Tanzania is one of Africa’s most breathtaking travel destinations, offering world-class safaris, stunning beaches, and rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re looking for an epic wildlife adventure in the Serengeti, a relaxing getaway in Zanzibar, or a challenging trek up Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania has something for every traveler. Travelers need a Tanzania eVisa, which can be easily obtained online for hassle-free entry.
Here are the top 10 destinations to visit in Tanzania:
1. Serengeti National Park – The Ultimate Safari Destination
Serengeti National Park is Tanzania’s most famous and iconic wildlife destination, offering unparalleled safari experiences. It is best known for the Great Migration, an awe-inspiring natural phenomenon where over 1.5 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebras, and thousands of gazelles move across the vast plains in search of fresh grazing. This migration attracts numerous predators, making it one of the best places in the world to witness dramatic wildlife encounters.
Serengeti National Park is Best for:
- Wildlife Safaris – Spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) and many other species.
- Game Drives – Explore different landscapes, from vast grasslands to acacia woodlands.
- Predator Action – Witness thrilling chases as lions, cheetahs, and crocodiles hunt their prey.
- Balloon Safaris – Get a breathtaking aerial view of the Serengeti at sunrise.
Best Areas to Visit in Serengeti:
Central Serengeti (Seronera): Year-round wildlife viewing with high predator concentrations.
Northern Serengeti: Famous for the Mara River crossings during the Great Migration (July–September).
Western Corridor: Known for the Grumeti River and dramatic predator-prey interactions.
Southern Serengeti & Ndutu Region: Best from December to March for calving season when thousands of wildebeest give birth.
Best Time to Visit
June – October (Dry Season): Ideal for general wildlife safaris as animals gather around water sources.
July – September: Best time to witness the wildebeest river crossings at the Mara River.
December – March: The calving season, when thousands of wildebeest give birth in the southern Serengeti, attracting predators.
How to Get There:
- By Air: Fly into Seronera Airstrip or nearby airstrips from Arusha, Kilimanjaro, or Zanzibar.
- By Road: A scenic 7-8 hour drive from Arusha, passing through Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
2. Mount Kilimanjaro – Africa’s Tallest Mountain
Mount Kilimanjaro, standing at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), is the highest peak in Africa and the world’s tallest free-standing mountain. It is one of the most sought-after trekking destinations, attracting thousands of climbers each year. Unlike many high-altitude mountains, Kilimanjaro requires no technical climbing skills, making it accessible to adventure seekers willing to take on the challenge. The mountain offers breathtaking landscapes, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts and the snow-capped Uhuru Peak.
Mount Kilimanjaro is Best for:
- Adventure Seekers – A bucket-list challenge for hikers looking to conquer Africa’s highest peak.
- Experienced Hikers – Requires endurance and acclimatization but no technical mountaineering skills.
- Nature Lovers – Diverse ecosystems with unique flora and fauna, including blue monkeys and colobus monkeys.
- Photography Enthusiasts – Stunning views, particularly at sunrise from the summit.
Best Climbing Routes:
Marangu Route (Coca-Cola Route): The only route with hut accommodations; relatively easier but less scenic.
Machame Route (Whiskey Route): More challenging with breathtaking scenery and good acclimatization opportunities.
Lemosho & Shira Routes: Longer but scenic routes with fewer crowds and higher success rates.
Rongai Route: The easiest route with a gentler ascent from the north.
Umbwe Route: The steepest and most difficult route, recommended for experienced climbers.
Best Time to Visit:
January – March: Fewer climbers, clear skies, and moderate temperatures.
June – October: Dry season with stable weather and the most popular trekking months.
Avoid April – May & November: Rainy seasons with slippery trails and poor visibility.
How to Get to Mount Kilimanjaro:
- By Air: Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which is the main gateway to the mountain.
- By Road: Short drive from Arusha or Moshi, the main starting points for Kilimanjaro treks.
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering adventure, breathtaking scenery, and the ultimate sense of achievement.
3. Zanzibar – A Tropical Island Paradise
Zanzibar, also known as the "Spice Island," is a dream destination with white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a rich cultural heritage influenced by African, Arab, Indian, and European traditions. It’s perfect for those looking to relax on the beach, explore historic sites, or enjoy water activities such as snorkeling and diving.
Top Attractions & Activities:
Nungwi & Kendwa Beaches: Stunning, powdery beaches with clear waters, perfect for swimming.
Stone Town: A historic city with narrow streets, old forts, bustling markets, and the House of Wonders.
Jozani Forest: Home to the rare Zanzibar red colobus monkeys.
Prison Island (Changuu Island): Visit the giant Aldabra tortoises and learn about the island’s history.
Spice Farms: Discover why Zanzibar is called the “Spice Island” on a guided tour.
Mnemba Atoll: A top diving and snorkeling spot with vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
Best Time to Visit:
June – October: Dry season with warm, sunny weather—perfect for beach activities.
