The best things to do in Tanzania

Tanzania, located in East Africa, offers a diverse range of experiences, from stunning wildlife safaris and towering mountains to pristine beaches and rich cultural heritage.

In the heart of cities, the buildings narrate tales of battles and triumphs, hardships, and celebrations.

A lifetime might not suffice to uncover it all, but as you plan on your adventure, we will dive deep into the  best things to do in Tanzania

This guide outlines the best destinations and activities in Tanzania, with detailed examples, tips, and recommendations.

Things to Do in Tanzania

Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park is synonymous with safari excellence.

It’s best known for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeests, zebras, and antelopes traverse the plains in search of greener pastures. 

This natural event occurs year-round, but the river crossings at the Mara River (July to September) and the calving season (December to March) are highlights.

There are many things to do while in Serengeti. These include the following 

• Wildebeest Migration: Witness thousands of wildebeests navigating the Mara River, dodging crocodiles and strong currents.
• This natural event brought millions of wild animals to Kogatende and Bologonja in the northern part of Serengeti.
•  Hot air balloon safaris: This is another incredible experience Serengeti has to offer.
• The breathtaking aerial views of the Serengeti landscape, followed by a champagne breakfast is one the most memorable experiences of its kind.
• Best Time to Visit: June to September for river crossings; December, January to March for calving season.
• The nearest Airport to Serengeti: is Kilimanjaro International Airport, Arusha Airport ( ARK).
• Seronera Airstrip, Kogatende Airstrip, Lobo, and Lamai for closer access.
• You can also fly direct from Kigali Rwanda to Serengeti or Wilson Airport Nairobi to Serengeti.

Visiting Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to a dense concentration of wildlife, including lions, elephants, zebras, and endangered black rhinos.

The scenic beauty of this massive volcanic caldera makes it one of Tanzania’s most picturesque destinations.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCAA) offers unique experiences like no other place in Tanzania, the best things you can do while in Ngorongoro Crater include: 

• Sunrise game drive:  You will enjoy spotting lions basking in the sun or watching flamingos at Soda Lake and all other Big Five
• Cultural Add-on: Visit a nearby Maasai village to learn about their traditions and participate in a ceremonial dance.
• Best Time to Visit: June to September for dry-season wildlife viewing; November to May for lush scenery.
• Nearest Airport: Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport.

Mountain Trekking 

Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro, standing at 5,895 meters, offers an unparalleled trekking experience.

Routes like Marangu (beginner-friendly) and Machame (challenging but scenic) cater to various skill levels.

Kilimanjaro is the tallest free-standing mountain on Earth.

Climbing is like crossing the continent; you will experience tropical forests, mountains, cold deserts, and an alpine climate when climbing from one camp to the other.

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is not easy, but the final reward is worth it.

You can climb it in five days via the Marangu route or eight days via the Lemosho route.

• What to expect: Witness the sunrise at Stella Point before reaching Uhuru Peak for panoramic views of glaciers and clouds.
• Best Time to Visit: December to February and June to October for favorable conditions.
• Nearest Airport: Kilimanjaro International Airport(JRO) and Arusha Airport

Mount Meru

Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak, offers rewarding climbs through diverse ecosystems. The trek is ideal for acclimatization before attempting Kilimanjaro.

• You will encounter wildlife like giraffes and colobus monkeys during the ascent.
• The summit offers stunning views of Kilimanjaro.
• Best Time to Visit: June to October and January to February.
• Nearest Airport: Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport.

Best beaches and Islands 

Zanzibar Island 

Zanzibar combines idyllic beaches with historical intrigue. Its white sand and turquoise waters make it a perfect destination for relaxation and adventure.

