Tanzania

Tanzania: general info for travelers

Tanzania is a country in East Africa, bordered by Kenya and Uganda to the north, Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west, and Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique to the south. It has a diverse landscape, including the African Great Lakes, Mount Kilimanjaro, and the Serengeti National Park, famous for its annual wildebeest migration. Tanzania has a rich cultural heritage, with over 120 ethnic groups. The official language is Swahili, with English being widely spoken. The economy is mainly based on agriculture, tourism, and mining. Tanzania is known for its wildlife, including the "Big Five" animals - lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Tanzania, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Tanzania: places to visit

Certainly! Tanzania offers many amazing destinations to visit, including: 1. Serengeti National Park - Serengeti National Park is the most famous wildlife reserve in Tanzania and one of the most visited parks in Africa. It is famous for its annual migration of wildebeest and other grazing herbivores, which is one of the world's most impressive natural spectacles.
2. Mount Kilimanjaro - Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa, and one of the world's highest freestanding mountains. Climbing Kilimanjaro is a popular adventure activity for visitors to Tanzania.
3. Ngorongoro Conservation Area - The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most beautiful areas in Africa. The main attraction is the Ngorongoro Crater, which is a massive, volcanic caldera that is home to a diverse array of wildlife and birds.
4. Zanzibar - Zanzibar is an archipelago off the coast of Tanzania and a true tropical paradise. The islands are known for their stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and historic Stone Town.
5. Lake Manyara National Park - Lake Manyara National Park is located in the northern part of Tanzania and offers visitors the chance to see a variety of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, hippos, and baboons. The park is also famous for its birdlife, with over 400 species recorded.
6. Tarangire National Park - Tarangire National Park is another great destination for wildlife enthusiasts, as it is home to large herds of elephants and other roaming herbivores.
7. Selous Game Reserve - Selous Game Reserve is Africa's largest game reserve and one of Tanzania's hidden gems. It is home to a vast array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, hippos, and crocodiles, and offers visitors a chance to experience a true wilderness safari.
There is more to see and do in Tanzania: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Tanzania: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Tanzania, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Tanzania has two dry seasons and two wet seasons. The dry seasons are from December to February and from June to October, while the wet seasons are from March to May and from November to December. If you are looking for good wildlife viewing, then it is best to visit Tanzania during the dry season, especially from June to October, when the animals gather around the water sources and are easier to spot. The weather during this period is usually sunny and warm, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68-86 degrees Fahrenheit). However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, with higher prices and more crowded parks. If you prefer to avoid the crowds and don't mind some occasional rain, then visiting during the shoulder season, from March to May or November to December, can be a good option. During this period, the landscapes are greener and the birdlife is more abundant, but some areas may be inaccessible due to flooding.

Tanzania: activities and what to do

Tanzania has a lot of activities and sports to offer to those looking for an adventure. Here are some of the popular activities and sports to do on holiday in Tanzania: 1. Safari - Tanzania is known for its wildlife, and a safari is a must-do activity. You can choose to go on a safari to Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Selous Game Reserve, or any of the other national parks in the country.
2. Mountain Climbing - Tanzania is home to Africa's highest mountain, Mt. Kilimanjaro. Climbing this mountain is an unforgettable experience, but it is not for the faint of heart. Other mountains to climb include Mt. Meru and the Usambara and Uluguru Mountains.
3. Beach - Tanzania has a long coastline with beautiful beaches. Some popular beaches are Zanzibar, Pemba Island, Mafia Island, and Dar es Salaam.
4. Scuba Diving - Tanzania has some of the best scuba diving spots in the world, including Mnemba Island, Mafia Island, and Pemba Island. You can see a wide variety of marine life, including dolphins and sharks.
5. Cultural Tours - Tanzania has a rich cultural heritage, and you can learn about the people and their ways of living through visiting the local tribes such as the Maasai and Hadzabe.
6. Fishing - If you love fishing, Tanzania has a lot to offer. You can go fishing in Lake Victoria or the Indian Ocean and catch species like marlins, sailfish, and tuna.
7. Rock Climbing - Tanzania has some of the best rock climbing sites in Africa, such as the Pare Mountains and Morogoro.
These are just a few examples of the activities and sports that you can do on a holiday in Tanzania. There is a lot to explore, and it all depends on your preferences and interests.

