The majestic Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the many natural wonders that can be found in Tanzania, which is home to some of the most well-known national parks and other natural attractions in all of Africa. As a result, going on safari and participating in other activities related to the local wildlife is among the most well-liked things to do in Tanzania and the primary reason that so many people travel to the nation.
The majority of travelers will only spend a short amount of time in Dar es Salaam before continuing on to other sites, including the surrounding wilderness. The gorgeous beaches of Zanzibar are calling out to everyone who would like to spend some time basking in the rays of the sun.
Divers and snorkelers from all over the globe travel to the waters of the islands of Pemba and Mafia to experience the coral gardens, colorful fish, and incredibly clear waters. This natural wonder is admired by the visitors that come to Pemba and Mafia from all over the world.
We have compiled a list of the most popular tourist destinations in Tanzania so that you can investigate your options and choose the most interesting locations to go to.
Please take note that current health and safety concerns across the globe may require the temporary closure of some establishments.
Nungwi
Although it is in Zanzibar, this is deserving of separate attention due to its uniqueness. The little fishing town of Nungwi is home to what is often considered to be Tanzania’s most stunning stretch of coastline (at the northern tip of Zanzibar). A formerly quiet fishing community that has become a famous tourist attraction, you can expect to find all the stereotypical elements of a tropical paradise here, such as swaying palm trees, white sand beaches, boats gently bobbing in beautiful blue waters, and sunsets that are to die for.
Mnemba Island
This little island is fashioned like a heart, making it one of the most picturesque and romantic places imaginable. Mnemba, which resembles a paradise and is located just off the shore of Zanzibar’s east side, caters to those who like a luxurious lifestyle. This location, which offers nice accommodations in a lodge style but not much more, is ideal for a romantic trip for two since it is so secluded. Turtles, dolphins, and enormous schools of fish may often be seen swimming in the seas nearby, attesting to the area’s abundance of diverse marine life.
Mahale Mountains
This is one of the greatest spots in the world to have close contact with chimpanzees, and it is located on the coast of Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania. It is also a magnificent spot with green wooded slopes that flow down to the lakeside, crystal-clear waves that lap against white sand coves, and in the backdrop, you can see the mist-covered top of Mount Nkungwe. In addition to having significant populations of chimpanzees, the highlands are also home to other primate species, such as red colobus and yellow baboons.
Mikumi National Park
The so-called Southern Circuit is a collection of well-known tourist destinations located in the southern region of Tanzania. Mikumi National Park is included in this circuit. The majority of the park is comprised of grassland, and since it is rather level, it is not difficult to see creatures that are coming from a distance. This is mainly a safari site, and in order to explore the park, you will need to be in a vehicle that has been granted permission to do so.
Midget elephants, sometimes known as dwarf elephants, may be found in Mikumi National Park. These elephants have very small and delicate tusks, making them one of the most fascinating species in the park. Because of this, poachers are less likely to target them, and the question of whether or not their lower tusks provide an evolutionary benefit is a topic of considerable discussion.
Ol Doinyo Lengai
Ol Doinyo Lengai is an active volcano located in the area of Arusha that is a part of the Gregory Rift. It is also known as the “Mountain of God.” This stratovolcano, which is well-known for its one-of-a-kind lava eruption, is considered to be one of the best sites to visit in Tanzania. Every year, a large number of people who have a passion for adventure travel come here to begin the arduous trip of climbing to the summit of this mountain.
Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro is both the highest point on the African continent (5,895 meters) and Tanzania’s most recognizable landmark. Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, in contrast to the other parks in northern Tanzania, is not visited for the purpose of viewing the animals but rather for the opportunity to be awestruck by the magnificent snow-capped mountain and, for many people, to climb to the summit. Although it may be done at any time of the year, the best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is from late June until October, which is when it is the dry season.
Over one million years ago, volcanic activity in the Rift Valley was responsible for the formation of Kilimanjaro, which is now a World Heritage Site. Around 750,000 years ago, three volcanic cones named Shira, Kibo, and Mawenzi came into being on Mount Kilimanjaro. Uhuru Peak, which is located on the mountain Kibo and is one of the Seven Summits, is the highest point in Africa.
