other tourists.

Zanzibar Tours

9. Pemba – The ‘Green Island’ of East Africa

If Zanzibar’s hundreds of hotels and thousands of tourists is not your cup of tea, then a trip to neighboring Pemba is the way to go. Zanzibar’s big brother island has remained a thriving fishing community and is surprisingly free of tourism development.

There are only a handful of tourist hotels to choose from, a number of which are in the far north of the island. The underwater honeymoon suite of the Manta Resort might be the most unique place you could opt to spend a night! But the unpretentious Emerald Bay Resort in the south is the traveler’s pick. Delicious seafood meals served on an open-air rooftop terrace and daily boat cruises to picture-perfect sandbanks in the middle of the ocean make for an unbeatable combo. It’s very easy to lose track of time and spend a week or two relaxing at this affordable island paradise.

Pemba Island Tours

10. Mafia Island – A Beach Paradise With Superb Diving

Farther south lies the idyllic coconut-covered island of Mafia. Lodges here tend to be a touch more exclusive than their counterparts on Zanzibar, but without the Mnemba price tag. The beaches are superb and its mangroves and marine park ensure that the marine life is bountiful and the underwater safari experience far superior to Zanzibar or Pemba. More out of the way and a little harder to reach, Mafia is the place for adventurous travelers and diving connoisseurs. The star underwater attraction is the docile and completely harmless whale sharks that frequent the island waters between October and March each year.

Mafia Island Tours

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Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Lake Manyara NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha (End)

Unlimited Expeditions: The Soul of Tanzania   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

4.9 /5  –  439 Reviews

Tanzania: Private tour Luxury Tented Camp & Resort

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Central Serengeti, Stone Town (Zanzibar) , Zanzibar (Beach) , Zanzibar Airport (End)

Gosheni Safaris Africa   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

4.9 /5  –  418 Reviews

You Visit: Moshi (Start) , Arusha (City) , Tarangire NP, Lake Manyara NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Stone Town (Zanzibar) , Nungwi (Zanzibar) , Zanzibar (End)

Serengeti Smile   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  209 Reviews

• 20 Unmissable Attractions In Tanzania

20 Unmissable Attractions in Tanzania

Although Tanzania is largely renowned as a world-class wildlife destination, there is so much more the country affords—from protected marine reserves to ancient sites of historical significance. Pristine beaches and turquoise waters make for a stunning and unique contrast to golden grasslands and game-filled plains, setting Tanzania up as the perfect location for a surf-and-turf kind of break. Here are 20 attractions you just can’t miss .

1. lake manyara.

Two thirds of Lake Manyara National Park are covered by waters of the same name. Home to thousands of flamingos and other diverse wildlife, the serene and picturesque lake is ideal for bird watching and canoe safaris.

Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania , +255 765 665 543

Lake Manyara wildlife | © Leon F. Cabeiro/Flickr

2. Matema Beach

Metema Beach on Lake Malawi is slightly off the usual tourist track and offers peaceful tranquility in a beautiful setting. Situated at the foothills of the Livingstone Mountains, this heavenly spot is great for swimming, and the more active can hike to the nearby waterfall.

Matema Beach, Tanzania

Matema Beach | Clown23/WikiCommons

The Big Five

Undeniably one of Tanzania’s most popular attractions, the Big Five consist of the lion, buffalo, elephant, leopard and rhino. Almost all of these are easy to spot in any one of the country’s amazing wildlife parks and reserves.

3. Prison Island

Once an outback for convicted prisoners, today Prison Island , also known as Changuu Island, is most visited for its resident colony of Giant Aldabra tortoise, an endangered species that arrived in Zanzibar as a gift from the government of the Seychelles . Some are over 100 years old and amble peacefully among other wildlife that includes colorful peacocks and butterflies, as well as shy buck.

Prison Island, Tanzania

Prison Island jetty | © James H/Flickr

4. Mount Meru

Located in the Arusha National Park , this mountain is the fifth-highest on the African continent and the second-highest in Tanzania. Its fertile slopes rise above the surrounding savannas and are covered in lush and beautiful forests where birds and monkeys thrive. Although leopards are also known to frequent the area, they are notoriously difficult to spot.

Mount Meru, Tanzania

Waterfall on Mount Meru | © Yoni Lerner/WikiCommons

5. House of Wonders

Also sometimes referred to as the Palace of Wonders, this remarkable structure overlooks the waterfront of Stone Town and features enormous, carved doors that are said to be the largest in East Africa. Inside the rise of striking tiers of both pillars and balconies, one will find the National Museum of History and Culture, showcasing Swahili culture and the people of the Indian Ocean.

House of Wonders, Sokoku St, Zanzibar Town, Tanzania, +255 754 710 807

Inside the House of Wonders | © Moongateclimber/WikiCommons

6. Serengeti Hippo Pool

If you are willing to put up with the smell, then the Hippo Pool in the Serengeti National Park affords excellent hippo sightings, where hundreds of these large creatures vie for space in a relatively small, muddy pool while river carp jump around in the water.

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania , +255 27 250 3471

Serengeti Hippo Pool | © J Fauteux/Flickr

7. Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre

Housing a great selection of modern and antique art, the Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre is a place where Tanzania’s past mingles with its present. Explore the history of more than 100 tribes that inhabit the country and pick up carvings, books, gemstones and clothing to take home as souvenirs.

Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre, Arusha, Tanzania, +255 27 250 7496

Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre | © Prasad Pillai/Flickr

The annual wildebeest migration

Famed the world over as one of the most spectacular natural shows on earth, the great wildebeest migration means thousands of visitors flock to Tanzania every year to witness this impressive event. The action takes place in the Serengeti National Park , as wildebeest and zebra follow age-old migratory paths in search of fresh grazing land.

8. Jozani Forest

Forest, Park

9. Old Fort

The Old Fort is the oldest building in Zanzibar and one of Stone Town’s most popular attractions. The edifice, with its pale orange ramparts, was built by Omani Arabs when they seized the island from the Portuguese in 1698. Over the years it has been used to house everything from a prison to a tennis club.

Old Fort, Mizingani Rd, Zanzibar Town, Tanzania, +255 659 788 828

Old Fort in Zanzibar | © Inisheer/WikiCommons

10. Mafia Island

Mafia Island is surrounded by a protected marine park and attracts the interest of scuba divers and snorkelers from around the world. The clear waters showcase an excellent coral garden that attracts scores of tropical fish and the island is also a traditional breeding ground for the green turtle, a species that is close to extinction.

Mafia Island, Zanzibar Archipelago, Tanzania

Mafia Island | © Gill Penney/WikiCommons

11. Mount Kilimanjaro

Natural Feature

12. Mto Wa Mbu

Mto Wa Mbu, meaning ‘River of Mosquitoes’, is a bright and vibrant village in the Arusha region of Tanzania . It is a favorite pit-stop for travelers and offers everything from petrol to souvenir stalls selling trinkets, crafts and blankets. The village is also a good place to pick up fresh fruit, while the local inhabitants are said to represent just about all of Tanzania’s 120 tribal groups.

Mto Wa Mbu, Arusha, Tanzania

Maasai blanket sellers on the streets of Mto Wa Mbu | © Roman Boed/Flickr

13. Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater is over three million years old and the largest intact volcanic caldera in the world. Thousands of wild animals graze the verdant crater floor that is blessed with a permanent supply of water and abundant vegetation. Besides the animals, the natural panoramas that Ngorongoro provides are a treat for the eyes, and bird watching is superb in the area. Another highlight is the Olduvai Gorge, an archaeological site situated on a series of fault lines, where centuries of erosion have revealed fossils and remnants of early mankind.

Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

Ngorongoro Crater | © Anja Pietsch/Flickr

14. Forodhani Gardens

These pretty gardens are located near the shoreline of historic Stone Town , and serve as a meeting point and melting pot of cultures and cuisine—especially when the sun goes down. Sunset sees the appearance of a highly popular food market, located in the main square, that serves up Swahili and Zanzibar delicacies, such as grilled seafood, samosas, cassava and sweet potatoes.

Forodhani Gardens, Zanzibar Town, Tanzania, +255 762 039 310

Forodhani food market at night | © Rod Waddington/WikiCommons

15. Pemba Island

This gorgeous island is adorned with lush, green hills and clove plantations, and presents visitors with picture-perfect sights. The Pemba Channel, with its coral reefs and abundant marine life, separates the island from mainland Tanzania and is a highly popular diving site. The main town of Chake-Chake keeps visitors busy with a ruined 18th-century fort and museum.

Pemba Island, Zanzibar Archipelago, Tanzania

Pemba at sunset | © Marcel Oosterwijk/Flickr | © Marcel Oosterwijk / Flickr

16. Kitulo Plateau

The Kitulo Plateau is located within the southern highlands of Tanzania and referred to by locals as The Garden of God. The protected area of montane grassland holds much unique flora, such as orchids, and, in 2005, field scientists discovered a new species of primate on and around Mount Rungwe and in the Livingstone Forest area of the plateau.

Kitulo Plateau National Park, Makete, Tanzania

Kitulo Plateau | © Jojona/WikiCommons

Isimila Stone Age site

The Isimila archaeological site is one of the most significant Stone Age finds ever identified, scattered amid a dramatic landscape of eroded sandstone pillars. Tools found on the site include hammerstones, axeheads, flints and scrapers that are estimated to be between 60,000 and 100,000 years old. There is also a small museum on site.

17. The Rock Restaurant

Restaurant, African, Seafood

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25 Awesome Things To In Tanzania: Ultimate Guide

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: October 15, 2023

Categories TANZANIA

Tanzania might just be one of the most all-round incredible countries in the world. It just has it all. From amazing trekking such as Mount Kilimanjaro, which is the highest point in Africa, to the incredible beaches in Zanzibar. And let’s not forget the world-class safari experiences such as the Great Migration and exploring national parks like the Serengeti.

Let’s just say, there’s no shortage of adventure in this country, which is one of the safest in Africa. I spent 2.5 months exploring and put together this epic list of the best things to do in Tanzania.

Wondering what to do in Tanzania? In this blog post I will share with you all of the top things to do in Tanzania that I personally did, and a few extras that I’m sure you’ll love. My personal favorites where solo trekking in Usambara, a hot air balloon over the Serengeti and the Chemka Hot Springs.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE MY OTHER TANZANIA GUIDES

• For the mountain lovers: 14 BEST HIKES IN TANZANIA
• The top waterfalls: 12 AWESOME WATERFALLS IN TANZANIA
• Best things to do: 25 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN TANZANIA

BEST TOUR COMPANY FOR TANZANIA

Are you interested in traveling to Tanzania or trekking up Mount Kilimanjaro ?

I did all of my tours, treks and trips in Tanzania with Altezza Travel and you can too! Use code ‘JACKSON5’ when booking for a 5% discount.

Table of Contents

25 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN TANZANIA

In this guide, I’ll share with you my 25 favorite things to do in Tanzania. I personally experienced everything on this list. You can click through to a more detailed guide about each experience on this list.

MOUNT KILIMANJARO TREK

Mount Kilimanjaro is, without a doubt, the drawcard of trekking in Tanzania. At 5,895m in altitude at the summit of Uhuru Peak, it is the highest point in Africa. The climb is non-technical, which makes the ascent possible for regular trekkers who are up for a challenge.

The trek can take 5-10 days depending on the route you choose. With more than eight different possibilities and routes to the top, trekkers need to consider the acclimatization profile, scenery, terrain, and cost when selecting which path to the summit they will attempt.

BOOK YOUR MOUNT KILIMANJARO TREK : Use code JACKSON5 to book your Mount Kilimanjaro trek with Altezza Travel you will receive a 5% DISCOUNT off your total booking fee (I did most of my treks with Altezza)

I did the Western Breach route, which is known to be the most scenic but also the most adventurous. The summit day involves scaling a snowy wall directly to crater camp. Even though it can sound dangerous, it is a non-technical climb although we did use crampons.

READ MY FULL BLOG POST: CLIMBING MOUNT KILIMANJARO: THE WESTERN BREACH ROUTE

BEST KILIMANJARO TREKKING COMPANY

SAFARI IN SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK

Serengeti National Park is the premier safari destination of Tanzania and one of the best places to watch the Great Migration. However, it isn’t the only great place for a safari in Tanzania as you will see throughout this blog post as I highlight a few other national parks.

We stayed at a luxury tented camp accommodation with Wilderness Travel amidst the wildlife of the southern Serengeti region. Each day we would head out in our safari vehicle and search for any action. It wasn’t hard to find.

At times, we were in the middle of a herd of tens of thousands of wildebeest and zebra who were migrating. We literally couldn’t see the end of the herd. This also meant that many lions and big cats were nearby, hunting on the weak.

At night lions, hyenas and elephants roamed within touching distance of our camp. Lying in bed one night I could have sworn a lion was just meters from our campsite. Despite being deep in the bush, the facilities were luxurious with hot showers, morning coffee from a french press, and gourmet meals prepared by a chef.

Serengeti was an incredible experience and seemingly a must-do activity in Tanzania. There is a reason a safari here is one of the top tourist attractions in Tanzania and you should try your best to include it in your itinerary.

BOOK YOUR SAFARI : Use code JACKSON5 to book your Safari with Altezza Travel (I did most of my treks and tours with them) you will receive a 5% DISCOUNT off your total booking.

READ MY FULL BLOG POST: SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK PHOTO JOURNAL

MOUNT MERU TREK

The little brother of Mount Kilimanjaro is often overlooked and brushed aside. Despite being the second-highest mountain in Tanzania at 4,566m the climb up Mount Meru is considered an alternate adventure. Having now summited both Meru and Kili, I can tell you it’s worth adding a Mount Meru climb to your Tanzania itinerary.

After an incredible summit morning, I remember thinking Mount Meru must be one of the most underrated treks in the world. It had it all. Adventure, fun mountain huts along the way, and uniquely breathtaking views and scenery from the summit of the ash cone and crescent volcano crater.

The trek begins through lush green forest and plains where you can spot zebra, warthogs, giraffes, and buffalo while Leopards are hiding in the trees. The trail progresses through the heather zone before reaching the volcanic crater rim, where you feel as if the scenery is from another planet. Looking down into the crater to see the ash cone is a surreal moment and a highlight of the trek.

BOOK YOUR MOUNT MERU CLIMB : I did my Mount Meru Climb with Altezza Travel and they were Amazing . Our outstanding food had the other hikers jealous and we made a successful summit with our guides. If you want to book with Altezza Travel , they offer a 5% discount to my readers when you use the code JACKSON5 to book your trek.

The journey takes 3-4 days and along the way you stay in two mountain huts, which are equipped with dorm-style rooms, a dining hall, and toilet blocks. The cost of Mount Meru is far less than Mount Kilimanjaro and the views are equally as epic so it is a great alternate option if you can’t quite afford the Mount Kilimanjaro trek.

READ MY FULL BLOG POST: MOUNT MERU CLIMB IN TANZANIA

CHEMKA HOT SPRINGS (KIKULETWA)

Travelers to Tanzania usually base in Arusha or Moshi in between hiking trips and safaris. While recovering from multi-day tours and hiking trips one of the best things to do is a day-trip to the Chemka Hot Springs, also known as the Kikuletwa Hot Springs. Just 1.5 hours from Arusha and nearby Moshi Town, this is one of the hidden gems of Tanzania that you need to visit. The water was crystal clear in this jungle oasis where you can relax all day and even enjoy rope swings, tire tubing, and some high jumps out of the trees.

READ MY FULL BLOG POST: CHEMKA HOT SPRINGS (KIKULETWA)

BOOK YOUR DAY-TRIP TO CHEMKA HOT SPRINGS : Chemka Hot Springs Tour – This tour includes a visit to Chemka Hot Springs in the afternoon after enjoying the Materuni Waterfall in the morning. It’s a great combo and the best way to get the most out of your day-trip tour. It’s always fairly prices considering there are two activities combined into one day-trip.

