Tanzania boasts some of Africa’s most renowned national parks and natural wonders, with the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro among its treasures. As a result, safaris and wildlife adventures reign as the top attractions, drawing countless visitors to the country.
Tanzania offers a comprehensive vacation experience like no other. It hosts numerous of Africa’s premier tourist destinations, boasting unparalleled variety and quality that cater to every traveler’s desires.
Tanzania truly is a diverse and captivating African travel destination, which makes it difficult to pick out just 10 must-see tourist attractions, but in this article, Mrpocu.com will list top tourist attractions in Tanzania you should add to your bucket list.
Best Tourist Attractions In Tanzania
Serengeti National Park
Arguably Tanzania’s most visited tourist destination, the Serengeti National Park is one of the best places in Africa to watch animals. It is a component of the larger ecosystem, which encompasses the Kenyan regions of Simiyu and Mara. Acacia trees, savanna grasslands, woodlands, and tiny forests make up the park. The massive yearly migration amazing activities are available in Tanzania. One of the best wildlife spectacles in the world may be found both inside and outside the Serengeti.
More than a million wildebeest and two hundred thousand zebras traverse the Serengeti and cross the Mara River into Kenya during this migration. They face many difficulties, including crossing lion territory and waterways tainted with crocodiles. Elephants, buffaloes, cheetahs, giraffes, impala, hyenas, elands, gazelles, ostriches, and wild dogs can all be seen in the Serengeti when on safari. Go for the hot air balloon experience if you can afford it. It’s crucial to schedule your vacation during particular months because the animals roam a lot during the dry season.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is situated 180 kilometers from the city of Arusha, near to the Serengeti. Ranked among the world’s ten greatest natural wonders, it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was formerly a part of the Serengeti National Park, but management of it as a distinct wildlife conservation area was decided. The main attraction of Tanzania is a sizable volcanic caldera or crater that serves as a natural barrier, keeping the majority of Africa’s well-known animals in one area.
The animals do not travel as often as those of the Serengeti because of this barrier of protection and year-round water. They are expected to be spotted by visitors all year round. Lions, black rhinos, leopards, elephants, flamingos, and buffaloes are the creatures to be on the lookout for. Savannah grasslands, saline lakes, forests, and volcanic features are all part of the diverse landscape. The government has granted permission for the Masai tribesmen to maintain their way of life and care for their homes within the conservation area, thereby providing opportunities for tourists to come into contact with them.
Olduvai Gorge
The larger Ngorongoro conservation area includes the Olduvai Gorge. It is the location of some of the earliest human fossils discovered. It is sometimes referred to as the cradle of mankind because of this. The location is situated atop a group of fault lines that erosion has exposed, enabling scientists to uncover fossils dating back millions of years. A German professor made the initial fossil discovery in 1911 while searching the region for butterflies.
Later, during more thorough explorations in the region, the Leakey family discovered bones and pieces of skulls thought to be roughly 2 million years old. Hunting weapons and other objects that date back one to 1.5 million years were also discovered by the Leakey family. The footprints of a woman, a man, and a child that are thought to be over a million years old are maybe the biggest discovery. The evidence provided by these artifacts and bones is sufficient to demonstrate that some of the earliest known humans resided in Tanzania and the Olduvai Gorge.
Kikuletwa Hot Springs
Kikuletwa Hotsprings is another serene location worth seeing. These hot springs, which are practically an oasis in the jungle, are situated between Arusha and Moshi.
Because of its stunning blue hue, the Kikuletwa hot springs are ideal for Instagram photos. They’re ideal for unwinding, swimming, and spending time in nature. This is a true hidden treasure that not many people are aware of.
Julius Nyerere National Park
Approximately 5% of Tanzania is covered by Julius Nyerere National Park, which was originally known as Selous Game Reserve. It was the largest game reserve in Africa. It had been designated as a game reserve since the 1920s, and parts of it are still off-limits to people. Naturally, it is no longer a game reserve and is now a National Park.
