Tourism in Tanzania

Tourists flock to Tanzania's enchanting beaches and safari parks to explore some of the most diverse wildlife environments in the Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Ruaha National Parks.

Tourists come to Tanzania from all over the world to enjoy the coral reefs, the colourful fish and the clear waters. You can also reach the island of Zanzibar after a short boat trip from Dar es Salaam to enjoy its white sandy coasts and farms that smell of spices and spices, in a real mix of African, Middle Eastern and Indian cultures, which is reflected in its best form in the local cuisine of that island. Tanzania also has the highest mountain in all of Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro, which attracts large numbers of mountaineering enthusiasts.

Tanzania location

Tanzania is located in eastern Africa south of the equator, bordered by Kenya and Uganda to the north, Rwanda, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west, Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique to the south, and the Indian Ocean to the east. Most of the territory of Tanzania lies at an altitude of more than 200 meters except for the narrow coastal belt of the mainland and offshore islands.

Tanzania Climate

Tanzania has a humid tropical climate, although it includes several types of climate. In the coastal lowlands, the weather is hot and humid, especially on the shore of the Indian Ocean, and in the central and southern regions, the weather is dry, as temperatures decrease at the heights and rain increases on the slopes. The average precipitation is about 750 mm annually.

Best time to travel to Tanzania

Tanzania has a subtropical climate where there is no bad time to travel, the dry winter season which lasts from June to October and the summer rainy season which lasts from November to April. Because every season has its own unique set of pros and cons.

For the best weather, plan to visit during the dry season as vegetation is less dense, which makes spotting wildlife much easier. You will also need to travel between December and March, to enjoy the Great Migration as herds of migratory wild animals breed, attracting many predators. In the summer there are impressive numbers of rare migratory birds, flamingos inhabiting the lakes when the water levels are high. November and April can be rainy but benefit from fewer visitors and lower prices.

Magnificent feral cows

In this article, we will learn about the most important tourist places in Tanzania.

Tourist places in Tanzania

Tourism in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Dar es Salaam is a wonderful city overlooking the coast of the Indian Ocean, and one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Tanzania. It carries among its halls a guide to the country's antiquity, museums that preserve rare collectables throughout the ages, in addition to luxury shopping centres, popular markets, and more in one of the most beautiful cities of the continent.

The most important tourist places in Dar es Salaam... Read more

Tourism in Zanzibar, Tanzania

Zanzibar Island in Tanzania is characterized by its scenic beauty, which includes white sand beaches and palm trees that fill its parts.

It is considered one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Tanzania, where tourists from all over the world come to enjoy various water activities such as diving, surfing, kayaking and many more.

The most important tourist places in Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a major holiday destination in Tanzania and is famous for its beautiful beaches that feature fine white sand and clear shallow waters along with traditional boats lining the shore. You can visit the historic city of Stone Town, known for its ancient Arab houses, narrow alleys and a busy harbour... Read more

Mafia Island, Tanzania

It is part of the Mafia Quiet Islands. off the coast of Dar es Salaam. It is famous for its coconut palms and uncrowded beaches. Mafia Island attracts divers and snorkelers from all over the world to the safe undersea world thanks to its coral gardens, an abundant variety of fish and a relaxing diving atmosphere. Countless birds and more than 400 species of fish can be seen in the area as well as green turtles.

You can also admire more than a hundred species of birds found along the nature trails in the wooded interior. And do not forget to visit the historical ruins of Koa, which are estimated to be 850 years old.

Mafia Island, Tanzania location on Google Maps

Pemba Island, Tanzania

Known as the Green Island, it is part of the Zanzibar archipelago, surrounded by many desert islands, and is one of the best scuba diving places in the Indian Ocean, for adventure lovers, there are mountain bike trails. Pemba Island is one of Tanzania's lesser-known islands, with lush hills, clove plantations, mangrove forests, caves, secluded lagoons, pink and white sand beaches and coloعrful coral reefs.

Pemba Island is famous for diving and fishing, where marine life is rich in all kinds of creatures from turtles, barracudas, swordfish, reef sharks, yellowfin tuna, and Napoleon fish.

The island has a rich history, so be sure to visit the main town, Chak Chak, its museum, and the ruins of its fortress from the 18th century.

Pemba Island, Tanzania location on Google Maps

Lake Victoria, Tanzania

Lake Victoria is the largest freshwater lake in Africa and is bordered by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Stretching for more than 300 kilometres (186 mi) from north to south, the lake features many archipelagos and shallow reefs. There are many scenic islands, this lake is the source of the White Nile and provides income to millions of residents along its shores. Bird-watching and fishing trips, boat trips or hiking can be taken around Lake Victoria.