Tanzania: few words on history and culture

Tanzania is a country located in East Africa and is home to a diverse range of cultures and traditions. Its history can be traced back to the early tribes such as the Maasai and the Chagga, who still inhabit the country today.
In the 19th century, Tanzania was colonized by the Germans and later by the British until it gained its independence in 1961. Tanzania's history has played a significant role in shaping its culture that is a fusion of many indigenous elements and the customs of the colonialists.
The country has over 120 tribes, each with its unique cultural practices and dialects. Tanzanian culture is rich in music, dance, arts, and crafts, with many traditions being passed down from one generation to the next, such as the famous Makonde woodcarving.
Religion is also an essential aspect of Tanzania's culture, with the majority of the population being Christian and Muslim. Tanzania is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and the Stone Town of Zanzibar.
Overall, Tanzania's history and culture provide visitors with an opportunity to experience a wide range of traditions and customs that make it a unique and fascinating country to explore.

Tanzania: how to move around on holiday

The two main means of transport to reach Tanzania are by air or by land.
By Air: Tanzania has several airports, with the two main international airports being Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro International Airport in Arusha. Other airports include Zanzibar International Airport and Mwanza Airport. Several airlines operate flights to Tanzania, including Qatar Airways, Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, KLM, Turkish Airlines, and many more.
By Land: Traveling to Tanzania by land is possible, albeit time-consuming. Tanzania shares borders with several neighboring countries, including Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique. Buses are the most common mode of transport for traveling between neighboring countries.
Once you arrive in Tanzania, you can get around the country by domestic flights, buses, taxis, and rental cars. To hire a car to visit Tanzania, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Tanzania: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Tanzania with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the main traditional foods of Tanzania, along with a brief description: 1. Ugali: Ugali is the most common food in Tanzania. It is a starchy, dough-like dish that is made from maize flour and water. It is usually served with a meat stew, cooked vegetables or a sauce.
2. Chapati: Chapati is a type of flatbread that is made from wheat flour, water, and salt. It is eaten as a side dish with curries, stews, and other main courses.
3. Biryani: Biryani is a spiced rice dish that is typically made with meat or vegetables. It is seasoned with a blend of spices, including cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves.
4. Wali na maharage: Wali na maharage is a dish of rice and beans that is a staple in Tanzanian cuisine. The rice is cooked with spices, while the beans are boiled and then fried with tomato and onion.
5. Kachumbari: Kachumbari is a traditional Tanzanian salad made with chopped tomatoes, onions, and chilies. It is usually served as a side dish with grilled meat or fish.
6. Nyama choma: Nyama choma is a popular dish of roast meat, usually goat or beef. The meat is seasoned with a blend of spices and then slow-cooked over an open fire.
7. Ndizi nyama: Ndizi nyama is a dish of plantains cooked with a meat stew. It's usually served with rice.
These are just a few examples of the wide variety of delicious and flavorful foods you can enjoy in Tanzania!

Tanzania: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Tanzania can be an expensive country for tourists depending on the type of experience you want to have and the level of comfort you desire. For example, if you choose to stay in luxurious lodges or embark on safari tours, then you can expect to pay a higher price. However, there are also budget-friendly options available such as camping or staying in budget accommodations. Additionally, food and transportation costs can also vary depending on your preferences and choices. In summary, Tanzania can be both expensive and affordable for tourists depending on how you plan your trip.

Tanzania: where to find accodation

There are many options for finding accommodation in Tanzania. Here are some suggestions: 1. Online booking sites: Websites such as Booking.com and Airbnb offer a wide range of options for accommodation in Tanzania. You can filter your search by budget, location, amenities, and other preferences.
2. National and local tourism websites: Tanzania Tourism Board and other local tourist boards often have lists of recommended hotels, lodges, and other accommodations in different regions of the country.
3. Travel agencies and tour operators: Some travel agencies and tour operators offer accommodation as part of their packages. They may have access to exclusive deals and discounts.
4. Word of mouth: You can ask friends, family, and colleagues who have been to Tanzania for recommendations on accommodation that they particularly enjoyed.
Remember to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
You can check hotel prices in Tanzania here:
Booking.com

Tanzania: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Tanzania receives around 1.5 million to 2 million tourists annually. Generally, the peak season is from June to October when the great wildebeest migration takes place in the Serengeti National Park. During this period, some regions might get crowded, and it is advisable to book accommodations and tours well in advance. Additionally, December to February is another high season in Tanzania due to the Christmas and New Year holidays. On the other hand, March to May is the low season when visitor numbers are much lower due to the heavy rains.
Tanzania is generally a safe country for tourists. However, like any other country, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime. Some places to be cautious of include isolated and poorly lit areas, bus terminals, and crowded markets. It is also recommended to avoid the coastal region of Somalia due to ongoing conflict and piracy issues.
Additionally, it is important to be aware of any current political situations or demonstrations, as these can sometimes turn violent. It is always a good idea to stay informed about the current state of the country by checking official government travel advisories or consulting with your travel agent or hotel staff.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Tanzania on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Tanzania: events for tourists

