Best places to Visit in Tanzania. Tanzania is one of Africa’s most culturally significant countries. It is also among the continent’s most under-travelled destinations, which only fuels its allure as a secret. Travelers who venture to Tanzania will discover an enchanting, diverse and authentic country with a captivating mix of natural, cultural and architectural wonders. The country is also home to a fair number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the list just keeps on growing with each passing year. In this article, we’ll be exploring the country’s best-kept secrets and hidden gems.
14 Places to Visit in Tanzania
so read on for 17 of Tanzania’s best-kept secrets and off-the-beaten-track destinations.
Mount Kilimanjaro
First on our list of Tanzania’s best-kept secrets is Mount Kilimanjaro, the “ Roof of Africa”. With an altitude of 5,895m (19,340 ft), and a summit that is continuously snow capped throughout the year, Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in Africa and the third highest in the world. It is also one of the most climbed mountains, with an estimated two million people having reached the summit since 1889, when the first ascent was made by a German expedition.
That said, Kilimanjaro is no ordinary mountain. While it is a fantastic and challenging climb, it is also a very special place that is steeped in history, spiritual significance and a diverse range of wildlife. It is located in the Arusha Region, which was formerly a German colony, and is now one of Tanzania’s most popular tourist destinations.
Mount Meru National Park
Next on our list of Tanzania’s best-kept secrets is Mount Meru National Park, which lies in the far western region of the country. It is the second highest peak in the country at 2,189m (7,166ft) and is the highest point in the country’s Northern Region. The park is also very isolated, lying between Lake Malawi in the south and the Aberdares in the north. It is home to several notable peaks, including the Kantanje, which is the highest unclimbed peak in Africa.
The park is best known for two magnificent waterfalls, the Siwani and Nkuringo waterfalls, which are part of a larger system, and are located in the Siwani Gorge. Mount Meru is also a tourist magnet, with numerous operators offering various types of guided tours to the area.
Serengeti National Park
Serengeti National Park is the best place in the world to see wildlife in action. The area surrounding the park is known for its spectacular annual migration, which sees an incredible 1.5 million zebras, gazelles, wildebeest and other animals move between the area’s vast river systems and the dry areas around the park. The Serengeti is also home to the giant Eland, which is Africa’s largest antelope.
The park itself is incredibly well-preserved, with a wide variety of habitats found within its boundaries, including savannah, wetlands and forests. While the annual migration is what makes the park famous, there is plenty of other wildlife to see, including elephants, buffalo, leopards, elephants, cheetahs, lions, hyenas, vultures, warthogs and many others.
Victoria Falls
Next up on our list of Tanzania’s best-kept secrets is the famous Victoria Falls, which lie on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The second-largest waterfall in Africa, after The falls stretch for an impressive 2.5km (8,200ft) across the border and are up to 200m (656ft) wide. The area surrounding the Falls is also incredibly scenic, with various viewpoints offering great views of the Falls and the surrounding area.
The area around the Falls is very popular with tourists, and the best time to visit is during the annual Victoria Falls Festival, which attracts visitors from all over the world. The festival, which is held every second year, sees various cultural events, sports competitions and of course, the Falls themselves, all showcased in a spectacular fashion.
Mtera
Next on our list of Tanzania’s best-kept secrets is the stunning coral atoll of Mtera in Dar Es Salaam. Formed by a circular coral reef, with a lagoon the size of Lake Victoria, Mtera is located just off the coast of Tanzania’s second-largest city. It is only accessible via boat or plane, and is truly a unique place to visit.
Given its unique location, the best time to visit Mtera is between November and February, when the sea is at its calmest and warmest. Visitors are normally tourists from Europe and North America, and the best time to visit is during the Christmas and New Year period, when many visit the island for its festive atmosphere, and beautiful views of the Indian Ocean.
Zanzibar,
Next on our list of Tanzania’s best-kept secrets is Zanzibar, the island archipelago’s best-kept secret. The archipelago, off the coast of Tanzania, is known as the “Spice Islands”, and is also home to the “Spice Isle” Pemba, which is the largest island in the archipelago.
