Tanzania

Why

Tanzania is a treasure trove of natural wonders and cultural experiences, located in East Africa, it is home to some of the most pristine wildlife sanctuaries, including the iconic Serengeti National Park, where you can witness the “Great Mammal Migration” and spot the famous “Big Five”.

Boasting the second highest mountain in the world - Kilimanjaro, a massive volcanic crater at Ngorongoro, and stunning white beaches with warm waters on the island of Zanzibar.

Zanzibar is known for coral reefs, which remain well-preserved, and pleasant weather. The islands' strong cultural heritage offers visitors a rare opportunity to interact with the Maasai people in the north.

When

The best time to visit would depend on the experience you are looking for.

Tanzania has comfortable temperatures all year round, though humidity and rainfall vary. Traditionally, the rainy season begins in April and continues until the end of June, with a second less strong, rainy period, from the beginning of November to December.

The Serengeti offers fantastic wildlife encounters year-round, though the dry months of June through October remain the most popular for sightings. Animals gather near the water sources and the sparse vegetation makes the animals easier to spot. If experiencing the annual Mammal Migration is your top priority, June and July are the optimal months to travel in. In the months of December to March, the migration herds are in the southern region of the park. April and May are ideal for travellers considering the northern parks, for great game viewing and fewer crowds. - April and May are the "Long Rains." While you get fewer crowds, many luxury camps actually close, and roads can be impassable.

June to October during the cool, dry months of spring is best to visit Zanzibar. December to February are popular for travel with it’s hot and dry weather, perfect for beach days and snorkeling.

Mount Kilimanjaro is best climbed either between July and October or January to March.

Where

Tanzania is a country located in East Africa and is renowned for its vast wilderness areas.

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Serengeti National Park

Located in northern Tanzania, this World Heritage Site and is a photographers paradise, specifically during the annual mammal migration. The Grumeti River, with hungry Nile crocodiles, make for an impressive attraction. The park is home to over three million animals and an active volcano that ejects carbonatite lava.

The "active volcano that ejects carbonatite lava" is Ol Doinyo Lengai. While it is in the Greater Serengeti Ecosystem, it is not inside the Serengeti National Park. It is near Lake Natron.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

This World Heritage Site, located 180 km west of Arusha, includes the Ngorongoro Crater. The crater is home to approximately 25,000 large animals, including the Big Five, and one of the densest populations of East African lions. A two-night stay is recommended to fully appreciate this area.

Tarangire National Park

Often considered Tanzania’s most underrated national park, Tarangire is a hidden gem in the north. The park is one of Africa’s best-kept secrets, famous for its large elephant population, abundance of wildlife and diverse landscapes. The Tarangire River is the primary source of freshwater for wild animals in the Tarangire ecosystem. Visitors can witness large herds of zebra, wildebeest, and buffalo near the Tarangire River.

Zanzibar

This tropical haven featuring some of Africa's finest beaches. Perfect for travellers seeking a blissful, luxury holiday. With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and excellent diving sites, Zanzibar is perfect for relaxation or adventure.

Lake Manyara National Park

A smaller but diverse park, Lake Manyara is known for its flamingos and over 400 bird species. Located in the Arusha and Manyara regions, the park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and hippos.

Arusha

This charming city, below Mount Meru, is the gateway to many of Tanzania’s top attractions, including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Mount Kilimanjaro. Arusha is known for its vibrant nightlife, Masai Market, and traditional Tanzanian cuisine.

Mount Meru

The fifth-highest mountain in Africa and second-highest in Tanzania, Mount Meru is seen as a practice run for Kilimanjaro. The mountain’s slopes support a forest that is home to diverse wildlife, including nearly 400 species of birds, as well as monkeys, giraffe, bushbuck and leopards.

Kilimanjaro National Park

Kilimanjaro National Park protects the world's largest free-standing volcanic formation and Africa's highest peak, rising to 5,895 metres. Many dream of climbing Kilimanjaro, with approximately 25,000 people attempting the ascent yearly. The lower elevations are teeming with birdlife, blue monkeys, colobus monkeys, and olive baboons with the forest sheltering elusive species like civets, leopards, mongooses, elephants, and Abbott’s duikers, although sightings are rare.

Dar es Salaam

Tanzania’s largest city and busiest port, Dar es Salaam, meaning "haven of peace", is loved by travellers for its seaside setting and vibrant atmosphere. The city offers a mix of African, Arabic, and Indian cultures with attractions like Mbudya Island, Coco Beach, and the bustling fish markets.

Lake Tanganyika

The second-oldest freshwater lake in the world, Lake Tanganyika is home to Nile crocodiles, turtles, and a variety of fish species. Most visitors base themselves in Kigoma, a gateway to the nearby Mahale Mountains and Gombe Stream National Parks, known for their chimpanzee encounters.