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Tanzania is a country in East Africa known for the beauty of its terrains, animals and culture. There is something for everyone in Tanzania, from the sandy beaches of Zanzibar to the iconic Serengeti grasslands. Whether you are an adventurer, a history buff or a naturalist, this place will amaze you. In this blog, hold on as we explore some of the best places to visit in Tanzania and provide information about the suitable time to visit, what to see, and more. Prepare to see the beauty of this amazing nation.
Top 10 Places To Visit In Tanzania
There are many places to visit in Tanzania, from the iconic Serengeti and majestic Mount Kilimanjaro to the tranquil beaches of Zanzibar and the cultural richness of Arusha.
1. Serengeti National Park
Photo: Grahampurse / Wikimedia Commons
The Serengeti National Park is one of the world’s greatest wildlife reserves. With vast savannahs and wildlife, it is the perfect safari destination. The park is also the site of the Great Migration, where numerous wildebeest, zebras and gazelles migrate across the grasslands to find better grass. Visitors can also experience sightings of lions and cheetahs, and it is the home of wildlife enthusiasts. Birders might spot ostriches, secretary birds and vultures.
Location: Northern Tanzania
Best Time To Visit: June to October (for wildlife viewing)
Major Attractions: Annual wildebeest migration, spotting Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, rhino), and hot air balloon safaris
2. Mount Kilimanjaro
Photo: Muhammad Mahdi Karim / Wikimedia Commons
Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest peak in Africa, is a magnet for hikers around the world. Its ice-covered summit, even at the equator, is a spectacular sight. The mountain has multiple trekking trails for everyone from the beginner to expert trekkers. In the process, hikers can traverse environments ranging from dense rainforests with rare plants and animals to alpine deserts offering panoramic views. There is nothing more exhilarating than acclimatising to the top of Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak. Even those who are not willing to ascend the peak can enjoy day hikes and cultural visits to nearby Chagga villages.
Location: Kilimanjaro Region
Best Time To Visit: January to March or June to October
Major Attractions: Summit trekking, lush rainforest trails, and stunning views
3. Zanzibar Archipelago
Photo: Ceri Shipton / Wikimedia Commons
Zanzibar is a tropical paradise, both relaxing and culturally rich. Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, fascinates tourists with its alleyways, historic buildings and bustling markets. The archipelago’s beaches, such as Nungwi and Kendwa, are made of granulated sand and crystal-clear water — ideal for snorkelling and diving. They can even visit spice farms, which educate visitors about Zanzibar’s history as a spice trade centre. The hospitable welcome of the locals and fresh seafood also add to the charm.
Location: Off the coast of Tanzania
Best Time To Visit: June to October or December to February
Major Attractions: Stone Town, Nungwi Beach, and spice farms
4. Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Photo: Bjørn Christian Tørrissen / Wikimedia Commons
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. The lush bottom of the crater is full of wildlife – lions, elephants, rhinos – so game-viewing is ideal. With its geography and biodiversity, it is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa. Its visitors are able to communicate with the Maasai people who live alongside wildlife on the reserve. Visiting the Olduvai Gorge, which has been the subject of important archaeological finds, provides historical and learning value to the tour. The scenery here is unsurpassed and includes both the mountains and arid regions.
Location: Northern Tanzania
Best Time To Visit: June to October
Major Attractions: Ngorongoro Crater and Maasai villages
5. Lake Manyara National Park
Photo: Gaurav Pandit / Wikimedia Commons
Lake Manyara National Park is a small but extensive reserve known for its tree-climbing lions and flamingo herds. Its soda lake hosts a diverse array of birds, and it is a favourite of birdwatchers. The park also houses hippos, elephants and giraffes. Game drives through the park’s dense forests are a delight, and the Rift Valley escarpment offers spectacular views. Canoe safaris on Lake Manyara offer a different side to the wildlife in the park. This little gem is a must for visitors looking for a less busy alternative to Tanzania’s major parks.