Zanzibar is a fascinating place, not just because of its many archaeological sites, but also because of its laid-back vibe, mix of traditional and modern, and plethora of wildlife. The best time to visit the island is between November and March, when the weather is warm and mild.
Babati,
Next up on our list of Tanzania’s best-kept secrets is Babati, a small town in the Southern Highlands, which is home to one of Tanzania’s best-kept archaeological sites. The area boasts numerous beautiful traditional architecture sites, which are around 2,000 years old and were built primarily using wood.
Babati is also a great place to unwind, relax and enjoy the cooler climate, compared to the rest of the country. It is often referred to as the “ gateway to the Southern Highlands ”, as it is located in the middle of many Southern Highlands attractions. The area is often overlooked by tourists, which only adds to its charm.
Mafia Island Resort
Next on our list of Tanzania’s best-kept secrets is Mafia Island, a small island located in the Indian Ocean, which is home to one of the country’s most luxurious resorts. The island is home to the resort’s main building, which was constructed in the shape of a ship, and is made entirely of natural materials, including wood and thatch.
The ship is reportedly one of the most famous attractions on the island, and is adorned with numerous pieces of artwork, including drums, spears and other artifacts. Visitors are not allowed to stay overnight on the island, but can enjoy a champagne and crayfish picnic on the lawns outside the ship.
Bemba Coffee Farm
Last but not least on our list of Tanzania’s best-kept secrets is Bemba Coffee Farm, which lies in the Southern Highlands, and is the country’s largest coffee producer. The farm lies just off the Ngong road, which links the Southern Highlands to the rest of the country, and is one of Tanzania’s most popular tourist attractions.
A trip to the farm is a trip back in time, as the area is largely untouched by modern life. Visitors can learn about coffee growing and the farm’s production process, which includes the use of natural fertilizers, and the collection of coffee berries by hand.
While there are numerous other places to visit in Tanzania, these are some of the most notable and best-kept secrets. Visitors to the country should definitely seek out these places, which are all very different from one another, and each a great place to discover something new.
How to go on a Tanzania Safari?
While there are a number of ways to experience the country, safari is perhaps the best way to get to know the country and its people. The best safari operators in Tanzania offer a range of exciting, tailor-made safari options, allowing you to “step inside” the country and meet the people, while experiencing its diverse landscape, indigenous wildlife and authentic culture first-hand.
Identify the Best Tanzania Safari Operators
There are many safari operators offering Tanzania expeditions, but which are the best? We’ve identified the top safari operators for your Tanzanian adventure. Choose the perfect safari operator for your trip. For example Uwanda Tours And Safaris
camps and lodges
Many travelers think of Tanzania as a land of safari in and of itself, but the truth is that the vast majority of the country can be explored on foot. This is thanks to the great variety of national parks, wildlife conservancies and other protected areas that cover the entire country.
Self-Drive Safaris in Tanzania
For many, the ultimate Tanzania adventure is a self-drive safari. This is the most authentic way to experience the country, as you will be relying on your own transport to get around. You’ll be able to explore at your own pace, and make your own stops when you please.
Walks and Treks in Tanzania
Walking and trekking are two of the best ways to experience the natural and cultural wealth of Tanzania. The country has an abundance of wildlife, and both the Serengeti and Masai Mara are well-known for their herds of wild animals.
Boat cruises in Tanzania
Boat cruises are another way to explore Tanzania’s waterways. This is perhaps the most relaxing way to see the country, as you are accompanied by the rhythm of the water and the views from the boat.
Conclusion
There is so much to see and experience in Tanzania, and so many ways to do it. It is one of the most diverse and interesting countries in Africa, and a true travel gem. Visiting Tanzania is like exploring a new country. You’ll experience a culture that is very different from your own, and you’ll have a lot of fascinating sights and encounters to tell about at home.
So, where to begin? The best way is to contact a safari company and discuss your preferences, objectives, and budget. A professional can help you identify the best Tanzania safari operators and make arrangements for your adventure. They will also be able to assist you in booking rooms and hosts in advance of your trip. Once you’ve determined the best way to go about your Tanzania travel plans, all you have to do is get ready to enjoy one of the most diverse, appealing, and exciting countries in Africa.