Zanzibar is one of the world travelers’ choices for Africa, the experience is magical and not to be compared with any other beach in Africa

• Beach Activities: Nungwi and Kendwa beaches are ideal for swimming and sunbathing, while Paje offers kite surfing and paddleboarding.
• Cultural Exploration: Visit Stone Town to explore sites like the Old Fort, House of Wonders, and Sultan’s Palace Museum.
• Marine Adventures: Snorkel or dive at Mnemba Atoll to see vibrant coral reefs, dolphins, and sea turtles.
• Best Time to Visit: June to October for cool, dry weather; December to February for warm, sunny days.
• Nearest Airport: Abeid Amani Karume International Airport and Dar es Salaam Airport.

Read more about the best places to visit in Zanzibar 

Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake, is a peaceful retreat offering fishing, birdwatching, and cultural experiences.

Victoria covers four regions in Tanzania including Mwanza, Mara, Geita, and Simiyu.

Lake Victoria is the best combined with Serengeti, Rubondo, and Saanane National Park.

• Example Experience: Take a boat tour to Rubondo Island National Park to see chimpanzees, monitor lizards, and diverse birdlife.
• Best Time to Visit: June to October for ideal weather
• Nearest Airport: Mwanza Airport.

Learn more about Lake Victoria 

Cultural and Historical Experiences

Visiting Maasai Villages

Immerse yourself in Maasai culture by visiting traditional villages.

Engage in activities like beadwork, traditional dances, and storytelling.

Masai people are one of the few remaining conservative communities that embrace their culture.

Despite the technological advancement that brought cultural disruption for many indigenous cultures around the globe.

Masai people live in Tanzania and the Northern part of Kenya, while in Tanzania Masai people dominate the northern part of Tanzania.

While in Arusha, Manyara, and Serengeti, you can find Masai in Zanzibar, the central part of Tanzania.

Masai have been living nomadic lifestyles following rain and places for grazing their livestock.

• Best Time to Visit: Year-round.
• Nearest Airport: Arusha Airport.

Bagamoyo: A Historical Treasure of Tanzania 

Bagamoyo’s blend of Swahili, Arab, and colonial influences makes it a fascinating historical destination.

Is one of the few remaining old historic cities in Tanzania, Bagamoyo has a lot to offer for those who plan to visit, from delicious Swahili foods to historic treasures. 

• Key Sites: Explore the Old Fort and Catholic Mission Museum. Join a dhow ride or fishing trip for an authentic coastal experience.
• Best Time to Visit: June to October.
• Nearest Airport: Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam, followed by a short drive.

Isimila Stone Age Site

Explore ancient stone tools and sandstone formations at this archaeological site near Iringa. 

Ismila can be combined with Ruaha National Park for wildlife safaris and Iringa town for cultural and historical experiences.

You can combine with Iringa Boma and Mkwawa Museum

• Experience walking among towering stone pillars and learn about early human history.
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with June to October offering the most pleasant weather.
• Nearest Airport: Iringa Airport.
  

Olduvai Gorge: Cradle of Humankind

Olduvai Gorge is a must-visit for history buffs. Discover early human fossils and tools at this significant paleoanthropological site.

Olduvai Gorge stands as an iconic destination for learning the history of human development with a history dating back to 3.5 million years.

Olduvai Gorge should be part of your bucket list when planning to visit the Serengeti or Ngorongoro crater for safari.

• Best Time to Visit: Year-round.
• Nearest Airport: Arusha Airport.

Off-the-Beaten-Path 

Oldonyo Lengai and Lake Natron

Oldonyo Lengai is an active volcano revered by the Maasai. Adventurous travelers can climb it for sunrise views,

while Lake Natron’s red and pink hues attract photographers and birdwatchers.

Visiting Oldonyo Lengai offers you a chance to experience the Masai communities but also an extension of Ngaresero waterfalls,

This 600-metre-deep crack in the Great Rift Valley has a pretty waterfall that you can hike to by walking up the river.

• Oldonyo Lengai offers the best experiences like:
• Hiking around Lake Natron to see flamingos and unique geological features.
• Best Time to Visit: June to October.
• Nearest Airport: Arusha Airport.
  

