Whether you’re dreaming of postcard-perfect beaches, exhilarating wildlife encounters or mountain adventures, you’ll find it in Tanzania. The country combines breathtaking scenery with rich African history, heritage and culture. Tick off the Big Five in Serengeti National Park, climb Mount Kilimanjaro and step back in time on Zanzibar Island.
Things to do in Tanzania
Safaris are a signature experience in Tanzania. Hop into a Jeep and watch wild elephants trek through the grasslands in Serengeti National Park. Descend into Ngorongoro Crater, an ancient volcanic caldera surrounded by 600-metre-high walls, to see lions, hippos, zebras and other African icons. Selous Game Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places to see giraffes.
Mount Kilimanjaro towers over the northern plains of Tanzania. Hire a guide if you want to climb the tallest peak in Africa. Be prepared to scramble along rocky ridges, navigate muddy slopes and slog up volcanic scree before reaching the snow-capped summit. Time your ascent to catch the fiery sunrise.
Tanzania is blessed with some of the most beautiful beaches in East Africa. Head to the coast to bask on sugar-white sand and swim in the sparkling Indian Ocean. Relax under the shade of a coconut palm or roll out your towel beneath and enormous baobab.
Explore some of Africa’s best dive sites on Misali Island in the Pemba Channel Conservation Area. Coral reefs surround the island and support a vibrant underwater ecosystem. There’s incredible snorkelling just off the beach and the chance to spot nesting turtles burrowing in the sand.
Shimmering turquoise water and coral gardens surround Zanzibar Island. Zanzibar Town is the island's captivating capital and home to the historic Stone Town district. Walking around the narrow streets, you’ll be dazzled by the fusion of African, Indian, European and Arabian influences. Admire crumbling colonial buildings with beautiful carved wooden doors, shop for colourful souvenirs and wave to locals steering donkey-drawn carts.
Getting around Tanzania
Shared minibuses called “dalla dallas” are a fast and affordable way to get around towns and cities in Tanzania. Other options include “boda boda” motorcycle taxis, “bajaji” tuk-tuks and private taxis. Trains can be a good way to cover long distances, while ferries run between the Tanzania mainland and offshore islands. Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam is a gateway to Tanzania.