Tanzania has that special magic about it. The kind that wraps you in its tendrils before your feet have even touched the ground. You’ve probably seen the viral videos of lion cubs playing on the sun-drenched savannah, right? The beaches are so postcard-perfect that you start to wonder if they’re even real. But don’t just take our words for it. Take a peek and discover the real thing for yourself.
The world has been flocking to Africa for a reason. Tanzania never fails to deliver, whether you’re wildlife spotting in untouched parks or cruising the lively ocean in a dhow.
There are so many places to visit in Tanzania! In fact, there are too many to name in one article. Each one has its own rush, culture, and magic. Here are our best tips and travel suggestions to help you figure out where to explore the country in its wildest and most beautiful forms!
1. Serengeti National Park
Covering a large area of northern Tanzania in a sea of gold, the Serengeti is alive. Every day in this park is about migration, hunting, and survival. There is no better way to take in an African safari than right here, in Tanzania. The Serengeti is considered one of the best places to visit in Tanzania. If you’re lucky, you can see all the big five animals here. You can do a walking safari, a Bush lunch, and a hot-air balloon ride, where you can see the animals in aerial view.
More than that, there are two crucial moments in Serengeti: calving season, when new wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles are born in the south Serengeti (Ndutu Area) from January to early March, where February is the best time. Another significant moment in the Serengeti is the wildebeest migration. If you visit from June to October, you can see the Great Migration in full swing. Photographers and nature lovers alike flock here to see the purest form of nature in the wild. In the country, there is no better place than this.
2. Ngorongoro Conservation Area
UNESCO World Heritage Site for a reason, Ngorongoro enchants travellers with a cocktail of wildlife, ancient topography, and views born from millions of years of earthly evolution. At the centre of it all is Ngorongoro Crater, a massive volcanic basin home to all the Big Five safari animals (lions, buffalo, elephants, leopards, rhinos) in Africa. This crater is a self-contained ecosystem, a heaven for explorers. Guests also love discovering its hills, lush forests, and incredible diversity of bird species. Ngorongoro will remain one of the most inspiring and biodiverse places in Tanzania to discover.
3. Mount Kilimanjaro: The Roof of Africa
Mount Kilimanjaro is a natural wonder that towers over the plains of northern Tanzania. It has a staggering 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level and is one of the most recognisable and stunning places to visit in Tanzania. Celebrated as the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest free-standing mountain in the world, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a journey through 5 different ecological zones. Starting with lush rainforests and colobus monkeys, then heath and moorland, and alpine deserts. Climbers must pause to catch their breath and take it all in with each landscape change. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a deeply satisfying and bucket-list highlight of Tanzania.
4. Tarangire National Park
Tarangire National Park is world-renowned for its sprawling savannah and soaring baobab trees. Adventurers and photographers will love exploring the meandering river valleys and open woodlands, taking in views of herds of elephants drifting by during game drives. Birdwatchers, families, and solo explorers alike are also in awe of this crowd-free environment. Its silent beauty has made it one of Tanzania’s most sought-after destinations for visitors seeking a slower, more soulful safari. Visit Tarangire National Park on its own or pair it with other safari destinations.
5. Zanzibar Archipelago: A Turquoise Horizon
Taken a trip to one of the most beautiful places on the planet? The Zanzibar Archipelago is a unique blend of marine and tropical life, history, and vibrant colour. It’s the number one place for trips in a dhow (local boat), nature walks, Stone Town tours, and snorkelling. Zanzibar is ideal for honeymooners, families, and solo travellers who love the sea and all the beauty surrounding it.
6. Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara is one of Tanzania’s most famous landmarks. Bursting with a peaceful yet spirited welcome to safari, it’s a destination of beautiful scenery, wildlife, and culture. Lake Manyara is known for its lush groundwater forests, sparkling lakeshore, and open country. With pink flamingos dotting the lake’s shores in shades of pale pink, hippos chilling in calm waters, and monkeys swinging from tree to tree, Lake Manyara offers a perfect harmony of gentle yet vibrant beauty. June to October is the ideal time to visit Lake Manyara National Park. Wildlife congregates at the lake during this time.
7. Nyerere National Park
Named after Tanzania’s founding father, Nyerere National Park overflows with wildlife, from awe-inspiring lions patrolling the flat savannahs to wild dogs on the hunt in family packs. Formerly Selous Game Reserve, the park’s waterways mirror the surrounding lush greenery and life, creating a contrast of peaceful yet riotous atmosphere. Visitors on a Tanzanian vacation will love booking a boat safari on the Rufiji River to spot hippos, birds, and elephants wallowing in its waters. You genuinely feel connected to nature’s rhythm in every moment.
8. Olduvai Gorge: Humanity’s First Footprints
One of the most important archaeological sites in the world, this destination is affectionately called the “Cradle of Mankind” for a reason. It was the site of some of the most pivotal discoveries in the history of early man. Students, historians, and photographers all love visiting destinations like Olduvai that are rich with a meaning that runs deeper than the soil itself. For many visitors, it becomes an unforgettable stop, a pilgrimage that adds a new dimension to their Tanzania experience.
