Tanzania is an incredible country, rich in wildlife, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some of the best things to do in Tanzania:
1. Safari in the Serengeti
- Why Go: The Serengeti is one of the most famous national parks in the world, known for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move across the plains. You’ll see abundant wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, and cheetahs.
- Best Time to Visit: June to October (dry season) for the migration, though the park is stunning year-round.
2. Climb Mount Kilimanjaro
- Why Go: Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in Africa (5,895 meters) and is a popular trekking destination. Climbing Kili is a bucket-list experience, offering a variety of routes with breathtaking views.
- Best Time to Visit: January–March and June–October, as the weather is generally favorable.
3. Visit Zanzibar
- Why Go: Zanzibar is an archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich history. You can explore Stone Town (a UNESCO World Heritage site), relax on pristine beaches, and visit spice farms.
- Best Time to Visit: June to October, or December to February for warm, dry weather.
4. Explore Ngorongoro Crater
- Why Go: The Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places in the world to see wildlife. It’s an ancient volcanic caldera that hosts a wide variety of animals, including the endangered black rhino.
- Best Time to Visit: June to October, during the dry season.
5. Visit Tarangire National Park
- Why Go: Known for its large elephant herds, Tarangire is a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is also home to diverse ecosystems, ranging from swampy marshes to dry savannah.
- Best Time to Visit: June to October, as wildlife tends to congregate around water sources.
6. Relax on Pemba Island
- Why Go: Less touristy than Zanzibar, Pemba Island offers a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience with pristine beaches, incredible coral reefs for diving, and lush, hilly terrain.
- Best Time to Visit: June to October for dry weather and clear waters for diving and snorkeling.
7. Cultural Tour of the Maasai Village
- Why Go: For a more cultural experience, visit a Maasai village to learn about their traditional way of life. The Maasai are an indigenous ethnic group known for their distinctive customs and dress.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but the dry season (June–October) is better for travel.
8. Lake Tanganyika
- Why Go: Lake Tanganyika is the world’s second-largest freshwater lake by volume and one of the deepest. It offers beautiful scenery and is less crowded than other tourist spots. You can swim, boat, or relax by the shore.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but the dry season offers better conditions for outdoor activities.
9. Explore Selous Game Reserve (now Nyerere National Park)
- Why Go: A more remote alternative to Serengeti, Selous is one of the largest game reserves in the world, with fewer crowds. The park has a great variety of wildlife and offers unique boat safaris on the Rufiji River.
- Best Time to Visit: June to October for wildlife viewing.
10. Visit Ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani
- Why Go: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site that consists of ancient Swahili ruins, including mosques, palaces, and tombs. The ruins date back to the 9th century and offer a fascinating historical glimpse into East Africa’s ancient coastal trading civilizations.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round.
11. Hot Springs in Kizimkazi
- Why Go: If you’re looking for a tranquil, off-the-beaten-path destination, visit the hot springs in Kizimkazi, a fishing village on the southern coast of Zanzibar. The freshwater springs provide a relaxing experience.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round.
12. Visit the Gombe Stream National Park
- Why Go: Famous for its population of chimpanzees, Gombe Stream National Park offers the opportunity to track and observe these incredible primates in their natural environment. The park is remote and offers an intimate wildlife experience.
- Best Time to Visit: June to October, when the weather is dry.
Practical Tips for Visiting Tanzania:
- Visa: Most visitors to Tanzania will need a visa, which can be obtained upon arrival or online through the Tanzania Immigration website.
- Health: It’s advisable to take malaria prophylaxis and get vaccinations for yellow fever, hepatitis, and typhoid.
- Currency: The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the local currency, though USD is also widely accepted, especially in tourist areas.
- Safety: Tanzania is generally safe for tourists, but like any destination, it’s wise to take basic precautions, especially in urban areas.
