Things to Do in Tanzania
What To Do in Tanzania?
Trekking in Kilimanjaro, Safari at Serengeti National Park , Scuba Diving at Zanzibar, Explore Rift Valley , Visit The Iraqw Villagea, Visit the Stone Town and many more.With umpteen things to do in Tanzania, you will never have a single dull moment in this wildlife treasure. From making your way to Kilimanjaro Hills to witnessing the Great Migration and exploring its white sandy beaches, Tanzania is an ideal place to begin ticking off your bucket list. If you are a shopping buff, don’t forget to pick up a perfect Kanga, a rectangular printed fabric, from its local market. The streets of Tanzania are brimming with art, music, and wildlife scenes making it an ideal retreat for adrenaline enthusiasts and art connoisseurs.
While here, you can either choose to take in the mesmerizing vistas of Lake Victoria- (Africa’s largest freshwater lake), spot tree-climbing lions on a game drive to Lake Manyara National Park or simply relish the local flavors at Tanzania’s coffee plantations- the list of activities to do in Tanzania goes on and on. While Tanzania is mostly known for its ardent wildlife, it also intrigues travelers with its delectable cuisines (which are too good things to do in Tanzania)
Visitors can treat their taste buds to grilled meats in combination with curry, sauce or enjoy the fresh mangoes and coconuts. The city also boasts a wide array of drinks including banana beer, honey beer, Gongo, and Safari which can be enjoyed at any Tanzanian eatery. Those searching for the best things to do in Tanzania at night can’t miss out on its lively bars and clubs which invite guests with a blend of tasty meals, good ambience, soothing music and what not? If you want your Tanzania trip to be nothing lesser than a series of unforgettable memories, read on and learn about the most enthralling activities to do in Tanzania.
This is one of the few places to visit in Tanzania in the world to have rain forest, moorland, alpine desert, and an arctic summit ecosystem on it. Its forested slopes and the nearby game reserve protect elephants, blue monkeys, duikers, Abbot’s starling, etc.
Location: Kilimanjaro region, Northeast Tanzania.
Timings: The best time to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro is from December-March and June-October.
Cost of hiking: Approximately Rs. 75,000.
Besides, this place where humans have been living for the last 4 million years, and its savannahs, kopjes, rainforests, and rivers, referred to as the Serengeti plains, house rare species like the Nile crocodiles, patas monkeys, lions, African leopard, ground pangolin, etc. This is where you can enjoy safaris to see the Big Five Game animals, the Masai holdings, etc.
Location: Seronera, Northern Tanzania, East Africa
Timings: Always open.
Cost of safari: Approximately Rs. 12,000 per day.
This is where threatened animal species like wildebeest, lions, etc. coexist with elusive Masai tribes. The highlight here is the world’s largest unbroken caldera, which dates to the late Tertiary period.
Location: Arusha, Tanzania.
Timings: Every day from 6:00 am-6:00 pm.
Entry Fee: Approximately Rs. 3,600
Besides wildlife viewing, you can enjoy super fun activities like tree-top canopy walks, forest walks, bike tours, canoe safaris, etc.
Location: Arusha & Manyara regions, Tanzania.
Timings: Best time for a safari is from June-October.
Cost of safari: Approximately Rs. 25,000 per person/ 2 days
It houses outstanding marine life comprising 450 fish and 50 coral species. Its mangroves house rare African birds like Western reef egrets, Terek sandpipers, etc. the high cliffs here act as great diving sites for you to see groupers, rays, turtles, and sharks.
Location: East coast of Tanzania.
Timings: July-October.
Watersports cost: Approximately Rs. 8,000 per person.
Don’t miss to see dwarf mongoose hiding in the huge termite mounds strewn all over the park. You can see these either through walking and jeep safaris or a more fun way of hot air ballooning.
Location: Manyara, Tanzania.
Timings: July-October
Cost of safari: Approximately Rs. 20,000 per person/day.
It is one of the best places to visit in Tanzania for an authentic African experience due to the presence of voodoo performers and witch doctors that still inhabit the place. Besides, it offers some of the best diving spots to see corals and marine life. You can also enjoy forest walks and dhow boating here.