Tanzania is a country full of amazing events and attractions. Here are some of the most interesting events for tourists in Tanzania: 1. Serengeti Great Migration: This is one of the most famous events in Tanzania. Millions of wildebeests, zebras and antelopes migrate from Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to Masai Mara Game Reserve in Kenya, in search of water and pasture.
2. Zanzibar International Film Festival: This festival is held annually in Stone Town, Zanzibar. It brings together filmmakers, artists, actors and film enthusiasts from all over the world to showcase their work and celebrate African cinema.
3. Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair: This is one of the largest trade fairs in East Africa, held annually in June in Dar es Salaam. It features exhibitions, product launches, trade deals and business conferences.
4. Kilimanjaro Marathon: This is an annual marathon held in Moshi, at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. It attracts runners from all over the world, and the challenging route offers stunning views of Africa's highest mountain.
5. Tanzania Safari Rally: This is an annual event held in Arusha, attracting rally racers from all over the world. It offers a unique way to experience the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Tanzania.
6. Mwaka Kogwa Festival: This festival takes place in Zanzibar, and celebrates the start of the Swahili New Year. It features music, dance, fireworks and traditional rituals.
These are just some of the many exciting events and attractions that Tanzania has to offer.

Tanzania: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Tanzania, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here's one possible itinerary for a two-week trip to Tanzania: Day 1-3: Arusha - Arrive in Arusha and get settled into your accommodations - Explore the town and visit local markets - Visit Arusha National Park for a day hike to Mount Meru Day 4-6: Tarangire National Park - Travel to Tarangire National Park and check into lodging within the park - Go on guided game drives to spot elephants, lions, giraffes, buffaloes, and more - Take a walking safari through the park with a local guide Day 7-9: Ngorongoro Conservation Area - Drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area and visit the Olduvai Gorge Museum on the way - Explore the crater floor, spotting wildlife such as lions, hyenas, elephants, and flamingos - Take a guided hike in the Ngorongoro Highlands to visit local villages and learn about traditional cultures Day 10-12: Serengeti National Park - Drive to Serengeti National Park and check into a mobile camp - Go on guided game drives to spot the famous "big five" animals: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinoceroses, and Cape buffaloes - Visit the Serengeti Visitor Center to learn more about the park's ecology and wildlife Day 13-14: Zanzibar Island - Fly to Zanzibar Island for some relaxation and beach time - Explore the historic old town of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site - Relax on the white sand beaches and go for a swim or snorkeling in the crystal clear waters This is just one possible itinerary, and there are many other parks and islands in Tanzania that offer different experiences. Be sure to do your research and consult with a travel agent to plan the perfect itinerary for your interests and preferences.