Lake Victoria, Tanzania location on Google Maps

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in Africa with a height of 5,895 meters. It is also the most prominent tourist attraction in Tanzania. The mountain was formed more than a million years ago by a volcanic eruption along the rift valley. The mountain includes 3 volcanic cones; Shira, Kibo, and Mawenzi. The mountain's rainforest slopes are home to buffaloes, tigers, monkeys, and elephants.

Mount Kilimanjaro attracts large numbers of mountaineering enthusiasts who come every year on this exciting adventure. If you plan to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, you must register with a local authority.

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania location on Google Maps

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

The Serengeti National Park is famous for its annual wildebeest migration and is home to 500 species of birds. Serengeti National Park, the second-largest national park in Tanzania, attracts dozens of wildlife-viewing tourists from December to June. If you can choose the time of your visit, you will enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime experience of witnessing the migration of the magnificent feral cows in the Serengeti.

Magnificent feral cows in the Serengeti

Wildebeest Migration in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania. Each year, enormous herds of wildebeest and zebra move thousands of kilometres across the Serengeti-Mara. These herds have a pivotal role in maintaining the ecosystem.

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania location on Google Maps

Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania

Lake Manyara National Park is made up of forests, grasslands, and swamps that host thousands of flamingos. Some activities can be practised in the garden such as mountain biking tours, bird watching, kayaking and marine life.

The calm waters are often adorned with herds of swans and flamingos and are complemented by wetland forests, grasslands, and acacias. Evergreen forests around the lake with the sound of noisy hornbills and guinea fowl. And while you're there, watch the unique lions climb trees in Lake Manyara.

Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania location on Google Maps

Ruaha National Park, Tanzania

Ruaha National Park became the largest national park in Tanzania when its borders were expanded in 2008, and today it houses 10% of the total lion population in the world along with the largest concentration of elephants in Tanzania. The Mountainous area, vast pastures, and famous baobab trees.

Ruaha National Park, Tanzania location on Google Maps

Tarangire National Park, Tanzania

Tarangire National Park was established in 1970, it is one of the lesser-known reserves in Tanzania, Tarangire rivals the Serengeti in its great number and diversity of wildlife. and includes many migratory animals, especially elephants, and more than 300 species of birds. It is a good choice for travellers who wish to encounter more animals and fewer tourists while on safari. The Tarangire National Park is known as a wonderful birding destination. also features large numbers of games, particularly during the dry season, when the Tarangire River is the only source of water in the area. The landscape is of particular interest too, due to the high number of scenic baobab trees.

Why Visit Tarangire National Park?

- Embark on a walking safari and marvel at ancient baobabs.

- Discover hundreds of ancient rock paintings in the vicinity of Kolo.

- Tarangire is famous for having herds of up to 300 elephants.

An often-overlooked gem, Tarangire’s characteristic skyline, framed by the stubby branches of fat baobab trees, is the backdrop for superb game viewing, particularly in the winter months of the peak season. Its marshes, which dry out into verdant grassy fields during the dry season, draw great herds of elephants, Buffalo, and Antelope. Lions and other predators are frequently spotted.

The park boasts over 500 species of birds, including some species endemic to Tanzania. The southern end of the park is home to camps that specialize in walking safaris, allowing their guests to immerse their senses in the experience of exploring the African bush on foot.

Tarangire National Park, Tanzania location on Google Maps

Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania

Ngorongoro Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in western Arusha in the Crater Highlands region of Tanzania and is administered by the Tanzanian government.

Ngorongoro is home to unparalleled beauty and immaculate nature. It is the only reserve in Tanzania that provides protection for wildlife in the presence of tourists. Land use is controlled to prevent negative impacts on wildlife. It also includes open grass pastures, mountain forests, and low-tree forests. The land of a high Bora weighs 8,292 km and is the largest crater in the world, which has a height of 2,286 meters above sea level.

The Ngorongoro Reserve is home to one of the most amazing safari experiences in Africa with its wide range of wildlife and is one of the most important areas in Africa where you can see endangered animals such as the black rhino.

Ngorongoro World Heritage place

This reserve is considered the eighth wonder of the world, as it has been listed by UNESCO as one of the natural and cultural heritage sites of the world at the same time. It enjoys rare wildlife and includes among its sides the footprints of primitive people on the ground, and the reserve includes three wonderful volcanic craters and more than 5308 km A square of savannah, dense forests and African jungles, it is one of the few areas in the world with peaceful wildlife where the Maasai people live alongside diverse wildlife, the region is also the official host for the migration of more than 2,500,000 wild animals, zebra, buffalo and gazelle.