Location: Near the Tanga port, Tanzania.
Timings: July-October
Entry Fee: Approximately Rs. 7,000 per person/ day.
It consists of several long and short alleys that house shops selling spices, jewellery, artworks, etc. Don’t miss to see the House of Wonders, the stone-made Old Fort, the 18th-century Persian hamams, and the Palace Museum here.
Location: Unguja Island, Zanzibar.
Timings: July-October
Entry Fee: Approximately Rs. 350 per person.
You can visit Bwejuu that is loved for its seclusion and solitude and offers activities like diving, dhow boat trips, etc., or the Michamvi Beach that houses coral lagoons, Nungwi Beach that’s loved for its nightlife, fantastic coral reefs, dolphins, and turtles.
Location: The best Zanzibar beaches are Nungwi, Paje, Nakupenda, Pongwe, and Jambiani.
Timings: The dry months of June-October.
Watersports cost: Approximately Rs. 1,500 per person/hour.
Its landscape includes the Rufiji River, acacia savannah, and thick woods that hardly have any human interface, making it one of the few remaining areas in Africa that are truly wild and raw.
Location: Southern Tanzania.
Timings: July-October
Cost of safari: Approximately Rs. 20,000 per person/ day.
This includes turacos, trogons, blue monkeys, cape buffalo, etc. Besides enjoying game drives, walking safaris, canoe safaris, etc., you can see thousands of pink flamingos at Lake Momella, visit the Ngurdoto crater and museum, and explore the naturally-created fig tree arches.
Location: Near Arusha town, northeastern Tanzania.
Timings: July-October
Cost of safari: Approximately Rs. 23,000 per person/ day.
The highlight of the park is the Big Five Game animals along with the endangered elands, African leopard, sable antelope, impala, bat-eared foxes, agama lizards, etc. Besides, it has more than 1600 plant species and 500 bird species.
Location: Iringa, Tanzania.
Timings: July-October
Cost of safari: Approximately Rs. 31,000 per person/ day.
Besides chimpanzee safaris, you can also enjoy hiking, swimming in Lake Tanganyika, and forest walks.
Location: Western border of Tanzania.
Timings: July-October
Chimpanzee tracking cost: Approximately Rs. 17,000 per person/ day.
Named after a local spirit, this national park’s grounds are worshipped by the locals even today. Enjoy game drives and walking safaris for an amazing bush experience. This park offers an out-and-out rustic experience due to the lack of showers or flush toilets. But it’s amazing being out in the open watching the stars and listening to the night calls of animals.
Location: Western Tanzania.
Timings: July-October
Cost of safari: Approximately Rs. 20,000 per person/ day.
You can’t miss super fun activities like hiking, fishing trips, bird watching, and swimming, etc. here. The surrounding cotton and coffee plantations are also worth a visit.
Location: The lake lies in Tanzania and Uganda and borders Kenya.
Timings: June-August
Entry Fee: Approximately Rs. 31,000 per person.
Changuu Island, also known as Prison Island, is a serene retreat off the coast of Zanzibar, Tanzania. Famous for its giant tortoises and historical prison ruins, the island offers crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a tranquil beach, making it a perfect day trip destination for visitors.
Mnemba Island in Tanzania is a true gem of the Indian Ocean, celebrated for its pristine beauty and exclusive charm. Nestled off the northeast coast of Zanzibar, this small coral island is a sanctuary of natural splendor and tranquility, offering an unforgettable escape into paradise.
Firstly, Mnemba Island is renowned for its unspoiled white sandy beaches that stretch along crystal-clear turquoise waters. The secluded nature of the island ensures that visitors can unwind in privacy, far away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether you're lounging under the shade of a palm tree or snorkeling amidst vibrant coral reefs, every moment on Mnemba Island feels like a serene retreat.
The marine life around Mnemba Island is nothing short of spectacular. The surrounding coral reefs are teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins that occasionally grace visitors with their playful presence. Snorkeling or diving in these waters is a mesmerizing experience, allowing you to explore a world of underwater wonders right at your doorstep.
