Best Things To Do In Tanzania
Safari, beaches and incredible adventures in Tanzania
Tanzania is a captivating destination offering an array of incredible experiences for travelers. When exploring the best things to do in Tanzania, you’ll discover a blend of natural wonders and cultural treasures. A top highlight is a safari in the Serengeti, where you can witness the breathtaking Great Migration and encounter an abundance of wildlife. For adventure enthusiasts, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, presents an exhilarating challenge with stunning views as a reward.
Another must-see among the best things to do in Tanzania is visiting Zanzibar. This island paradise features pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and the historic Stone Town, offering both relaxation and cultural enrichment. The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provides a unique setting for observing wildlife within a spectacular volcanic caldera.
By exploring these highlights, you’ll experience why Tanzania is renowned for its exceptional natural beauty and diverse activities. Whether you seek thrilling adventures or serene escapes, the best things to do in Tanzania promise an unforgettable journey.
If you’re wondering where to go and what to do in Tanzania, or concerned about safety, our experts are here to help. We’ve compiled a list of the top things to do in Tanzania, curated by our African Diurnal Safaris specialists, which should be a key part of your travel guide.
Plan your trip around these top seven experiences in Tanzania for an unforgettable journey.
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Game Drive
A game drive in Tanzania offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the country’s rich and diverse wildlife in its natural habitat. Visitors can embark on guided safari tours through renowned national parks like Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire, where they can witness the spectacular “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros) among other species. The Serengeti, in particular, is famed for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras traverse the plains in a dramatic, cyclical journey. Game drives typically occur in the early morning or late afternoon, maximizing chances to see animals when they are most active.
These drives are not just about spotting big game; they also provide an opportunity to immerse oneself in Tanzania’s stunning landscapes, from vast savannas to lush woodlands and volcanic craters. Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights into animal behavior, conservation efforts, and the ecological significance of the areas visited. Whether traveling in a 4×4 vehicle or opting for a walking safari, a game drive in Tanzania promises a thrilling and educational adventure, offering memories that will last a lifetime.
Hot Air Balloon
A hot air balloon safari in Tanzania offers a unique and breathtaking way to experience the country’s wildlife and landscapes, typically in Serengeti or Tarangire National Parks. Ascending at dawn, passengers enjoy panoramic views of the savannah, rivers, and acacia woodlands, often witnessing the Great Migration of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles.
The hour-long flight provides a tranquil opportunity to spot elephants, lions, giraffes, and hippos from above. After landing, guests are treated to a luxurious bush breakfast with champagne. This extraordinary adventure combines the thrill of flight with the serene beauty of Tanzania’s natural environment, making it a must-do for safari enthusiasts.
Cultural Interaction
Tanzania is renowned for its rich cultural diversity, with over 120 ethnic groups including the Sukuma, Chagga, and Maasai. Swahili, the national language, unites these diverse communities, reflecting historical trade interactions with Arab, Persian, and Indian traders. This cultural blend is evident in Tanzania’s music, cuisine, and architecture.
The country’s cultural landscape has also been shaped by colonial influences and post-independence policies. German and British colonial periods introduced Western education and Christianity, while the post-independence policy of Ujamaa under Julius Nyerere promoted national unity and economic self-reliance. This policy encouraged inter-ethnic interaction through collective farming and villagization. Today, Tanzania celebrates its cultural plurality through festivals, national holidays, and policies that promote unity and diversity.
Serengeti Great Migration
The Serengeti Great Migration is a spectacular annual event where over 1.5 million wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, traverse the Serengeti ecosystem of Tanzania and Kenya. Driven by the search for fresh grazing and water, this journey spans around 1,200 miles and includes dangerous river crossings, particularly at the Mara River, where many animals fall prey to crocodiles. This migration supports a diverse array of predators and scavengers, including lions, hyenas, and vultures.
The migration follows the region’s rainfall patterns, with animals moving north to the Maasai Mara in Kenya during the dry season (July to October) and returning south as the rains resume (November to June). This movement ensures the grasslands’ renewal and the ecosystem’s health. Tourists and researchers flock to witness this event, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts to protect this natural wonder and the biodiversity of the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem.
Nature Walk
Nature Walk Tanzania offers guided tours through the country’s diverse ecosystems, including forests, savannas, and wetlands. Led by knowledgeable local guides, participants can observe wildlife like elephants, antelopes, and colorful birds, while learning about the area’s ecology, culture, and history.
These walks emphasize sustainable tourism, aiming to minimize environmental impact and support local communities. By joining, visitors contribute to conservation efforts and experience the natural beauty of Tanzania, making for a memorable and educational adventure.
Boat Safaris
Beach Holidays
Tanzania offers stunning beach holidays with pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters along its mainland coast and the islands of Zanzibar, Pemba, and Mafia. Zanzibar, known as the “Spice Island,” features vibrant beaches like Nungwi and Kendwa for relaxation and water sports, while Paje and Jambiani are perfect for kitesurfing. Pemba and Mafia Islands offer secluded spots ideal for diving and snorkeling.
Besides beautiful beaches, Tanzania’s coastal regions provide rich cultural and historical experiences. Stone Town in Zanzibar, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers winding alleys, bustling markets, and grand architecture. Mainland coastal towns like Bagamoyo and Pangani reveal remnants of colonial and Swahili history. These destinations blend adventure, culture, and relaxation for an unforgettable escape.
Best Places To Visit
The Grumeti River traverses the western corridor of Serengeti National Park, flowing westward until it reaches Lake Victoria.
The Mara River flows through Narok County in southern Kenya and the Mara Region in northern Tanzania. The
Mkomazi National Park is a hidden gem amongst the parks of Tanzania. It is located in the northeastern
Best Time To Visit
The best travel time for your tour of Tanzania depends on the regions you visit, and what you wish to experience. Discover the climate and month by month highlights.
Safety
Tanzania as well as Zanzibar, are generally considered a safe destination for travel. As with all other destinations, all you need to do is follow these simple safety measures.
Travel Guide
Planning a trip to Tanzania? Before you travel, get your lowdown on all the essential details – from visa and entry to communications, internet, currency, cards, and health information.
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