Every holiday starts with a vision of attractions you’d like to visit. Perhaps the vision was born in your childhood after wondering where these oversized cats come from and looking into the eyes of a lion in a zoo.
I’ll go there someday, you thought, where lions roam free. It could be your family went backpacking, and it was blissful: following trails, scrambling up mountaintops and sleeping under the curtains of the stars.
You spent your childhood playing in the oceans and on beaches, and scuba diving or snorkelling has now become your favourite hobby. If your vision includes beaches, wildlife, and mountains, consider putting Tanzania on your bucket list.
The country has fascinating flora and fauna. Wild ones. It’s got volcanoes. Active ones. The islands boast world-class diving and beaches—unthinkingly white ones. But most importantly, this country has a heart—a big one.
Tanzania: The perfect combination of awe
To narrow a list of ten attractions in Tanzania is difficult. It’s like choosing the best grains of sand from your favourite beach. The entire place is the highlight! Similarly, it is the country’s complete package, delivering great memories.
Sure, every activity will impress you, but the true magic is in their combination. Tanzania’s highlights are far more significant, from lakes to volcanoes, city to Savannah, and white beaches.
However, each trip has a duration, so if you have to pick…here’s a list of the 10 top attractions in Tanzania.
Attractions in Tanzania: Safari / wildlife
1. Serengeti National Park.
The Serengeti is arguably the world’s most well known, and best wildlife viewing destination. Commit to 4-5 days here and you’re saying “yes” to the best, witnessing one of the most undisturbed wild habitats on the planet. Predator-prey drama unfolds with rigor in this 5,695 square-mile park. And did I mention the possibility of observing 2 million animals migrate each year? Yeah, that’s a thing. (Learn more about it here) Here are some reasons you should visit the Serengeti.
2. Ngorongoro Crater.
This primordial caldera is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a reason. The Ngorongoro Crater is hyper-condensed wilderness. It’s a steaming, geologic coliseum of action, of lion prides and stampeding wildebeest, hungry hyenas and black rhinos. If you’re itching to see the Big 5 (See More), in Ngorongoro you’re likely to spot all five in one place.
3. Tarangire National Park.
When I survey Easy Travel guides to see what their favorite game parks are, most respond with: “Every single one of them!” But, most list Tarangire as an insider favorite. This gem is a day’s journey from Arusha and boasts some of the highest concentrations of elephant herds on the planet, plus tons of birding and water-loving beasts, due to lakes and rivers being central to the park’s layout.
Attractions in Tanzania: Mountains / volcanoes
1. Serengeti National Park
The Serengeti is arguably the world’s most well-known and best wildlife-viewing destination. Commit to 4-5 days here, and you’re saying “yes” to the best, witnessing one of the most undisturbed wild habitats on the planet.
The Serengeti, one of the key tourist attractions in Tanzania, offers an unparalleled wildlife spectacle that leaves visitors in awe. Located in Northern Tanzania, its sweeping plains are a backdrop to fascinating interplays between predator and prey, bringing you as close to nature’s ebb and flow as possible.
The jewel of East Africa, the Serengeti, is not just about wildlife; it’s also about immersing yourself in an extraordinary ecosystem teeming with life and natural wonders. From the awe-inspiring spectacle of the annual wildebeest migration to the sight of the sun setting over the endless plains, every moment in the Serengeti creates lasting memories.
Exploring these plains shouldn’t be just a line on your bucket list – it’s a life-altering journey that will change your perspective on the power and beauty of the natural world.
2. Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area, one of Tanzania’s renowned national parks, offers an adventure. This compact microcosm of African fauna is a testament to nature’s beauty and demonstrates its raw, untamed power.
The Ngorongoro Crater, often dubbed the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” encapsulates the diversity and richness of Africa’s wildlife. An encounter with the ‘Big 5‘ – the lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and rhino – is almost guaranteed here, making this a prime spot for wildlife viewing.
Beyond wildlife spotting, the crater is a geological marvel, constantly reminding us of our planet’s dramatic formation. When you visit Tanzania, a visit to the Ngorongoro Crater is an absolute must, as it offers one of the most thrilling and richly rewarding wildlife experiences on the continent.
