Top 10 places to visit in Tanzania

Welcome to Tanzania, home to an effervescent blend of cultures and languages, including over 100 tribes – such as the Maasai, whose red robes and warrior culture inspire awe in so many. This thriving and flourishing nation serves up a great adventure with wildlife, from the pull of the majestic Big Five to witnessing the Great Migration. With an abundance of exotic beaches, stunning towns and prodigious mountains, Tanzania offers an array of holiday activities across eclectic landscapes. With our definitive list, we hope to give you insight into the top 10 places to visit while you’re there! 

Pemba Island

Still somewhat undiscovered, Pemba Island provides an off-the-beaten-track experience for those who visit. Forming part of the Zanzibar Archipelago, it offers an alternative to the usual idyllic island life, with mangrove swamps, hilly terrain and lush vegetation overhanging beautiful coves and bays. This destination, in essence, a playground to release your inner explorer. Pemba’s pristine beauty has been preserved so well due to a lack of awareness about the island. Hosting offshore islets, it’s also known for being one of Africa’s best scuba diving locations; its waters are filled with a variety of marine life just waiting to be discovered.

Arusha National Park

Nestled within modest dimensions, Arusha National Park unfolds a tapestry of breathtaking landscapes, showcasing a diverse array of spectacular views, captivating backdrops, and an eclectic mix of wildlife. This national gem, though compact, is not to be overlooked.

Beyond its wildlife allure, Arusha National Park encompasses the majestic Mount Meru, standing as Africa’s fifth-highest mountain peak. This commanding elevation provides a mesmerising panorama of its neighbouring counterpart, Mount Kilimanjaro. Embarking on the ascent of Mount Meru, you’ll be treated to a visual feast of vibrant flowers and lush shrubbery, accompanied by frequent encounters with rare and beautiful animals. The journey becomes a rich exploration, unveiling the wealth of nature’s wonders on this remarkable mountainous terrain.

Gombe National Park

Established in 1968, this thin strip of ancient forest is set in mountainous cut with steep valleys clinging to the shores of Lake Tanganyika. Gombe National Park is known for its iconic chimpanzee population that holds a special place in the hearts of wildlife enthusiasts and researchers alike; visitors can trek through the rainforest to seek them out – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

Beyond its chimpanzee residents, Gombe National Park boasts a rich biodiversity that includes a variety of other primates, colourful bird species, and a wealth of plant life. Be sure to keep your eyes open for the occasional sighting of hippos and leopards, too! Best of all, the park’s intimate size allows for an immersive and personalised wildlife experience.

Tarangire National Park

Established in 1970, this expansive wildlife haven spans approximately 2,850sq km, offering visitors a captivating blend of diverse landscapes and vibrant ecosystems. Enchanting wildlife encounters and a remarkable congregation of elephants make Tarangire National Park an irresistible magnet for nature enthusiasts. This safari haven is revered in the wildlife exploration realm, rendering it a must-visit destination. From the captivating spectacle of tree-climbing lions to the majestic presence of colossal elephants, Tarangire tours unfold as a dreamlike experience for fervent animal lovers.

Zanzibar

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Zanzibar stands out as the quintessential island paradise, where charming colonial streets seamlessly blend with luxurious golden beaches. A captivating embodiment of African contradictions, it beckons visitors to deviate from the traditional pursuit of the Big Five in arid grasslands. Instead, it reignites romantic instincts, inviting wanderers to amble through dreamy streets before surrendering to the allure of glorious beaches, where sun-soaked relaxation and invigorating snorkelling adventures await. 

This truly enchanting town holds a coveted spot on the must-visit list for many exploring Tanzania. Its unique blend of historical charm and idyllic coastal beauty creates an irresistible destination that promises an immersive escape from the ordinary.

Lake Manyara National Park

Capturing the essence of an African safari, Lake Manyara National Park unfolds as a rich microcosm, where abundant wildlife thrives amidst the breathtaking scenery of the lake and its surrounding landscape. Along the lakeside, a harmonious blend of diverse animal species creates a captivating table, showcasing the park’s vibrant ecosystem. This expansive lake, nestled within the park, becomes a haven where rare and beautiful creatures coexist, immersed in the natural splendour of their surroundings.

Witness the enchanting pink spectacle of flamingos finding solace in the waters, then venture onto the canopy trail for a glimpse of the lush jungle. Here, dominant rainforest trees and a bustling treetop community come together in a mesmerising display of biodiversity. Lake Manyara National Park beckons with its unique blend of scenic beauty and diverse wildlife, promising an unforgettable safari adventure in the heart of Tanzania. 

Mahale Mountains National Park

Mahale Mountains National Park stands as a testament to the untamed beauty of the Tanzanian landscape, offering a unique blend of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. The park’s primary allure lies in its chimpanzee habituation programme, providing an extraordinary opportunity to observe and connect with these intelligent beings in their natural habitat. 

Beyond its charismatic chimpanzee residents, Mahale Mountains National Park is a haven for biodiversity, boasting a diverse array of flora and fauna. The park is a tapestry of dense montane forests, crystal-clear rivers, and cascading waterfalls, creating an enchanting environment for both wildlife and visitors – with warthogs being among the residents you can find here.

Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater stands out as an extraordinary jewel in the crown of African experiences, offering an unparalleled safari adventure that is both captivating and unique. This natural wonder enchants visitors with its untamed landscapes and abundant wildlife, making it a standout destination for safari enthusiasts. 

The allure of the Ngorongoro Crater lies in its unspoiled beauty and the diverse array of wildlife that calls it home, making it a contender for the best safari tour in Africa. From the majestic presence of rhinos and elephants to the awe-inspiring sight of lions and buffaloes, the crater presents an impressive ensemble of Africa’s most iconic animals. The experience of being here is elevated by the opportunity to engage with the local Maasai tribesmen, adding a cultural dimension to the scintillating tour. 

Mount Kilimanjaro

Dominating the East African skyline with its majestic presence, Mount Kilimanjaro stands as Africa’s highest peak and a symbol of both natural grandeur and human endeavour. It reaches an elevation of 5,895m (19,341ft), and summitting the peak of this iconic mountain is the dream of many who visit Africa. Unrivalled views and vast beauty await those who are up for the challenge! The journey to its summit unfolds through lush rainforests, alpine meadows, and otherworldly glacial landscapes, each zone offering a unique array of flora and fauna.

Serengeti National Park

Elevating the safari experience to unparalleled heights, the Serengeti National Park is the epitome of African wilderness, boasting the title of the continent’s largest and most renowned safari destination. This iconic park invites you to forge intimate connections with some of the world’s most magnificent creatures, creating a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts.

Embarking on a Serengeti tour is an immersive journey that unveils a remarkable array of animals. The annual wildebeest migration is a mesmerising spectacle that draws millions of visitors, while you’ll also have invaluable chances to observe the revered Big Five in their native habitat. You’ll need ample time to fully absorb and appreciate the vastness of the park’s offerings – after all, a sojourn in this wildlife paradise is not just a journey, it is an immersive odyssey into the heart of Africa’s untamed beauty.

Make it happen

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure to Tanzania? Whether you’re looking to make your safari dreams a reality or immerse yourself in the country’s rich culture, get in touch with our local experts today and create a tailor-made holiday that’s perfect for you.