Central Tanzania Travel Guide

Plan your dream trip to Central Tanzania with our comprehensive guide, featuring the best places to visit, activities to do, local culture and customs, safety and health information, transportation options and more.


Central Tanzania is a must-visit destination for travelers who are looking for an authentic African experience. Located in East Africa, Central Tanzania offers a blend of cultural and natural attractions that are truly unique. From exploring ancient historical sites to hiking in pristine wilderness areas, Central Tanzania has something for everyone.

Introduction to Central Tanzania

Central Tanzania is located in the heart of Tanzania and is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant culture. The region is home to some of the country’s most famous national parks, including the Serengeti, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara. The local communities in Central Tanzania are predominantly rural and have managed to preserve their traditional ways of life, making it a fascinating place to experience local culture.

List of Places to Visit in Central Tanzania

Central Tanzania is filled with beautiful landscapes, diverse wildlife, and ancient structures that tell the story of the region’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Here are some of the must-visit places in Central Tanzania:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Olduvai Gorge: This is an important paleoanthropological site in Tanzania, located in the Great Rift Valley. It’s an essential place to visit for history and science lovers.
  2. Bagamoyo: This is a historic town located on the coast of Tanzania, which used to be an important hub for the slave trade. Visitors can learn about the town’s history at the Bagamoyo Museum.
  3. Engaruka: This ancient site is located in the Rift Valley and was once a significant agricultural center. Visitors can view the remarkable irrigation system that the Engaruka people built in the 15th century.

Natural Attractions of Central Tanzania: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Serengeti National Park: One of the most famous national parks in the world, the Serengeti is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, including lions, elephants, zebras, and buffalos.
  2. Ngorongoro Conservation Area: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife, including large populations of lions and elephants.
  3. Lake Eyasi: This is a salt lake located in the Great Rift Valley and is home to the Hadzabe and Datoga tribes. Visitors can experience the traditional way of life of the tribes and learn about their customs and traditions.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Central Tanzania

Central Tanzania is an excellent destination for those who love adventure and outdoor activities. There are many opportunities for hiking and biking in the region, and here are some of the best routes:

  1. Mount Meru: This is the fifth-highest mountain in Africa and is a popular destination for hikers. The trek to the summit takes around three to four days and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
  2. The Usambara Mountains: This is a range of mountains located in the northeast of Tanzania and is a great place for hiking and biking. The area is known for its lush forests, waterfalls, and stunning views.
  3. Uluguru Mountains: This is another great destination for hikers, with trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery.

Best Things to Do in Central Tanzania: Activities and Tours

Central Tanzania offers a wide range of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy, including:

  1. Hot air balloon rides over the Serengeti
  2. Wildlife safaris in national parks
  3. Cultural tours of local villages and communities
  4. Bird watching in Lake Manyara National Park
  5. Hiking and camping in the mountains
  6. Visiting local markets and bazaars to experience local culture

Week-Long Itinerary for Central Tanzania

For those who are spending a week in Central Tanzania, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day 1-2: Serengeti National Park Day 3: Ngorongoro Conservation Area Day 4: Lake Eyasi Day 5-6: Hiking in the Uluguru Mountains Day 7: Bagamoyo

Food and Drink Scene of Central Tanzania

Central Tanzania has a rich food and drink scene, with traditional dishes and drinks that reflect the region’s cultural and agricultural heritage.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Ugali: This is a staple food in Tanzania and is made from maize flour. It is typically served with a stew of vegetables or meat.
  2. Nyama Choma: This is grilled meat, typically beef or goat, and is a popular dish for special occasions.
  3. Chapati: This is a type of flatbread that is typically served with stews and curries.

Local Beverages

  1. Kilimanjaro Beer: This is a popular Tanzanian beer that is brewed in Moshi.
  2. Masala Chai: This is a spiced tea that is made with cinnamon, cloves, and ginger.
  3. Coconut Water: This is a refreshing drink that is widely available in coastal areas.

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

Central Tanzania has a range of accommodation options for visitors, including luxury hotels, budget hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some recommended options:

  1. Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti: This luxury lodge is located in the heart of the Serengeti and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
  2. Manyara Ranch Conservancy: This is a community-owned wildlife conservancy that offers luxury tented accommodation and guided wildlife tours.
  3. Kisongo Tent Camp: This is a budget-friendly option for those who want to experience camping in a traditional-style tent.

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

Central Tanzania is known for its traditional crafts and products, including:

  1. Makonde Carvings: These are intricate carvings made from ebony wood and typically depict animals or traditional figures.
  2. Kitenge Fabric: This is a colorful fabric that is typically used to make clothing or accessories.
  3. Tanzanite: This is a gemstone that is only found in Tanzania and is known for its unique violet-blue color.

Local Culture and Customs of Central Tanzania

The local communities in Central Tanzania are predominantly rural and have managed to preserve their traditional ways of life. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, including:

  1. Dress modestly when visiting mosques or other religious sites.
  2. Ask for permission before taking photos of local people.
  3. Remove shoes when entering a home or mosque.
  4. Use the right hand when passing objects or shaking hands.

Best Time to Visit Central Tanzania

The best time to visit Central Tanzania is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. This is the best time for wildlife viewing, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Central Tanzania

Do:

  1. Respect local culture and customs
  2. Be prepared for hot weather and bring appropriate clothing and sunscreen
  3. Learn some basic Swahili phrases to communicate with locals

Don’t:

  1. Disrespect local customs or traditions
  2. Take photos of people without permission
  3. Litter or damage the environment

Safety and Health

Safety in Central Tanzania

Tanzania is a safe country for travelers, but visitors should take some precautions to ensure their safety, including:

  1. Avoid walking alone at night
  2. Keep valuables out of sight
  3. Use reputable tour companies for activities and tours

Health in Central Tanzania

Visitors to Central Tanzania should take some precautions to protect their health, including:

  1. Get vaccinated for yellow fever and other common illnesses
  2. Drink bottled water or use a water filtration system
  3. Use insect repellent to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses like malaria

Getting to Central Tanzania: Transportation Options and Logistics

Central Tanzania is accessible by air and road, and there are several transportation options available for visitors.

Airports Near Central Tanzania

  1. Kilimanjaro International Airport in Moshi
  2. Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam

Bus Stations Near Central Tanzania

  1. Ubungo Bus Station in Dar es Salaam
  2. Moshi Bus Station in Moshi

Other Options

  1. Private car hire
  2. Train from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma

How to Get Around in Central Tanzania

The best way to get around Central Tanzania is by car or safari vehicle. Visitors can hire a car or book a tour with a reputable tour company.

Where to Go Next from Central Tanzania: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Zanzibar: This is a beautiful island located off the coast of Tanzania and is known for its beaches and rich cultural heritage.
  2. Kilimanjaro National Park: This is the home of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa, and is a great destination for hiking and trekking.
  3. Selous Game Reserve: This is one of the largest game reserves in Africa and is known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, and buffalo.

Conclusion

Central Tanzania is a beautiful and diverse region that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in wildlife safaris, cultural tours, or outdoor adventures, Central Tanzania has it all. With its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant culture, Central Tanzania is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to East Africa.



    Katesh
    Mikumi National Park
    Mpwapwa
    Ruaha National Park
    Singida
    Udzungwa Mountains National Park