It’s an unparalleled natural wonder that you cannot afford to miss. (See More), in Ngorongoro, you’re likely to spot all five in one place.
3. Tarangire National Park
Tarangire often emerges as an insider favourite. Not too far from the famous Arusha National Park in Tanzania, this gem is a day’s journey from Arusha, offering an unforgettable experience in the heart of Africa’s wilderness.
Tarangire National Park is renowned for its high concentrations of elephant herds, making it a paradise for those fascinated by these gentle giants. Moreover, the park is a haven for birdwatchers, with a wide array of bird species adding to the vibrant tapestry of life.
The lakes and rivers running through the park form the backbone of its layout, attracting water-loving beasts and providing a vital lifeline for the region’s wildlife. For a truly immersive experience, consider exploring Tarangire on one of its guided walking safaris.
This activity offers an exceptional opportunity to get up close and personal with the inhabitants of this extraordinary natural habitat.
4. Lake Manyara National Park
Feel the magic of a Tanzanian fairy tale come alive as you immerse yourself in the wonderland that is Lake Manyara, National Park. This gem, nestled in the Great Rift Valley, unfolds a world where nature’s charm is in its sheer diversity.
From gracing your sights with scenic landscapes to fascinating you with its vibrant wildlife, Lake Manyara gratifies every traveller’s quest for the extraordinary.
The quintessential mesmeric experience begins as you traverse the park grounds. You get greeted by a radiant palette of ecosystems, from lush forests draping the lake shores to expansive grassy plains and whimsical hot springs – an ideal playground for dwindling flamingos.
As you explore, you get to witness a wildlife spectacle that rivals the wildest your imagination can summon. Prides of tree-climbing lions, majestic elephants meandering, cheeky baboons causing a ruckus, and the elegant stride of the giraffes all put up a show that’s memorable.
Lake Manyara National Park is not just a destination; it’s an experience that stirs up delight and fascination in every adventurous heart.
5. Ruaha National Park
Stretching across thousands of kilometres of wild, untamed landscapes, Tanzania is a treasure trove of natural attractions. Its expansive plains, towering mountain peaks, lush forests and idyllic beaches form a mesmerizing tableau of nature’s bounty, providing the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable African adventure.
One of the unique allurements of a Tanzanian safari is the opportunity to encounter a rich diversity of wildlife. Among the myriad of species, a standout is the African wild dog. Known for their distinctive fur marked with yellow, black, and white scars, these endangered creatures are a treat for wildlife enthusiasts.
Watching these skilled hunters in action is an exhilarating experience that underscores the raw beauty and savage grace of the African wilderness. Embarking on an African adventure in Tanzania offers more than picturesque landscapes and unique wildlife.
‘s a journey into the heart of nature, a chance to engage with the rhythms of the wild, and an invitation to witness the dance of life that unfolds every day on the plains of Africa. From marvelling at majestic elephants in the Serengeti to surveying the panoramic views from the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania’s natural attractions will leave you enchanted and yearning for more.
6. Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Udzungwa Mountains National Park, tucked within Tanzania’s southern tourist circuit, is a relatively undiscovered paradise with biodiversity. Covering approximately 1,990 square kilometres, the park is part of the Eastern Arc Mountains, affectionately referred to as the “African Galapagos” for their wealth of endemic plants and animals.
Udzungwa’s undisputed highlights are:
– It’s lush rainforests and mountainous landscapes.
– Wildflowers.
– Numerous primate species.
Experiences in Udzungwa Mountains National Park differ from Tanzania’s typical savannah-dominated parks.
The park offers myriad trekking and hiking options, leading through radiant rainforests to spectacular waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to more than 250 species, including some endemic to these mountains.
Amid the park’s verdant greenery, rare and threatened wildlife species, such as the Sanje Mangabey monkey, make their homes. Udzungwa Mountains National Park is an adventurer’s dream, giving a unique chance to immerse oneself in a remarkable convergence of biodiversity and beauty.
7. Zanzibar Island/Zanzibar Archipelago
Step into the ultimate tropical paradise with a visit to Zanzibar Island, the crown jewel of the enchanting Zanzibar Archipelago. Situated just off the coast of Tanzania, this stunning island beckons with its warm sun, crystal-clear waters, and pristine stretches of powdery white sand beaches.