The breathtaking Julius Nyerere National Park is home to over 350 known species. When on vacation, it’s worthwhile to dedicate a day to visiting this area.
Ruaha National Park
Ruaha is located in Iringa’s western region. With a total area of almost 13,000 square kilometers, it is Tanzania’s largest national park. Ruaha is a component of a larger ecosystem that also consists of two smaller protected reserves, Rungwa Game Reserve, and Usangu Game Reserve. The River Ruaha is the source of the name of Tanzania Park’s top tourist destination. Because it sustains plants and animals, especially during the extended dry seasons, this river is crucial to the ecosystem.
Along the river’s banks, animals congregate to drink, making for fantastic wildlife viewing. The majority of the nation’s electricity is also provided by the Ruaha River. The big prides of lions, elephants, and wild dogs are the main draws of Ruaha National Park. There are also cheetahs, giraffes, impalas, bat-eared foxes, zebras, jackals, and leopards that frequent the park. Because the park is less congested than the Serengeti, it provides top-notch private safari experiences. It is possible to get a distinctive wilderness experience, which is extremely uncommon in today’s world. Ruaha is accessible by plane to the airfield in the park or by automobile via Iringa.
Mount Kilimanjaro
Unlike other parks in northern Tanzania, people travel to Mount Kilimanjaro National Park not so much to see the wildlife as to marvel at this stunning snow-capped mountain and, for many, to ascend to its peak. Although it is possible to climb Mount Kilimanjaro year-round, the optimum time to do it is during the dry season, which runs from late June to October.
A World Heritage Site, Kilimanjaro was created by volcanic action along the Rift Valley more than a million years ago. About 750,000 years ago, three volcanic cones, Shira, Kibo, and Mawenzi, formed. Uhuru Peak atop Kibo, one of the Seven Summits of the globe, is the highest peak.
The mountain rises from farming on the lower level to an alpine meadow and rainforest, and at the peaks is a desolate lunar scene. Eland, buffaloes, leopards, monkeys, and elephants live in the rainforest’s slopes. Predator birds are abundant in the alpine zone, making it a popular spot for bird watchers.
Bagamoyo
It is highly recommended that you visit Bagamoyo if you are interested in learning more about Tanzania’s past. The stunning coastal town of Bagamoyo was established in the 1700s and is rich in history. We suggest including a visit to Bagamoyo in your schedule if you would like to learn more about Tanzania while you are there.
Since slaves were transported from Bagamoyo to Zanzibar, you will also have ample opportunity to learn about the slave trade that took place there while you are there.
Zanzibar
Zanzibar, an exotic island kingdom once known for its slave traders and fishermen, has transformed itself into a bustling tourism hub. It exudes culture and history within Stone Town, which contrasts with its picturesque landscape of white-sand beaches and gently swaying coconut palms. However, it is this very diversity that renders Zanzibar such an appealing and multifaceted destination to explore both on land and underwater. It also serves as a dream destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.
For affluent travelers seeking unparalleled luxury, the ultimate destination is the exclusive satellite island of Mnemba, situated off the northeastern coast of Zanzibar. Hosting just one exclusive lodge managed by &Beyond, Mnemba epitomizes the epitome of tropical island beach-chic luxury. However, for the majority of visitors, there exists a plethora of options—approximately 800 hotels, beach resorts, guesthouses, and other accommodations—available on the main island. It’s worth noting that Zanzibar is not the ideal destination for those seeking solitude, as it is frequented by numerous tourists.
Zanzibar Beaches
Tanzania’s top vacation spot, Zanzibar Island, commonly known as Unguja, is renowned for its stunning beaches.
This island, which is a part of the Zanzibar archipelago together with the islands of Pemba and Zanzibar, boasts some of the world’s greatest beaches. There are beautiful white beaches, clear shallow water, and traditional boats lining the coast, albeit the surf fluctuates depending on which side of the island you are on.