Location: Northern Tanzania
Best Time To Visit: July to October
Major Attractions: Tree-climbing lions, flamingo-covered lakes, game drives
6. Selous Game Reserve, Nyerere National Park
Photo: Erasmus Kamugisha / Wikimedia Commons
One of Africa’s biggest and most pristine reserves is the Selous Game Reserve (which is now part of Nyerere National Park). It provides exotic safaris along the Rufiji River, where you see crocodiles, hippos and water birds. A great number of elephants, lions and wild dogs roam the park as well. Because of its pristine position and wilderness, it feels very special. There are also nature tours led by professional guides and fly camping in the wilderness. This park is a perfect destination for travellers who wish to behold the wild natural wonders of Tanzania.
Location: Southern Tanzania
Best Time To Visit: June to October
Major Attractions: River safaris, large elephant populations, untouched wilderness
7. Ruaha National Park
Photo: Richard Mortel / Wikimedia Commons
Ruaha National Park is an underrated sanctuary with wild wildlife and rugged terrains. The park is home to the biggest elephants in Tanzania and an ideal location for predators such as lions and leopards. Its remoteness ensures a journey away from the crowds. Ruaha’s baobab trees provide an impressive background for game viewing, and the Great Ruaha River is a haven for animals during the dry season. There are more than 570 bird species in the park that birdwatchers will delight in.
Location: Central Tanzania
Best Time To Visit: June to October
Major Attractions: Elephants and baobab trees
8. Tarangire National Park
Photo: xorge / Wikimedia Commons
Tarangire National Park is also famed for the dramatic scenery that is scattered with ancient baobab trees and elephant herds. There is an abundance of wildlife around the Tarangire River in the dry season, a prime area for game viewing. It’s also a birder’s paradise, with more than 500 species identified in the park. Walking safaris and night drives are also available for guests to see the nightlife of the park in its own idiosyncratic way. Its remoteness and multitude of experiences make Tarangire an amazing stop on any safari trip.
Location: Northern Tanzania
Best Time To Visit: June to October
Major Attractions: Baobab trees, large herds of elephants, and migratory birds
9. Mafia Island
Photo: Nina R / Wikimedia Commons
Mafia Island is a marine lover’s paradise, offering spectacular diving and snorkelling adventures. The surrounding ocean, which is part of a marine park, is full of coral reefs and colourful marine life. For most visitors, the opportunity to swim with gentle whale sharks is a must. Beyond the water, the island’s unspoiled beaches and fishing villages offer a soothing break. Archaic ruin sites, like Chole Island, give it a cultural flavour. Mafia Island is just the spot for those who want to have fun and have fun while being in a quiet environment.
Location: Southern Tanzania
Best Time To Visit: October to March (for diving)
Major Attractions: Whale sharks, coral reefs, marine life
10. Arusha
Photo: Phase9 / Wikimedia Commons
Arusha’s the entry point to most of the northern highlights, but it’s a destination in its own right. It’s easier to summit Meru than Kilimanjaro and equally spectacular. Arusha’s cultural tours tell you about the culture, and visits to coffee plantations show you the area’s agricultural heritage. The nearby Arusha National Park is a great place to go for game drives and canoeing. The city has its own unique markets and bustling streets, which make it one of the best tourist attractions in Tanzania to explore its culture and life.
Location: Northern Tanzania
Best Time To Visit: June to October
Major Attractions: Mount Meru, cultural heritage tours, and coffee plantations
Tanzania is a place to behold that cannot be overlooked for its spectacular beauty and culture. From adventure safaris to relaxing beaches, these Tanzania tourist places have everything you can ever wish for. Every moment you experience, whether on the Serengeti grasslands, Mount Kilimanjaro or relaxing in Zanzibar, is unforgettable. Plan your trip to this East African jewel with TripXL and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Cover Photo: Hendrik Cornelissen / Unsplash