Paje Beach, located on the southeastern coast of Zanzibar, is renowned for its stunning white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant kite surfing scene. The tranquil atmosphere, dotted with palm trees and traditional dhows, offers an idyllic retreat for sunbathing, swimming, and exploring marine life.
Seronera River Valley: Serengeti's heart, teeming with wildlife, lush landscapes, diverse ecosystems, prime for safaris and scenic views.
Chumbe Island Coral Park, located off the coast of Zanzibar, is a truly remarkable destination and an inspiring example of eco-tourism done right. This protected marine reserve and island sanctuary is known not only for its vibrant coral reefs and lush landscapes but also for its dedication to conservation, sustainability, and community engagement. A visit to Chumbe Island Coral Park offers a blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and environmental education, making it an unforgettable experience for eco-conscious travelers and nature enthusiasts alike.
One of Chumbe Island’s most alluring features is its pristine coral reef sanctuary, among the most biodiverse in the world. This underwater paradise is home to over 200 species of coral and more than 500 species of fish, making it a snorkeling haven. The crystal-clear waters allow visitors to easily spot colorful fish, rare sea turtles, and other fascinating marine life, making every snorkeling excursion feel like an underwater adventure. The island’s reef is protected, meaning it has flourished without human interference, and as a visitor, you get to witness a marine ecosystem that is as close to its natural state as possible.
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Tanzania Things To Do FAQs
Which are the best things to do in Tanzania?
1. Trekking in Kilimanjaro: Being the tallest dormant volcano in Africa, Mt Kilimanjaro makes for a perfect spot to quench your thirst for adventure. The hill stands at an altitude of 5895 meters above the sea level and is one of the most sought-after trekking spots in the whole of Tanzania.
While trekking your way up to the hill, you will get to witness a diverse variety of fauna including animals such as bushbucks, buffaloes, warthogs, and elephants. Though this climb is reckoned as one of the toughest treks in Africa, the mesmerizing campsites and verdant landscapes falling on the way make it totally worthwhile.
Location: Mt Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
2. Safari at Serengeti National Park: If you want to relish the bird’s eye view of African wildlife, scurry to this magical destination that invites you with its abundant biodiversity and a plethora of wildebeest. The park also plays host to the Great Migration – a migration festival in which you might get to witness herds of zebras, impalas, gazelles, and mammals.
The season continues from December to June and it also introduces you to the Big 5, i.e, the lion, bush elephant, leopard, buffalo, and black rhinoceros. For all the wildlife buffs who love to soak in the untapped beauty of nature, a Serengeti National Park safari is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Tanzania.
Location: Tanzania
Price: USD 60 for adults and USD 20 for child.
3. Scuba Diving at Zanzibar: For all those adventure buffs eager to dive deeper into the world of marine adventures, scuba diving at Zanzibar is one of the most enthralling things to do in Tanzania. Whether you wish to explore its 500 marine species or spot whale sharks and big fishes, this marine paradise has everything that you can ask for.
Zanzibar Island is dotted with several scuba diving sites which welcome beginners as well as expert divers to experience the magic of swimming with green turtles, reef sharks, and dolphins. Unguja Island, Nankivell & Hunga Reef, Boribu Reef and Mnemba Island are some of the most common diving attractions in Zanzibar.
Location: Unguja, Tanzania
Price: 330 USD
4. Explore Rift Valley: Flecked by massive lakes, spellbinding vistas, and huge escapements, Rift Valley is an enticing spot where you can experience nature at its best. Tanzania is blessed with a major portion of the Great Rift Valley which encompasses attractions such as Lake Manyara- a place that attracts huge herds of buffalo, elephant, and birds. Travelers are free to either base themselves at Maramboi or admire a perfect blend of culture and wilderness at Manyara Ranch Camp.
This camp also boasts alluring views of Rift Valley and Lake Manyara, making it an ideal spot to disconnect from the outside world and relax in nature's lap. If you are a loner searching for a quiet spot to relax and renew, exploring the mesmerizing Rift Valley remains one of the most surreal things to do in Tanzania.