The bottom portion of the mountain is farmland, and it gradually transitions into a rainforest and an alpine meadow until culminating in a lunar-like scene at the highest point. Buffaloes, leopards, monkeys, elephants, and elands are some of the animals that call the slopes of the rainforest home. Bird watchers who venture into the alpine zone will have the best chance of seeing a large number of raptors.
The plan to construct a cable car on Mount Kilimanjaro was approved by the government in late 2020, although there are currently no active construction projects planned for the mountain. In the event that it was built, it would convey guests to an elevation of 3,700 meters above sea level.
Serengeti National Park
Every traveler should make time in their schedule to see Tanzania’s world-famous national park and well-known natural attractions. It is actually the nation’s first national park and is now recognized as the seventh wonder of the world in addition to its designation as a world heritage site. The park is famous for its annual wildlife migration, during which visitors may hear the deafening clatter of hooves made by more than a million wildebeest and several hundred thousand zebra. Camping to five-star safari lodges are just two of the types of accommodations that visitors can choose from within the park; for more information, visit Sanctuary Retreats.
Zanzibar Beaches
The island of Zanzibar, which is often referred to as Unguja, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Tanzania and is famous for its stunning beaches. This island, which is a part of the Zanzibar archipelago and which also includes the islands of Zanzibar and Pemba, is home to some of the most beautiful beaches on the entire planet. In spite of the fact that the waves are different depending on which side of the island you are on, tourists will find powdery white sand and water that is clean and shallow, as well as traditional boats bordering the shore.
In the very center of Zanzibar is the historic city of Stone Town. This city is famous for its old Arabian mansions, its winding alleyways, and its bustling harbor.
Lake Natron
Lake Natron is widely regarded as one of the most spectacular tourist destinations in the whole globe. The waters of Lake Natron have a crimson hue to them due to a combination of factors, including the lake’s high pH levels, its chemical makeup, and the amount of evaporation that occurs there. There are not a lot of creatures in or near Lake Natron since the water is very salty and the temperature of the lake is high. As a result, there are not a lot of animals.
It’s possible for birds to perish after crashing into the water or landing there by mistake, and their bodies may calcify rather than rot away in the water. However, there are one species that manage to survive despite all of the death: lesser flamingos. When the breeding season rolls around once every three or four years, the lake becomes inundated with pink birds since here is where they choose to raise their young.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is one of the most well-known places to go wildlife watching in Tanzania. It is situated between the Serengeti National Park and Lake Manyara, and it is where the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater can be found. One enormous volcanic crater contains a consistent supply of water, which attracts hundreds of species who choose to remain in this region rather than migrate to another one.
The primary reasons that people come here are to see the big animals and to see the birds. The crater floor is home to thousands of creatures, including lions, elephants, rhinos, Thomson’s gazelles, and buffaloes; however, wildebeests and zebras make up more than half of the animals that call the Ngorongoro Crater their permanent home.
Flamingos congregate in large numbers in the shallows of Lake Migadi, making it an ideal location for anyone interested in bird watching. Hippos are quite satisfied to spend their days submerged in water and spend their evenings feeding on the grass that is close by.
The Ngorongoro Crater is over three million years old and is the world’s largest ancient caldera that has been preserved in its natural state. Prior to its eruption and subsequent collapse, the Ngorongoro volcano was one of the highest mountains in the world.
The Olduvai Gorge is another attraction that may be found within the protected region. Important from an archaeological standpoint, this site has unearthed ancient bone and skull fragments, some of which have provided key insights into the history of early humans.
An archaeological site known as Olduvai Gorge may be found on a network of fault lines. Over the course of several millennia, the area’s erosion has exposed fossils as well as relics of early humans. In 1911, a German professor was searching for butterflies in Olduvai Gorge when he came upon some fossil bones. These bones belonged to extinct animals. A subsequent trip led by the Leakeys resulted in the collection of bone pieces, a whole cranium, and other remains that were estimated to be roughly 2 million years old. In addition, tools and weapons used for hunting that dated back to 1 and 1.5 million years ago were found in Olduvai Gorge.
