Things to Do in Tanzania Other Than Safaris : Tanzania is widely known for its incredible wildlife safaris, but the country offers so much more than just animal watching. From stunning beaches to mountain treks and cultural experiences, Tanzania is a diverse destination with activities to suit every kind of traveler. In this guide, we’ll explore the best things to do in Tanzania beyond safaris, offering plenty of adventure, history, and relaxation.
Things to Do in Tanzania Other Than Safaris : Climb Mount Kilimanjaro: Africa’s Tallest Peak
Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa, offers one of the most exciting challenges for adventure seekers. At 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), Kilimanjaro is the world’s highest free-standing mountain, and it attracts thousands of climbers each year. With no technical climbing skills required, it’s accessible to both seasoned trekkers and beginners.
There are several routes to the summit, with the Machame and Lemosho routes being the most popular for their scenic beauty. October and February are some of the best times to climb due to favorable weather conditions.
To plan a safe and rewarding climb, visit Kilimanjaro Climb Specialist, offering expert-led treks tailored to all skill levels.
Learn more about Mount Kilimanjaro’s trekking routes.
Things to Do in Tanzania Other Than Safaris : Relax on Zanzibar’s White-Sand Beaches
For those seeking relaxation after a safari or mountain trek, the Zanzibar Archipelago is a tropical paradise. Zanzibar, located off Tanzania’s eastern coast, is famous for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich history. You can enjoy a variety of activities, from lounging by the beach to exploring the coral reefs through snorkeling and scuba diving.
Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a glimpse into Zanzibar’s cultural and historical past with its narrow streets, markets, and architecture influenced by Arab, Indian, and European settlers.
For more about Zanzibar’s history and activities, check out this guide to Zanzibar.
Things to Do in Tanzania Other Than Safaris :- Explore the Ngorongoro Crater: A Geological Wonder
Though safaris in Ngorongoro Crater are one of Tanzania’s highlights, the area offers much more. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a stunning place to explore on foot. You can hike the crater rim for panoramic views or take cultural tours to meet the Maasai people, who have lived in the area for centuries.
For a different perspective, explore the nearby Olduvai Gorge, where some of the earliest human fossils were discovered, earning it the nickname “the cradle of humankind.”
Learn more about Ngorongoro Crater and its geological significance.
Things to Do in Tanzania Other Than Safaris : Go Diving and Snorkeling in Mafia Island
While Zanzibar is the most well-known island, Mafia Island offers an even quieter and more intimate experience for water lovers. Mafia Island is part of the Mafia Archipelago and is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and incredible diving opportunities. The Mafia Island Marine Park is home to a variety of species, including sea turtles, dolphins, and whale sharks.
For those interested in diving, October to March is the best time to visit, as whale shark sightings are more frequent during this period.
Read more about Mafia Island’s underwater attractions.
Things to Do in Tanzania Other Than Safaris :- Discover Tanzania’s Ancient Ruins: Kilwa Kisiwani
For history enthusiasts, the ancient ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani are a must-see. Located off the southern coast of Tanzania, Kilwa Kisiwani was once a powerful Swahili city-state that thrived between the 9th and 16th centuries. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, where visitors can explore the remains of grand palaces, mosques, and fortresses.
The ruins offer a fascinating insight into the region’s history as a hub of trade and culture, with influences from Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
Discover more about Kilwa Kisiwani’s rich history.
Things to Do in Tanzania Other Than Safaris :- Hike Through Usambara Mountains
The Usambara Mountains in northeastern Tanzania are perfect for those who love hiking and experiencing nature off the beaten path. The cool, misty climate of these mountains contrasts with the hotter, drier plains below, and they’re filled with lush forests, waterfalls, and rare plant species.
You can take guided hikes through the mountains to visit local villages, see incredible views, and discover the region’s rich biodiversity. The town of Lushoto is a popular starting point for many hikes, including treks to the famous Irente Viewpoint, which offers sweeping vistas over the Maasai Steppe.
Learn more about the Usambara Mountains and trekking options.
Things to Do in Tanzania Other Than Safaris : Visit Lake Victoria: Africa’s Largest Lake
Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa, borders Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya. The Tanzanian side offers a tranquil escape with beautiful landscapes, fishing villages, and water activities like kayaking and boat trips. You can also visit the Rubondo Island National Park, located on an island within Lake Victoria. It’s one of the few places where you can enjoy both water activities and wildlife viewing, including chimpanzees, elephants, and over 300 species of birds.
The region around Mwanza is particularly scenic, with rocky outcrops and quiet beaches to explore.
Find out more about Lake Victoria’s attractions.
Enjoy Cultural Tours with the Maasai People
Tanzania is not just about nature and wildlife; it’s also rich in culture. One of the most iconic cultural experiences is spending time with the Maasai people, known for their distinctive clothing, traditional lifestyle, and deep connection to the land. Many cultural tours allow you to visit Maasai villages, where you can learn about their customs, rituals, and way of life.
You can also experience traditional Maasai dance, sample local cuisine, and learn about their efforts in wildlife conservation and sustainable living.
Learn more about Maasai culture.
Things to Do in Tanzania Other Than Safaris : Trek to the Active Volcano: Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai
For adventurers seeking a unique and thrilling experience, a trek to Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai is a must. Known as the “Mountain of God” to the Maasai, this active volcano is located near Lake Natron in northern Tanzania. It is one of the only volcanoes in the world that erupts natrocarbonatite lava, a unique, highly fluid type of lava that cools to a white color.
The trek to the summit is challenging but rewarding, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including Lake Natron and the Great Rift Valley.
Learn more about Ol Doinyo Lengai and Lake Natron.
Experience Urban Life in Dar es Salaam
While Tanzania’s natural beauty often steals the spotlight, the bustling city of Dar es Salaam offers a vibrant urban experience. As Tanzania’s largest city, Dar es Salaam is a melting pot of cultures, where you can explore markets, visit museums, and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.
Kariakoo Market is one of the largest markets in East Africa, offering everything from fresh produce to handcrafted goods. You can also visit Coco Beach, a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to relax by the Indian Ocean.
Explore more about Dar es Salaam.
Conclusion: Things to Do in Tanzania Other Than Safaris
Tanzania is a country of incredible diversity, offering countless activities beyond traditional safaris. Whether you’re trekking up Mount Kilimanjaro, exploring ancient ruins, or relaxing on Zanzibar’s pristine beaches, Tanzania has something for every type of traveler.
For expertly crafted tour packages that cater to all your travel interests, visit Kilimanjaro Climb Specialist or Eddy Tours & Safaris to plan your ultimate Tanzanian adventure today.