Location: Great Rift Valley
5. Visit The Iraqw Village: With its rustic charm and unique traditions, Iraqw Village tour remains one of the most offbeat things to do in Tanzania. Streets of Tanzania are steeped in rich culture and interesting historical tales that will make you fall in love with this country . If you want to get acquainted with the real culture of Tanzania, a trip to the beautiful hamlet of Iraqw is all that you need.
The village is inhabited by people from the Wambulu tribe who live in small huts built with woven sticks. These huts also encompass underground rooms that were primarily built to protect themselves from the Maasai tribe. If you are a culture buff eager to explore the old-age customs and traditions of Tanzania, Iraqw Village will win over your heart in no time.
Location: Mbulu, Tanzania
6. Visit the Stone Town: Take a walk around this UNESCO world heritage site to uncover the rich cultural heritage of Indian, Arabian, Persian, and European elements. Popularly known as Mij Mkongwe, this surreal town is home to a plethora of sightseeing attractions including, Forodhani Gardens, The Arab Fort, Darajani Bazaar, and many others.
The town also stands merely 20 minutes boat ride away from the spectacular Changuu Island where you will be welcomed to the sight of dozens of tortoises on the white sandy beaches. With religious attractions such as Malindi Mosque and St Joseph’s Catholic Cathedral, it serves as a perfect getaway for spirituality seekers.
Location: Zanzibar, Tanzania
7. Balloon Safari: Gear up for once in a lifetime experience at Serengeti National Park where you will get to admire the bird’s eye view of the African biodiversity from a hot air balloon.
Guests can leave for the balloon ride from three distinct spots in this beautiful national park. Whether you want to set your adrenaline racing or soak in the views of Great Migration, a balloon safari is an ideal way to make it happen. To enjoy the best vistas of the national park, it is advisable to head for the safari in the morning time.
Location: Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Price: 595 USD per person
8. Safari at Tarangire National Park: If you fancy the idea of lounging in the quiet, a safari at Tarangire National Park will bring you the much-needed peace. Nestled off the main safari route, this national park is primarily known for its birding opportunities, elephant migration, and authentic safari tours.
If you want to make the most of this safari, plan your tour in months from July to October when the weather is pleasant and the elephant population goes up to 3000. The park also features several lodges where you can head for a hassle-free safari experience. For wildlife buffs and adventure seekers, a safari through Tarangire National Park remains one of the best things to do in Tanzania.
Location: Manyara, Tanzania
Price: USD 750-USD1250
9. Visit Ngorongoro Crater: One of the most enthralling things to do in Tanzania, a visit to Ngorongoro Crater will not only serve you with an opportunity to unwind in peace but it will also offer spellbinding vistas of lush green grasslands and herds of animals including zebras, gazelles, and wildebeest.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known to shelter the largest population of lions in the world. Animal lovers would be pleased to spot pink flamingos, who usually flock around Lake Magadi. In addition to this, it also houses a 10-12 miles long volcanic crater that is enveloped by a rim rising up to 7500 feet.
Location: Tanzania
Price: 23.6 USD- for persons between 5-15 years
70.8 USD- for 15 years and above
10. Visit Masai Village: Nestled in the lush green highlands of Ngorongoro, Masai is a quaint village which welcomes you with its leisurely vibe and rolling hills. On your visit to this beautiful village, feel free to spend time with the native villagers to know about the local culture and lifestyle.
If you want to feel like a part of their community, join them in their exquisite dancing and singing celebrations. You can also learn about their customary practices such as beadwork and fire-making to get a better insight into their culture and traditions. Many travelers also purchase beadwork and handmade leathers from these villagers as a keepsake for the way back home.
Location:Tanzania
What are the best things to do in Tanzania at Night?
1. Make your way to High Spirit Lounge Bar: Are you on a lookout for the best things to do in Tanzania at night? If yes, a visit to High Spirit Lounge Bar is all that you might need for a fun-filled night in Tanzania. Boasting the spellbinding views of the ocean at its front this nightlife spot needs no formal introduction.