Tanzania: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Tanzania described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Arusha is a city located in the northeastern part of Tanzania, known as the "safari capital of Tanzania". It is situated at the foot of Mount Meru, and it is also a gateway to some of Tanzania's most ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Arusha
- Bagamoyo is a historic coastal town located in Tanzania, roughly 75 kilometers north of Dar es Salaam. It has a rich history as a center of cultural exchange and commerce between East Africa, Arabia, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bagamoyo
- Bukoba is a city located in the northwest region of Tanzania, on the shores of Lake Victoria. It is the capital of the Kagera Region and has a population of approximately 100,000 people. The city has ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bukoba
- Chalinze is a small town located in the eastern part of Tanzania, approximately 77 kilometers northwest of Dar es Salaam. It is situated along the A-7 highway, which serves as the main road linking Ta... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chalinze
- Dar es Salaam is the largest city in Tanzania and serves as the country's commercial and financial hub. Located on the east coast of Africa, it has a population of about 6 million people and is known ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dar es Salaam
- Dodoma is the capital city of Tanzania. Located in the central part of the country, it is surrounded by hills and is situated at an elevation of over 1,000 meters above sea level. It has a population ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dodoma
- Geita is a town located in the Geita Region of Tanzania, East Africa. It is situated on the eastern shore of the beautiful Lake Victoria, Africa's largest lake, and is approximately 90 kilometers from... CONTINUE here for a trip to Geita
- Handeni is a town located in northeastern Tanzania, in the Tanga region. It lies approximately 225 kilometers east of Arusha, the country's third largest city. The town serves as the administrative he... CONTINUE here for a trip to Handeni
- Iringa is a city in Tanzania located in the southern highlands region, with a population of approximately 160,000 people. It is the administrative capital of the Iringa region and a major transportati... CONTINUE here for a trip to Iringa
- Kibaha is a town in the eastern region of Tanzania, located approximately 40 kilometers west of Dar es Salaam. It is a growing commercial center and serves as the administrative seat for Kibaha Distri... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kibaha
- Kigoma is a town in western Tanzania located on the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika, which is the second deepest in the world. The town is the capital of the Kigoma Region and is a major port and tra... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kigoma
- Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano and the highest mountain in Africa, located in northern Tanzania near the border of Kenya. It has three distinct volcanic cones: Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira. Climbin... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kilimanjaro
- Kilosa is a district in the Morogoro Region of Tanzania, located in the central part of the country. It has a population of over 400,000 people and covers an area of approximately 15,000 square kilome... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kilosa
- Kondoa is a town and district located in the Dodoma Region of Tanzania, in East Africa. The district is predominantly rural, and is known for its rock paintings and archaeological sites. Kondoa is hom... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kondoa
- Lindi is a town located in the southeastern part of Tanzania, on the Indian Ocean coast. It is the capital of the Lindi Region and has a population of roughly 50,000 people. The town is known for its ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lindi
- Mafia Island is an island located off the coast of Tanzania, in the Indian Ocean. It is part of the Pwani Region and is known for its coral reefs, marine wildlife, and idyllic beaches. The island is p... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mafia Island
- Mbeya is a city located in southwest Tanzania, in the southern highlands region. It is the administrative capital of Mbeya region and it has a population of approximately 400,000 people. Mbeya is know... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mbeya
- Mgandu is a small town located in the Dodoma region of Tanzania, in East Africa. It has a population of around 10,000 inhabitants and is situated at an altitude of approximately 1,200 meters above sea... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mgandu
- Morogoro is a city located in central Tanzania. It is the capital of the Morogoro Region and is situated at the base of the Uluguru Mountains. The city has a population of approximately 315,866 people... CONTINUE here for a trip to Morogoro
- Moshi is a town located in the northern part of Tanzania, near the border with Kenya. It is situated at the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, which is the highest mountain in Africa. The town is known f... CONTINUE here for a trip to Moshi
- Mpanda is a small town located in the western part of Tanzania, near the border with Zambia. It is the administrative center of the Katavi Region and is situated on the eastern banks of the Katuma Riv... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mpanda
- Msowero is a village located in the Morogoro Region of Tanzania, East Africa. It is situated approximately 75 kilometers east of the city of Morogoro. The majority of people living in Msowero are farm... CONTINUE here for a trip to Msowero
- Mtwara is a port town located in the southeastern part of Tanzania. It is the capital of the Mtwara Region and has a population of approximately 100,000 people. The town is situated on the Indian Ocea... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mtwara
- Musoma is a city located in northern Tanzania, situated on the eastern shore of Lake Victoria. It is the capital of Mara Region and is home to approximately 130,000 people. Musoma is known for its nat... CONTINUE here for a trip to Musoma
- Mwanza is a city located in northwestern Tanzania, on the southern shores of Lake Victoria. It is the second-largest city in Tanzania and serves as the capital of the Mwanza region. The city is known ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mwanza
- Pemba is an island located off the coast of Tanzania, in East Africa. It is part of the Zanzibar Archipelago, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. Pemba is a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pemba
- Same is a small town located in the Kilimanjaro region of Tanzania, situated at an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters above sea level. It is surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges and is known fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Same
- Shinyanga is a city in northern Tanzania, located in the Shinyanga Region. It is the administrative center of the Shinyanga district and is home to over 150,000 people. The city is situated in a regio... CONTINUE here for a trip to Shinyanga
- Singida is a town located in central Tanzania, surrounded by a vast system of mountains and hills. It is the capital of the Singida Region and is located approximately 740 kilometres away from Dar es ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Singida
- Sumbawanga is a town located in the south-western region of Tanzania. It is the capital of Rukwa Region and is situated on the banks of the Lwiche River. This area of Tanzania is known for its natural... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sumbawanga
- Tabora is a city in central Tanzania, located approximately 400 km west of the country's capital, Dar es Salaam. It is the capital of Tabora Region and has a population of around 226,000 people. The c... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tabora
- Tanga is a port city located on the northern coast of Tanzania, situated on the Indian Ocean. It is the largest city in the Tanga Region and is known for its historic buildings, natural attractions su... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tanga
- Tunduma is a small town located in the southwestern part of Tanzania, near the border with Zambia. It is the capital of the Songwe Region and is situated at an altitude of about 1,400 meters above sea... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tunduma
- Ushirombo is a small town located in the Geita region of Tanzania, found in the northern part of the country. It is situated roughly 80 kilometers northwest of Mwanza, one of the largest cities in Tan... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ushirombo
- Zanzibar is a Tanzanian archipelago off the coast of East Africa. It is located in the Indian Ocean and comprises of two main islands, Unguja (commonly referred to as Zanzibar Island) and Pemba Island... CONTINUE here for a trip to Zanzibar


Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: