Things to Do in Tanzania Africa
Tanzania is a land of epic landscapes, boundless wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. From the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro to the endless plains of the Serengeti and the white sands of Zanzibar, Tanzania offers some of the most breathtaking and diverse travel experiences in Africa. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, adventure seeker, or beach lover, the country’s natural beauty and authentic charm guarantee unforgettable memories.
Go on a Safari in the Serengeti National Park
No trip to Tanzania is complete without a safari in the Serengeti, one of the world’s greatest wildlife destinations. The park’s vast savannahs are home to millions of animals, including the Big Five—lion, elephant, leopard, rhino, and buffalo. The highlight of any visit is witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration, where over two million wildebeests and zebras move across the plains in search of fresh pastures, often pursued by predators.
Luxury lodges, tented camps, and budget-friendly campsites alike allow visitors to stay close to nature and experience the magic of the Serengeti under the African stars. Game drives at sunrise and sunset reveal unforgettable moments of predator hunts, newborn calves, and golden light bathing the savannah.
Conquer Mount Kilimanjaro
For adventure travelers, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a bucket-list experience. As Africa’s highest peak, standing at 5,895 meters, it offers one of the most rewarding trekking adventures in the world. Unlike technical climbs, Kilimanjaro’s trails—Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, and Rongai—require no mountaineering skills, just determination, and fitness.
Trekkers traverse diverse ecosystems, from tropical rainforest to alpine desert before reaching the icy summit of Uhuru Peak. The journey is as breathtaking as the destination, with panoramic views that make every step worthwhile. For those who prefer a lighter adventure, hiking around the base of the mountain or visiting nearby coffee farms in Moshi provides a more relaxed taste of the Kilimanjaro experience.
Explore the Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater, often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most dramatic natural spectacles. This massive volcanic caldera shelters an incredible concentration of wildlife, including lions, elephants, zebras, and flamingos along the lake shores.
Game drives inside the crater offer some of the best chances to see the Big Five in one day, while the surrounding highlands offer stunning viewpoints and Maasai cultural encounters. Staying at a lodge on the crater rim provides sweeping sunrise views over this natural amphitheater, creating one of Tanzania’s most memorable safari experiences.
Relax on Zanzibar’s Beaches
After the excitement of a safari, nothing compares to unwinding on the island paradise of Zanzibar. The island’s white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and swaying palms provide the perfect tropical escape. Visitors can snorkel or dive among coral reefs in Nungwi and Kendwa, explore the winding alleys of Stone Town—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—or sail on a traditional dhow at sunset.
Zanzibar also offers rich cultural encounters, from spice farm tours that reveal the island’s aromatic heritage to visits to historic sites reflecting its Swahili, Arab, and European influences. For pure relaxation, boutique beachfront resorts and eco-lodges cater to all tastes and budgets.
Visit Tarangire National Park and Lake Manyara
While smaller than the Serengeti, Tarangire National Park and Lake Manyara National Park are equally rewarding for wildlife lovers. Tarangire is famous for its vast elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and seasonal migration of animals across its grassy plains. Lake Manyara, on the other hand, is renowned for its tree-climbing lions and colorful birdlife, including thousands of flamingos.
These parks are easily accessible on the northern safari circuit and make ideal stops on the way to Ngorongoro or Serengeti. Both offer excellent photography opportunities and fewer crowds, perfect for those seeking a more peaceful safari experience.
Experience Maasai and Cultural Encounters
Tanzania’s cultural diversity is as captivating as its wildlife. Meeting the Maasai people, known for their vibrant attire and traditions, offers deep insight into a centuries-old pastoral lifestyle. Visitors can tour Maasai villages, learn traditional dances, and hear stories of life on the savannah.
Beyond the Maasai, Tanzania’s coastal Swahili culture, Chagga people of Kilimanjaro, and Hadzabe hunter-gatherers near Lake Eyasi all provide authentic experiences that bring the country’s heritage to life. Participating in community projects or cultural tours adds meaning and connection to your journey.
Discover the Selous Game Reserve and Ruaha National Park
For travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, southern Tanzania holds incredible treasures. The Selous Game Reserve (now Nyerere National Park) and Ruaha National Park offer vast, wild landscapes teeming with wildlife yet see far fewer tourists. Boat safaris along the Rufiji River, walking safaris with armed rangers, and exclusive lodges create a truly immersive wilderness experience.
Ruaha, with its rugged terrain and large predator populations, gives visitors the feeling of exploring Africa as it once was—untouched and untamed. These parks are perfect for seasoned safari-goers seeking authenticity and solitude.
Take a Boat Safari on Lake Victoria
Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake, offers a tranquil alternative to land-based safaris. Fishing excursions, canoe rides to local islands, and cultural visits to lakeside communities provide a glimpse into the daily life of Tanzania’s fishermen. The area around Mwanza and Rubondo Island National Park is ideal for birdwatching, with opportunities to spot sitatungas, hippos, and rare water birds.
When to Visit Tanzania
The best time to visit Tanzania depends on your interests. The dry season (June to October) is ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources and the Great Migration reaches the Mara River. The green season (November to May) offers lush landscapes, newborn animals, and fewer tourists, making it perfect for photography and relaxation. Zanzibar’s beaches are enjoyable year-round, though April and May can be wetter.
