Tanzania is a dream destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. From the sweeping plains of the Serengeti to the pristine beaches of Zanzibar, Tanzania offers an incredible array of experiences for travelers. Whether you want to witness the Great Migration, hike the tallest peak in Africa, or relax by turquoise waters, Tanzania has something for everyone. This guide will take you through the best places to visit in Tanzania to ensure your trip is filled with unforgettable moments.
1. Serengeti National Park: The Heart of Wildlife Safaris
Serengeti National Park is one of the most famous wildlife destinations in the world, offering travelers the chance to witness the Great Migration, where over 1.5 million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles traverse the plains in search of fresh grasslands. The Serengeti is also home to the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—making it a must-visit for anyone planning a safari.
- Best Time to Visit: June to October for the Great Migration; December to March for calving season in the southern Serengeti.
- Highlights: Game drives, hot air balloon safaris, predator sightings.
Plan your Serengeti safari with Kilimanjaro Climb Specialist
2. Ngorongoro Crater: Africa’s Garden of Eden
Located near the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places in Africa to see wildlife in a compact area. The crater is the world’s largest unbroken volcanic caldera, offering visitors the chance to see a dense concentration of animals, including black rhinos, lions, elephants, and buffalos. The lush crater floor is also home to flamingos, hippos, and thousands of herbivores.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round; June to October for dry weather and optimal wildlife viewing.
- Highlights: Game drives, breathtaking views from the crater rim, cultural experiences with the Maasai people.
Explore the Ngorongoro Crater with Eddy Tours Safaris
3. Mount Kilimanjaro: Climb the Roof of Africa
Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest peak and one of the most famous mountains in the world. Standing at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), Kilimanjaro attracts climbers from all over the globe who are looking for a non-technical but challenging climb. Trekkers pass through several distinct ecological zones, including lush rainforests, alpine deserts, and snow-capped peaks.
- Best Time to Climb: June to October and December to March for the best trekking conditions.
- Routes: Popular routes include the Machame, Marangu, and Lemosho routes, offering varying levels of difficulty and scenic views.
Learn more about Kilimanjaro trekking routes with Kilimanjaro Climb Specialist
4. Zanzibar: Paradise for Beach Lovers
After your safari adventure, Zanzibar is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Known for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, Zanzibar is a tropical paradise that offers a mix of culture, history, and beachside relaxation. Visitors can explore Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in history, or go snorkeling and diving along the island’s vibrant coral reefs.
- Best Time to Visit: June to October for dry, warm weather; December to February for hotter conditions.
- Highlights: Snorkeling, diving, spice tours, exploring Stone Town’s historic sites.
Discover the best beach retreats in Zanzibar
5. Tarangire National Park: A Hidden Gem
While not as well-known as the Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park is a hidden gem that should not be overlooked. Famous for its massive elephant herds and towering baobab trees, Tarangire offers quieter, more intimate game drives. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, giraffes, zebras, and impalas. The Tarangire River is a key water source during the dry season, attracting a large concentration of animals.
- Best Time to Visit: June to October for the dry season, when wildlife gathers around the Tarangire River.
- Highlights: Game drives, walking safaris, birdwatching.
Learn about exploring Tarangire National Park
6. Lake Manyara National Park: Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Lake Manyara National Park is another fantastic destination for wildlife enthusiasts, particularly those interested in birdwatching. The park is home to flamingos, pelicans, and more than 400 bird species. Besides its birdlife, Lake Manyara is famous for its tree-climbing lions, a rare sight in Africa, as well as hippos, giraffes, and elephants.
- Best Time to Visit: June to October for the dry season and optimal wildlife viewing.
- Highlights: Birdwatching, tree-climbing lions, canoeing on Lake Manyara.
Explore Lake Manyara’s unique wildlife and landscapes
7. Selous Game Reserve: Africa’s Largest Wildlife Sanctuary
If you’re seeking a more remote and off-the-beaten-path safari experience, the Selous Game Reserve is the place to go. As the largest game reserve in Africa, Selous is home to diverse wildlife, including elephants, wild dogs, giraffes, and hippos. The park also offers river safaris along the Rufiji River, where visitors can spot crocodiles and a variety of bird species.
- Best Time to Visit: June to October for the dry season.
- Highlights: River safaris, walking safaris, boat trips.
Learn more about safaris in the Selous Game Reserve
8. Ruaha National Park: Untouched Wilderness
For those looking to escape the crowds, Ruaha National Park offers one of the most untouched and pristine safari experiences in Tanzania. Known for its large predator population, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs, Ruaha is a paradise for photographers and wildlife lovers. The park’s dramatic landscapes, with rocky outcrops, vast savannahs, and the Great Ruaha River, make it a strikingly beautiful destination.
- Best Time to Visit: June to October for the dry season and easier wildlife spotting.
- Highlights: Predator sightings, wilderness safaris, remote camps.
9. Mafia Island: Snorkeling and Diving Paradise
Located off the southern coast of Tanzania, Mafia Island is a diver’s paradise, offering some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in East Africa. The island is part of the Mafia Island Marine Park, which protects a rich array of coral reefs, tropical fish, and even whale sharks during certain months of the year.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March for whale shark sightings and optimal diving conditions.
- Highlights: Snorkeling, diving, whale shark watching.
Discover more about diving on Mafia Island
10. Arusha: Gateway to Tanzania’s National Parks
Arusha is the starting point for many Tanzanian safaris, located in the northern part of the country. The city is known as the gateway to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Mount Kilimanjaro. Arusha offers a chance to explore local markets, enjoy views of Mount Meru, and visit nearby cultural sites before heading into the wilderness.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round.
- Highlights: Cultural tours, day trips to nearby national parks, Mount Meru hikes.
Plan your trip through Arusha with Kilimanjaro Climb Specialist
FAQs About Where to Go in Tanzania
1. What is the best time to visit Tanzania for safaris?
The best time to visit Tanzania for a safari is during the dry season from June to October, when wildlife congregates around water sources, and the weather is more predictable.
2. Can I combine a safari with a beach holiday in Tanzania?
Absolutely! After your safari, head to Zanzibar or Mafia Island for a relaxing beach getaway. Tanzania’s coastline offers stunning beaches and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
3. How many days should I plan for a Tanzania safari?
A typical safari in Tanzania lasts between 5 to 10 days, depending on how many parks you want to visit and the type of experience you’re looking for.
Plan your perfect Tanzania itinerary with Eddy Tours Safaris
Start Planning Your Tanzania Adventure
From the majestic Serengeti and the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater to the white-sand beaches of Zanzibar, Tanzania offers a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience. Whether you’re looking for thrilling wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, or beachside relaxation, Tanzania has it all.
Start planning your Tanzanian adventure with Kilimanjaro Climb Specialist
Book your unforgettable safari with Eddy Tours Safaris
