Tanzania Travel Guide: Discovering The Best Of Africa

Tanzania is a country located in East Africa, known for its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich culture. From the Serengeti National Park to the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar, Tanzania offers a unique travel experience that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you on a journey to discover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports in Tanzania.

Top Attractions

Tanzania boasts of some of the most iconic attractions in Africa. The Serengeti National Park, famous for the annual wildebeest migration, is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the largest volcanic calderas in the world and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, is also located in Tanzania and attracts thousands of climbers every year.

Hidden Gems

Tanzania has many hidden gems that are worth exploring. Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa, is an excellent spot for fishing and bird watching. The Usambara Mountains, located in the northeast part of the country, offer great hiking trails and stunning views. The Selous Game Reserve, the largest protected wildlife reserve in Africa, is a hidden gem that offers a unique safari experience away from the crowds.

Food Scene

Tanzanian cuisine is a fusion of African, Indian, and Arabic flavors. Some of the must-try dishes include Ugali, a cornmeal porridge, served with meat or vegetable stew, and Zanzibari biryani, a fragrant rice dish flavored with spices, vegetables, and meat. For a snack, try Mandazi, a sweet fried doughnut, or Kachumbari, a fresh tomato and onion salad.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Tanzania can be a budget-friendly destination if you plan your trip carefully. To save money, consider traveling during the low season, which is from April to May and November to mid-December. Also, avoid touristy areas and opt for local accommodations and transportation. Street food is also a great way to save money and try local cuisine.

Outdoor Adventures

Tanzania is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From safari game drives to hot air balloon rides and snorkeling in Zanzibar, there is something for everyone. Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro is a popular activity, but there are also many other hiking trails in the country, such as the Lemosho Route and the Marangu Route. For water sports enthusiasts, Lake Tanganyika offers excellent opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and fishing.

Historical Landmarks

Tanzania has a rich history, and there are many historical landmarks to explore. The Olduvai Gorge, known as the Cradle of Mankind, is where some of the oldest human fossils were discovered. The Bagamoyo Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was a major port for the slave trade and offers a glimpse into Tanzania’s colonial past. The ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani, located on the southern coast of Tanzania, are an excellent example of Swahili architecture and culture.

Family-Friendly Activities

Tanzania is a family-friendly destination with many activities that both kids and adults will enjoy. The Serengeti National Park is a great place to see wildlife up close. The beaches of Zanzibar offer plenty of water activities, such as snorkeling and scuba diving. The Mto wa Mbu Cultural Village is a great place to experience Tanzanian culture and interact with the locals.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences

Tanzania has many off-the-beaten-path experiences that are worth exploring. The Ruaha National Park, located in the south of Tanzania, is a hidden gem that offers a unique safari experience away from the crowds. The Udzungwa Mountains National Park, located in the south-central part of the country, offers excellent hiking trails and stunning waterfalls. The Maasai villages, located near the Serengeti National Park, offer a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the Maasai people.

Natural Wonders

Tanzania is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in Africa. The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa, is a paradise for bird watching and fishing. The Selous Game Reserve, the largest protected wildlife reserve in Africa, is home to many endangered species, such as the black rhino and African wild dog.

Vibrant Nightlife

Tanzania has a vibrant nightlife scene, especially in major cities like Dar es Salaam and Arusha. The Coco Beach, located in Dar es Salaam, is a popular spot for nightlife, with many bars and restaurants. The Zanzibar Island also has a lively nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs that offer live music and entertainment.

Local Markets

Tanzania has many local markets where you can buy souvenirs, handicrafts, and fresh produce. The Mwenge Carvers Market, located in Dar es Salaam, is a great place to buy handmade wood carvings and sculptures. The Arusha Central Market, located in the heart of Arusha, is a great place to buy fresh fruits and vegetables, spices, and souvenirs.

Beaches and Mountains

Tanzania has some of the most beautiful beaches and mountains in Africa. Zanzibar Island, located off the coast of Tanzania, is known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear water. The Usambara Mountains, located in the northeast part of the country, offer great hiking trails and stunning views. Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, is also located in Tanzania and attracts thousands of climbers every year.

Cultural Immersion

Tanzania has a rich culture, and there are many opportunities to immerse yourself in it. The Mto wa Mbu Cultural Village, located near Lake Manyara National Park, offers a unique cultural experience, with traditional dances, food, and crafts. The Maasai villages, located near the Serengeti National Park, offer a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the Maasai people. Zanzibar Island is also known for its rich Swahili culture and history.

Art and Music Scene

Tanzania has a vibrant art and music scene, with many local artists and musicians showcasing their talents. The Tinga Tinga Arts Cooperative Society, located in Dar es Salaam, is a great place to buy Tinga Tinga paintings, a unique style of African art that originated in Tanzania. The Bagamoyo Arts Festival, held annually in Bagamoyo, is a celebration of African music, dance, and culture.

Walking Tours

Walking tours are a great way to explore Tanzania’s cities and towns. The Stone Town Walking Tour, located in Zanzibar Island, takes you through the narrow streets of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and offers a glimpse into Zanzibar’s rich history and culture. The Dar es Salaam Walking Tour, located in the heart of Dar es Salaam, takes you through the city’s historic landmarks and markets.

Architectural Marvels

Tanzania has many architectural marvels that are worth exploring. The House of Wonders, located in Stone Town, Zanzibar Island, is a stunning example of Swahili architecture and culture. The Askari Monument, located in Dar es Salaam, is a tribute to the African soldiers who fought in World War I. The Olduvai Gorge Museum, located in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, showcases the history and culture of Tanzania’s indigenous people.

Historical Sites

Tanzania has a rich history, and there are many historical sites to explore. The Bagamoyo Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was a major port for the slave trade and offers a glimpse into Tanzania’s colonial past. The Olduvai Gorge, known as the Cradle of Mankind, is where some of the oldest human fossils were discovered. The Ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani, located on the southern coast of Tanzania, are an excellent example of Swahili architecture and culture.

Biking Routes

Tanzania has many biking routes that offer a unique way to explore the country. The Usambara Mountains, located in the northeast part of the country, offer great biking trails and stunning views. The Arusha National Park, located near Arusha, offers biking trails that take you through the park’s scenic landscapes. The Bagamoyo Old Town, located on the coast of Tanzania, is also a great place to explore on a bike.