December – February: Hot and dry, great for diving and exploring.
Avoid April – May & November: Rainy seasons can lead to heavy downpours and humid conditions.
How to Get There:
- By Air: Fly into Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) from Dar es Salaam, Nairobi, or international destinations.
- By Ferry: Regular ferries connect Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar (about 1.5 to 2 hours).
4. Ngorongoro Crater – A Wildlife Haven
The Ngorongoro Crater is one of Tanzania’s most breathtaking natural wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Formed by a collapsed volcanic caldera, it provides a unique and self-contained ecosystem where over 25,000 animals roam freely, including the famous Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and black rhino.
This "Garden of Eden" for wildlife offers an unforgettable safari experience in a setting of lush grasslands, acacia forests, and a soda lake that attracts thousands of flamingos.
Top Attractions & Activities:
Game Drives in the Crater – Spot lions, elephants, hippos, zebras, and the rare black rhino in a single drive.
Lake Magadi – A saltwater lake inside the crater, famous for its flamingo population.
Lerai Forest – A dense acacia forest home to elephants and leopards.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area – Beyond the crater, the area includes Maasai villages and stunning highland landscapes.
Olduvai Gorge – A world-famous archaeological site where early human fossils were discovered.
Best Time to Visit:
June – October (Dry Season): Best wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources.
November – May (Green Season): Lush landscapes and fewer tourists, but some animals may be harder to spot.
How to Get There:
- By Road: A 3-4 hour drive from Arusha, usually combined with Serengeti safaris.
- By Air: Fly into Lake Manyara Airport (LKY) or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), then drive to Ngorongoro.
5. Tarangire National Park – The Land of Giants
Tarangire National Park is a hidden gem in Tanzania, famous for its massive elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and diverse wildlife. Often overshadowed by the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, this park offers a quieter, more intimate safari experience with fewer crowds.
It is home to one of the highest elephant populations in East Africa, with herds of up to 300 elephants roaming freely. The Tarangire River, the park’s lifeline, attracts an abundance of wildlife, including lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests.
Top Attractions & Activities:
Game Drives – See elephants, lions, zebras, and more in a stunning landscape.
Baobab Trees – Marvel at the ancient, towering trees that define the park’s scenery.
Tarangire River – A prime spot for wildlife viewing, especially in the dry season.
Walking Safaris – Experience a close-up wildlife encounter with expert guides.
Night Safaris – Spot nocturnal animals like leopards, civets, and bush babies.
Best Time to Visit:
June – October (Dry Season): Best wildlife viewing, as animals gather around the Tarangire River.
November – May (Green Season): Lush landscapes and excellent birdwatching, but some animals migrate out of the park.
How to Get There:
- By Road: A 2-hour drive from Arusha, making it an easy addition to a Northern Tanzania safari.
- By Air: Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK) and drive to the park.
With its iconic baobabs, vast elephant herds, and peaceful wilderness, Tarangire National Park is a must-visit for safari lovers looking for an authentic African adventure.
6. Lake Manyara National Park – Home of Tree-Climbing Lions
Lake Manyara National Park is a scenic gem known for its tree-climbing lions, large flamingo populations, and diverse ecosystems. The park features lush forests, grassy floodplains, and the alkaline Lake Manyara, which attracts thousands of flamingos and other bird species.
What makes this park unique is the rare sight of lions lounging in trees, a behavior observed in only a few places in Africa.
Top Attractions & Activities:
Game Drives – See lions, elephants, zebras, and giraffes in a stunning setting.
Birdwatching – Lake Manyara is a haven for flamingos, kingfishers, and eagles.
Tree-Climbing Lions – A rare wildlife experience unique to this park.
Canoeing (Seasonal) – Explore Lake Manyara by boat during the wet season.
Treetop Walkway – A canopy-level adventure through the park’s forest.
Best Time to Visit:
June – October (Dry Season): Best for wildlife spotting as animals gather around water sources.
November – May (Green Season): Ideal for birdwatching and lush landscapes.
How to Get There:
- By Road: A 1.5-hour drive from Arusha, making it perfect for a day trip.
- By Air: Flights from Arusha or Kilimanjaro Airport land at Manyara Airstrip.
7. Mafia Island – A Hidden Marine Paradise
Mafia Island is Tanzania’s best-kept secret, offering pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and world-class diving. Unlike Zanzibar, Mafia is less developed and more secluded, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking peace and untouched natural beauty.
It is one of the best places in the world to swim with whale sharks, which visit the island’s waters between October and March.
Top Attractions & Activities:
Diving & Snorkeling – Mafia’s reefs are among the best in the Indian Ocean.
Whale Shark Tours – Get up close with the world’s largest fish.
Beach Relaxation – Enjoy uncrowded white-sand beaches.
Traditional Dhow Cruises – Sail the turquoise waters in a Swahili-style boat.
Cultural Encounters – Visit local fishing villages and learn about Swahili culture.
Best Time to Visit:
October – March: Whale shark season, with the best chance to see these incredible creatures.
