Having been repeatedly hailed as the most popular tourist destination in Africa, Tanzania certainly has much to offer to everybody who wishes to visit it. There truly is no better place to get yourself acquainted with the continent. Tanzania’s got everything -- challenging mountain ranges, beautiful beaches with clear waters and an incredibly lush plant and wildlife.
If you’re traveling there for the first time, you are probably wondering how to best accommodate your time in this wonderfully diverse and welcoming country. Whatever your interests and favorite pastimes are, Tanzania has got you covered! Whether you’re a hiker, a history buff, or you simply enjoy some quiet time out on the beach, you’ll find all that and much more in this paradise on Earth!
Given the intense tourist traffic coming in and out of the country, the Tanzanian infrastructure is much more developed and better suited for long travels than in other African countries.
This will allow you to explore the country more swiftly and effectively, whether you’re moving on your own or with a tour guide. In order to help yourself plan out your exotic holiday and have the time of your life, keep reading to discover the best things to do and see in Tanzania!
Climb Up Mount Kilimanjaro
This point is one of the main reasons people from all over the world arrive in Tanzania each year. Getting on top of the highest peak in Africa and the highest free-standing mountain in the world is no easy feat and many climbing and extreme sports enthusiasts simply cannot pass up this opportunity. Before you set out on this journey, however, be sure to plan your Kilimanjaro climb really well, since it has a reputation for being unforgiving to ill-prepared tourists.
Over 30,000 people try to reach this mountain’s summit every year, but not every one of them makes it. Don’t freak out -- they don’t all fall to their deaths! Overestimating your skills may result in cutting the expedition short and having to be evacuated from the mountain.
This is why proper guidance and previous climbing experience are absolutely essential if you’re thinking of scaling Kilimanjaro.
Go On the Serengeti Safari
Safaris are truly mesmerizing -- getting to witness some of the most dangerous beasts known to man from up close, from the elusive safety of your tour guide’s jeep will surely be an unforgettable experience if you choose to participate in it.
Not all safaris are equal, though, and Serengeti has got to topmost of the rankings out there. It is one of, if not the most famous wildlife destination on the globe.
The main reason behind its fame is the fact that it is the best location that allows you to witness the annual migration of wildlife over these plains. In the Serengeti, you will get to see zebras and gazelles, as well as more vicious animals, such as lions and tigers, in their natural habitat.
Outside of the migration season, the experience is equally beautiful and entertaining, albeit much calmer. All year round you’re able to view the aforementioned animals go about their daily lives in the Serengeti National Park.
Head Down to Stone Town
Even though wildlife and landscapes are definitely the main attractions in Tanzania, even pop-culture buffs will find something they can enjoy. The island of Zanzibar, located just off the coast of Tanzania, besides being a lush tropical paradise, is also the birthplace of Freddie Mercury, the famed singer-songwriter from the band Queen.
Visiting the pop star’s old house is a worthy enough experience on its own, but Stone Town has much more to offer than that. Given its historical significance as a spice and slave trade hub, there are many more cultural intricacies hidden in the stone-paved alleys of this tiny island town.
Pay a Visit to One of the Tribal Villages
Tanzania is home to a wide plethora of different African tribes, many of which have preserved their ancestral way of life and community building. Visiting Tanzania is a unique opportunity to spend some time with these people and learn about the culture and history of the land from the people who are its direct descendants.
From the joyful Iraqw to the intimidating, yet friendly Maasai warrior tribe, the indigenous people of Tanzania are eager to teach you about their customs and traditions.
Everything has a price though, and while some of the tribes, like the Iraqw, are genuinely excited to get to know tourists and unravel most of their secrets for free, there are other tribes who are much more well-versed in the art of the deal and will try to monetize their interactions with most tourists. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but you do need to remember that you can haggle if you believe the asking prices are getting a little out of hand.
Explore the Water Attractions on Zanzibar
There are few better places in the world to go scuba diving or snorkeling than Zanzibar. This little island, mentioned above due to its historical significance, is most primarily a beautiful tropical paradise where you can get away from anything and everything, should you wish to do so.
Its azure waters will captivate you, and the friendly, hospitable locals will take care of you throughout the duration of your stay. Zanzibar is a place like no other, mostly due to the tranquil nature of life over there.
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