The island offers some amazing lodging alternatives, including apartments with exquisite dining, pools, and luxurious amenities. The brand-new Emerald Zanzibar Resort & Spa in Matemwe, which has 250 suites, four restaurants, a private beach, a protected coral, and an amazing pool area, is among the best. It is located on Muyuni Beach. In the center of Zanzibar sits the historic city of Stone Town, which is well-known for its bustling port, winding lanes, and ancient Arabian mansions.
Lake Manyara National Park
The breathtaking Lake Manyara National Park is made up of grasslands, wetlands, woodlands, and forests. Water covers two-thirds of the park, and Lake Manyara is home to thousands of flamingos during certain seasons of the year in addition to a variety of other birds.
The abundance of elephants, lions that climb trees, and hippos—all of which can be seen up close compared to other parks—are the main attractions of Lake Manyara Park. The world’s highest baboon concentration can be found in this park. The most well-liked activities in Lake Manyara National Park include bird watching, mountain bike rides, wildlife drives, and canoeing (when water levels are high enough).
Mafia Island
International divers and snorkelers flock to Mafia Island to explore the underwater environment, which is safeguarded by the Mafia Island Marine Park. While May through October offers the finest weather on Mafia Island, October through March is the best month for diving. April and March have a lot of rain. There are coral gardens, a wide variety of fish, and a laid-back diving atmosphere in the stunning Mafia Island Marine Park. There are more than 400 species of fish and countless birds can be spotted in the region. Mafia Island serves as a conventional nesting location for the endangered green turtle. The island is one of the best places to visit in Tanzania.
Deep-sea fishing, particularly for big-game fish like sailfish, marlin, and tuna, is highly sought-after in the Mafia. The first people to settle on this idyllic island were in the eighth or ninth century, but the Mafia didn’t really take off until the twelfth or fourteenth century, when it was strategically located along the East African trade routes.
Mikumi
There are so many national parks in Tanzania, and Mikumi is one of the most popular ones that draw large numbers of visitors. Mikumi is home to a wide variety of species, such as buffalo, elephants, zebras, and more.
Mikumi is the greatest national park in Tanzania to visit if you want to see lions. In particular, tree-climbing lions—you have the best chance of sighting them in Tanzania at this National Park.
Thus, a visit is highly recommended!
Tarangire National Park
Founded in 1970, Tarangire National Park is an excellent place to see animals. The best time to visit is between July and September, during the dry season when the animals congregate along the river.
Tarangire National Park features one of the biggest concentrations of migratory animals throughout the dry season. Lagoons teeming with gazelles, buffalo, impala, wildebeest, zebra, and eland. The park is well-known for its abundance of baobab trees and its herd of elephants that roam the grassy grounds.
With over 300 kinds of birds identified in Tarangire, the park is a great place to go birdwatching. Buzzards, vultures, herons, storks, kites, falcons, and eagles are some of these species.
Pemba Island
Pemba Island stands as the northernmost gem within the Zanzibar archipelago. Encircling Pemba are numerous secluded isles, offering some of the finest scuba diving experiences in the Indian Ocean, boasting unparalleled visibility. Beneath the waves lies a mesmerizing world of coral gardens, vibrant sponges, and elegant sea fans, creating an underwater sanctuary. Serving as the primary hub of Pemba, the city of Chake Chake attracts many scuba enthusiasts.
Compared to its more frequented neighbor Zanzibar, Pemba exudes a serene ambiance. Its terrain is characterized by rolling hills and deep valleys, attracting avid mountain bikers to its 1,000-meter peaks. Offshore, the unmissable Misali Island Beach awaits, an exquisite stretch of white sand nestled on a pristine tropical isle uninhabited by humans.
Pemba is globally renowned for its significant role in clove production and its rich heritage of traditional medicine and magic, often referred to as “juju” traditions. Individuals from across East Africa flock to the island to study under voodoo practitioners and traditional healers, seeking remedies and insights into ancient healing practices.