Laetoli, which is close to Olduvai, is famed for being the location where the footprints of a man, woman, and kid were discovered. The presence of at least three different species of hominids in this region more than two million years ago is supported by additional evidence provided by these and other finds.
Lake Manyara
The landscape of Lake Manyara National Park includes several types of forest and woodland, as well as meadows and marshes. Two-thirds of the park is made up of water, and Lake Manyara is home to a wide variety of bird species as well as thousands of flamingos during various times of the year. The vast population of elephants, tree-climbing lions, and hippos that may be witnessed at a much closer range than in other parks is the attraction of Lake Manyara Park. Other parks in Tanzania also feature these animals. This park is also home to the greatest number of baboons that can be found in any single location on the planet.
The most popular things to do in Lake Manyara National Park include wildlife drives, paddling (when the water levels are high enough), mountain bike trips, and bird viewing.
Mafia Island
Divers and snorkelers from all over the world come to Mafia Island to see the underwater world that is conserved and protected by the Mafia Island Marine Park. The months of October through March are ideal for scuba diving, while the months of May through October offer the most pleasant temperatures on Mafia Island. The months of March and April are known for their abundant rainfall.
The diving atmosphere at Mafia Island Marine Park is laid back, and the park itself features coral gardens and a wide variety of fish. There are about 400 different kinds of fish and many species of birds that can be viewed in the vicinity. In addition, Mafia Island has a long history of serving as a nesting ground for the green turtle, which is now critically endangered.
In addition, Mafia is a desirable place for deep-sea fishing, particularly for big-game fish such as tuna, marlin, sailfish, and other species.
Mafia became a more important settlement during the 12th to 14th century when it held a key position in the East African trading routes. Although the first settlers arrived on this island paradise in the 8th or 9th century, it wasn’t until the 12th century that Mafia became a more important settlement.
Tarangire National Park
The Tarangire National Park was established in 1970 and is a wonderful location to see the local fauna. The dry season, which runs from July to September, is the greatest time to visit because that is when the animals congregate near the river.
Tarangire National Park, which is located in Tanzania, features one of the biggest concentrations of migratory wildlife during the dry season. Lagoons are crowded with wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, impala, gazelle, and eland, as well as hartebeest and hartebeest. The park is particularly well-known for the high number of elephants that live there as well as the baobab trees that dot the landscape of the grassy plains.
More than 300 different kinds of birds have been identified in Tarangire National Park, making it an outstanding location for birdwatching. Buzzards, vultures, herons, storks, kites, falcons, and eagles are some of the species that fall under this category.
Pemba Island
Pemba Island is the island in the Zanzibar archipelago that is the furthest to the north. Pemba is surrounded by a multitude of desert islands, some of which are home to some of the finest scuba diving in all of the Indian Ocean due to its exceptional visibility. The underwater refuge is home to a variety of marine life, including coral gardens, colorful sponges, and sea fans. Scuba divers often choose the city of Chake Chake, which serves as Pemba’s primary population center, as their home base.
Pemba receives a smaller number of tourists than Zanzibar does, which contributes to the island’s more laid-back vibe. Mountain cyclists are lured to the island’s 1,000-meter peaks because it is mountainous and has deep valleys. As a result, the island has become popular with mountain bikers. Misali Island Beach is a destination that should not be missed since it is located only offshore. A magnificent tropical paradise with white sand beaches may be found on an island that is deserted.
Pemba is one of the most important producers of cloves in the world and is also famous for the juju traditions that are used in medicine and magic. People go from all across East Africa to see voodoo masters and traditional healers in the hopes of gaining knowledge or being cured.
