Tanzania is known as the land of plenty, for it possesses a variety of landscapes and ecosystems. If you are a thrill seeker wishing to climb the famous Mount Kilimanjaro or if you are simply a vacationer looking for the hot sun and sandy beaches of Zanzibar, you will find that Tanzania is full of surprises. This southern African country has it all, which includes outstanding wildlife parks, stunning mountains, and idyllic beaches.
In this publication, we will highlight the most important places in Tanzania, starting with Africa’s tallest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, to the picturesque shores of Zanzibar depicting the beautiful islands and beaches that Tanzania has to offer.
Tanzania Country Guide: Activities and Attractions
By virtue of its scenery and cultural resources, Tanzania is among the most frequented countries in Africa. This is a country rich in treasures that include the world’s highest free standing mountain, the Great African Rift and the spice island of Zanzibar. So, let us look at the case study of Tanzania, making sure that there is no dull moment on your trip there.
- Mastering Mount Kilimanjaro: Africa’s Pinnacle Region
Mount Kilimanjaro is certainly one of Tanzania’s famous sites. Kili stands at an impressive 5895 metres above sea level, the mountain is Africa’s largest and a must visit place for all trekkers and adventure seekers across the globe. This dormant volcano makes it possible for climbers to hike in different climate regions, from a tropical rain forest to a frigid alpine tundra, and finally, the peak covered in snow.
Climbing Routes And What Is Their Difficulty
When climbing Kilimanjaro there are various paths to select from depending on the difficulty, views, and length of time. The most frequently taken paths are:
Marangu Route: This route also referred to as the ‘coca-cola route’ is the most easy and has huts for accommodation hence suitable for first time climbers.
Machame Route: This route, which is also referred to as the ‘whiskey’ route, is harder than the Machame route but provides amazing scenery such as the Shira Plateau and Barranco Wall.
Lemosho Route: For those wanting a longer, more serene walking experience, the Lemosho route provides a more pleasant route and has a better success rate as it is less steep. If climbing any mountain or at high altitudes, it is important to note that risk of altitude sickness is very high. It is advisable to take some days off prior to the climb in order to acclimatize so as to improve the odds of summiting the mountain.
- Experience the Great Migration in the Serengeti
The Serengeti National Park is often the first association that comes to mind when discussing authentic safaris in Africa, and to add, it is among the leading game reserves in the globe. Every year, millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles stir up a commotion and engage in a phenomenal journey popularly known as the Great Migration that begins in the Serengeti in Tanzania and ends in the Maasai Mara in Kenya in search of greener pastures. Great Migration is a natural movement that transcends and is highly cherished, being the greatest spectacle of wildlife on the planet.
Best Time to Travel
The timing of the Great Migration can vary but to best months to see this are implemented between June and October. This period covers the MM herd’s crossing of the MM river, which is a crocodile-infested dramatic and thrilling safari adventure. Aside from the migration, the Serengeti also has the ‘Big Five’ l ‘lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino’ and there is wildlife viewing throughout the year making it a suitable safari holiday for any traveler. If you want to fully appreciate the wildlife of Tanzania consider something like a 5 Days Tanzania Safaris tailored itinerary to enjoy your trip better.
- Set Off to the Ngorongoro Crater
Located not far from the Serengeti is the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a breathtaking location with one of the most unusual ecosystems in the world. The crater was formed millions of years ago when a large volcano collapsed within itself; it measures 260 square kilometers and astonishes in the variety of wildlife that inhabitants it.
The Ultimate Safari Adventure
The plains of the crater are home to lots of creatures including lions, elephant, two horned rhinos and many more such as lakeside flamingos. Almost all of the black rhinos left in the country are found here making it one of the most interesting place in Tanzania and for tourists going on safari. As is the case for all overland safari packages in northern Tanzania, a day trip to the Ngorongoro Crater has a wildlife experience that is confined in a breathtaking scenery.
- Lazing under the sun on the sandy beaches of Zanzibar
After spending days on a safari expedition, the white-sandy beaches of Zanzibar provide the much-needed rest. More commonly referred to as the Spice Islands, Zanzibar refers to a group of islands situated in the Indian ocean, off the mainland of Tanzania. The island is characterized by clear blue waters and beautiful coral reefs and has a history that is a mixture of arab, indian and african traditions.
Beach Activities and Island Life
There’s a lot for beach lovers in Zanzibar everywhere from swimming and sunbathing on the silky sands to snorkelling and scuba diving in the clear waters. The eastern coastline of the island, especially in areas like Paje and Jambiani, is famous for the kite-surfing season whereas Nungwi and Kendwa found in the northern region are known for some of the best swimming beaches in the island.
Stone Town, the historical beating heart of the island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for those who crave culture and history. Get lost in the winding, narrow alleys, tour the ancient slave trading centers, and visit the Sultans Palace to appreciate the history that surrounds the exotic island of Zanzibar.
- Explore the Tarangire National Park
Despite being frequently eclipsed by the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park is a great place for wildlife enthusiasts. It is situated in the northern region of Tanzania and is famous for its massive herds of elephants and its ancient baobab trees. It is a quieter alternative to the more popular and busier Serengeti where one can enjoy good game viewing but fewer people are around.
Distinctive Whalewatching
In the dry season (i.e. between June and October), all the animals come to Tarangire River which serves as a home to lions, giraffes, leopards and many more. The park will also be loved by avid birders with more than 500 bird species found in the park. In case you are going on a longer safari, Tarangire is commonly connected with other parks situated in the northern regions of Tanzania, enhancing the chances of viewing more wildlife.
- Lake Manyara National Park Itinerary
While on the route to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara National Park, becomes an ideal break point for most tourists. Although it is not as vast as other parks, Lake Manyara is known for its unique features, ranging from subterranean forests to saline lakes.
Tree climbing lions and bird watching
One of the major highlights of Lake Manyara park is the presence of tree climbing lions, which is an uncommon behavior for the species. Numerous flamingos, pelicans, and varieties of other birds which prefer the shallow lake water can also be found in the park. The beauty of the park complemented with the interesting animals makes it a worthy place to visit for safari in Tanzania.
- Selous Game Reserve
For adventure seekers who wish to go a little bit deeper into the African wilderness, southern Tanzania provides the Selous Game Reserve which is more off the conventional safari tour routes. It is one of the largest game reserves in Africa and is famous for the rugged beauty of the Selous Game Reserve and the sheer number of elephants, hippos, and crocodiles.
Boat Safaris and Walking Safaris
For instance, one of the interesting aspects of Selous is the chances to enjoy boat safaris on the banks of Rufiji River or take the walking safaris and enjoy the feeling of being in the bush. This reserve is much less visited as compared to the northern parks, hence offering a close and peaceful safari experience for those in search of peace. Tanzania is a country that combines every factor of adventure and leisure; right from the rough heights of mount kilimanjaro to the refreshing coastline of Zanzibar. Be it the vast grassy plains of Serengeti National Park, the stunning Ngorongoro Crater with its plethora of wildlife or the picture-perfect islands of Zanzibar, Tanzania is bound to give you the trip of your lifetime. If you would like a customized safari which has everything in it that is the best in Tanzania, well look for 5 Days Tanzania Safaris and envision your vacation now.