9. Lake Tanganyika
Visiting one of the oldest and deepest freshwater lakes in the world will leave you awash in the magic of nature’s most raw and beautiful beauty. Lake Tanganyika is one of the most unique and remarkable places to go in Tanzania. So clear are the waters, snorkelers can spot aquatic species found nowhere else on earth. Adventure seekers and researchers often flock to the lake to bear witness to its diverse, unique biodiversity. Sunset cruises and lakeside bonfires make the nights just as memorable as the days. Every moment at Lake Tanganyika feels like a private step into nature’s most secluded nook.Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
10. Arusha National Park
Arusha is the safari capital of Tanzania, and where most travellers coming to start their Tanzania safari arrive. It’s also known as the gateway to the famous northern circuit and offers an easy entryway to the country’s most famous parks and landscapes. Arusha National Park is just outside the city itself. The diverse landscape from woodlands to hills creates a unique atmosphere for peaceful wildlife viewing. Travellers who prefer a bit of quiet exploration will love the beauty of this place.
11. Mafia Island: Quiet Island Bliss
Sunset dhow cruises, bonfires on the beach, and nights filled with stars are just one way to describe Mafia Island. The island itself is one of Tanzania’s most well-known spots for marine life, a quiet and spectacular world under the water. It has one of the richest ecosystems in all of East Africa. On land, Mafia Island enchants travellers with quaint fishing villages and pristine natural trails. This destination is great for solo travellers and families that like to avoid the crowds. Mafia Island is a must if you want to enjoy a quiet Tanzanian vacation bliss.
12. Dar es Salaam
A coastal city and Tanzania’s largest. It’s home to some of Africa’s best beaches, like Coco Beach and Mbudya Island, and art markets and museums. Many explorers will start or end their Tanzania journey here. Its ferry terminal provides easy access to other islands in Tanzania, such as Zanzibar. It is also one of the best places to go in Tanzania for a more urban setting, as couples, solo adventurers, and even business travellers find it a worthwhile stop along their safari journey. Dar es Salaam is one of the most vibrant coastal cities in Tanzania.
Is It Safe To Go On A Safari In Tanzania?
Yes, safaris in Tanzania, Africa, are very safe and well-regulated. All the popular parks mentioned are well patrolled and closely monitored by rangers and armed security personnel to ensure the safety of both visitors and wildlife. The Tanzania safari operators all use trained guides who know animal behaviour, follow safe routes, and encourage responsible viewing distances and behaviour at all times. Parks are also fenced in most of the night when the animals might wander close to roads and campsites. Lodges are also protected and safe at night for both wildlife and visitors.
Even with guaranteed safety, we still ask our travellers to follow all instructions from their guides and staff, remain in their vehicles at all times during game drives, and never walk alone in unfenced parks.
Which Safari Is The Best In Tanzania?
The best safari in Tanzania depends on the kind of experience you are looking for. For many, the Serengeti National Park is their favourite. This place in Tanzania is one of the most famous in the world for the Great Migration, endless savannah, and some of the best big-cat sightings in Africa. If that’s the “endless savannah” adventure you are searching for, then Serengeti is your best bet.
For a more dramatic and enclosed experience, Ngorongoro Crater is another top destination. Its bowl-shaped landscape forms a complete sanctuary for the Big Five. If you are looking for a less-crowded safari, Tarangire National Park has incredible elephant herds and a more intimate, quiet atmosphere.
These are only some of the most incredible places to visit in Tanzania. Each one has its own special brand of magic, but together they make Tanzania one of the world’s most iconic wildlife-viewing and travel destinations.
Why Tanzania Belongs On Your Bucket List
Africa has long been one of the most spectacular continents in the world. With ancient landscapes that speak to a time before man, every sunrise is a work of art. From the seemingly never-ending plains of the Serengeti to the crater walls of Ngorongoro, the snow-capped summit of Mount Kilimanjaro to the blue shores of Zanzibar, each location has its own special brand of wonder.
Be it adventure, culture, relaxation, or discovery, you are sure to find moments that stay with you long after you leave. With fertile parks, hospitable people, and incomparable landscapes, it’s no wonder so many of Tanzania’s best places to visit have become global bucket-list legends.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Is The Most Appropriate Time To Visit Tanzania?
Like choosing a destination in Tanzania, the most appropriate time will depend on your interests. June to October are the most recommended months for a classic wildlife safari, when game animals are at their best. November to March is the best time to visit Tanzania to avoid crowds and enjoy a more scenic view. At this time of the year, birds are easier to spot, and the calving season is in full swing.
2. Is Tanzania safe for tourists?
Yes. Tanzania has been among the safest countries in East Africa for travel, with exceptionally well-structured safari areas such as Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Nyerere National Park. All of which are on our list of top places to visit in Tanzania. You should, however, never walk alone at night in cities or leave your valuables in a hotel room when you don’t follow your guide’s instructions.
3. Do I need a visa to enter Tanzania?
The majority of international travellers need a tourist visa to enter Tanzania. Tanzania offers e-visas and visas on arrival for most nationalities, but as always, it is worth checking the latest requirements before you travel. Your passport should have at least 6 months of validity beyond your date of entry.
4. How many days do I need for a Tanzania safari?
A typical safari is 5-10 days, depending on how many parks you want to visit. Shorter safaris usually focus on Serengeti and Ngorongoro, whereas longer safaris often include Tarangire, Lake Manyara, or Nyerere National Park. Whatever you have planned, whether it is climbing Kilimanjaro or visiting Zanzibar, it’s always better to allow more days.