Chemka Hot Springs Tour

• Includes transfers
• Lunch Included
• Great way to refresh

TOP 3 PLACES TO STAY IN ARUSHA

• Most Luxurious: Gran Melia Arusha – Incredible view of Mount Meru and premium 5-star luxury.
• Where I stayed on a budget: Wakawaka Hostel – Cheap, great location and chill vibes
• Best value place to stay: Tulia Boutique Hotel & Spa  – very cheap price but has pool and high quality facilities and rooms.

MOUNT LONGIDO HIKE

Mount Longido is a rocky peak (2,629m) in the Mount Longido Forest Reserve about a 1.5-hours drive from Arusha. The climb is pretty demanding and steep with more than 1300 meters of incline to ascend through the forest to reach the summit. With lots of sun exposure and no drinking water available along the route, this is a tough expedition.

I camped at the summit, carrying all my equipment, water, and food for the journey. The sunset and sunrise were truly incredible above the clouds as we looked towards Tanzania on one side and Kenya on the other.

This was one of my favorite hikes in Tanzania with a pretty grueling incline, especially when you are carrying your camping equipment. It’s definitely one for those who love off-the-beaten-path adventures as this hike isn’t super popular. From walking through the mystical forest to enjoying sunrise and sunset at the rocky summit, it was an epic two days worth all of the effort to get to Longido.

READ MY FULL BLOG POST: MOUNT LONGIDO HIKE

SAFARI IN TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK

I mentioned earlier that Serengeti isn’t the only great place for safari in Tanzania despite being the most well-known. My favorite spot for a safari was actually Tarangire National Park. It was very lush and staying by the wetlands gave us this prehistoric vibe with elephants grazing in huge herds in the distance. It was something out of this world and I can truly say Tarangire is one of the top places to visit in Tanzania.

As our Jeep rolled along the bumpy roads, I would often peer out at the vast green plains, lush wetlands, and beautiful Acacia trees and feel as though we were driving through a painting. Even if there weren’t 250,000 animals in this wildlife mecca, it would be worth the safari for the scenery alone.

Tarangire National Park is the sixth-largest in Tanzania with an area of 2,600 square kilometers. Known to be one of the best places to observe large herds of elephants, this was the location of my first ever safari.

I didn’t quite know what to expect. I was slightly worried about a safari experience having too much infrastructure and not feeling very wild. The lion prints in the sand outside my tent on the first night quickly washed away any such doubts. Tarangire National Park gives you the chance to fully immerse yourself in the wild side of Africa.

READ MY FULL BLOG POST: TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK PHOTO JOURNAL

OL DOINYO LENGAI

Ol Doinyo Lengai, also known as ‘Mountain of God’ in the Maasai language, is the only active volcano in Tanzania and the third highest peak in the country. Located in the Gregory Rift, which is just south of the nearby Lake Natron in the Arusha region of Tanzania. If you have the chance, Lake Natron is one of the best places to visit in Tanzania and is unique to the lush plains and cold mountain regions.

The volcano is a popular hiking destination for those looking for a unique challenge. It’s one of the steepest hikes I’ve done in my life with 1600m of elevation in just five kilometers. The peak reaches 2,962m and is an interesting geological destination with the carbonatite rock derived from magma, a unique feature in this region.

The hike takes anywhere from 6-10 hours and the summit attempt often begins in the middle of the night to reach the peak of the volcano. This early start is to enjoy the sunrise from the summit and to avoid the harsh heat of the region, which can often reach 50 degrees celsius.

BOOK YOUR OL DOINYO LENGAI CLIMB: I did my Ol Doinyo Lengai climb with Altezza Travel and it was an incredible trip. If you want to book with Altezza , they offer a 5% discount to my readers when you use the code JACKSON5 to book your trek.

READ MY FULL BLOG POST : CLIMBING OL DOINYO LENGAI

SERENGETI HOT AIR BALLOON SAFARI

The Serengeti is one of the most incredible ecosystems in the world. The scene of great migrations and incredible wildlife is one of the most popular safari destinations in Tanzania. After spending three days exploring Serengeti National Park by Jeep, I booked a trip with  Serengeti Balloon Safari  to enjoy a sunrise flight to see the perspective of the park from a hot air balloon. On this tour, you enjoy a one-hour sunrise flight with dawn colors and wildlife sightings before enjoying a delicious outdoor breakfast.

SERENGETI HOT AIR BALLOON SAFARI COSTS

The Serengeti Hot Air Balloon experience costs 600 USD per person and includes the following:

• Early pick-up from your camp or lodge
• Transfer to the launch site for a sunrise take-off (the guide will spot animals along the way so it’s a bonus safari time)
• 1-hour hot air balloon flight
• Champagne toast on landing
• Transfer to the launch site for breakfast (we saw lions along the way!)
• Full English breakfast
• *The price does not include park entry fees and assumes you are already inside the park and have paid the fees.

I actually found the link slightly discounted on the GetYourGuide booking site , which is a reliable booking service, one of the biggest in the world and this specific activity has lots of positive reviews. They give you free cancellation and instant booking confirmation so it’s super easy through the  GetYourGuide  site.

Book your ticket online now:   Serengeti Hot Air Balloon Safari

READ MY FULL BLOG POST: SERENGETI HOT AIR BALLOON SAFARI

MOUNT MERU WATERFALL HIKE

Mount Meru is home to many incredible waterfalls, which pour down from the volcanic slopes. After a night of heavy rain, I made a day trip to explore one of the largest waterfalls at the base of Mount Meru, aptly named Mount Meru Waterfall.

This adventure involves a steep motorbike drive up a rocky road followed by a jungle stairway that leads you down into a gorge. Once inside, you wade through the river, clambering over rocks until you meet the intense falls that spray with incredible force at its base. A remarkable sight and only a few kilometers from the town, the Mount Meru waterfall is one of the top things to do in Arusha.

READ MY FULL BLOG POST: MOUNT MERU WATERFALL HIKE

EMPAKAAI CRATER HIKE

Hidden in the highlands region of the Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area (NCA), there are some hidden gems that most visitors in Tanzania will completely overlook. A 40-kilometer drive north of the famous Ngorongoro Crater is the equally impressive Empakaai Crater. This makes for some perfect off-the-beaten-path exploration to some truly incredible natural attractions like the Empakaai Crater.

It is best explored by a short trek down to the lake where you can encounter wildlife including baboons, buffalo, elephants, and flamingos. We were the only tourists in the crater when I visited, so you definitely feel like an explorer as you immerse yourself in the wild surroundings of the crater.

BOOK YOUR EMPAKAAI CRATER HIKE : I did my Empakaai Crater hike as part of a four-day tour through Ngorongoro with Altezza Travel and it was an incredible trip. If you want to book with Altezza , they offer a 5% discount to my readers when you use the code JACKSON5 to book your trek.

READ MY FULL BLOG POST: EMPAKAAI CRATER HIKE

NGORONGORO CRATER SAFARI

Ngorongoro is as diverse as its name is difficult to pronounce. The enormous Ngorongoro Crater is the centerpiece of the huge Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which was the second part of my Tanzania safari journey that began in Tarangire and would finish in Serengeti. This crater is one of the major points of interest in Tanzania and is widely popular with tourists on safari who are based in Arusha.

At the top of the rim, we had our first chance to see the entirety of the crater, which was far bigger than I expected. The lakes of the crater seemed to disappear into the fog almost like an ocean.

As soon as we began heading down into the crater the wildlife began to appear in every direction. Zebras galloped by in single file while gazelles gathered in the open plains. Flamingos flocked in the lakes as hyenas circled waiting to make their moves. The wildebeest and buffalo moved about in herds as calves leaped enthusiastically as their mothers tried to keep them nearby.

Ngorongoro Crater is one of the best spots in Tanzania to spot a Black Rhinoceros, whose population has dwindled over the last centuries but is currently on the rise. We managed to spot a few as well as lions, elephants and much more on this very scenic drive through Ngorongoro.

READ MY FULL BLOG POST: NGORONGORO CRATER SAFARI PHOTO JOURNAL

NGARE SERO WATERFALLS HIKE

Lake Natron is a popular area to stay at the lake-side lodging and observe the massive flocks of flamingos and other wildlife near the expansive salt lake. The ‘Mountain of God’ Ol Doinyo Lengai also looms in the background and is the third most popular mountain to climb in Tanzania.

However, hidden in the depths of the Ngare Sero Gorge is the hidden gem of the region with a series of stunning waterfalls. It might be hard to believe in the heat of the plains but this refreshing micro-adventure was one of my favorite activities in the Lake Natron region.

The trek is short but very interesting from the first moment as you spend the entire route inside the gorge. Wading through hip-high water at times this is quite a fun adventure although still very moderate and easy for most to handle. The waterfalls at the end of the gorge are the perfect spot to cool down after your Ol Doinyo Lengai hike.

READ MY FULL BLOG POST: NGARE SERO WATERFALLS HIKE

USUMBARA MOUNTAINS: LUSHOTO TO MTAE TREK

The Usambara Mountains are one of the hidden gems of Tanzania. A rich biodiversity hotspot with lush forests, incredible cliffs and mountain ranges, a network of local villages, and rare wildlife such as chameleons.

Lushoto is the main town in the region and acts as the entry point to the mountains. It’s here that I began my journey as I trekked all the way to Mtae, passing through villages and forests throughout my 82-kilometer journey. Usambara is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in Tanzania. This mountain range is one of the most unique places to visit in Tanzania and you won’t find too many other tourists here.

READ MY FULL BLOG POST: USAMBARA MOUNTAINS: LUSHOTO TO MTAE TREK (82KM)

RELAX ON THE BEACHES OF ZANZIBAR

No Tanzania trip is complete with a relaxing few days at the peaceful, coastal region of Zanzibar. Here you can enjoy some incredible resorts right on the beach with crystal clear waters. I didn’t personally go to Zanzibar (too busy trekking), but it’s one of those spots that’s just a guaranteed great time to unwind and chill out at the end of your trip. If you have been doing some hard trekking, what better way to recover the body before heading back home after your trip than a few days beachside.

MOUNT HANANG HIKE

Mount Hanang (3,423m) is the third highest peak in Tanzania and arguably the hardest climb. While  Mount Kilimanjaro  and  Mount Meru  might be seen as the big challenges due to the multi-day trekking and altitude there is no single day on either of those treks with anywhere near the elevation gain of Mount Hanang.

Rising from the town of Katesh, you will climb 1600 meters over 8.5 kilometers in about five hours. If the sun is out, expect a very tough hike and if it is cold you can expect to endure a freezing night at the campsite. What makes it all worth the effort is the incredible views from the summit over Katesh and Lake Balangida. The sunset and sunrise were truly incredible above the clouds despite the numb sensation in my fingers.

READ MY FULL BLOG POST: MOUNT HANANG HIKE & OVERNIGHT CAMPING

KIDHEGE FALLS HIKE

The Kidhege Waterfall is impressive but the hike to reach the falls is the highlight of this adventure amidst the incredibly diverse nature of the Shagayu Forest in Usambara, Tanzania. Hidden deep in the forest, determined hikers can find the peaceful oasis of the Kidhege Waterfall. The Shagayu Forest Reserve is one of 34 biodiversity hotspots in the world with a wide array of endemic plants. The trail is pretty wild and requires a guide for most hikers although I managed to find this waterfall on a solo adventure.

READ MY FULL BLOG POST: KIDHEGE WATERFALL HIKE IN SHAGAYU FOREST

MARANGU WATERFALLS HIKE

You may have heard of the Marangu Route, which takes hikers up to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. However, I doubt you have heard of the Marangu Waterfalls, which are a great attraction in the area before or after your Mount Kilimanjaro trek. Combine the short waterfall hike with a coffee tour or an exploration of the local Chagga cave system and you are set for a full day of adventures before your more serious trekking. The two waterfalls I visited on my hike were Ndoro and Monjo, and these are the most popular two although there are others to explore in the area also.

READ MY FULL BLOG POST: MARANGU WATERFALLS HIKE

OLMOTI CRATER HIKE

The Olmoti Crater is one of the hidden gems of the Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area in Tanzania. A sunken caldera has formed over the past ten million years, to create the Olmoti Crater which means ‘Cooking Pot’ in the Maasai language. While it isn’t quite as dramatic in shape as Ngorongoro or Empakaai Crater, the lush surroundings and water source still attract a number of grazing animals such as elephants, buffalo, waterbuck, and antelope.

The hike into Olmoti Crater takes about thirty minutes and offers panoramic views of the region and a glimpse of the Munge Waterfall, which pours out of the crater. It’s short but one of the more underrated Tanzania hikes on this list.

READ MY FULL BLOG POST: OLMOTI CRATER HIKE IN NGORONGORO

KISASA WATERFALL HIKE

The Kisasa Waterfall, also known as Izasa or Kizasa (depending on who you ask), is an epic spot in amongst the Usambara Mountain Range. While it is possible to drive to the entrance and do a short walk down to the base of the falls, I suggest combining the falls with a hike throughout the village region. I walked from Irente Farm Lodge, passing through the village of Yogoi and was able to observe lots of local scenes on the route to the waterfall.

READ MY FULL BLOG POST: KISASA WATERFALL HIKE IN USAMBARA

MATERUNI WATERFALL HIKE

Materuni Waterfall is a booming waterfall just 15-kilometers from Moshi Town. When combined with a coffee tour in the village, it makes for a perfect day trip before or after your Mount Kilimanjaro climb. With about eight kilometers of walking throughout the day and 300 meters of incline, this adventure is a great warm-up for the legs while also getting to immerse yourself in the local culture.

The tour begins by observing the entire process of making a cup of coffee, from seed to mug. After a locally produced lunch, you head off to explore the massive Materuni Waterfall.

BOOK YOUR DAY-TRIP TO MATERUNI FALLS & HOT SPRING : Materuni Falls Tour – This tour includes a visit to Chemka Hot Springs in the afternoon after enjoying the Materuni Waterfall in the morning. It’s a great combo and the best way to get the most out of your day-trip tour is with this option from Altezza Travel . It’s always fairly prices considering there are two activities combined into one day-trip.

Materuni Falls Tour

• Relax at Hot Springs
• Enjoy Materuni Waterfall
• Great Value Daytrip

READ MY FULL BLOG POST: MATERUNI WATERFALL HIKE

TULULUSIA WATERFALL

On the descent from our Mount Meru climb , we stopped off at Tululusia Waterfall, which is at the base of Mount Meru. Hidden away by a secret path, this waterfall is tucked between the rock wall and is a reward for hikers coming down from the summit of Mount Meru.

In the rainy season, it pours ferociously and can be heard from outside of the ravine. In the drier months, you can go and dip your feet at the base of the falls. It is possible to reach this waterfall on a day trip but most visitors to this waterfall are on the descent from Mount Meru as it is quite far from Arusha just for a day trip to see the waterfall.

KAKOMBE WATERFALL

Kakombe Waterfall is a secluded treasure in the heart of Gombe, a popular place for trekking and sighting chimpanzees. Within the national park the waterfall is often part of trek itineraries where tourists are walking in hope of coming across chimpanzees in the wild.

KINUKAMORI WATERFALL

Kinukamori Waterfall is actually very close to the Marangu Waterfalls tour I did, which I showed above. Kinukamori is found in Chagga Land amidst the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro. The crystal clear of the waterfall originates in the natural springs of volcanic rocks on Kilimanjaro.

On the tour, you will visit Kinukamori on top and bottom. This picturesque spot is great for swimming or just relaxing and enjoying the refreshing breeze from the waterfall. The trek itself to the waterfall is just 20 minutes so it is a short adventure.

SANJE FALLS

Sanje Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in Tanzania. Hidden in the forest of Udzungwa, a steep cirucit hike takes about four hours to complete from Sanje village. At 170m, Sanje Falls is an incredible sight and one of many amazing natural formations in the Udzungwa area.

KALAMBO FALLS

This one is a bit interesting as it is literally on the border between Tanzania and Zambia. Kalambo Falls are the tallest uninterrupted falls in Africa at 235 meters. This means the water doesn’t cascade down it just free falls the entire way for 235m. Downstream of the falls you will find the Kalambo Gorge, which is 1-km wide and a depth of up to 300 m, running for about 5-km before opening up into the Lake Tanganyika rift valley.

MORE TANZANIA BLOG POSTS

• The must-do: CLIMBING KILIMANJARO: WESTERN BREACH ROUTE
• Tanzania’s second highest peak: MOUNT MERU CLIMB IN TANZANIA
• Best place to base in Tanzania: WHERE TO STAY IN ARUSHA
• What to do: 25 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN TANZANIA
• My favorite solo adventure: USAMBARA MOUNTAINS

• Tanzania Travel Advice
• Tanzania Yellow Fever Requirements
• Tanzania weather
• Best Time to Visit Tanzania
• Flying Doctors Services
• Sustainable Travel
• The Hakuna Matata Academy
• About Tanzania Specialist
• Our Experts

15 Best Things To Do In Tanzania

23 August 2022

Some of Africa’s most well-known national parks and natural landmarks, like the spectacular Mount Kilimanjaro, may be found in the incredible country that is Tanzania. Read our tips for the best things to do in Tanzania !

Safaris and other wildlife-related activities are the most well-liked activities in Tanzania and the main reasons people travel there, as well as the lovely beaches of Zanzibar , which appeal to anyone looking to spend some time basking in the sun.

With this list of the top attractions and best things to do in Tanzania, you can explore your options and find the best locations to visit.

1. Serengeti National Park

Millions of animals inhabit or pass through the huge, treeless plain that is Serengeti National Park in quest of new grasslands.

You may see some of the most well-known African animals here, but it is most famous for the yearly wildebeest migration .

In May or early June, more than 1.5 million wildebeest and tens of thousands of zebra and gazelle embark on their yearly migration.

One of nature’s most stunning spectacles, this migration serves as the main attraction for many visitors. Furthermore, the Serengeti is home to nearly 500 different bird species.

Tens of thousands of tourists visit Tanzania’s second-largest national park, the Serengeti, every year.

June through September are the best months to see wildlife in Serengeti National Park.

2. Zanzibar Beaches

The Tanzanian island of Zanzibar, also known as Unguja, is a popular vacation spot and is renowned for its stunning beaches.

This island is a part of the Zanzibar archipelago, which also includes Pemba. It boasts some of the best beaches in the world.

Visitors will find beautiful white beaches, clear shallow water, and traditional boats lining the shore. The surf varies depending on which side of the island you are on.

3. Mount Kilimanjaro

Tanzania’s most famous image is Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895 m), which is Africa’s tallest mountain.

Unlike other parks in northern Tanzania, people visit Mount Kilimanjaro National Park more for the opportunity to admire the stunning snow-capped mountain and, for many, to attempt the ascent.

Although Mount Kilimanjaro may be climbed year-round, the optimum time to do it is from late June to October, when the weather is dry.

Over a million years ago, volcanic action in the Rift Valley built Kilimanjaro, a World Heritage Site.

Shira, Kibo, and Mawenzi are three volcanic cones that formed around 750,000 years ago. Uhuru Peak atop Kibo, one of the Seven Summits of the globe, is the highest peak.

The mountain rises from the agricultural area at its base to a rainforest, an alpine meadow, and finally a lunar environment at its highest point.

Elephants, buffalo, monkeys, and leopards can be seen living on the slopes of the jungle, while bird watchers will find a wide variety of birds in the alpine region.

Although no project is currently underway, the government approved a plan to construct a cable car on Mount Kilimanjaro in late 2020.

If it were built, visitors would reach 3,700 meters above sea level.

4. Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The famed volcanic Ngorongoro Crater is found in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area , which is one of Tanzania’s most popular places to see animals.

It is situated halfway between the Serengeti and Lake Manyara.

Numerous creatures are attracted to this massive volcanic crater because it always has water available, meaning there is no need for them to migrate.

The main reasons people visit this place are to see big animals and to observe birds.

Thousands of species, including lions, elephants, rhinos, Thomson’s gazelles, and buffalo, can be seen on the crater floor, but more than half of the animals that live in the Ngorongoro Crater are wildebeests and zebras.

The best places for bird watching are near Lake Magadi, where groups of flamingos congregate in the shallows.

Hippos are pleased to spend the day submerged and the evening grazing on the adjacent grass.

The Ngorongoro Crater, which is around three million years old, is the world’s largest preserved ancient caldera.

Before it erupted and fell, the Ngorongoro volcano was among the tallest mountains in the world.

The Olduvai Gorge is another interesting feature of the conservation area.

Ancient skulls and bone fragments discovered at this significant archeological site have provided valuable information about the earliest human populations.

Olduvai Gorge, which is located on a number of fault lines, has been the discovery of ancient human remains and fossils thanks to millennia of erosion.

In 1911, a German professor was searching for butterflies when he came across some fossilized bones in the Olduvai Gorge.

The Leakeys gathered bones that were estimated to be about 2 million years old, a skull, and portions of it during a subsequent expedition.

In Olduvai Gorge, tools and hunting equipment dating to between one and five million years ago were also found.

The iconic footprints of a man, woman, and infant at Laetoli, close to Olduvai, were another thrilling discovery.

Additional proof that at least three hominid species lived in this area over two million years ago can be found in these and other findings.

5. Mafia Island

Divers and snorkelers travel from all over the world to Mafia Island to explore the underwater environment that the Mafia Island Marine Park protects.

While Mafia Island experiences its greatest weather from May to October, the best diving conditions are from October to March.

Mafia Island Marine Park is home to a wide diversity of species, incredible coral gardens, and a calm diving environment.

The area is home to around 400 different types of fish and numerous bird species. Additionally, the green turtle, which is sadly on the verge of extinction, has its historical breeding grounds on Mafia Island.

Mafia is a popular spot for deep-sea fishing, particularly for big-game fish like tuna, marlin, sailfish, and others.

6. Tarangire National Park

The 1970-founded Tarangire National Park is an excellent place to see animals.

The best time to go is during the dry season, which is from July to September, when animals congregate near the river.

A large number of migratory animals gather in the lagoons of Tarangire National Park during the dry season, including wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, impala, gazelle, hartebeest, and eland.

The park is renowned for several other things as well, including the abundance of elephants there and the baobab trees that dot the green landscape.

With more than 300 kinds of birds documented in Tarangire, the park is great for birdwatching. Buzzards, vultures, herons, storks, kites, falcons, and eagles are some of these species.

7. Pemba Island

The northernmost island in the Zanzibar archipelago is Pemba Island . There are several desert islands near Pemba, and the visibility for scuba diving in the Indian Ocean is unmatched.

The underwater paradise is home to sea fans, coral gardens, and colorful sponges. The primary population center on Pemba, Chake Chake, is a well-liked base for scuba divers.

Pemba has a more relaxed attitude than Zanzibar because it is less frequently visited.

The island has become well-liked among mountain bikers who are lured to the 1,000-meter peaks, which are rugged with deep valleys.

Misali Island Beach is a must-visit location nearby. On a tropical island that is uninhabited, there is a stunning white sand beach.

Pemba is a significant producer of cloves globally and is renowned for its juju traditions of healing and magic.

People travel from all across East Africa to study with the traditional and voodoo healers or look for a cure.

8. Lake Manyara National Park

The landscape of Lake Manyara National Park is made up of wetlands, meadows, and forests.

Two-thirds of the park is submerged in water, and Lake Manyara is home to a variety of birds, including thousands of flamingos during specific times of the year.

The abundance of elephants, lions that can scale trees, and hippos that may be seen in Lake Manyara at a much closer range than in other parks are its main attractions.

The world’s highest population of baboons resides in this park.

The most well-liked activities in Lake Manyara National Park include bird watching, canoeing, mountain biking excursions, and wildlife drives.

9. Julius Neyere National Park

Julius Neyere National Park is the largest game reserve in Africa. It was founded in 1922 and occupies 5% of all of Tanzania. The southern region is a banned region.

It is undeveloped, extremely forested, and full of cliffs. Only the region north of the Rufiji River is accessible to travelers.

Large open grasslands, woods, rivers, hills, and plains can all be found in this region of the Julius Neyere National Park.

The Julius Neyere National Park is divided by the Rufiji River, which has the biggest catchment area of any river in East Africa.

The river is a significant element of the reserve and offers the chance to observe a variety of aquatic animals. Elephants, hippos, and rhinos can all be seen there, along with buffalo, antelope, giraffes, warthogs, wildebeest, lions, leopards, and cheetahs.

In Julius Neyere National Park, there are more than 350 species of birds that have been identified.

10. Stone Town

Zanzibar’s cultural center, Stone Town, hasn’t undergone much alteration in the past 200 years.

The city’s distinct beauty comes from the grand old Arabian mansions that line the winding lanes and twisting streets.

When Zanzibar was one of the most significant Swahili trading towns in the Indian Ocean in the nineteenth century, the majority of the homes in Stone Town were constructed.

Many of the homes have finely carved wooden doors that are bras-studded and visible to visitors.

Many of Stone Town’s famous landmarks have been brought back to their former splendor as the oldest continuously inhabited Swahili city in the world.

Several of the old structures are now museums or tourist destinations. A few intriguing antique churches with historical significance can be found throughout the town.

The Darajani Market, Beit el-Amani, City Hall, and the Anglican Cathedral are all located in the old Stone Town region, which may be reached by strolling down Creek Road.

The Forodhani Gardens, the Old Dispensary with its carved wooden balconies, the ancient residence of the sultans known as Beit el-Sahel or the People’s Palace, the Hamamni Persian Baths, erected in 1888, and the Old Fort, Stone Town’s oldest building, are some of the other major attractions.

11. Lake Victoria

Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda surround Lake Victoria, the biggest freshwater lake in Africa. Millions of people live near this lake, which feeds the White Nile and generates revenue for them.

One of the least frequented areas of the nation is the Tanzanian portion of Lake Victoria, yet the cities of Bukoba, Musoma, and Mwanza contain a variety of attractions.

A few of the islands that are close to Mwanza and Musoma have turned into wildlife sanctuaries.

Boat tours or treks can be planned around Lake Victoria, and bird-watching and fishing trips are popular adventures.

On the southwest coast of Lake Victoria, there is a park called Rubondo Island National Park that contains a number of additional smaller islands.

12. Gombe Stream National Park

Gombe National Park , sometimes known as Gombe Stream National Park on occasion, caters mostly to tourists looking to get off the beaten path and observe chimpanzees.

Jane Goodall made this destination, one of Tanzania’s smallest national parks, famous through her research.

The British researcher first came to the country in 1960 to study chimpanzees in the wild, but her work eventually led to the creation of the world’s longest-running behavioral research project.

Visitors can enter the forest on guided treks to see chimpanzees in their natural habitat. The park is home to numerous primates and animal species.

The tropical forest is home to over 200 bird species, including barbets, starlings, sunbirds, crowned eagles, kingfishers, and palm-nut vultures.

Other popular activities include hiking and swimming; a trail enters the forest and leads to a waterfall in a valley.

13. Katavi National Park

The secluded Katavi National Park is home to unspoiled nature.

The massive flood plain, which is divided by the Katuma River and various seasonal lakes, is a defining characteristic of Katavi.

Large herds of hippos, crocodiles, and more than 400 bird species can be seen in the lakes.

Hippos during the end of the dry season, when as many as 200 attempt to fit into a pool of water, are one of the attractions in Katavi.

The dry season brings Katavi National Park to life; at the last remaining ponds and streams, herds of impala, reedbuck, lions, zebras, and giraffes can be observed.

When the flood waters recede, tens of thousands of elephants and buffalo also congregate in the park.

14. Arusha National Park

Despite being smaller than other national parks in Tanzania, Arusha has a variety of habitats, including Mount Meru’s forest, the Ngurdoto Crater in the southeast, and the Momella Lakes, a collection of seven crater lakes.

While herds of buffalo, zebra, and warthog are scattered around the swampy bottom of the crater, black and white Colobus monkeys are visible in the surrounding forest.

A wide variety of resident and migratory waterbirds call Momella Lakes home.

Visitors come here to view the local wildlife and to climb Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest mountain and one of Africa’s stunning volcanoes.

A thin slope that leads to the peak offers breathtaking views of the volcanic cone that is located in the crater at a height of several thousand feet below.

Although there is a hard elevation, the route also travels through parkland, a forest, a large area of heather, and moorland.

15. Ruaha National Park

Tanzania’s largest park, Ruaha National Park , was established in 2008. It contains one of Tanzania’s highest densities of elephants and vast herds of buffalo and gazelle.

Ruaha National Park’s primary feature is the Great Ruaha River, which offers breathtaking wildlife viewing along its banks.

Through a hydroelectric plant at Kidatu, the river also contributes significantly to Tanzania’s electrical needs.

Because Ruaha National Park is the least visited park in Tanzania, the environment there is still largely unspoiled.

Over 400 species of birds that are not present in northern Tanzania can be enjoyed by birdwatchers, while photographers are drawn in particular by the river, breathtaking gorges, and towering trees.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to go on a safari in tanzania.

The long dry season, which lasts from July through October, is the ideal time to visit Tanzania.

The Great Migration, treks, safaris, and Zanzibar beach vacations are all at their best during these months.

The busiest time of year to visit Tanzania is around July. Elephants are congregating at Tarangire National Park as the migration approaches Kenya.

The Big Five are more likely to be seen in August because animals begin looking for water sources, making their movements predictable for guides.

Flamingos also flock in large numbers to Lake Natron because they may find food and refuge there.

The migratory herds of wildebeest and zebra are dispersed across the Serengeti in September, the last month of the peak season.

The Mara River, which flows from Kenya’s Northern Serengeti, is their main barrier. It can be thrilling to see herds of wildebeest desperately swim through crocodile-infested waters.

For those fascinated by the wildebeest population, visiting near the end of January is a great time to see the calving season on the Ndutu Plains.

Where Are The Best Beaches In Tanzania?

On the island of Zanzibar, whose unbelievably white sands are lapped by turquoise waters, you’ll find Tanzania’s greatest beaches.

Nungwi Beach, Kendwa Beach, and Paje Beach, one of the best kiteboarding beaches on the island, are a few of the best beaches.

Other significant runners-up are situated on Mafia Island and Pemba Island, especially Misali Island Beach and Utende Beach.

What Is The Best Town For Tourism In Tanzania?

One of the top tourist towns in the world is Stone Town in Zanzibar.

Visitors can interact with the welcoming residents, wander the narrow alleyways, or go to the Old Fort, a stunning historic structure in the town that was erected by the Omani Arabs to defend themselves from the Portuguese.

The picturesque Forodhani Night Food Market offers mouthwatering street food for visitors to savor.

The town is spectacular and unique because of the gorgeous Swahili architecture, the vibrant and busy marketplaces, and the breathtaking ocean vista.

Is Tanzania Worth Visiting? 

Tanzania genuinely has something to offer every kind of traveler.

Incredible game reserves filled with wildlife, beautiful beaches, opulent lodging, and amazing culture and cuisine are just a few of the attractions.

What are the best things to do in Tanzania? Our Final Word

When visiting Tanzania, it’s important to plan out everything you want to do to make the most of your trip.

As you make your itinerary for your vacation, consider visiting these must-see tourist destinations.

Visiting each one of our list of 15 best things to do in Tanzania will give you an incredible insight into the country and will make your trip incredibly memorable.

Make your dream trip come true with Tanzania Specialist.

Customized travel proposal.

At Tanzania Specialist, you can tailor your trip to your preferences. Our sample itineraries are customizable, and our specialists work with you to create your dream trip!

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Home » Travel Guides » Tanzania » 15 Best Places to Visit in Tanzania

15 Best Places to Visit in Tanzania

Tanzania is the revered promised land at the end of the Great Rift Valley; a colossal cut-out of East Africa that’s really not like anywhere else in the region. It ranges from the powder-sand beaches of glimmering white on the Zanzibar Archipelago to the cloud-beating, snow-topped summits of monstrous Mount Kilimanjaro in the north.

Elephants and leopards come face to face in its hinterlands; African wild dogs prowl under the shade of bulbous baobab trees. Christians and Muslins share the cities, and there are even relics of voodoo-practicing shamans on the far-flung cays. It’s a place tailormade for the safari goer just as much as the SCUBA diver; a picturesque country that’s perfect for budding trekkers and explorers (did we mention that this one has Africa’s highest peak?), just as it is for culture buffs and history lovers.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Tanzania :

Don’t knock us for ditching the safari parks and picking picture-perfect Unguja (the kingpin of Zanzibar) for the top spot! If only you could see just how aquamarine the waters were here (move over Cote d’Azur!), how soft the sands; how immersive those Swahili marketplaces, we’re certain you would have too.

Once trodden by sultans and British imperialists, the capital of Stone Town here bursts with coral-stone forts, Persian palaces, and European frontispieces.

And then there are the beaches, from seaweed-spattered Kendwa to whiter-than-white Nungwi and its salt-washed bungalows on the shore.

Hey, this little isle in the Indian Ocean really did earn its place as the byword for tropical perfection!

2. Mount Kilimanjaro National Park

A reserve that surely needs no introduction, the exotic reaches of the Mount Kilimanjaro National Park have been a symbol of Africa’s rich biodiversity and eye-popping backcountry since they were first inaugurated by the German colonists back in the 1920s.

Today, they magnetise backpackers and intrepid walkers, who flock to strap on the hiking boots and scale the summit of Africa’s highest peak.

There are oodles of options for those eager to get to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, ranging from the easy-going Marangu trek to the panoramic Machame route.

On top of that there’s game viewing to boot, with creatures like the hardy tree hyrax, colobus monkeys and elephants all roaming the wilds.

3. Ruaha National Park

Sprawled out over an area almost exactly the size of Wales, the Ruaha National Park has expanded and expanded over the years to become the single largest game reserve in the entire of East Africa.

Today, it ranges more than 20,000 square kilometers over baobab forests, gallery woods and acacia-dotted plains.

And despite its size, Ruaha’s relative inaccessibility ensures there are no booming crowds of safari-goers here.

Instead, the game experience is up-close-and-personal, with cheetahs and leopards and wild dogs all part of the action.

You can also expect a large elephant population, with estimated numbers putting the population at over 100,000 individuals.

4. Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is nothing short of legendary on the safari circuit of East Africa.

A huge dustbowl of savannah and fig tree forests, undulating hills of mud-caked plains and dramatic cliffs, it’s delineated by the colossal caldera of an ancient volcano – the largest of its kind on the planet, in fact.

Hidden behind the serrated peaks that make the great crater, the wildlife here has been able to thrive and survive like nowhere else on the continent.

You’ll find rare crater lions and black rhinoceroses, blue wildebeest and the endemic Tanzanian cheetahs, all of which roam the lost hinterland between the peaks.

5. Stone Town

Okay, so historic Stone Town has already had a mention along with picture-perfect tropical Unguja, the Zanzibar island where it makes its home.

But this fascinating place is worthy of a listing in its own right too.

After all, there’s really nothing that can live up to its immersive patchwork of Omani forts and arabesque houses, the richly-adorned House of Wonders (once trodden by sultans) and Persian hammams left over from the Arabs.

There’s also an Anglican church that sticks out like sore thumb, and a palpability to the Swahili culture here that’s not on offer elsewhere in Tanzania.

6. Selous Game Reserve

UNESCO-attested and hailed by loyal safari-goers the world over, the Selous Game Reserve is a real monster of an area.

It encompasses no less than 54,000 square kilometers in the heart of south-eastern Tanzania, and boasts a biodiversity to match.

There are hippos in the ox-bow lakes, swaying baobab trees, wandering elephants at the mud fords, marauding wild dogs, and Cape buffalos to name just a few of the eye-catching fauna.

Come and explore this vast hinterland of miombo woodland and seasonal floodplains along the Rufiji River, and you’re in for a true experience of the African wilds!

Kigoma is beset by the deep blue waters of Lake Tanganyika, which encompasses the town on three sides.

Boats bob around its timber jetties, while larger ships graze against the shores here too.

In fact, the town represents one of the major ports on the water, and vessels still ferry passengers all the way from Kigoma to Zambia during the week.

The town is known for its ease-of-access to the chimp-dotted forests of the Gombe National Park, the trekking trails of the Mahale Mountains, and for the sandy beaches and lapping waters that make it a great place to kick-back and relax inland.

8. Tarangire National Park

The mixture of scrawny acacia boughs and the colossal outlines of baobab trees make the landscapes of Tarangire National Park ones to remember.

They sit on the edge of the northern Crater Highlands of the country, close to Ngorongoro and the sprawling city of Arusha.

Crisscrossed by countless herds of wildebeest and zebra, impala and bucks, the area makes for fine game viewing.

However, there are two more treats awaiting in the backcountry here worth of remark: the otherworldly termite mounds that pepper the plains, and the large population of wild elephants that can often be seen roaming.

Shrouded by the chipped and chiselled peak of Mount Meru, the fifth-highest in all of Africa no less, the hubbub of metropolitan Arusha does well to keep communion with nature.

It’s a town that still bears the hallmarks of its founders: the Maasai pastoralists.

They come out in the throbbing, colorful markets and bazaars, where prayer beads click and livestock squawks behind the emporiums.

There are immersive coffeehouses too, along with oodles of tour operators offering intrepid excursions out to conquer the top of 4,500-meter-high Meru; forever beckoning on the horizon.

10. Pemba Island

As of yet undiscovered Pemba sits out in to the swells of the Indian Ocean, picking up on the tropical beauty front where the white beaches of the Swahili Coast left of on mainland Tanzania.

A part of the same island chain as impossibly-beautiful Zanzibar, the spot comes imbued with some of East Africa’s most colourful coral gardens, each teeming with a kaleidoscope of marine life.

However, leave the diving dhows of the coast behind for a moment and go in search of Pemba’s curious past of voodoo witchcraft and medieval Ndagoni ruins, and you’re sure not to leave disappointed!

11. Mafia Island

Despite the somewhat unsavoury name of this little jewel in the Indian Ocean, its shimmering white sands and swaying palm tree groves are not the home of any cigar-touting fat cats out of Chicago by way of Sicily.

Nope, far from being a Mafioso stronghold, this one is actually a tropical paradise; a part of the Zanzibar Archipelago no less! Shaped like a jutting rhino horn, it’s surrounded by glowing beaches of alabaster white, and comes fringed with gardens of coral reef where the pygmy hippo sloshes in the water.

Unsurprisingly, SCUBA is top of the menu!

12. Serengeti National Park

For many, simply the world Serengeti is synonymous with the iconic wilderness of East Africa; places where the unmistakable outlines of long-necked giraffes drift against the rock-ribbed backdrop of Ngorongoro Conservation Area; where swaying savannah grasses camouflage the stalking leopards, and lazy lion prides recline in the acacias.

Serengeti has achieved its fame thanks to the presence of the so-called Big Five game, while luxury lodges mix with eco camps, drawing all sorts of safari goers to its climes.

Yep, this one certainly promises to be one to write home about!

13. Arusha National Park

Ranging from the alkaline lakes of Momella to the verdant hillsides of the Ngurdoto Crater, Arusha National Park is a place of such varied habitats and environments that it’s easy to see why there’s such a rich biodiversity between its borders.

Sat close to the city of the same name in the northern reaches of the nation, it’s a place where safari goers come to spy curious colobus monkeys in the boughs, or wonder at the moving pink wisps of flamingo flocks against the watering holes.

It’s not as famous as the country’s other big game sites, but it is off-the-beaten-track and less crowded during the high season.

14. Katavi National Park

The jewel of the Katavi Region of the west is a vast floodplain that reaches out to where the lands give way to Lake Tanganyika on the border with the DRC. It’s a wonderful destination for game viewers, made popular thanks to the predominance of mudholes and watering spots that appear when the rains hit.

Around these croc-infested rivers and pools, you should be able to spy out hippos and zebras, elephants and cheetah.

What’s more, thanks to its far-fling position in the west, Katavi receives just a fraction of the safari goers as Arusha or Serengeti.

15. Dar es Salaam

A whopping four million people call the seemingly endless metropolis of Dar es Salaam their home.

It’s a city that’s burst from its seams in the last couple of decades, with huge port districts popping up to receive all the cargo vessels from across the Indian Ocean.

Today, that mercantile boom has translated into a city of virtually boundless energy and character.

Fish markets sprawl around the Kivukoni Front, where the hawkers haggle for fish cuts and seafood.

Harbourside depots now dwarf the old church spires that stood here before the big change.

Daladala vans purr through the streets.

Enjoy the lived-in energy and excellent National Museum before making a beeline for the beautiful beaches and islands along the shore.

15 Best Places to Visit in Tanzania:

• Mount Kilimanjaro National Park
• Ruaha National Park
• Ngorongoro Conservation Area
• Selous Game Reserve
• Tarangire National Park
• Pemba Island
• Mafia Island
• Serengeti National Park
• Arusha National Park
• Katavi National Park
• Dar es Salaam

Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Tanzania

Tanzania is one of the most diverse and captivating African travel safari destinations. Boasting a vast and unique array of national parks and game reserves, ranging from the world-renowned Serengeti National Park to the wild and secluded hidden wilderness gem of Katavi National Park, Tanzania has a safari and wildlife destination to suite every type of traveler and wilderness enthusiast.

Offering an endless variety of places to explore, wildlife and birdlife to see, and safari adventures to experience, here are the top 10 tourist attractions in Tanzania, all of which should be on your African travel and safari bucket-list.

#1 The Serengeti National Park

Tanzania’s flagship conservation area, the Serengeti National Park is one of the finest national parks and top tourist attractions in Tanzania. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Serengeti is regarded as one of the most celebrated wilderness areas in the world.

Stretching along a vast plateau between the eastern arm of the rugged Rift Valley and the huge expanse of Lake Victoria, the Serengeti National Park covers an immense 14 800 km² (5 700 square miles) on Tanzania’s northern border with Kenya. Making up 50% of the wider Serengeti–Mara ecosystem, the Serengeti is the most famous protected wilderness area in all of Africa. As Tanzania’s oldest game reserve, the Serengeti National Park boasts one of the oldest and most diverse ecosystems on earth with a thriving vegetation that has remained largely untouched for millions of years.

Beyond its diverse landscapes, vast grasslands, golden savannah, thriving ecosystems, and wild and unspoiled natural beauty, it boasts one of the world’s greatest concentrations of wildlife, and certainly one of the most diverse. In fact, one of the best things about the Serengeti is its superb year-round game viewing.

Just about every large animal in East Africa can be regularly seen in the Serengeti National Park or its wider ecosystem. Known for its remarkable African Big 5 and predator sightings (especially lions, leopards, hyenas, and cheetahs), as well as plenty of elephants favoring the western woodlands of Grumeti, the Serengeti dazzles even the most hardened safari critics. The Serengeti ecosystem is also a renowned bird-watching destination, with over 500 species recorded to date.

Serengeti National Park Great Migration

The world-renowned Serengeti National Park Great Migration is a wildlife phenomenon and spectacle that will exceed all expectations. The Serengeti Great Migration sees millions of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle traversing the open plains of the park in search of fresh grass from seasonal rains, moving northwards into the neighboring Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, and then returning south to the Serengeti again. It is estimated that 1.5 million wildebeest, 300,000 zebra and 400,000 gazelles take part on the annual Serengeti Great Migration.

The dramatic scenes of huge herds on the move, crossing rivers and vast plains, pursued by predators looking for their next kill, are the stuff nature documentaries are made of. Experiencing the annual Serengeti National Park Great Migration is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime event that most safari travelers and wildlife enthusiasts have at the top of their bucket list.

#2 Ngorongoro Crater

The iconic Ngorongoro Crater is regarded by many as Africa’s lost world filled with dramatic and jaw-dropping scenery and blessed with tons of prolific and extremely well-habituated wildlife. The iconic Ngorongoro Crater located in Northern Tanzania, which was once a gigantic volcano, is the largest intact caldera in the world, surrounded by towering volcanic walls on every side. Some would go as far as to say that before it erupted, it would have been higher than the famous Mt Kilimanjaro – the highest peak in Africa. This undoubtedly makes the Ngorongoro Crater one of the most sought-after destinations to visit and top tourist attraction in Tanzania, if not Africa.

Today, long since having collapsed and eroded, it is an extensive highland area with the famous 600m deep Ngorongoro Crater as its focal point. However, despite being nearly three million years old, the ancient caldera shelters are still regarded as one of the most beautiful wildlife havens on earth.

Black Rhinos

The steep sides of the crater have become a natural enclosure for a wide variety of wildlife.  In fact, it is presently one of the most likely areas in Africa to see the endangered Black Rhino.

Ngorongoro Crater Olduvai Gorge

Adjoining the southeast of the renowned Serengeti National Park, you’ll find the extensive Ngorongoro Conservation Area. While most visitors just visit the area to see the crater in all its gory, the more curious and adventurous leave the safari hordes behind to explore the wider conservation area that is a mixed-use area for wildlife and Maasai pastoralists. Within this protected area, the vast Oldupai Gorge (originally misnamed Olduvai) is an archaeological site made famous by the Leakey family for being home to some of the continent’s most important hominid fossils.

Provided you visit outside of the peak safari season months (June–September), you will fall in love with Ngorongoro Crater packed full of a wild, vast, and diverse array of wildlife and mesmerizing scenery.

#3 Selous Game Reserve

Intersected by the crocodile-infested Rufiji River and home to the world-renowned Stiegler’s Gorge, the 50,000km2/19,305mi2 Selous Game Reserve is an iconic East African safari destination and one of the top tourist attractions in Tanzania. Thanks to the efforts and stringent regulations implemented by the Wildlife Division of the Tanzanian Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, the Selous Game Reserve boasts the greatest concentration of savanna animals than any other African game reserve.

Despite its ongoing poaching and the fact that illegal hunting ravaged the enormous elephant herds of years gone by, the Selous Game Reserve continues to support approximately 16,000 magnificent elephants by means of several incredible wildlife, conservation, and anti-poaching initiatives. Selous is also home to a thriving population of endangered African wild dogs – A rare and remarkable sighting when visiting any African game reserve or national park.

The infamous Rufiji River is an important feature of the reserve as it supports and gives life to a broad range of both water-based and non-water-based wildlife. A vast diversity of wildlife can be spotted in and around the Rufiji River, including hippos, rhino, buffalo, antelope, giraffe, elephant, lion, leopard, cheetah, wildebeest, warthog and so much more. Selous Game Reserve also boasts a glorious array of birdlife with over 350 recorded species, making it any avid birder’s paradise.

#4 Mount Kilimanjaro

Dubbed the highest peak on the African continent at 5895 metres (19,340 feet) above sea level, visiting and climbing the tallest freestanding mountain on earth, Mount Kilimanjaro, is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Tanzania. An inactive volcano, this majestic mountain can be found inside the Kilimanjaro National Park in north-eastern Tanzania, positioned virtually on the equator. Unlike other national parks in northern Tanzania, wildlife is not the main attraction for those visiting Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, but rather to witness and stand in awe of this tall-standing natural wonder and, for many, to climb to the summit.

Famous for its snow-capped peak looming over the stunning plains of the savannah, Mount Kilimanjaro has established itself as one of Africa’s top tourist attractions among keen travelers, nature enthusiasts, avid mountaineers, and trekkers from around the world – and with good reason too!

Standing vigil over Tanzania’s untamed landscapes, Mount Kilimanjaro, which is also a World Heritage Site, boasts an array of beautiful and diverse habitats and ecosystems. On the lowland slopes, much of the mountain has been converted to farmland. Once inside the park, thick, lush lowland forest and rainforests covers the lower slopes giving way to alpine meadows once the air begins to thin. Near the peak, the landscape becomes harsh and barren with lunar landscapes, rocks, and sparkling vistas of ice and snow which are the predominant features as you approach the snowy summit of Africa atop Uhuru Peak on Kibo – The highest point of Mount Kilimanjaro (as well as the highest point on the African continent), which is also regarded as one of the Seven Summits of the world.

The slopes of rainforest are home to several buffaloes, leopards, monkeys, elephants, and eland. The alpine meadow region on the other hand is where avid bird watchers will find an incredible array of birds of prey.

If that isn’t enough, few mountains can claim the grandeur and the scintillating views over the Great Rift Valley and Amboseli National Park in neighbouring Kenya that belongs to Mount Kilimanjaro.

For many eager travellers, thrill seekers, and mountaineers, hiking to the ‘roof of Africa’ – the highest point on the African continent – is the adventure of a lifetime and the highlight of their Tanzanian experience, especially because the routes to the summit are not as technical as many may think and are thus accessible to almost any reasonably fit and healthy. Everyone from seasoned trekkers to first-time hiking enthusiasts can successfully tackle and scale the snowy summit provided they climb slowly, acclimatize properly, are adequately equipped for the wind and biting cold, and have a certain level of fitness, as the main challenge is posed by the altitude.

#5 Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park is located in the Arusha Region and Manyara Region of Tanzania. Offering a thrilling wilderness experience and diverse habitats, from its Rift Valley soda lake, forests, and vast grasslands to swamps, dense woodlands and steep mountainsides, Lake Manyara National Park is both a sought-after safari destination and top tourist attraction in Tanzania.

Apart from its spectacular and diverse setting and surroundings, Lake Manyara National Park is famous for its unusual tree-climbing lions, huge elephant herds, and large population of hippos, all of which can be admired at a much closer range than in other parks.

As two-thirds of the park is covered by water, it is renowned for attracting a vibrant and abundant bird life, as well as a copious number of flamingos. During Tanzania’s wet season, Lake Manyara is home to more than 400 species of birds, many of them waterfowl or migrants, as well as thousands of flamingos – Providing visitors and birding enthusiasts with truly sensational sightings.

During the dry season, alkaline mud-flats take the place of the glorious lake waters. The dry season is the best time to see large mammals such as huge herds of buffalo, hippos, cheetah, Masai giraffe, wildebeest, and impala, to mention merely a few, roam the lake shores and the forested valley slopes – Resulting in remarkable wildlife sightings!

If you’re eager to go on a Lake Manyara safari, you can look forward to a unique and fascinating experience as the park also features a ground-water forest, acacia tortilis woodland and hot springs called Maji Moto.

As Lake Manyara National Park is said to host the largest concentration of baboons in the world, you can expect to see troops of several hundred olive baboons alongside Sykes monkey and short-eared galago. Cape clawless otters, Egyptian mongoose, hippos, and the iconic African klipspringer are other prominent park residents you’ll have the opportunity to spot on your Lake Manyara safari adventure.

#6 Katavi National Park

Wild and remote Katavi National Park is an unspoiled and untouched wildlife and wilderness paradise situated in the western area of Tanzania. The 4,471km2/1,726mi2 national park boasts a rich diversity of wildlife along with a wonderful array of habitats, ranging from flood plains of thick reeds and dense waterways that teem with hippo and crocodile to woodlands, open grasslands, forests, and pristine seasonal lakes. This makes exploring the untamed and majestic Katavi National Park a bucket-list worthy and thrilling wilderness experience.

Katavi’s enormous flood plain, split by the Katuma River and several seasonal lakes, is one of its most prevalent features. The park’s array of seasonal lakes is home to a glorious abundance of crocodiles, hippos, and over 400 bird species. One of Katavi National Park’s greatest wildlife spectacles is witnessing over 200 hippos squeeze into a single pool of water at the end of the region’s dry season. Wildlife enthusiasts visiting Katavi during this time will have the amazing opportunity to see a whole lot of action as the rivalry between the male hippos heats up, causing intense territorial fights.

Katavi National Park’s dry season brings the whole park to life as its renowned for its remarkable and abundant wildlife sightings and encounters. Visitors can look forward to seeing large herds of impala, reedbuck, lions, zebras, giraffes, and so much more at the remaining pools and streams. As Katavi is said to be home to the largest herds of buffalo on the planet as well as a huge population of elephants, thousands of buffaloes and elephants can be spotted converging when the flood waters in the park retreat.

Due to Katavi National Park’s remote location, it is regarded as one of Tanzania’s most magnificent hidden wilderness gems. It is also more difficult to access compared to some of Tanzania’s other popular game reserves and national parks. Where the famous Serengeti National Park might see approximately 125,000 (or likely more) visitors in a year, the wild and secluded Katavi sees no more than a few hundred brave adventurers, avid wildlife and birdlife enthusiasts, and thrill-seeking wilderness travelers by comparison.

Katavi National Park truly is the epitome of wild Africa at its finest – and if you have the opportunity to visit and explore this pristine Tanzanian National Park, it will undoubtedly exceed all your expectations.

#7 Ruaha National Park

Photo credit: flickr

Located in the heart of Tanzania, Ruaha National Park is one of the largest national parks in East Africa and one of Tanzania’s most notorious wilderness areas. The Great Ruaha River is one of the main features of Ruaha National Park. Attracting an abundance of wildlife, it provides visitors with ample magnificent up-close wildlife viewing opportunities on the riverbanks. In addition to the Great Ruaha River, the park boasts vast wild landscapes filled with rocky escarpments, baobab studded hills, and spectacular gorges.

Boasting a vast diversity of remarkable wildlife, it isn’t hard to understand why Ruaha National Park is at the top of almost every wildlife enthusiast’s list when visiting Tanzania. Besides hosting one of the largest concentrations of elephants in Tanzania, Ruaha National Park is home to large herds of buffalo, gazelle, wild dogs, lions, leopards, cheetah, giraffes, zebras, impala, bat eared foxes, and jackals, to mention merely a few. Ruaha is also where you will find an estimated 10% of the surviving wild lion population in Africa (which is undoubtedly one of Ruaha National Park’s top wildlife highlights), it also one of the only places you will see greater kudu in Tanzania.

Avid birdwatchers can look forward to sensational bird sightings as Ruaha National Park is home to over 400 species of bird that are not found in northern Tanzania.

Due to the park’s relatively remote location, visitors can look forward to incredible and exciting wildlife and birdlife sightings without the large crowds of people and tons of cars and game vehicles around.

#8 Mahale Mountains National Park

Nestled on the Lake Tanganyikan shoreline (in western Tanzania) and set among the spectacular, forested slopes of the Mahale Mountains, the Mahale Mountains National Park is one of the most sought-after national parks and tourist attractions in Tanzania. It is also regarded as one of Tanzania’s most beautiful national parks, boasting lush green forested mountains cascading down to the lakeshore, crystal-clear waters lapping against white sand coves, and the magnificent mist-covered peak of Mount Nkungwe which can be seen in the background.

The iconic Mahale Mountains National Park was originally created to protect the thousands of chimpanzees that inhabit the region. This has made it one of the best national parks and places in the world to witness and enjoy up-close sightings and encounters with chimpanzees.

Beyond its stunning landscapes, surrounding scenery, and vast chimpanzee population, Mahale Mountains National Park boasts a breathtaking array of habitats, which include rainforest, grasslands, alpine bamboo, and woodlands. These diverse Mahale Mountain habitats are where some 50 species of animals and other primates have been recorded, predominant among these being representatives from various monkey and ape families, including yellow baboons and the Red Colobus Monkey.

Photo credit: flickr – Red Colobus Monkey

Besides its incredible array of monkey and ape families, over 90 unique species of fish can be found swimming in the clear waters of the lake.

With minimal road access and a somewhat secluded location, Mahale Mountains National Park is not only regarded as one of Tanzania’s most remote and unspoiled national parks, but one of its most enthralling and exhilarating wilderness areas and safari destinations. This makes Mahale a not-to-be-missed bucket-list wilderness destination for all avid explorers, adventurous wildlife and birdlife enthusiasts, and daring off-the-beaten-path travelers visiting Tanzania.

By far one of the top things to do in Tanzania, and certainly the most thrilling too, is exploring the wild and wonderful Mahale Mountains National Park on foot with an experienced guide. Beyond all the remarkable up-close chimpanzee sightings, and other wildlife, ape, and monkey species you will encounter, be prepared for some sweaty, steep climbs through dense vegetation – One thing is for sure though, it promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and the final reward is well worth the trials and tribulations of getting there!

#9 Tarangire National Park

Located in Northern Tanzania, Tarangire National Park is renowned for its baobab trees spread across its vast grassy landscapes, thrilling African wilderness safaris, exceptional game viewing, remarkable bird watching, and infamous elephant migration, boasting one of the largest populations of elephants in the country.

The best time to visit Tarangire is during its dry season from July to September when it’s incredible and diverse wildlife can be spotted gathering along the river – This allows for excellent game viewing opportunities and up-close wildlife sightings and encounters.

During Tarangire National Park’s dry season, visitors and wildlife lovers can expect to see large herds of wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, leopards, cheetahs, waterbucks, giraffes, impala, elephants, gazelle, hartebeest, badgers, monkeys, mongoose, baboons, African wild dogs, and eland in and around the park’s lagoons and grassy landscapes. In addition to its amazing variety of wildlife, Tarangire’s famous tree-climbing lions are undoubtedly one of its top wildlife highlights and sought-after sightings.

Tarangire National Park is also known as a true bird lover’s paradise, as more than 550 different species of birds frequent the park.

#10 Arusha National Park

Another top tourist attraction in Tanzania is Arusha National Park. While it may be considerably smaller than many of Tanzania’s other popular national parks and game reserves, Arusha National Park boasts a unique diversity of landscapes and habitats. Some of its distinctive habitats include lush grasslands and vast greenery, the extraordinary forests of Mount Meru, the infamous Ngurdoto Crater and its verdant hillsides (situated in the southeast section of the park), and the notorious Momella Lakes, which essentially consists of seven crater lakes. The vast and varied habitats and environments found within Arusha gives rise to its remarkable and rich biodiversity between its borders.

Each of Arusha National Park’s exclusive habitats have something different to offer visitors and wildlife enthusiasts. The forested area of Mount Meru is famous for its black and white Colobus monkeys, which can easily be spotted jumping around and hanging about. The marshy floor of the Ngurdoto Crater on the other hand is dotted with herds of buffalo, zebra, rhino, warthogs, elephants, bushbucks, lions, leopards, and giraffes, allowing for some truly spectacular wildlife sightings.

The notorious Arusha Momella Lakes is home to a large selection of resident, exotic, and migrant birds, some of which include crowned eagles, woodpeckers, hornbills, egrets, guinea fowl, pelicans, geese, storks, and glorious flocks of flamingos.

Photo credit: flickr – Glorious flocks of Flamingos

While most of Tanzania’s national parks are exclusively centred around wildlife encounters and safaris, Arusha National Park offers visitors the very best of both worlds. Arusha is not only known for its incredible wildlife and birdlife sightings, but its exciting variety of outdoor recreation activities and thrilling wilderness adventures too. From exhilarating hiking and climbing expeditions, to invigorating canoe trips and action-packed walking safaris – Arusha National Park has a riveting and extraordinary experience and adventure for everyone to enjoy.

**Bonus: Another one of the top things to do in Tanzania is climb the legendary Mount Meru.

Mount Meru is the second highest mountain in Tanzania as well as one of the most iconic and beautiful volcanoes in Africa. The summit of Mount Meru is reached via a narrow ridge , which features magnificent views of the volcanic cone located several thousand feet below in the crater. While the ascent to reach the Mount Meru summit is steep and rather challenging, the route to the top passes through beautiful forests, parklands, as well as a giant heather zone and moorland.

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Home » Adventure Tales » Tanzania Unveiled: Discovering the Top Tourist Attractions of East Africa’s Gem (2024)

Tanzania Unveiled: Discovering the Top Tourist Attractions of East Africa’s Gem (2024)

Tanzania is a true gem of East Africa waiting to be unveiled. Take it from me, embarking on a journey to Tanzania is like stepping into a beautifully vivid postcard, where the boundless skies, sprawling savannahs, and the whispers of ancient cultures invite you to immerse yourself in an adventure that promises to be both exhilarating and humbling.

However, the country is so rich and vast that deciding what to see and do there can feel overwhelming. Well , iIn this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the top, not to miss tourist attractions that make Tanzania a must-visit destination for travellers seeking natural wonders and rich cultural experiences.

The Serengeti Plains

The Serengeti National Park is not just a park; it’s a vast ecosystem that spans over 14,000 square kilometres. Its iconic savannah grasslands are home to diverse wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros), making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts. However, what truly sets the Serengeti apart is the Great Migration, a spectacle where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the plains in search of fresh grazing grounds. This annual event is a testament to the raw beauty and cyclical nature of life in the wild.

Conservation at Its Core

Preserving the Serengeti’s biodiversity is a monumental task that requires continuous effort and collaboration. Conservation organisations work tirelessly to combat poaching, protect habitats, and promote sustainable tourism practices. Visitors can contribute to these efforts by supporting eco-friendly lodges, participating in guided safaris led by knowledgeable guides, and respecting the park’s rules and regulations.

Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro , standing tall at 5,895 metres, is not just a mountain; it symbolises human endurance and determination. Climbing Kilimanjaro is a bucket-list experience for many adventurers, offering multiple routes with varying degrees of difficulty. The journey to the summit is as much about mental fortitude as it is about physical fitness, rewarding climbers with awe-inspiring views and a sense of accomplishment.

Cultural Significance

For the Chagga people, who have lived in Kilimanjaro’s foothills for centuries, the mountain holds deep cultural and spiritual significance. Traditional rituals and ceremonies are still practised, highlighting the harmonious relationship between humans and nature. However, Kilimanjaro’s glaciers are receding due to climate change, underscoring the urgent need for environmental conservation and sustainable tourism practices.

Psssttt – Did you know that Broke Backpacker founder Will Hatton scaled Kilimanjaro on his 18th birthday?! 

Zanzibar Archipelago

The Zanzibar Archipelago is a mosaic of islands with distinct identities, each offering its blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Zanzibar Island, the largest archipelago, is renowned for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. Visitors can indulge in Tanzania activities like snorkelling, diving, and sailing, exploring a mesmerising underwater world teeming with marine life.

Spice of Life

Zanzibar’s spice trade history has left a lasting culinary legacy, with spice tours showcasing the island’s aromatic treasures like cloves, cinnamon, and vanilla. The fusion of African, Arab, and Indian influences is evident in Zanzibar’s cuisine, tantalising taste buds with exotic flavours and traditional dishes.

Preserving Heritage

Stone Town, Zanzibar’s historic quarter, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its labyrinthine alleys, ornate doors, and a blend of Swahili, Arab, Persian, and European architecture. Efforts to preserve Stone Town’s heritage sites and promote sustainable tourism are crucial for safeguarding its cultural legacy and maintaining its allure for future generations.

Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater is a geological marvel and a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. This ancient volcanic caldera harbours a diverse ecosystem, with grasslands, forests, and a soda lake providing habitat for many species, including lions, elephants, hippos, and flamingos. The crater’s unique geography creates a natural amphitheatre, offering unparalleled wildlife viewing and photography opportunities.

Balancing Conservation and Tourism

Conservation efforts in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area focus on preserving biodiversity, managing human-wildlife interactions, and promoting sustainable land use practices. Responsible tourism initiatives, such as limited vehicle access and controlled visitor numbers, help minimise environmental impact while allowing travellers to appreciate the area’s natural beauty and cultural significance.

Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park is often called the “Elephant Playground” due to its large elephant population. Beyond elephants, the park is a hotspot for wildlife diversity, with buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species roaming its vast savannahs and acacia woodlands. Birdwatchers flock to Tarangire for its rich avian diversity, including endemic species like the yellow-collared lovebird.

Community Engagement

Community-based tourism initiatives in Tarangire empower local communities by providing employment opportunities, supporting education and healthcare initiatives, and fostering cultural exchange. Visitors can participate in guided walks with Maasai guides, visit traditional villages, and learn about conservation efforts that benefit both people and wildlife.

Cultural Experiences in Tanzania

Tanzania’s cultural tapestry is woven from diverse ethnic groups, languages, and traditions. The Maasai people, known for their distinctive dress and pastoral lifestyle, offer insights into traditional ways of life through cultural tours and homestays. Historic towns like Bagamoyo and Kilwa Kisiwani along the Swahili Coast showcase the region’s maritime history and architectural wonders.

Music and dance are integral to Tanzanian culture, reflecting triumph, love, and unity stories. From traditional drums’ rhythmic beats to ngoma dance performances’ energetic movements, visitors can immerse themselves in vibrant expressions of creativity and identity.

Final Thoughts

Tanzania’s top tourist attractions are not just places to visit; they are experiences that leave a lasting impact on travellers. 

But remember,  the ecosystems here need our help so there is a right way to visit Tanzania . By embracing sustainable tourism practices, supporting conservation initiatives, and respecting local cultures, we can ensure that Tanzania’s natural and cultural treasures remain vibrant and accessible for future generations. 

So pack your bags, embark on an unforgettable journey, and discover the magic of Tanzania, East Africa’s gem waiting to be explored.

Did you find this post helpful? If so, let us know in the comments below!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Aiden Freeborn

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Places to Visit in Tanzania

• Places To Visit

Tanzania Tourist Places

Here is the list of best places to visit in tanzania:.

Located just below Mount Meru, Arusha is one of the most ethnically diverse Tanzanian cities comprising of indigenous Africans, Indian, and Arab populations. Established in the 1830s, Arusha is a major contributor to the economy of Tanzania and is also known as the ‘safari capital’. The beauty of Arusha lies in its chaos of busy streets, bustling markets, colonial-era buildings all set amidst lush expanses. Arusha’s landscape is dotted with high peaks like that of Mount Meru, lakes, and vast plains that let you experience the best of the African wilderness. Admire the exotic wildlife at the Arusha National Park, one of the top places to see in Tanzania, as you see the Big Five Game animals, flamingos, hippos, and zebras. The very interesting Cultural Heritage Center and its mask museum, spice center, etc. are not to be missed. Tanzania’s famous hominid fossils along with insect displays can be seen at the National History Museum. The serene countryside of the place can be enjoyed on a canoe safari on the Small Momella Lake in the Arusha National Park. Challenge your limits and try a hike to the 14, 961 ft. high Mount Meru. Those who love to collect mementoes must shop for crafts and jewellery at the Masai Women Fair Trade Center. Arusha sees a warm and temperate climate throughout the year. The dry months of June-October are the best time to visit.

Located on the lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, ‘Moshi’ is a small city and is the capital of the Kilimanjaro region. It is an important contributor to the Tanzanian economy through tourism and trade activities. It is the gateway to the northern safari circuit of several lakes, national parks, and of course Mt. Kilimanjaro. The beauty of Moshi lies in its vast safari parks, serene lakes, and lush plantations of coffee and bananas. The city is covered in miles of Chrysanthemum flowers, lending it an unearthly appearance. Sports enthusiasts must not miss visiting Moshi Club. This scenic golf course, located at the Kili foothills, is where you can enjoy a round of golf. Those who love solitude, must head over to the impressive Materuni Falls, famous for their crystal clear glacial waters and views of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Coffee lovers would love Moshi! The place offers coffee plantation trails where you can try the freshest coffee and see how it’s grown. Get out of the city and head to the stunning Lake Chala to see its deep crater walls and enjoy boating as you spot baboons, monkeys, and Monitor lizards. The weather here is tropical wet that alternates with dry windows. The low rainfall months of July-October are the best to visit.

Best of South Africa

Located in north-western Tanzania in the Shinyanga region. Though it’s a small compact town, it is an important contributor to Tanzania’s economy through forestry, fishing, and mining. Kahama is one of those rustic little places that offer a beautiful slice-of-life African experience- of its people, wilderness, and food. One of the best places to see in Tanzania, its beauty lies in its vast plains interspersed with thickets of native trees habited by local birds and animals. The beautiful and friendly people of Kahama can be met at the Central Market. This is also a great place to shop for curios and artworks. For a rare experience, visit the Buzwagi gold mine, which is an open-pit gold mine to see how gold is processed. Explore the spectacular wildlife at the Northern Kahama Game Reserve. It is exciting trying to spot the Big Five Game animals and other native species. What can be better than tucking in delicious local food like Nyama Choma, Ugali, and Zanzibar pizza after a long day of sightseeing? You can visit places like Verandas Tapas bar and the Royal Food Court for this. The weather here is hot and humid throughout the year. June-August, the low rainfall months, is the best time to visit.

Located in western Tanzania, Sumbawanga is one of the important food-producing and trading centers of the country. Its name translates to ‘throw away your witchcraft’ and what makes the place fascinating is the presence of spiritual healers who have thriving practices here. It is the gateway to Katavi National Park. Sumbawanga is surrounded by lush expanses dotted with vast farms and national parks giving a sense of traditional African wilderness. Visit the Sumbawanga Memorial to see its beautiful man made stone architecture, an amazing feat of design and vision. Those who love spotting wildlife must head over to the Katavi National Park. The park has several rivers like Chada, Katavi, and Katuma that act as watering holes for the native hippos, elephants, and Cape buffaloes. For a deeper Tanzanian experience take a walking tour of the city to meet the locals and shop for their handmade handicrafts, traditional jewellery, textiles, etc. The place has a warm and temperate climate due to its location near the equator. The best time to visit is in the low rainfall months of April-October.

Best of Africa

Dar es salaam.

Dar es Salaam is Tanzania’s largest city and its former capital. It was established in 1862 on the East Coast and was an obscure port till the time Germany established the East Africa Company here. It is now amongst the fastest growing cities in the world and the epicenter for Tanzanian fashion, arts, and films. The beauty of Dar es Salaam’s landscape is incomparable to any other Tanzanian city. Sprawled over a picturesque harbour and miles of lush fertile lands, the city has pristine beaches, mountains, humongous wildlife parks, and stunning lakes. No trip to Dar es Salaam is complete without exploring its scenic beachside beauty and trying out the famous seafood. You can visit Mbudya Island and Kivukoni Fish Market, which are great places to do this. Those interested in architecture cannot miss visiting the 18th- century St. Joseph’s Cathedral, famous for its stained-glass paintings and Gothic architecture. People interested in war history must visit the Askari monument dedicated to World War I Tanzanian soldiers. Dar es Salaam, one of the best places to visit in Tanzania, is a haven for those who love to shop and eat. You can enjoy beachside dining at places like The Slipway Stretch and browse through the chic boutiques here. Nature enthusiasts must see the Hawksbill turtle breeding at Masaki and snorkel to see coral reefs here. Due to its equatorial location, the city experiences a hot and humid climate with a good deal of rainfall. The best time to visit is in the drier months of June-October.

Translating to a ‘city short of an ocean’, Morogoro lies in eastern Tanzania. It is one of the country’s most advanced educational and culturally-rich cities that has unique German and British influences. Morogoro is located at the foothills of the lush Uluguru Mountains that lends it a surreal beauty and makes it one of the most scenic places to see in Tanzania. Framed amidst beautiful skies lie vast forests and rugged plains, quintessential of the African wilderness. If you want to see incredible wildlife, head over to the Mikumi National Park, Tanzania’s fourth-largest park, to see the Big Five Game animals along with impala, zebra, greater kudu, lilac-breasted roller, etc. Another amazing place to visit is the Selous Game Reserve to see lions, hyenas, and Cape buffalos. This is where Rufiji, Tanzania’s largest river flows and is a must-see. Challenge yourself on a hike to the nearby Ulugurus and see the surrounding almost 25-million-year-old rainforests. For an offbeat experience, take cardamom, cinnamon, and mango plantation trails and meet the locals on the way. Those who love waterfalls, cannot miss taking a dip at the huge plunge pool of the Kinole waterfall. Morogoro is muggy and overcast throughout the year. June-September, the low rainfall months, are the best to visit.

Best of Kenya

One of the largest Tanzanian cities, Tanga is located on the shores of the Indian Ocean bordering Kenya. This ancient city was ruled by the Portuguese and was an infamous slave trade hub till the 18th-century. It then started prospering under the Germans’ rule and is now an important port. This sunny oceanside beauty of a town is marked with untouched beaches, beautiful lagoons, and coral reefs, making it one of the most picturesque places to see in Tanzania. Its lands are covered in miles of ancient forests surrounded by the soaring Usambara Mountains and their lush valleys. The highlight here is the ancient Amboni Caves located amidst tulip and fig thickets and can only be explored in the torchlight. For an off-track adventure, take a long relaxing dip in the medicinal waters of the Galonos hot springs. Explore the natural habitat of African bush elephants, blue wildebeests, Dik-Diks, etc. at the Saadani National Park. Those who love heritage and history must explore the 15th- century ruins of Shrizai tombs and the European cemetery here. You can also enjoy a daylong bike tour that will take you through the narrow lanes of the city where the beautiful ancient mansions and Arab-style buildings are hidden. Tanga is hot and humid throughout the year. January-February and June-August are the low rainfall months and the best time to visit.

Located in Malawi on the Mozambique border, Mwanza is the second-largest city in Tanzania and is a major port. Mwanza is known as the gateway for safaris to Serengeti and Ngorongoro and is loved for its chic and friendly atmosphere. The location of this port city on the Lake Victoria shores makes it extremely beautiful and one of the top places to visit in Tanzania. It is known as the ‘Rock city’ because of the gigantic rocks strewn all over its landscape. One of the most famous attractions here is the centuries-old dancing rock formations at Jiwe Kuu that offer great views of the city. Nature lovers must visit the nearby Saanane, Rubondo, and Kome islands, etc. to see rock hyrax, impalas, lions, hyenas, etc. To get a taste of the rich Tanzanian culture, visit the Sukuma Museum to see traditional snake dances. An unforgettable sight here is the famous Bismarck Rocks jutting out of the waters of Lake Victoria, which is one of the most unique places to see in Tanzania. Those who love nature’s quietness can enjoy a sunset cruise at Lake Victoria or hike in the rustic wilderness of the Balili Hill Range. It is warm and overcast almost year-round at Mwanza. The best time to visit is between June-September.

Best of Zambia

The capital city of Tanzania, located in the central part of the country, Dodoma was initially an obscure little market town. It was founded in 1907 by the Germans and is now a major education, tourism, and sporting hub. This is where most of the Tanzanian wines are produced. Located near the southern highlands, Dodoma is bestowed with a beautiful scenic landscape and vast agricultural plains, making it one of the best places to see in Tanzania. Vast plains dotted with patches of acacia trees, lush valleys, and rainforests make Dodoma even more scenic. One of the most liberal Parliamentarian buildings in the world, the Bunge is a must-visit. It stands as a testimony to the re-emergence of Tanzania. Marvel at the stunning Ethiopian and Middle-Eastern architecture of the Anglican Cathedral and the vast expanse of the Gaddafi Mosque, the largest mosque in Tanzania. Shop for local art pieces and crafts at Nyerere Square and browse the local boutiques. Explore the million-year-old UNESCO-protected Kondoa paintings at Iragi Hills by the indigenous Sandawe people. Nature lovers can enjoy a hike to the iconic landmark Simba Hill. Dodoma has arid and temperate weather. The drier months of April-July is the best time to visit.

Mbeya, located in southwestern Tanzania, is a gold mining town. Established in 1902, the city was under the control of the British until the 1960s. It is famously known as the ‘breadbasket of Tanzania’ for being a major food producer. Mbeya’s location in a narrow valley surrounded by high mountains in a bowl-like shape makes it an extremely interesting and beautifully landscaped place. The sprawling cattle farms and plantations of coffee, tea, cocoa, and spices and forests of bamboo and medicinal plants also accentuate its natural beauty. One of the major highlights here is the Ngozi lake, the second-largest crater lake in Africa known for its emerald-green water and varieties of fish. Naturalists would love to visit Kitulo National Park. The park houses almost 400 plant and orchid varieties and rare birds like the Blue swallow, Mountain marsh widow, etc., making it one of the best places to visit in Tanzania. Some of the most fun activities here are birding, swimming, and caving at the famous Kapologwe Falls. This laidback city and it’s Lake Malawi is perfect for lazing and trying to spot the rare cichlids. Beach lovers would love to explore the fishing villages, windsurfing, and ornamental fish viewing at Matema Beach. Matema sees humid and rainy weather throughout the year. June-October is warm, sunny, and dry and the best time to visit.

Best of Botswana

Located near the international border of Burundi, Kasulu is located in  northwestern Tanzania. It is primarily an agricultural region that produces bananas, sweet potatoes, maize, etc. along with coffee and sugarcane. The fact that this compact place can be explored in a day doesn’t take away from its scenic beauty. The city is a beautiful mix of the new and the traditional in terms of its architecture, food, and culture. If you are someone who loves sunny oceanic expanses, you can’t miss visiting the pristine Bangwe beach. This is one of the best places to enjoy seafood and watersports. Your beachside experience cannot be complete without visiting the Katonga fishing village where hundreds of wooden boats are launched at the same time and is a fascinating sight. Lose yourself in the quietude of wilderness as you stroll in the picturesque expanses of the Mwamunga beach and hike in the surrounding forested hills. After a day of hiking, don’t miss visiting the local cafes to enjoy traditional Tanzanian foods like Nyama Choma, Samaki, Pilau, Ndizi-Nyama, etc. Kasulu has a mildly tropical climate with rainfall throughout the year. The best time to visit is during the low-rainfall months of June-October to enjoy a variety of activities.

Sonega is named after a great Ngoni warrior who was hanged here in 1906. Though this city has seen a tumultuous past of wars, ivory poaching, slavery, etc. it is now a major contributor to the Tanzanian economy by way of transportation and agriculture. Sonega though is crowded but has a vibrant energy and buzz about it. Add to it the beauty of its numerous shaded streets and lush hills in the distance along with huge patches of sunflowers, and you get a picturesque and sunny beauty of a place. Tanzania’s Maji Maji uprising is famous around the world as a symbol of bravery. Those who want to know more about this iconic feat must visit the Maji Maji Museum to see rare exhibits and pictures. After a day of exploring the city, try out the traditional Tanzanian snacks and desserts at famous eateries like Krista Park Fast Food and Agape Café. Stroll amidst the beautiful Gothic architecture of the St. Benedictine Church in Peramio. This surreal experience will remind you of ancient European Gothic-style churches right here in Tanzania. If you love to shop, visit the chaotic but fun local markets to pick up handicrafts and jewellery. Sonega has a warm and muggy climate due to its location near the equator. The drier months of June-October is the best time to visit.