June – September: Best for diving, snorkeling, and relaxed beach days.
How to Get There:
- By Air: Small planes from Dar es Salaam (30–45 minutes) land at Mafia Airport.
- By Boat: Ferries operate from the mainland, but flights are faster and more reliable.
8. Ruaha National Park – Tanzania’s Largest National Park
Ruaha National Park is Tanzania’s largest national park, covering over 20,000 square kilometers. It offers a remote and untouched safari experience, far from the crowded tourist circuits. The park is famous for its large lion population, with an estimated 10% of Africa’s lions roaming its vast savannas.
The park’s diverse landscapes range from baobab-studded plains to rocky hills and seasonal rivers, attracting a variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, cheetahs, and African wild dogs.
Top Attractions & Activities:
Game Drives – Spot lions, elephants, leopards, and wild dogs in their natural habitat.
Walking Safaris – Experience the wilderness up close with expert guides.
Birdwatching – Look out for vibrant species like the Ruaha red-billed hornbill.
Scenic Landscapes – Explore rugged hills, baobab forests, and the Great Ruaha River.
Best Time to Visit:
June – October (Dry Season): The best time for wildlife viewing as animals gather near water sources.
November – April (Wet Season): Lush green landscapes, great for birdwatching.
How to Get There:
- By Air: Charter flights from Dar es Salaam, Arusha, or Zanzibar land at Msembe Airstrip.
- By Road: A long 9–10-hour drive from Dar es Salaam or 5–6 hours from Iringa.
For those looking for a wild and remote safari experience, Ruaha is a hidden gem with breathtaking landscapes and exceptional predator sightings.
9. Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park) – A Pristine Wilderness
Selous Game Reserve, now part of Nyerere National Park, is one of Africa’s largest and most untouched wilderness areas, spanning over 50,000 square kilometers. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and unique safari activities.
Unlike other national parks, Selous offers boat safaris along the Rufiji River, allowing visitors to see hippos, crocodiles, and elephants up close. It is also one of the best places in Africa for walking safaris.
Top Attractions & Activities:
Game Drives – Explore vast grasslands and spot the Big Five.
Boat Safaris – Cruise along the Rufiji River for hippos, crocodiles, and birdwatching.
Walking Safaris – A thrilling way to experience wildlife on foot.
Birdwatching – Over 440 bird species, including kingfishers and fish eagles.
Best Time to Visit:
June – October (Dry Season): Best for wildlife viewing as animals gather near rivers and lakes.
November – March (Green Season): Beautiful scenery, fewer tourists, and great for birdwatching.
How to Get There:
- By Air: Daily flights from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, and Arusha to Mtemere or Siwandu Airstrips.
- By Road: A 6–7-hour drive from Dar es Salaam, best in the dry season.
For those seeking a raw, untouched safari experience with unique activities like boat and walking safaris, Selous (Nyerere National Park) is an unbeatable destination.
10. Stone Town – A UNESCO Heritage Site in Zanzibar
Stone Town, the cultural and historical heart of Zanzibar, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich Swahili culture, spice markets, and stunning Arabic architecture. The town’s narrow, winding streets are filled with bustling bazaars, centuries-old buildings, and historic sites, reflecting Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences.
It is also famous for its doors—intricately carved wooden entrances that tell stories of Zanzibar’s past.
Top Attractions & Activities:
The House of Wonders – A landmark showcasing Zanzibar’s history (currently under renovation).
The Old Fort – A 17th-century fort offering cultural performances and a market.
Freddie Mercury’s House – The birthplace of the legendary Queen singer.
Forodhani Gardens Night Market – Try Zanzibar pizza, grilled seafood, and sugarcane juice.
Spice Tours – Discover Zanzibar’s spice-growing heritage.
Prison Island – Visit giant Aldabra tortoises and a historic former prison site.
Best Time to Visit:
Year-round – Stone Town is a great destination at any time.
June – October & December – February – The best weather, with warm temperatures and low rainfall.
How to Get There:
- By Air: Flights from Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Nairobi, and other major cities arrive at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ).
- By Ferry: A 1.5–2-hour ferry ride from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar.
For travelers interested in history, culture, and vibrant markets, Stone Town offers a fascinating glimpse into Zanzibar’s past and present.
Where Should You Go First?
Tanzania is filled with incredible destinations, each offering something unique. If you’re planning your trip:
- For safaris: If you're looking for world-class wildlife experiences, these are the best places to start are Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, or Ruaha.
- For beaches: Start your trip from Zanzibar, Mafia Island, or Saadani if you love relaxation and island vibes.
- For adventure: If you’re into climbing or trekking, consider: Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru.
- For culture: If you're drawn to history, local traditions, and unique cultural experiences, start from Stone Town or Lake Victoria.
Content Disclaimer: While this information was last updated in March 2025, we strongly suggest confirming all travel details with the appropriate governmental agencies, embassies, and airlines.