High Spirit Lounge Bar forms an ideal night escape for anyone who wants to chill out and unwind in a relaxed atmosphere. While here, one can enjoy a fine dining experience, dance to the Western and African beats, or simply soak in the charm of its spectacular surroundings.
2. Unwind in the calm atmosphere of Level 8: Treat your taste buds to the best variety of cocktails at this lively bar that invites you to unwind in peace after a long day or savor a romantic dinner with your better half. With a perfect blend of tasty meals, beautiful ambience, cozy vibes, and commendable hospitality, visiting Level 8 is among the best things to do in Tanzania.
3. Dance your heart out at New Maisha Club: If you can’t choose one between having a scrumptious dinner and clubbing, make your way to this popular restaurant-club that is packed with a massive dance floor, systematic seating plan, and multiple bars.
Guests are guaranteed to have one of its kind experiences at this entertaining club that witnesses a huge influx of travelers throughout the year. With a perfect combination of good food and happening nightlife, a visit to this club is one of the best things to do in Tanzania at night.
4. Vouch for a unique experience at Kilimanjaro Casino: If you wish to try some offbeat things to do in Tanzania at night, a visit to this popular casino will do the trick. Located in the Hyatt hotel in Dar es Salaam, this casino is just the right place to spend your night placing bets, trying your luck and ending the game with huge bucks in your pocket.
5. Watch an enthralling game with your friends at The Slow Leopard: Are you a sports enthusiast who fancy the thought of watching games on a huge screen with your best buddies? If yes, look no further than The Slow Leopard.
Mostly known as the guys club, this place makes for a laidback spot to relax while enjoying the game and relishing some finger food and delectable burgers. When there are no game shows, one can enjoy their live music which goes with its vibrant ambience.
What are the most romantic things to do in Tanzania for couples?
1. Enjoy bonfire in Serengeti: Spend a night under the starlit sky with your special one in the Serengeti camps where you will be surrounded by nothing but wilderness and beautiful wildlife species. To make the most of your bonfire experience, you can also add dinner and drinks to your plan.
2. Plan your stay in one of its luxury resorts: If you are too tired to do anything after a hectic day of wildlife sighting in Tanzania, just make your way to one of its luxury resorts. These luxury properties in Tanzania not only pamper you with all the contemporary amenities but they also surprise you with their spectacular surroundings where you can unwind in absolute peace with your better half.
3. Walk hand in hand down the colorful Tanzanian markets: Take a deep dive into the culture and lifestyle of Tanzania by strolling down its markets which are brimming with intense art and craft scenes, fabrics, textiles, and handcrafted jewelry.
Alternatively, you can also try the street side food with your partner to make your trip all the more worthwhile. If you are confused about where to start, Arusha is your go-to spot.
4. Enjoy some secluded time with your loved one at Zanzibar beaches: Zanzibar Island is a major haunt among romantic vacationers and newly-weds, thanks to its endless pristine beaches where you can celebrate your love in the most memorable way.
Unwind with your partner on the white sandy beaches, soak in the view of charming sunsets by the beach, or simply enjoy a lavish stay in one of the beachside resorts- this island will certainly spoil you with its never ending choices!
What are the best adventure activities to do in Tanzania?
1. Trek your way up to the Mt Meru: Popularly called as the sister mountain of Kilimanjaro, Mt Meru offers you a golden opportunity to laze around in complete silence. Though not as popular as Mt Kilimanjaro, this hill paradise also has the most breathtaking vistas in reserve for its visitors.
What’s more, the trek takes you through diverse terrains, ranging from alpine heather to mountain forests, and ice fields. For adventure seekers searching for some adrenaline activities to do in Tanzania, a trek up to Mt Meru is totally unavoidable.
2. Enjoy underwater sports at Zanzibar Island: You can’t leave the captivating land of Zanzibar without exploring its underwater magic. Visitors from all across the world throng this place to try a wide range of adventure sports including snorkeling, surfing, and diving.
However, if you are looking for an authentic diving experience, head to Pemba Island that lies towards the north of Zanzibar. With so many beach destinations and activities to do in Tanzania, one can’t overlook this underwater paradise.