Best of Zimbabwe

This semi-autonomous archipelago consists of two main islands of Pemba and Unguja and is one of the best places to visit in Tanzania. Though this is a part of Africa, Zanzibar couldn’t be more distinct in terms of its culture, food, and religion. Zanzibar has been inhabited since the Later Stone Age period and has strong Asian, Portuguese, and British influences. To say that Zanzibar is beautiful is an understatement. The place is blessed with incredible tropical beauty comprising coral reefs, vast grassy plains, thickets of coconut trees, and lush vegetation. The beauty of Zanzibar’s Arab-influenced architecture and heritage is incomparable to any place in the world. The 19th-century ocean-facing Sultan’s Palace and the UNESCO protected Stone Town stand as a testimony to this. The buzz of this fun city can be caught at the Forodhani night market that offers traditional meats, fish, and snacks. One of the most fascinating things to do here is to visit the intriguing Prison Island where slaves and people with incurable diseases were kept. Besides the slave trade, other aspects of the Zanzibari culture can be explored at the ‘House of Wonders’. Spices have always been a part of Zanzibar culture and can be explored through a local spice tour. The weather here is tropical and warm due to its proximity to the Equator. The best time to visit is in the drier months of June-October.

Tabora, initially known as Kazeh, lies in the west-central part of Tanzania. It was one of the topmost slave trade locations, till the Germans took it over in the 1870s. It is now mainly an agricultural region with several tobacco farms and honey production centers. Tabora is a beautiful sunny town with huge promenades and wide roads lined with old mango trees. Its beauty lies in its vintage colonial charm and laidback lifestyle. The architecture here is a beautiful mix of German and African styles and adds to the beauty of the place, making it one of the most stunning places to see in Tanzania. Travelling is all about exploring the local heritage. Two of such iconic Tanzanian places are the magnificent 19th-century Fort Boma famous for its stunning German architecture and the Livingstone’s Tembe, the 18th-century Arabic-style home, perfect for learning about the infamous slave trade. There is no experience like experiencing the wilderness and seeing rare birds at the Igombe Camp forest reserve. After a day of sightseeing, stroll in the lanes of this sleepy hinterland to sample Tanzanian foods like Chipsi-Mayai, Ugali, Sambusa, etc. at the local shacks. Tabora experiences a hot and temperate climate throughout the year. The drier months of May-October are the best time to visit.

Best of Namibia

Kigoma is a port city located in northwestern along Lake Tanganyika. One of the busiest ports in the country, it contributes tremendously to the Tanzanian economy. Kigoma also has a small airport that connects it to Dar es Salaam and Bujumbura. Due to its location near the lake, Kigoma’s landscape is pretty scenic. It is dotted with vast thickets of forests, farms, and plantations all nestled between looming mountains. Follow the footsteps of the famous naturalist Jane Goodall and visit the Gombe National Park, one of the most intriguing places to see in Tanzania. Here you will not only see her chimpanzee conservation efforts but also species like olive baboons, vervet monkeys, leopards, hippos, etc. To have a fascinating Tanzanian wildlife experience, visit the Mahale Mountains National Park. This is one of the few places in the world where chimpanzees and lions coexist. One of the best places to experience quintessential Tanzanian warmth and buzz is at Ujiji. This is not only the oldest African market but also stands as a slave trade landmark. Enjoy a ride on the 1913 train MV Liemba that plies between Lake Tanganyika and Zambia. Those who love beachside activities can enjoy wakeboarding, kitesurfing, snorkelling, and the gorgeous sunsets at Lake Tanganyika and Bangwa Beach. The climate in Kigoma is tropical. May-September is the low-rainfall month and the best time to visit.

Other Attractions

Mount kilimanjaro.

Serengeti National Park

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Lake Manyara National Park

Mafia Island

Tarangire National Park

Pemba Island

Zanzibar Beach

Selous Game Reserve

Arusha National Park

Ruaha National Park

Gombe Stream National Park

Katavi National Park

Lake Victoria

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Tourist Attractions in Tanzania

The United Republic of Tanzania is a country found in the Eastern part of Africa. It shares borders with Burundi, Rwanda, Malawi, Kenya, Uganda, Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Comoros Islands and the Indian ocean. The highest point in the country is in Mount Kilimanjaro (the highest mountain in Africa). Tanzania is home to some of the oldest inhabited areas on the planet.

Fossils have been discovered at Olduvai Gorge dating back to over 2 million years ago. These early humans were then replaced by hunters/gatherers related to the Khoisan in Southern Africa. After these early gatherers and hunters, tribes from West Africa started migrating and settling in the country 2,000 years ago. The first foreigners (outside Africa) into the country where Arab and Persian traders. They were then joined in 1498 by the first Europeans lead by the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama. The Portuguese settled in the coast for a relatively short time before being driven out by the Arabs. Later on, Germany colonized the country before Britain took over after world war 1. Throughout this time, the islands on the Indian ocean like Zanzibar were governed separately. During the independence in 1964, mainland Tanzania merged with the Zanzibar archipelago to form the United Republic of Tanzania.

Tanzania’s economy depends a lot on agriculture and tourism. Tourism contributes about 17.5 percent to the country’s GDP and over 1.3 million tourists visit the country each year. Because of this, the tourism industry in the country is highly developed compared to that of many countries in Africa. Tanzania has some of the best tourist attractions in the world. 38 percent of land in the country is protected or reserved for conservation related purposes. The country has 17 national parks, 40 reserves and several marine parks. Tanzania is one of the top four countries to go for a safari in Africa. Although Kenya enjoys more publicity as a safari destination, Tanzania is special and amazing when it comes to variety. Tanzania offers amazing cultural experiences, beautiful landscape, beaches and wildlife encounters that are second to none. From the breathtaking wildebeest migration in the Serengeti to the exotic beaches of Zanzibar, Tanzania has it all and more. You can also read about the top attractions in Kenya or the things to do in Uganda .

Things to do in Tanzania

The Great Rift Valley: The East African rift valley passes through Tanzania leaving behind amazing features like lakes, rivers, hot springs, geysers and volcanoes. Some of the lakes found on the floor of Tanzania’s part of the rift valley are Lake Tanganyika, Lake Natron, Lake Manyara, Lake Eyasi, Lake Victoria and Lake Makati. Most of these lakes are shallow and are blessed with amazing biodiversity.

If you cannot meet them in the national parks, you will find the Masai selling souvenirs/curios in weekly markets all over the country. If you are lucky to meet those in villages close to the parks, then you will be taken for a truly amazing cultural experience. You will have opportunities to enter their traditional huts, listen to stories from their elders, watch cultural performances and participate in their jumping ceremonies. The one who jumps the highest wins an award.

Tanzanian Souvenir: One of the interesting things about traveling is the chance to get unique gifts and souvenir. Tanzania has countless artisan shops, malls and other outlets where tourists can buy beautiful local products as gifts to friends back home. For the best original Masai products while in Arusha, go to Maasai Market Curio and Crafts. They sell beautiful hand built jewelry, Masai blankets and basket painting. If you chance to visit the Masai communities while in the national parks, do not forget to buy souvenirs from them. The Masai sell beautiful clothing, handbags and beads. I guess we shouldn’t go on about this as we already discussed it earlier.

Arusha : Arusha is often referred to as the safari capital of Tanzania. The city is found on the slopes of Mount Meru and was constructed in the 19 th century as a regional administrative capital by the Germans. It is where most tourists stop at while on their way to visiting the Ngorongoro crater, the Serengeti, Lake Manyara and other nearby national parks. If you happen to stop in the city on your way to or from the national parks, take time to discover the hidden attractions in Arusha . There is a lot to discover in this beautiful city ranging from hot springs, cultural centers, souvenirs and night clubs.

Selous Game Reserve : Selous Game Reserve is located in the southern part of the county. It covers an area of about 54,600 square kilometers and has additional protective zones outside its main boundaries. It was named after Sir Frederick Selous who died in 1917 while fighting against the Germans in the first great war. Frederick was a great game hunter who later turned into a passionate conservationist. By sheer size alone Selous Game Reserve is almost four times the size of the Serengeti National Park. Much of the park consists of typical savanna grasslands, bushes, forests and rivers. Since its establishment, the park has grown to become a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Singita Grumeti Reserve: This is a private enterprise and conservation project next to the Serengeti National Park. It is run by Paul Tudor Jones under a leasing agreement with the government. The reserve lies in a strategic location (west of the Serengeti) – an area with breathtaking views of the wildlife. If you want to stay in one of the finest lodges while watching the great migration away from the crowds, then this is one place you should visit. It is expensive but you will have a private and memorable safari.

The Arusha Cultural Centre: If you are staying in Arusha for night or two after your trip to the Serengeti or nearby parks, then this is one place you must visit for a cultural experience and some souvenir shopping. The Arusha Cultural Centre showcases Tanzanian art in all its forms. It is one of the best places in the country to learn about Tanzania’s cultural history and heritage. After visiting the Centre, you can then relax at the coffee shop and restaurant.

Information about traveling to Tanzania

To enter Tanzania, you will most probably need to arrive through two of the country’s largest airports – The Kilimanjaro international airport and Julius Nyerere International Airport. Once in the country, you can board a bus or train from the big cities to any destination within the country. If you are arriving from Kenya, you can take a bus from Nairobi to Arusha and then to national parks like the Serengeti. Within a town or city, the best means of transport is using a private taxi or a small bus – known as Dalla-Dalla. These stop anywhere and do not have specific schedules or a fixed number of passengers. Tanzania has a good railway network connecting to its neighbors Kenya and Zambia. It may not be developed to the highest standards but it is safe. If you love adventure and marveling at beautiful scenery, then take a train.

In order to enter into the country, one needs to have a Tanzania visa. Visas can be obtained from the nearest Tanzanian embassy or diplomatic mission. It is also possible to obtain a visa from the airport and the different ports of entry into the country. Citizens of the East African Community and some SADC countries may not need a tourism Visa. The tourism visa costs about $50. Tanzania has not yet adopted the multiple entry East African Tourist Visa system that allows one enter countries in East Africa simultaneously. Before applying for the Tanzanian Visa, ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months. Apply for the Tanzania visa here .

Before traveling to Tanzania, ensure that you have taken a yellow fever shot. A proof of inoculation will be required in form of a certificate. Malaria is a real threat in Tanzania and you need to take anti-malarial pills before traveling. You also need to consider vaccinating against hepatitis B, dengue fever, typhoid and tetanus (They are not a requirement like Yellow fever).

Like most countries in East Africa, tipping Guides, Rangers and hotel staff is something you need to consider. It may be a good or bad thing depending on your values. Regardless, it is important to note that many of the Guides and Hotel staff in developing countries are paid poorly. Some work only seasonally. It is therefore important to reward those who do an excellent job of ensuring that your time was spent well while in the country. You will need cash to pay for the tips. If you feel that giving tip creates a dependency syndrome, then simply thank them for any extra good work.

Tanzania has humid and hot climate for most of the year depending on the region you are visiting. The best time to visit Tanzania is during the dry season. The dry season falls in the months of May to July and also in the months of November to March. The rainy season also occurs twice but is more pronounced around April. You will therefore be surprised to find towns and cities close to mountains like Kilimanjaro and Meru colder than your country.

Last but not least, it is important to travel with proper clothing for both a standard safari and for the Indian ocean beaches. Bright colored clothes attract insects. Wear something white or put on khakis. Tanzanians are modest people and it would be wise to dress conservatively when away from the beach.

Uganda Safaris

• 1 Day Short Gorilla Trip
• 1 Day Kampala City Tour
• 1 Day Jinja City Tour
• 2 Days Bwindi Gorilla Trek
• 2 Days Jinja Water Rafting
• 2 Days Murchison Falls Safari
• 2 Days Queen Elizabeth Safari
• 3 Days Ssese Islands tour
• 3 Days Bwindi Gorilla Trekking
• 3 Days Gorilla Habituation Experience
• 3 Days Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga
• 3 Days Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale
• 3 Days Queen Elizabeth Safari
• 3 Days Tour Murchison Falls
• 3 Days Lake Mburo National Park
• 3 Days Lake Bunyonyi Tour
• 3 Days Lake Bunyonyi and Gorilla Trekking
• 4 Days Safari Murchison Falls
• 4 Days Queen Elizabeth Safari
• 4 Days Kidepo Wildlife Tour
• 4 Days Uganda Wildlife Tour
• 5 Days Uganda Safari
• 5 Days Uganda Primates Safari
• 5 Days Murchison Falls Safari
• 5 Days Queen Elizabeth Safari
• 6 Days Uganda Wildlife safari
• 6 Days in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth
• 6 Days in Kidepo and Murchison Falls
• 6 Days in Kibale, Bwindi and Murchison Falls
• 6 Days in Murchison Falls and Budongo Chimpanzees
• 7 Days Uganda Safari
• 8 Days Primates Safari
• 8 Days Gorillas and Masai Mara
• 9 Days Uganda Wildlife Safari
• 9 Days Rwenzori Hiking Safari
• 10 Days Uganda Safari
• 11 Days Best of Uganda Safari
• 12 Days Uganda Wildlife Safari
• 13 Days Uganda Rwanda tour
• 15 Days Grand Uganda Safari

Rwanda Safaris

• 1 Day Gorilla Tour Rwanda
• 2 Days Gorilla Tour Rwanda
• 3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Safari
• 5 Days Gorilla Trekking Rwanda and Primates
• 7 Days Gorilla Trekking Rwanda and Primates
• 3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Tour and Golden Monkeys
• 4 Days Rwanda Gorilla Tour and Golden Monkeys
• 2 Days Golden Monkey Trekking
• 6 Days Rwanda Safari
• 1 Day Kigali City Tour
• I Day Akagera National Park Safari
• 2 Days Akagera National Park Safari
• 3 Days Akagera National Park Safari
• 3 Days Rwanda Gorillas and Dian Fossey Hike
• 2 Days Nyungwe National Park Tour
• 3 Days Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe

Combined Safaris

• 4 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari
• 4 Days Bwindi Gorillas and Karisimbi Hike
• 5 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari
• 7 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari
• 10 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari
• 10 Days Rwanda Uganda Wildlife Safari
• 14 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari
• 15 Days Uganda Rwanda Congo Safari

Short Uganda Tours

• 1 Day Gorilla Tour
• 2 Days Bwindi Gorilla Tour
• 3 Days Murchison Falls Tour
• 3 Days Queen Elizabeth Tour
• 3 Days Ssese Island Tour
• 5 Day Uganda Wildlife Safari

Mission Africa Safaris is a leading Tour company in East Africa. We help put together amazing tours for Travelers in Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya and The Democratic Republic of Congo. You can be one of them today!

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8 Most Charming Places in Tanzania

Found along the coast of East Africa is the great nation of Tanzania . Not the most well-known country in Africa, Tanzania has quietly become one of the upstart places in Africa, boasting a burgeoning and booming tourism industry. Known for its breathtaking landscape, white sand beaches, and vibrant culture, Tanzania is surely to make a good first impression.

Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park is the largest nature reserve in Tanzania. In 2008, it merged with the neighboring Usangu Game Reserve, now covering more than 20,000km². There are campsites located all over the park, which make for perfect vantage points from which to see the wildlife up close.

Going on a safari here is like no other. There are endless ways to explore the park, all with a warm and helpful guide to help along the way. Most of these safaris are done from the safety of a car, whereas others are conducted on boats. The animals that you will see and the people that you will meet are going to create memories that last a lifetime.