Stone Town
Stone Town, located in Zanzibar, is considered the island’s cultural center, and nothing has changed there in the last two centuries. The stately ancient Arabian mansions that can be seen along the city’s meandering alleyways and small streets contribute to the city’s one-of-a-kind allure. When Zanzibar was one of the most prominent Swahili trade cities in the Indian Ocean in the 19th century, most of the residences in Stone Town were constructed during this time period. Many of the homes have elaborately carved wooden doors that are studded with bras and have complex carvings. Visitors will notice these doors.
Stone Town is the oldest continuously inhabited Swahili city in the world, and many of its most famous features have been brought back to their former splendor. Some of the old structures have been converted into museums and other visitor centers. The town is home to a number of historic churches that are both noteworthy and significant in their age.
Visitors may reach the historic district of Stone Town by taking a stroll down Creek Road. This is where they will find the Darajani Market, Beit el-Amani, City Hall, and the Anglican Cathedral. The Forodhani Gardens, the Old Dispensary with its carved wooden balconies, the former palace of the sultans known as Beit el-Sahel or the People’s Palace, the Hamamni Persian Baths erected in 1888, and the Old Fort, which is the oldest building in Stone Town, are some of the other significant attractions.
Selous Game Reserve
The Selous Game Reserve is Africa’s most extensive wilderness area. It was established in 1922, and it takes about 5% of the entire area of Tanzania. The southern region is a restricted no-go zone that has not been developed, is densely wooded, and has a number of cliffs with a severe gradient. Visitors are only permitted in the region that is to the north of the Rufiji River. The Selous Game Reserve has a variety of landscapes, including plains, hills, rivers, and woods in this particular region. July through October is the most pleasant time to make the trip.
The Rufiji River has the greatest catchment area of any river in East Africa and cuts through the middle of the Selous Game Reserve in Tanzania. The river is a significant element of the reserve since it gives visitors the chance to see a wide variety of animals that are associated with water. Elephants, hippos, and rhinos are just some of the animals that may be seen here, along with buffalo, antelope, giraffe, warthog, wildebeest, lion, leopard, and cheetah. There is a wide variety of other animals as well. Over three hundred and fifty different species of birds have been identified in the Selous.
Arusha National Park
Even though it is one of the smallest national parks in Tanzania, Arusha National Park is home to a diverse ecosystem that includes the forest that covers Mount Meru, the Ngurdoto Crater that is located in the southeast part of the park, and the Momella Lakes, which are a series of seven crater lakes. The wooded section is home to both black and white Colobus monkeys, which are easy to detect, while the marshy bottom of the crater is home to herds of buffalo, zebra, and warthog. The Momella Lakes are home to a diverse population of both permanent residents and seasonal migrants of waterbirds. Visitors flock to this area to see the local fauna as well as to climb Mount Meru.
Mount Meru is not only the second tallest peak in Tanzania but also one of the most breathtaking volcanoes on the African continent. The top may be reached by hiking up a short ridge that offers breathtaking views of the volcanic cone that is located in the crater several thousand feet below. The climb is strenuous, but the path takes you through parks, woodland, a vast heather zone, and moorland on its way up.
Ruaha National Park
In 2008 Ruaha National Park became Tanzania’s biggest park. In addition to being home to vast herds of buffalo and gazelle, it is also home to one of Tanzania’s greatest concentrations of elephants. The Great Ruaha River is the centerpiece of Ruaha National Park, and its banks are home to some of the most spectacular animal watching in the park. In addition to this, a hydroelectric dam located at Kidatu on the river generates a significant amount of Tanzania’s power.
As a consequence of the park’s status as Tanzania’s most inaccessible national park, the terrain there has retained a significant amount of its natural integrity. Photographers will find the river, the stunning gorges, and the towering trees to be particularly enticing subjects. Birdwatchers will have the opportunity to see around 400 kinds of birds that are not seen in northern Tanzania.
Gombe Stream National Park
Chimpanzee viewing is the primary attraction in Gombe National Park, which is also referred to as Gombe Stream National Park on occasion. This park is best for those who are looking for an adventure off the beaten path. The research that Jane Goodall has done in this park has helped make it renowned, despite the fact that it is one of the smallest national parks in Tanzania. This British researcher came in 1960 to study wild chimpanzees, and as a result of her work, a program that would become the world’s longest continuous behavioral research program of its type was established as a result of her efforts.