Katavi National Park
One of the nation’s most pristine and untamed bush settings, Katavi National Park is wild and isolated and offers breathtaking scenery and an abundance of species. Due to its restricted accessibility, the 4,471km2/1,726mi2 park can be somewhat expensive to visit. Few individuals take the time to get here as a result. Though the well-known Serengeti may receive up to 125,000 people annually, the isolated Katavi receives only a few of courageous explorers.
If you have the time and money, this is the greatest of wild Africa, and it’s a place you should check out. In Tanzania’s third largest national park, there aren’t many big, luxurious safari camps, so on a game drive, you’ll probably see more pride of lions than people.
Mahale Mountains
Located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, the captivating Mahale Mountains National Park offers breathtaking views and up-close interactions with chimpanzees who have become accustomed to their surroundings. In the backdrop, white-sand beaches are lapped by the glistening waves of Lake Tanganyika, while Mount Nkungwe’s mist-covered top stands guard. Many ardent safari enthusiasts consider 1,613km2/623mi2 Mahale to be Tanzania’s most remote park, but it’s also one of its most captivating due to its lack of road access.
For the majority of tourists, the 60-strong Mimikere or “M” group of chimpanzees—whose studies have been conducted by Japanese researchers for more than 40 years—is the holy grail. Even if we are a habitual bunch, it can be difficult to locate our closest kin. The final payoff is well worth the difficulties in getting there, but be ready for some hot, strenuous climbs through deep foliage.
Stone Town
Not much has changed in Stone Town, Zanzibar’s cultural center, in the past 200 years. The city has a distinct appeal all its own because of the magnificent old Arabian houses that line the twisting alleys and tiny streets. When Zanzibar was one of the most significant Swahili trading towns in the Indian Ocean, the majority of the houses in Stone Town were constructed in the 19th century. Many of the houses have beautifully carved wooden doors that are adorned with bras, which are noticeable to guests.
Many of Stone Town’s landmarks have been brought back to its former splendor, making it the oldest continuously operating Swahili city in the world. Several of the old structures are now tourist destinations and museums. There are also a few intriguing, historically significant old churches in the town. The old Stone Town neighborhood, which houses the Anglican Cathedral, Beit el-Amani, City Hall, and the Darajani Market, may be reached by strolling down Creek Road.
Selous Game Reserve
Africa’s largest game reserve is called Selous. It was founded in 1922 and makes up about 5% of Tanzania’s total land area. The southern region, which is underdeveloped, densely forested, and home to several precipitous cliffs, is off-limits. It is only possible to travel to the region north of the Rufiji River. Large open grasslands, forests, rivers, hills, and plains can be found in this region of the Selous Game Reserve. July through October is the ideal time of year to travel.
The Selous Game Reserve is intersected by the Rufiji River, boasting the largest catchment area of any river in East Africa. This river serves as a vital component of the reserve, offering opportunities to observe a variety of water-based wildlife. The reserve is home to a wide array of animals, such as elephants, hippos, rhinos, buffalo, antelope, giraffe, warthog, wildebeest, lion, leopard, and cheetah. Additionally, Selous is renowned for its rich avian diversity, with over 350 recorded bird species inhabiting the area.
Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park, though smaller in size compared to many others in Tanzania, encompasses diverse habitats including the forested slopes of Mount Meru, the Ngurdoto Crater located in the southeast section, and the Momella Lakes, a cluster of seven crater lakes. The forested area is a prime spot for observing black and white Colobus monkeys, while the marshy floor of the crater is frequented by herds of buffalo, zebra, and warthog. The Momella Lakes attract a variety of resident and migratory waterbirds. Visitors are drawn to the park not only for its wildlife viewing opportunities but also for the chance to climb Mount Meru.
Mount Meru stands as one of the most breathtaking volcanoes in Africa and ranks as the second-highest mountain in Tanzania. Its summit is accessed via a narrow ridge, offering awe-inspiring vistas of the volcanic cone nestled thousands of feet below within the crater. While the ascent is steep, the route traverses through diverse landscapes including parkland, forest, a vast expanse of giant heather, and moorland.