Mahale Mountains National Park

Another one of Tanzania's stellar national parks, the Mahale Mountains, is located along the tranquil shores of Lake Tanganyika in eastern Tanzania. Initially created to protect a large segment of Tanzania's chimpanzee population, the park has become a world-class tourist destination.

The Greystone Mahale Camp is particularly stunning. This one-of-a-kind lodge is the perfect place to go on a romantic getaway with your significant other. There are, of course, plenty of guided tours inland to observe and occasionally interact with the various groups of chimpanzees that call the park home.

Nyerere National Park

Located on in Eastern Tanzania, the Nyerere National Park transports its guests into the thick of the African savannah . Guests can enjoy this park any way they want. There are traditional safaris, boat safaris, and even the option to survey the park from a hot air balloon.

Tours into the bush are also available. This allows guests to observe the wildlife up close and personal. It also gives visitors the chance to visit some of the remote villages that are located within the park. The locals here are famous for their warm demeanor and hospitality .

Mafia Island

Despite its name having a somewhat foreboding name, Mafia Island couldn't be further removed from any semblance of violence or organized crime. Located along the east coast of Tanzania, Mafia Island's pristine beaches and crystal blue water are nothing short of magical.

Mafia Island's beaches are a hotspot for nesting turtles, and its shallow waters teem with marine life. For those daring enough, the best months to spot whale sharks are from October to February. Even if aquatic life is not to your taste, the laid-back and peaceful nature of the island is enough to make this a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Mount Kilimanjaro

Sitting along its northern border with Kenya is Mount Kilimanjaro , the largest mountain in Africa. Sitting at roughly 5,895 meters (19,340 feet) tall, Kilimanjaro looms over the vast plains of the African savannah.

Climbing to the summit of the mountain is no easy feat, but reaching the top is certainly worth it. For those who have no interest in hiking up Kilimanjaro, there is a fantastic national park available. The park offers tons of tours led by accommodating and friendly guides.

Lake Manyara National Park

Found in the north of Tanzania, Lake Manyara National Park is another great destination for those wanting to get a closer look at the spectacular African wildlife. There are numerous tours available that grant visitors the chance to observe herds of elephants , curious giraffes, and even lion pride.

Aside from the traditional methods of looking at wildlife, there is also a tree-top canopy walk in some places. This gives the park's guests a new and unique way of viewing different kinds of primates and exotic birds. It is a great place to take friends and family.

Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the world's largest inactive volcanic caldera . The surrounding area is teeming with wildlife and is the perfect place to go if you want to experience a more traditional safari. The land is home to all the stable animals one would expect, along with the semi-nomadic Maasai nomads who still live and hunt in the area.

There are dozens of high-end resorts guests have to choose from. If staying at a resort is not to your liking, then there are various campsites set up throughout the park that all come with a surprising amount of comfort despite being in the middle of the wilderness. The staff who work at these accommodations are more than happy to help and assist wherever they are needed.

The Zanzibar Archipelago is located off the east coast of Tanzania. There is a lot to do in Zanzibar, and it has quietly become one of the most prominent tourist destinations in Tanzania. Whether you are looking for a relaxing time at the beach or want to explore the city itself, there is something here for everyone.

The Nakupenda Beach Nature Reserve is a great place to visit, especially for wadding in the warm turquoise blue water and shallow sandbank that the island is famous for. The old quarter of Zanzibar is another great attraction. Filled with a rich history and Arabian-infused architecture and culture, the city of Zanzibar is one of the more unique places in Africa. Its charm and energy are apparent the moment you arrive.

Discover Tanzania’s Hidden Charms

Tanzania is one of the best-kept secrets of Africa. Home to an endless amount of attractions and entertainment, it is no wonder more people are deciding to come and visit every year. No matter if you want to explore the county's wildlife or take a relaxing vacation on the beach, Tanzania has all of its bases covered.

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Secret Murders Alleged at Tourist Hotspot for Luxury Safaris

A wildlife tourism project has lost its funding after being tied to several extrajudicial killings, disappearances, and sexual assaults.

Shannon Vavra

National Security Reporter

Christopher Loh

The World Bank has decided to pull funding for a controversial tourism project following accusations it has led to extrajudicial killings, disappearances, and the sexual abuse of local villagers in Tanzania.

Launched in 2017, the program aimed to improve the management of natural resources and tourism in Southern Tanzania, including Ruaha National Park (RUNAPA), which has been tied to a cascade of human rights abuses , according to the Oakland Institute, a California-based advocacy group.

The World Bank has already disbursed $100 million of the $150 million project, known as REGROW, according to The Oakland Institute.

The Tanzanian government plans included work aimed at nearly doubling the size of the park, the largest protected wildlife area in the country, from one million to over two million hectares. But the expansion plans have left the local villagers high and dry: The plan has included Tanzanian government efforts to forcibly evict over 21,000 people to expand the park, without providing villagers compensation or other land, according to The Oakland Institute.

“Communities report that park rangers, receiving funding through REGROW, have been implicated in murders of several villagers and numerous instances of violence since the project began,” according to a recent report published by the institute. “The World Bank, however, has turned a blind eye to the horrific abuses unleashed on the communities by choosing to not enforce its own safeguards.”

Even as local villagers have pushed back on the human rights abuses, luxury tourist options for visiting the park abound. From sunrise hot air balloon tours over the park with champagne celebrations, to camps with private lodges and spa attractions like pools, and massages—visitors from around the globe have continued to tour the park despite the allegations.

Wildlife reserves have continued to be a boon for Tanzania, pulling in billions of dollars of tourism revenue annually. But the ongoing issues with the REGROW project have raised questions about the rights of local villagers living near tourist attractions.

“This should be a wakeup call for the Bank’s leadership in Washington, D.C.—you cannot continue to ignore the voices of the people on the ground who are struggling to survive as a result of your so-called ‘development’ projects,” Anuradha Mittal, Executive Director of the Oakland Institute said.

The World Bank told The Daily Beast it had suspended further funding for the project after receiving information that “suggests breaches of our policies in the implementation of the REGROW project.”

“The World Bank is deeply concerned about the allegations of abuse and injustice related to the Resilient Natural Resources Management for Tourism and Growth (REGROW) project in Tanzania,” a World Bank spokesperson told The Daily Beast, adding that the World Bank will work with the authorities moving forward to try to ensure the project can “improve the lives of Tanzanians.”

The backpedaling from the World Bank comes after years of the Oakland Institute pushing against the project. Villagers have also taken steps to protest the project, and have on multiple occasions turned to the legal system for recourse, without any success. Last year villagers filed a case in the East African Court of Justice against the expansion of the park as well.

The Oakland Institute called the decision “long overdue.”

“It sends a resounding message to the Tanzanian government that there are consequences for its rampant rights abuses taking place across the country to boost tourism,” Mittal said. “The days of impunity are finally coming to an end.”

Sir Jim Ratcliffe, a British billionaire who invested in Asilia Africa, one of the premier safari companies in Africa that operates luxury camps in the Ruaha park, told The Daily Beast through a spokesperson he wants to uphold the rights of local people.

“Sir Jim Ratcliffe is committed to long term conservation in Africa. He is proud to support Six Rivers Africa, which is a not-for-profit conservation initiative, with the aim of understanding, protecting and promoting biodiversity in the wetlands and former hunting areas of Tanzania. The organsation has zero-tolerance of all human rights abuses and is committed to upholding the rights of local people and national conservation regulations as it invests in wilderness areas for the benefit of future generations.”

Reparations should be provided to the villagers who have been victims of the human rights abuses, The Oakland Institute said.

“Moreover, villagers who have been victims of gross human rights violations and crippling livelihood restrictions must receive adequate, effective, and prompt reparations to ensure justice and help redress the harm they have endured,” the Oakland Institute said in a statement.

The World Bank did not answer questions about whether it will participate in providing reparations to the affected villagers.

Got a tip? Send it to The Daily Beast  here .

READ THIS LIST

Government revises licensing fee structure to boost Mt KIlimanjaro tourism

Tourists at the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. PHOTO | COURTESY

By  The Citizen Reporter

Media/news company

Mwananchi Communications Limited

What you need to know:

• The new measure will see a 50 percent reduction of the annual Mount Kilimanjaro climbing business license fee from $2000 to $1000 effective July 1, 2024, drawing widespread praise from industry players

Arusha. The minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Ms Angella Kairuki, has announced significant changes to the tourism license fee structure for tour operators as she seeks to trim down on the costs of doing business and boost the number of tourists.

The new measure will see a 50 percent reduction of the annual Mount Kilimanjaro climbing business license fee from $2000 to $1000 effective July 1, 2024, drawing widespread praise from industry players.

The strategic decision is part of the government’s broad plan to quadruple annual tourists’ numbers to Africa’s highest mountain from 56,000 to 200,000 and reap more dollars.

PRIME Jaden Mungure: An 11-year old Tanzanian-American boy who conquered Mt Kilimanjaro

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Available data shows that nearly 56,000 tourists scale up Mount Kilimanjaro and leave behind $50 million in revenue annually, with 28 percent of revenues trickling into the poor communities.

According to the SNV study dubbed ‘Tracing the Tourist Dollar in Northern Tanzania, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a more pro-poor activity compared to other tourist attractions.

The study shows 28 percent of revenues generated on Africa’s highest peak trickle into the poor communities, as opposed to 19 percent of revenue accrued from tourist sites in the famous northern tourism circuit.

This implies that the Mount Kilimanjaro tourism trade pumps $14 million out of $50 million into the pockets of poor folks who solely depend on trekking to make ends meet.

Read : Magreth Ndoro, the unsung heroine cleaning Mt Kilimanjaro and parks

Additionally, Ms. Kairuki declared an adjustment in the newly introduced tour guide fees, lowering the amount from an annual $50 to Sh100,000 for a three-year period.

"It is my fondest hope that the revised fee structure will significantly reduce overhead costs for tour operators and, more importantly, foster a more favourable environment for the growth of the tourism industry,” Ms Kairuki told a tourism stakeholders meeting held in Arusha recently.

The CEO of the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (Tato), Mr Sirili Akko, endorsed the decision, saying that the previous fees were excessively high for businesses.

“We are so grateful. This initiative would significantly reduce operational costs. The decision sheds light on the government’s commitment to invigorate the industry, which is crucial for the nation’s economic development,” Mr Akko said.

Mount Kilimanjaro, a prime jewel in Tanzania’s crown of natural wonders, not only stands as Africa’s tallest peak but also as a symbol of high-altitude adventure tourism.

Previously, local tour operators faced an annual Mount Kilimanjaro climbing business license fee of $2000, a steep barrier that stifled the growth and competitiveness of local entrepreneurs in the tourism industry.

 “Ms Kairuki’s decision to halve this fee to $1000 represents a decisive step towards creating a more competitive and inclusive market,” Mr. Akko noted.

Read : Mt Kilimanjaro records rising numbers of tourists

He further said that the reduction is poised to lower the entry barrier for new local businesses and inspire existing ones to scale their operations without the heavy yoke of prohibitive fees.

Moreover, the minister also addressed the concern regarding the tour guide fee, which was recently set at $50 annually.

“By adjusting this to Sh100,000, approximately $43 for a three-year period, the initiative further eases financial pressures on tour guides who are integral to the tourism experience yet often face economic challenges,” Mr. Akko said.

TATO explained that this thoughtful policy change not only extends economic relief but, more fundamentally, enhances job security for these vital industry players.

“The response from the tourism industry has been overwhelmingly positive, heralding the changes as pivotal for the growth of the multi-billion-dollar tourism industry,” Mr Akko said.

He highlighted how the previous fees were prohibitive and discouraged compliance among local operators, potentially leading to a decrease in business innovation and service quality.

With the revised fees, Mr. Akko said, tour operators would not only be able to afford the necessary licenses but could also reinvest savings into improving service quality, marketing strategies, and ultimately, enhancing the overall tourist experience.

“Truth be told, the measure could significantly impact Tanzania’s tourism landscape.

By lessening financial burdens, the government is stewarding an environment ripe for increased domestic and international tourism traffic,” Tato CEO emphasised.

Increased competition among local operators could lead to more varied and rich tourism packages, which in turn could attract a broader spectrum of tourists, he said.

This diversification is crucial in a global tourism market where consumers are increasingly seeking unique and personalised experiences.

Furthermore, these reductions arrive at a critical time when the global tourism industry is rebounding from the setbacks of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Countries worldwide are now recalibrating strategies to attract tourists, and Tanzania’s move could very well position it as a more attractive destination in the competitive African tourism market.

In conclusion, Minister Kairuki’s policy changes are not merely adjustments in fee structures but are indicative of a larger, strategic thrust towards enhancing the growth and sustainability of Tanzania’s tourism industry,” Mr Akko said.

He added; “This proactive approach not only benefits the economic landscape but also supports the local communities involved in tourism, fostering a more robust and inclusive economic future for Tanzania.”

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Top 10 tourist attractions in Africa, according to Americans

・Devil’s Pool in Zambia is one of the highest-rated attractions by U.S. tourists.

・Other popular attractions include Robberg Nature Reserve, Mount Kilimanjaro, Lion's Head, Volcanoes National Park, and Victoria Falls.

・These attractions offer a variety of experiences, from wildlife watching to historical exploration to beach relaxation.

Africa is a continent with a rich history and culture, and it is home to some of the most popular tourist attractions in the world. From the ancient pyramids of Egypt to the stunning beaches of Zanzibar, there is something for everyone in Africa.

Americans are increasingly choosing Africa as their vacation destination, and with international travel increasing by 200% since 2022 alone, the wanderlust for global experiences has flourished.

In this article, we'll take a look at the top 10 tourist attractions in Africa, according to American tourists. These attractions offer a variety of experiences, from wildlife encounters to ancient ruins to cultural immersions.

1. Devil's Pool, Livingstone, Zambia

Devil's Pool is a natural infinity pool located on the edge of Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Visitors can swim in the pool and take in the breathtaking views of the falls.

2. Seronera, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Seronera is a central area of Serengeti National Park, one of Africa's most popular safari destinations. Visitors can see a variety of wildlife in Seronera, including lions, elephants, giraffes, and zebras.

3. Amphitheatre of El-Jem, El-Jem, Tunisia

The Amphitheatre of El-Jem is a Roman amphitheatre located in the city of El-Jem, Tunisia. It is one of the largest and best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world.

4. Robberg Nature Reserve, Plettenberg Bay, South Africa

Robberg Nature Reserve is a coastal nature reserve located near the town of Plettenberg Bay, South Africa. Visitors can hike along the coastline, swim in the ocean, and see a variety of wildlife, including whales, dolphins, and penguins.

5. Mount Kilimanjaro, Kilimanjaro National Park, Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and the highest dormant volcano in the world. It is a popular destination for hikers and climbers.

6. Lion's Head, Cape Town Central, South Africa

Lion's Head is a mountain located in the city of Cape Town, South Africa. It offers stunning views of the city and Table Mountain.

7. Volcanoes National Park, Ruhengeri, Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park is a national park located in the northwestern province of Rwanda. It is home to a population of mountain gorillas, one of the most endangered animals in the world.

8. Victoria Falls, Victoria Falls. Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. It is the largest waterfall in the world by volume of water flowing.

9. Abu Simbel Temple Complex, Abu Simbel, Egypt

The Abu Simbel Temple Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southern Egypt. It consists of two massive rock-cut temples built by the Egyptian pharaoh Ramses II.

10. Temple of Karnak, Luxor, Egypt

The Temple of Karnak is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the city of Luxor, Egypt. It is one of the largest religious complexes in the world.

These are just a few of the many amazing tourist attractions in Africa. With its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and abundant wildlife, Africa has something to offer every traveller.