In order for tourists to see chimpanzees in their natural habitat, guided treks lead them into the forest. The park is home to a diverse collection of primate and animal species. In the tropical forest, researchers have identified more than two hundred different kinds of birds. Some of these species include barbets, starlings, sunbirds, kingfishers, and palm-nut vultures.
Hiking and swimming are two more activities that are very common in this area; there is a path that goes into the woods to a waterfall that is located in the valley.
Katavi National Park
The Katavi National Park preserves an area of pristine nature thanks to its location in an inaccessible part of the country. The huge flood plain that is crisscrossed by the Katuma River and a number of temporary lakes is one of the most prominent characteristics of Katavi. The lakes are home to large populations of crocodiles, hippos, and more than 400 different kinds of birds. At the conclusion of the dry season in Katavi, you may see up to 200 hippos attempting to fit into a small body of water, which is one of the region’s most impressive sights. The male competition heats up, which leads to territorial clashes between them.
Herds of impala, reedbuck, lions, zebras, and giraffes may be seen in the last ponds and streams in Katavi National Park when the dry season arrives. When the flood waters recede, thousands upon thousands of elephants and buffaloes make their way into the park.
Lake Victoria
Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda are the countries that surround Africa’s biggest freshwater lake, which goes by the name Lake Victoria. The White Nile originates in this lake, which also serves as a major source of revenue for the millions of people who live along its borders. The Tanzanian portion of Lake Victoria is one of the locations in the country that receives the fewest tourists; yet, the cities of Bukoba, Musoma, and Mwanza each have a variety of tourist destinations to offer.
Many islands may be found in the vicinity of Mwanza and Musoma; some of these islands have been designated as nature reserves. Taking boat rides or going on treks around Lake Victoria are two of the popular types of day outings that can be organized there. Other activities include bird viewing and fishing.
On the southwestern side of Lake Victoria is where you’ll find Rubondo Island National Park. This park encompasses a number of additional, smaller islands as well.
Lake Tanganyika
Searching for some peace and quiet during your time off in Tanzania? Visit Lake Tanganyika, which is often regarded as one of the most tranquil tourist destinations in Tanzania. It is one of the ideal locations to rest in the arms of nature because of its huge stretches, quiet coastline, and lush green surrounds. You could be enticed to visit this location by the following information on the lake:
It is the second oldest lake in the world that has freshwater.
It is the largest body of freshwater in the world by length.
It is the dividing line that separates Tanzania from the Congo.
Because it is so extensive, it travels through no less than four separate nations, namely Tanzania, the Congo, Zambia, and Burundi.
Museum of National History of Tanzania
The National Museum of Tanzania is another key aspect of Tanzania’s tourist industry. The museum walks visitors through the intricate history of the nation. When you take a trip around this museum, you will learn about the historical colonial period, the history of slave trafficking, the renowned fossil discoveries made in Olduvai Gorge, the lively culture of Tanzania, and the way of life of the residents.
Location: Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Timings: 9:30 am to 6 pm
Entry is 100 Indian Rupees (INR) per person.
Level 8
Do you want to experience the exciting nightlife of Tanzania? Then, if you want to enjoy Tanzania’s active nightlife, you could go to Level 8 in Dar es Salaam, which is one of the most dynamic spots to visit in the country. The Hyatt Regency’s Level 8 is a rooftop bar that gives a taste of Tanzania’s vibrant party scene in addition to its unique drinks, delectable cuisine, and breathtaking views of the port in all directions.
Location: Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Timings: 5 pm to 6 pm
Mall of Quality and Excellence
One of the most convenient locations to go shopping in Tanzania is Quality Center Mall, which is a retail center open around the clock. As you stroll around this shopping paradise, which has a great number of restaurants and theatres for family amusement as well as international-caliber retail stores, you owe it to yourself to indulge in a shopping excursion that will leave you feeling completely satisfied.
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; Julius K. Nyerere Road as the address
Timing: We are open nonstop.