Napuru Waterfalls ( Meru Forest )

Napuru Waterfalls near Arusha is a hidden gem offering serene hiking trails and natural pools for a refreshing dip.

Is one of the most popular places to visit before or after safari in Arusha.

Apart from walking and waterfalls visits, Napuru offers other activities including Yoga, Camping, Quad biking, Zip-lining, and biking.

• Best Time to Visit: June to October, December throughout February for dry-season hiking.
• Nearest Airport: Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport.
  

Amboni Caves: The Geological Site in Tanzania 

Located near Tanga, the Amboni Caves are a network of limestone caverns filled with natural formations and local legends. 

This place offers a unique experience as of few of geological sites you can visit in Tanzania.  

Visiting Amboni caves gives you a chance to experience the vibrant city of Tanga bordered by the Indian Ocean. 

• Explore the stalactites and stalagmites while learning about the myths tied to the caves.
• Guides provide fascinating historical and cultural insights.
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round.
• Nearest Airport: Tanga Airport.

Other things to do in Tanzania

Selous Game Reserve/ Nyerere National Park 

Selous offers a quieter safari experience, with boat safaris on the Rufiji River and walking tours showcasing diverse wildlife. 

Selous / Nyerere National Park is the largest national park in Tanzania with a size of 30,893 km2.

This park is famous for rare species of wild dogs, large groups of lions, buffalo,s and other big five except Rhino.

• Best Time to Visit: June to October for wildlife viewing.
• Nearest Airport: Julius Nyerere International Airport, followed by a charter flight.
  

Saadani National Park

Saadani is the only park in East Africa where the savannah meets the ocean. Combine wildlife safaris with beach relaxation. 

Sadani National Park is truly a gem of its own. You will enjoy different activities including a game drive, boat ride, or beach relaxation.

• Best Time to Visit: June to October and December throughout February.
• Nearest Airport: Julius Nyerere International Airport, followed by a drive.

Ruaha National Park

Ruaha offers a rugged and remote safari experience, with large predator populations and dramatic landscapes. 

Ruaha is the jewel of the southern highland of Tanzania and is one of the few parks where visitors feel like they’re in tune with nature.

This is because of less traffic compared to other parks like Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater.

If you have enough time and budget Ruaha National Park is best combined with Gombe and Mahale for chimp trekking.

However, Katavi is another ideal park to combine for the best escapes from crowded places in northern safari circuits.

• Best Time to Visit: June to October for wildlife sightings.
• Nearest Airport: Julius Nyerere International Airport, with charter flights.
  

Gombe and Mahale: Chimpanzee Trekking

Track chimpanzees in Gombe and Mahale National Parks.

These two parks are not only about the chimp trekking experience in Tanzania but offer a true experience of the African rainforest. 

Most of the clients who visit Gombe and Mahale express their excitement about how the journey is filled with unique and authentic experiences. 

While in Gombe or Mahale, you will have the best chance to snorkel or kayak, and visit cultural centers.

You can visit the Ujiji Livingstone Memorial Center, fish in Fishing villages, and visit the Kigoma Fish Market.

Beyond that people who are interested in philanthropy, there is the long-standing project for the Jane Goodall Foundation.

This foundation deals with Chimpanzee conservation and restoration.

You can join her in her work of making the world a better place for chimpanzees.

Don’t forgetMahale also offers pristine beaches on Lake Tanganyika.

Whether you plan to stay at Mbali Mbali Gombe or Mahale, Greystoke Mahale, or other best accommodations available in Kigoma including Kigoma Hilltop Hotel.

• Best Time to Visit: July to October for trekking.
• Nearest Airport: Kigoma Airport, followed by boat transfers.

Conclusion 

Tanzania offers something for every traveler, as we wind up on the best things to do in Tanzania.

It is our firm belief that you will be able to get ideas about this amazing destination in Africa. 

You can request the best custom-designed itinerary from Blessing Safaris. 

Thank you for taking the time to read our article about the best things to do in Tanzania

Feel free to contact us for more information.

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