Tanzania Travel Guide (East Africa/Africa)

Introduction to Tanzania
List of Places to Visit in Tanzania
- Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Natural Attractions of Tanzania: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Hiking/Biking Routes of Tanzania
Best Things to Do in Tanzania: Activities and Tours
Week-Long Itinerary for Tanzania
Food and Drink Scene of Tanzania
- Must-Try Dishes
- Local Beverages
Where to Stay in Tanzania: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
What to Buy in Tanzania: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Local Culture and Customs of Tanzania
Best Time to Visit Tanzania
Do’s and Don’ts of Tanzania
- Do:
- Don’t:
Safety and Health
- Safety in Tanzania
- Health in Tanzania
Getting to Tanzania: Transportation Options and Logistics
How to Get Around in Tanzania
Where to Go Next from Tanzania: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Conclusion

Introduction to Tanzania

Tanzania is a country located in East Africa, bordered by Kenya and Uganda to the north, Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west, and Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique to the south. The country is known for its diverse and breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.

List of Places to Visit in Tanzania

Tanzania is home to several culturally important attractions, natural wonders, hiking and biking routes, best things to do, and an extensive food and drink scene. Here are some must-visit places and experiences in Tanzania.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of the best ways to learn about Tanzania’s history and culture is by visiting some of its museums and historical places. Here are some of the most popular cultural attractions:

National Museum of Tanzania
Olduvai Gorge
Ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara
Zanzibar’s Stone Town

Natural Attractions of Tanzania: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Tanzania has some of the most breathtaking and diverse natural landscapes in the world. From the Serengeti’s vast savannahs to Mount Kilimanjaro, here are some of the best places to visit:

Serengeti National Park
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Mount Kilimanjaro
Lake Tanganyika

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tanzania

If you’re an adventure seeker looking for a physical challenge, Tanzania offers some of the best hiking and biking trails in Africa. Here are some of the most popular routes:

Mount Kilimanjaro
Usambara and Pare Mountains
Uluguru Mountains
Kilombero Valley

Best Things to Do in Tanzania: Activities and Tours

Tanzania offers a wide range of activities and tours for travelers of all ages and interests. Here are some of the best things to do:

Game drives in the Serengeti
Hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti
Snorkeling and scuba diving in Zanzibar
Cultural tours and traditional dancing

Week-Long Itinerary for Tanzania

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Tanzania, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1-2: Safari in Serengeti National Park Day 3: Visit Ngorongoro Conservation Area Day 4: Hiking in Mount Kilimanjaro National Park Day 5: Relax in Zanzibar Day 6-7: Explore Zanzibar’s Stone Town

Food and Drink Scene of Tanzania

Tanzanian cuisine is heavily influenced by Indian, Arabic, and African flavors. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Ugali and nyama choma
Pilau rice
Zanzibari biryani
Chapati

Local Beverages

Kilimanjaro beer
Banana beer
Palm wine
Tangawizi juice

Where to Stay in Tanzania: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Tanzania offers several accommodation options for all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best accommodation options:

Luxury hotels: Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, The Residence Zanzibar, Essque Zalu Zanzibar
Mid-range hotels: Arusha Coffee Lodge, Golden Tulip Dar es Salaam, Tembo House Hotel
Budget accommodations: Backpackers Safari Lodge, Safari Lodge, Kili Villa

What to Buy in Tanzania: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you want to bring home a piece of Tanzania with you, here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to buy:

Handcrafted jewelry
Kanga and kitenge fabrics
Tingatinga paintings
Tanzanite gemstones

Local Culture and Customs of Tanzania

Tanzania is a culturally diverse country, with over 120 ethnic groups. Here are some customs and cultural practices to keep in mind:

Greetings are significant; shake hands with everyone you meet
Dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious places
Respecting elders and those in positions of authority is essential
Tipping is customary, especially when receiving excellent service

Best Time to Visit Tanzania

The best time to visit Tanzania is from June to October and December to February. During these months, the weather is dry, and the wildlife is more active, making it easier to spot during a safari.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tanzania

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Tanzania:

Do:

Dress modestly and appropriately
Be respectful of local customs and traditions
Learn basic Swahili phrases
Carry cash in smaller denominations

Don’t:

Show public displays of affection
Take photos without permission
Litter or harm the environment
Underestimate the sun’s intensity

Safety and Health

While Tanzania is a generally safe country to visit, it is crucial to take precautions to ensure your safety and health.

Safety in Tanzania

Avoid walking alone at night in urban areas
Keep an eye on your belongings and valuables
Use reputable taxi services

Health in Tanzania

Get vaccinated before traveling to Tanzania
Drink only bottled or filtered water
Use insect repellant to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses

Getting to Tanzania: Transportation Options and Logistics

Tanzania is accessible through various transportation options, including flights, buses, trains, and boats.

Airports Near Tanzania

Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam
Kilimanjaro International Airport in Arusha
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport in Zanzibar

Bus Stations Near Tanzania

Ubungo Bus Terminal in Dar es Salaam
Arusha Bus Stand in Arusha
Moshi Bus Station in Moshi

Other Options

Tanzania-Zambia Railway
Ferry services to Zanzibar

How to Get Around in Tanzania

The best way to get around Tanzania is by hiring a taxi or rental car. Alternatively, buses and trains are affordable options for long-distance travel within the country.

Where to Go Next from Tanzania: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to extend your trip or explore other destinations after Tanzania, here are some suggestions:

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda or Uganda
The beaches of Kenya’s Mombasa or Lamu
Wildlife safaris in Botswana or South Africa

Conclusion

Tanzania is a spectacular country with something to offer for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, history or culture, or stunning landscapes and wildlife, Tanzania has it all. Use this comprehensive tour guide to plan your trip and create unforgettable memories.