Zanzibar is the perfect escape for those looking to unwind in the lap of luxury or explore the exotic mix of cultural influences that weave together a fascinating tapestry of history and traditions. Visiting Zanzibar Island is only complete with exploring its historic Stone Town.
Wander through the narrow alleyways, breathing in the aromatic scents of spices and admiring the charming blend of architecture that reflects the island’s rich cultural heritage. Moreover, the Zanzibar Archipelago is praised for its exquisite marine life. It invites you to indulge in snorkelling or scuba diving, discovering the mesmerizing underwater world that teems with vibrant coral reefs and aquatic creatures.
After a day in the sun, retreat to one of the island’s bustling markets, tantalizing your taste buds with many mouthwatering seafood and local delicacies. Zanzibar Island offers an unforgettable sensory experience that will linger in your memories long after your return to the mainland!
8. Mount Kilimanjaro
Ready to conquer the mighty beast that is Mount Kilimanjaro? This behemoth of beauty isn’t just a mountain; it’s a literal stairway to the heavens. Sitting proud and tall as Africa’s highest peak, Kili, as its friends call it, reaches an eye-watering 5,895 meters above sea level.
Imagine standing on the roof of the entire African continent, surrounded by ice-capped peaks and endless skies! On the way up, you’ll pass through jungles, moorlands, and deserts, each bursting with unique wildlife.
But here’s the best part – you don’t need to be an expert mountaineer to reach the summit (although it sure does help!). Even if your idea of a hike has been strolling to the nearest coffee shop, Kilimanjaro is conquerable with the right equipment and determination.
The exhilaration of reaching the peak is pure magic – the closest some of us will get to walking on the moon. Just envision greeting the sunrise from Africa’s rooftop, basking in the glory that you’ve achieved something monumental.
Whether you’re chasing the thrill of the climb or just the incredible Instagram opportunity, Mount Kilimanjaro is ready to serve an unforgettable African experience.
9. Ngorongoro Crater
Have you ever experienced the wonder of looking into a giant, natural bowl teeming with more wildlife than you’ve ever imagined? If not, buckle up because Ngorongoro Crater is about to blow your safari socks off!
Sitting in northern Tanzania, Ngorongoro Crater isn’t just your average crater – it’s the world’s largest inactive, intact, and unfilled volcanic caldera and boy, does that look good on a postcard! Journey to the floor of this ancient volcanic crater, and you’ll find a paradise fitting of Noah’s Ark.
We’re talking about a veritable zoo, my friend. Lions lazing in the sun, elephants lumbering with the backdrop of breath-taking crater walls, flocks of flamingos adding a blush of pink to the soda lakes, and let’s not forget the elusive black rhino that makes you feel like you’ve hit the safari jackpot.
This is the beauty of Ngorongoro Crater: it’s a compact Garden of Eden, where you’re always mere minutes away from the next ‘ooh’ moment. Whether you’re an animal lover, a photo fanatic, or just keen to feel exceptionally small on the grand scale of Mother Nature, Ngorongoro Crater is a wildlife experience that delivers in spades.
10. Katavi National Park
Imagine wandering into a landscape teeming with wildlife, where every turn reveals another tooth-and-claw moment under the most significant, bluest sky you’ve ever seen. Welcome to the road less travelled, my adventurous friend: Katavi National Park. Located in the remote western section of Tanzania, Katavi is like that eccentric uncle living in the boonies but always has the best stories to tell!
Katavi’s magic serenade starts with her wide-open spaces, packing more wildlife than you can shake a massive stick at. At the height of the dry season, the park’s vast floodplains fill with tens of thousands of zebras, wildebeests, and a jaw-dropping number of hippos jostling and wallowing in every mud hole.
It’s like someone sent out invitations to a VIP mud bath party, and everyone showed up! But the undisputed star of Katavi’s cast is the buffalo. We’re talking wall-to-wall buffalos as far as the eyes can gaze, living up to their name as the true thunder beasts of the plains.
So, pack your sense of adventure (and maybe some extra memory cards!) because Katavi National Park is an authentic wilderness experience consistently delivering Tanzanian nature in her most raw and unfiltered form.
Other Attractions in Tanzania: Ocean / Beach / Safari
1. Zanzibar Island/Zanzibar Archipelago
Step into the ultimate tropical paradise with a visit to Zanzibar Island, the crown jewel of the enchanting Zanzibar Archipelago. Situated just off the coast of Tanzania, this stunning island beckons with its warm sun, crystal-clear waters, and pristine stretches of powdery white sand beaches.
Zanzibar is the perfect escape for those looking to unwind in the lap of luxury or explore the exotic mix of cultural influences that weave together a fascinating tapestry of history and traditions. Visiting Zanzibar Island is only complete with exploring its historic Stone Town.
Wander through the narrow alleyways, breathing in the aromatic scents of spices and admiring the charming blend of architecture that reflects the island’s rich cultural heritage. Moreover, the Zanzibar Archipelago is praised for its exquisite marine life. It invites you to indulge in snorkelling or scuba diving, discovering the mesmerizing underwater world that teems with vibrant coral reefs and aquatic creatures.
After a day in the sun, retreat to one of the island’s bustling markets, tantalizing your taste buds with many mouthwatering seafood and local delicacies. Zanzibar Island offers an unforgettable sensory experience that will linger in your memories long after your return to the mainland!
Here’s our guide on where to stay: View More.
2. Pemba
Perhaps this smaller, idyllic island was what Zanzibar might have been a few decades ago. Choose Pemba if you’ve got a Robinson Crusoe fetish or seek world-class diving. It’s a dream honeymoon destination, too. And if you’re a nature-lover, it’s enough to visit for sightings of the endemic Pemba flying fox! (Source)
As a gem nestled in the Indian Ocean, Pemba presents an intriguing allure that calls to the adventurer, nature enthusiast, and romantic in you. The island, far less trodden than its counterpart, Zanzibar, preserves a rustic charm and untouched beauty that is reminiscent of a bygone era.
Its isolated beaches, kissed by crystal clear waters and wrapped by the embrace of lush verdant forests, hold an irresistible appeal for those with a taste for the unadulterated wilderness. Beneath the surface of its azure waters, a world teems with vibrant marine life, offering a diver’s paradise that is unparalleled.
For those seeking an intimate retreat, Pemba engenders an idyllic setting that makes it a sought-after honeymoon haven. The tranquil serenity and the magical sunsets over the ocean set the tone for blossoming romance.
Moreover, for the ardent nature lover, the thrill of witnessing the endemic Pemba flying fox unfurling against the twilight sky cements the island’s position as a must-visit destination. Truly, Pemba succeeds in charming every visitor with its mystic allure and timeless beauty.
3. Mafia Island Marine Park
Mafia Island Marine Park, a lesser-known yet spectacular tourist destination, offers visitors a unique and tranquil escape amidst the azure waters of the Indian Ocean. Perfect for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience, Mafia Island enchants with its pristine sandy beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and warm, crystal-clear waters that hug the shoreline.
It boasts a rich, unspoiled underwater world as a protected marine park. It is an ideal spot for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts eager to explore the colourful marine life teeming beneath the waves. The underwater wonders provide a magical glimpse into the region’s rich biodiversity, from abundant tropical fish to sea turtles and reef sharks.
Above the water, boat trips offer a chance to explore the park’s scenic beauty, meandering through the smaller islands and immersing visitors in the serene atmosphere. Whether you want to lounge on the untainted beaches or embark on an aquatic adventure, Mafia Island Marine Park offers the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.
In a country rich with varied landscapes and experiences, Mafia Island Marine Park stands out as a true gem. Its unassuming charm and stunning beauty make it a must-visit destination for those looking to discover the hidden treasures of Tanzania’s incredible coastline.
4. Rubondo Island National Park
Picture this: an untouched tropical paradise complete with thick, green forests, sandy beaches, and blue waters, home to a compelling blend of wildlife – both on land and under the sea. Sounds like a dream, right?
Well, guess what, dreamers, this place exists! Welcome to Rubondo Island National Park, Tanzania’s hidden gem nestled in the southwest corner of Lake Victoria.
But Rubondo isn’t your typical island getaway. Oh no, it’s way cooler! Besides Africa’s most significant island park, it’s also a refuge where elephants, giraffes, and even chimps roam free! Yes, you heard it right, chimps!
Take a walk on the wild side and encounter these fascinating primates, or try to spot the elusive sitatunga, an amphibious antelope, ideally at home in this wetland paradise. And for those who love to ‘wet a line’, Rubondo allows you to battle Nile Perch, known to grow to staggering sizes in this water.
So, whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a wildlife lover, or just a serious fan of the great outdoors, Rubondo Island National Park lays down the gauntlet for an off-the-beaten-track adventure wrapped in layers of emerald green and sapphire blue.
5. Gombe Stream National Park
Ever dreamed of connecting with our ancestral roots, swinging arm in arm with primates, and diving into an unnerving yet addictive world of “monkey business”? If so, pack your explorer hat and set course for Gombe Stream National Park.
Wedged between steep valleys and covered in lush rainforest, Gombe maybe Tanzania’s smallest national park, but trust us, in this case, size truly doesn’t matter! Here’s why Gombe is the bee’s knees: it’s primate paradise!
Home to habituated chimpanzees, this park set the stage for famed primatologist Jane Goodall’s groundbreaking studies. Not only can you soak in the unique experience of observing these intelligent creatures up close, but you also witness their complex social structures – it’s just like watching a soap opera but with a lot of fur!
And remember the countless colourful bird species that add a musical soundtrack to your forest walks. Whether you’re a primatology nerd, a rookie birdwatcher, or simply an awestruck traveller, Gombe Stream National Park welcomes you with open arms to discover and cherish the intricate beauty of Mother Nature’s more minor miracles.
6. Mikumi National Park
Have you ever heard of the Serengeti? Of course you have! But what if we told you there’s a mini version that’s just as wild but a bit easier to navigate and equally eager to put on a good show?
Mikumi National Park is a wallet-friendly wildlife extravaganza in a fun-sized package nestled between the Uluguru and Lumango mountains in southern Tanzania.
At Mikumi, you don’t have to wait long to see the action kick in. One moment, you’re driving through an expansive savannah; the next, you’re watching a lion pride strategizing their hunt or a herd of elephants play-fighting and rolling in the mud like overgrown toddlers.
And did we mention the Mkata Floodplain? It’s like the VIP section of the park: think of zebras, impalas, and buffaloes, all living it up under the African sun. If you’re a birdwatching buff, you’re in for a treat with 400+ bird species waiting to say hello.
Whether you’re a die-hard wildlife enthusiast aiming for that perfect lion shot or a casual nature lover seeking adventure, Mikumi National Park is your one-stop shop for a quintessential Tanzanian safari.
7. Mount Meru
Mount Meru is a picturesque, challenging, and often overlooked peak cosily nested in Arusha, Tanzania. Sure, it’s not as high-profile as its glamorous neighbour, Kilimanjaro, but believe us, it gives “Kili” a run for her money regarding the raw beauty and sublime panoramas.
Mount Meru is the ultimate warm-up for climbers aiming to conquer Kilimanjaro, but don’t judge it just yet – it’s got plenty of tricks up its sleeve. Picture yourself wandering through verdant forests, keeping company with frolicking colobus monkeys and vibrant bird species.
Your journey will eventually lead to its crater rim, where you’ll be spellbound by the surreal landscapes of the Ash Cone lying within, together with the mesmerizing sight of Kilimanjaro straight from the summit. And the sunrise? It’s like watching Mother Nature getting her morning glow-up!
So, whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer seeking less-trodden paths or a trail-blazing rookie prepared for an adventure, Mount Meru is ready to reward your grit with showstopping scenery and a sense of accomplishment that’ll make your heart sing.
Bottom line?
At Easy Travel we’re interested in changing lives. We’re interested in providing on-the-ground experiences to meet your biggest, boldest visions. So whether you’re a wildlife nut, someone who dreams in mountaintops, or a lover of all things beach and bronze, choose what defines your grand vision and let Easy Travel weave them together, for you to craft an experience no other single country on Earth can offer. Contact us today and let’s set your vision into motion.
Getting you there?
Easy Travel have over 30 years of experience in Tanzania, and have carefully created a variety of experiences suitable for all types of adventures. Looking to join us for one of our award winning tours? Or are you interested in your own Tailor Made tour? Contact Us today to get started.