They make their way through Ngorongoro every year between December and June and the reserve is home to more than 500 different species of birds.

Things to do in Ngorongoro Reserve

The reserve contains many open areas to visit, such as the elephant cave, which is entered for a ticket, the Masai Spa, which is based on an ancient and different style with natural herbal materials, and the dense forests that you can roam in safely and you can eat what you want from fresh fruits and vegetables.

Spend a day on a crater safari, pausing for a special lunch in the bush. Visitors can also hike at Olmuti Volcano, hike the Embakai Crater Lake (where pink flamingos flock in the shallows) or visit the village of Ngorongoro to learn about Maasai culture.

Hiking in the wide green spaces spread in the reserve guarantees you a wonderful time to relax calm down and enjoy the fresh, cool outdoor air.

For lovers of photography and amateurs, during your visit to the park, you will get a group of wonderful and distinctive shots of a mixture of different trees and animals.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania location on Google Maps

Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania

Selous Game Reserve is one of the most beautiful places for tourism in Tanzania, it has the largest concentration of elephants in Africa, many lions live in it, and it is one of the most diverse ecological life.

Selous Game Reserve contains a series of steep cliffs, large open grasslands, forests, rivers, hills and plains.

"Selous Game Reserve" is the destination for lovers, where complete calm and extreme privacy in the lap of nature, as it is the interface for everyone who tries to escape from the noise of modern life, and the reserve abounds with a huge wealth of wildlife, covering an area of 55 thousand square km, and lives in it. More than 50,000 elephants and more than 400 species of birds.

Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania location on Google Maps

Olduvai Gorge, Tanzania

Olduvai Gorge is an archaeological site with ancient skulls and bone fragments that provided important information about early humanity. An interesting find is the famous footprints of a man, woman and child in Lytoli, near Olduvai. These and other discoveries provide more evidence for the theory that at least three species of humans existed in this region over two million years ago.

Olduvai Gorge, Tanzania location on Google Maps

Cultural Tourism in Tanzania

With over 120 different tribes residing in Tanzania, there is a lot of local history to be discovered in all regions of Tanzania.

The people of Tanzania are among the most welcoming and friendly people on earth with diverse and unique cultures and willing to share with visitors. Where you can wander through the scenic, natural and cultural local villages to meet the friendly faces from Tanzania and learn about their ways of life.

Various local communities run their own cultural programs and welcome visitors into their homes, bringing direct income into the local community while giving local residents a chance to showcase their way of life to the outside world. This creates mutual understanding and friendships between tourists and locals, offering tourists from all over the world the possibility to experience the cultural diversity of Tanzania and providing local people in various rural areas with an opportunity to build sustainable livelihoods.

With local guides born and raised in the area, you can discover the steps needed to grow fresh aromatic coffee from picking, drying, roasting and drinking. Get involved in the process personally before enjoying the taste and taking a very personal pocket of Tanzanian coffee.

Ndali and Matengo dancers

Follow the famous drum beat and let the Ndali and Matengo dancers from southern Tanzania interpret the music and performances they have inherited from their ancestors. Sample the local cuisine, with all the culinary variations of Ugali, Mlenda, Machalari, Makande, Matoke, Pilau and Nyamachoma. Learn how to cook a wide variety of African cuisine and make authentic handicrafts.

Cultural tours can be half-day excursions or extended stays of a few days among the locals in their home villages and towns. Depending on how much time and interest you have, you can choose to embark on a boat ride on a river or on one of the many lakes while listening to legendary tales. Paddle through mangroves or sail with fishermen to the pristine sandy islands of the Indian Ocean, Lake Nyasa and Lake Victoria. Meet the Hadza hunters or spend part of your vacation with the friendly residents of Switzerland, and Tanzania, while hiking through the Usambara Mountains.

Important tips before travelling to Tanzania

- Avoid walking in quiet areas alone during the night to avoid exposure to cases of theft and kidnapping.

- Avoid going to troubled areas, conflict areas and demonstrations.

- Avoid contaminated water and only drink from packed bottles.

- Keep a copy of your official papers and the necessity of copying more than one copy.

- The CDC recommends that all visitors to Tanzania be vaccinated against hepatitis A and typhoid. Vaccines may be cholera, hepatitis B, rabies and malaria. Especially if you are travelling during the rainy season when mosquitoes are most prevalent.

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Tourism in Tanzania

Tourism in Tanzania