3. Explore the beauty of Tanzania on a horse back: Tanzania boasts alluring landscapes on all of its sides and what could be a better way to admire this beauty than to explore it on a horse ride?
Revive the royal charm of horse rides by booking a riding safari beforehand in one of the best national parks in Tanzania. If you are someone who loves taking in the peaceful environs away from the crowded jeeps and bustling engines, a horse ride through Tanzanian landscape will appeal to you more than anything else.
4. Head for an early morning bike safari: If you are an adventure buff waiting to push up your limits, an early morning bike safari through the wildlife trails of the national park is one of the most exciting activities to do in Tanzania.
Imagine biking through the treacherous trails of Arusha National Park and banana plantations on the foothills of Mt Meru. If the mere thought of this activity sets your adrenaline racing, a bike safari in Tanzania is totally worth your time and efforts.
5. Explore the exotic fauna of Tanzania on wildlife safari: Are you searching for the best activities to do in Tanzania? If yes, then your Tanzania trip would be incomplete without an exotic wildlife safari in one of its national parks.
Tanzania is home to a plethora of national parks where you will not only get to witness the Great Annual Migration of zebra and wildebeest but you will also get to spot a wide array of birds. Additionally, these wildlife parks also flaunt their captivating landscapes which will further accentuate the charm of your safari.
What is the best time to visit Tanzania
The best time to visit Tanzania is anytime other than the rainy season which falls between the months of March and May. In the months from June to September, Tanzania experiences dry weather making it an ideal time to enjoy the Great Migration. However, if you want to avoid the peak season, plan your Tanzania trip in either January or February.
What should I do in Tanzania in 3 days?
With an endless list of activities to do in Tanzania, one might face tough time making a choice for themselves. Tanzania is all about wildlife, beaches, tasty local cuisines, and vibrant nightlife. If you are on a short trip to this beautiful city, start off with a trek to the Mt Kilimanjaro, after which you can head for a wildlife tour to the Serengeti National Park.
Once you are done exploring the ardent wildlife scenes of Tanzania, set out for the Tanzania Island tour where you will be welcomed with umpteen beaches and adventure sports. You will also find numerous restaurants, bars, and clubs alongside these beaches where you can relish the sumptuous local cuisines and party till the dawn!
What is Tanzania famous for?
Tanzania is mainly known for being home to the highest African mountain, i.e, Mt Kilimanjaro and a trunkful of wildlife destinations where you can witness the Great Wildebeest Migration and spot a wide array of exotic species including the Big 5. Serengeti National Park, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire National Park are some of its popular wildlife destinations.
What else is there to do in Tanzania?
Apart from exploring the rich wildlife and climbing up the giant Mt Kilimanjaro, there are several other activities to do in Tanzania. This city is home to the pristine Zanzibar Island which is blessed with a plethora of white sandy beaches where one can laze about for hours or indulge in enthralling water sports.
If you are a food connoisseur, you can also pamper your taste buds with some local dishes which have a subtle hint of Indian flavors. One can’t leave this place without experiencing its eventful nightlife at one of the clubs and bars which are complete with glistening dance floors, tasty cocktails, and scrumptious meals.
What should I wear in Tanzania?
Since, Tanzania is a conservative place men as well as women are expected to be fully covered in public. Though most of the native women from Tanzania only wear skirts, foreign women are allowed to wear trousers and jeans as long as they are not very form-fitting.
How many days do you need to visit Tanzania?
With its never ending list of tourist spots, Tanzania can only be covered fully on a long vacation. You can easily spend up to 6 weeks in this African treasure which comprises numerous wildlife spots, trekking trails, and beaches. However, if you just want to cover its prominent spots, a 10 day trip would be enough to explore Tanzania.
What should I not miss in Tanzania?
Tanzania, as a whole, is unavoidable, thanks to its pristine beaches, exotic wildlife, and verdant landscapes which makes it all the more beautiful. However, if you are on a short visit to Tanzania, don’t forget to include Mt Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National Park, Tarangire National Park, and Lake Manyara in your itinerary.
What are the best day and night tour packages you can book with Thrillophilia?
Here are the best day and night tour packages you can book with Thrillophilia:
