The name Tanzania conjures up images of wildebeest stampeding across vast savannah, rain forests teeming with monkeys and birdlife, and great plains brimming with legions of game. All of these natural wonders and more are on offer in this exceptionally diverse African nation. Visitors typically visit Tanzania to partake in at least one of the four well-known Tanzanian tourist experiences: a relaxing seaside vacation on the picturesque island paradise of Zanzibar, an underwater tour of some of the world’s most renowned dive sites around the gorgeous Spice Islands, a safari adventure in some of Africa’s most impressive game reserves, or a hiking excursion around Mount Kilimanjaro National Park. Whichever of these incredible holidays you choose, you will undoubtedly be welcomed by some fabulously friendly and peaceful inhabitants who, despite being divided into 120 different ethnic groups and cultures, live in harmony with one another and provide some of the most wonderfully exotic local cuisine you could imagine. With all of this diversity on offer, the most difficult part of your Tanzanian holiday experience is likely to be deciding where to go!
Resting at the foot of Mount Meru, the sprawling city of Arusha is known as the safari capital of northern Tanzania. It serves as an excellent base from which to explore the remarkably scenic surrounding area which includes majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, as well as the Manyara, Tarangire and Ngorongoro National Parks. Arusha is a good spot to take a day or two off from the safari circuit as it features a temperate climate and lush surrounds. Visitors can look forward to exploring the wildlife-abundant Serengeti National Park; the magnificent Arusha National Park; and taking on the challenge of climbing Mount Meru, Africa’s fifth highest mountain.
Tarangire National Park, situated within Tanzania’s spectacular Manyara Region, is an awe-inspiring national park comprising of granite ridges, river valleys, mixed vegetative landscapes, and free-roaming wildlife. During the annual dry season, the Tarangire River is a magnet for thirsty wildlife. Large herds of elephants and migratory wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, impala, gazelle, hartebeest and eland gather and not surprisingly the predators follow. With lion being among the most commonly spotted animal, it is a rare day that a visitor does not spot this majestic animal prowling or grazing. Tarangire is also the one place in Tanzania where dry-country antelope such as oryx and gerenuk are seen regularly. This expansive area is also known for its spectacular baobab trees, its breathtaking views of the Masaai Steppe and the wondrous mountains to the south.
Bordering Kenya to the north, the Ngorongoro Region is known for its abundance of beautiful natural features. It encompasses the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater, and the active Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano. Visitors can look forward to a variety of activities such as viewing the epic Serengeti wildebeest migration, visiting a local Maasai village, soaking up the remarkably diverse scenery and catching a glimpse of the magnificent bird and wildlife including over 500 bird species, all of the Big Five, as well as crocodile, hippo, zebra, antelope, lion, leopard, and cheetah. Don’t miss the opportunity to join a walking safari, enjoy thrilling mountain biking adventures and scenic trekking.
Situated in the heart of Tanzania, the Central Serengeti encompasses the world-famous Seronera Valley which is known for its prime wildlife-viewing opportunities. This picture-perfect landscape is characterised by endless stretches of savannah-covered open plains interspersed by rocky outcrops of granite and scattered with acacia woodlands and covered in a network of rivers and streams. The Central Serengeti forms part of the great wildebeest and zebra migration and provides an ideal habitat for a variety of wildlife such as giraffe, impala, waterbuck, hippo, elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, hyena, jackal, serval and much more. Popular activities include: game viewing, cultural tours, horse riding safaris, and hot air ballooning over the spectacularly scenic terrain.
Situated along the central western coastline of Unguja (Zanzibar), this region is renowned for its historical significance and breathtaking tropical scenery. Home to the Mbweni Ruins, remnants of a 19th-century Christian mission, and St. John's Church, this upscale suburb offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's past. Once a base for the Universities Mission to Central Africa (UMCA) and a settlement for former slaves, Mbweni preserves the ruins of St. Mary's School for Girls, now set amidst lush gardens at the Mbweni Ruins Hotel. Visitors can explore these evocative sites and learn about the area's colonial missionary history from knowledgeable caretakers. Despite being a trek from Stone Town, Mbweni's attractions, including its botanical and pristine beach, make it a popular day trip destination.
