10 Most popular things to do in Tanzania

What to do in tanzania?

You’ve probably heard of Tanzania before; after all, the East African country is one of the most popular places to visit in Africa, and with good reason! It’s the type of place where you can enjoy wildlife safaris, swim in hot springs, and even hike Mount Kilimanjaro — all while never even having to leave the same country! It’s also known for its famous national parks, including Tarangire National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. In fact, here are the 10 most popular things in Tanzania !

1. Follow The Great Migration

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Africa is home of an incredible wildlife experiences, but few can rival the stunning spectacle of the Great Migration. This spectacular event sees over a million wildebeest traverse the vast plains of the Serengeti, driven by the need to find fresh grazing land and navigate the many dangers that lie in their path.

2. The wild life Of Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Tanzania's Ngorongoro Conservation Area, is a must-see destination renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and incredible wildlife. This ancient caldera is home to the "Big Five"—lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinoceros—making it a prime spot for thrilling game drives. Visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views from the crater rim, with lush greenery providing a dramatic backdrop for photography. Engaging with the local Maasai people offers a rich cultural experience, where one can learn about their traditions and enjoy traditional music and dance. For the adventurous, hiking trails lead to spectacular viewpoints and hidden gems within the area. While the crater is accessible year-round, the dry season from June to October is especially popular for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources. Whether on a safari or soaking in the beauty, the Ngorongoro Crater promises an unforgettable highlight of any Tanzanian adventure.

3. Peak of Africa

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Located in the northeastern part of Tanzania, Kilimanjaro is Africa's highest mountain and can be seen from as far away as Kenya. This majestic peak is more than just a geographical landmark, however - it is also a powerful symbol of life and vitality for the local Chagga people, who have long relied on its rich volcanic soils for agriculture and its pure spring waters for sustenance. Despite the fact that 75,000 people climb Kilimanjaro each year, the mountain remains a truly awe-inspiring sight to behold. While it may not be the most untouched or arduous mountain, it is still an incredible challenge for anyone with even a passing interest in mountaineering. Whether you're a seasoned climber or just looking to push yourself to new heights, Kilimanjaro is an unforgettable experience that is not to be missed.

4. The Chimpanzees of Mahale

"The Chimpanzees of Mahale" is a landmark study of wild chimpanzees in Mahale Mountains National Park, Tanzania, initiated in the 1960s. This research has yielded profound insights into their complex social structures, behaviors like tool use and communication, and emotional connections. It also underscores the challenges these chimpanzees face, such as habitat loss and poaching, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts in this unique ecosystem.

5. The Epic Quest for the Big Five

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The vast and treeless Serengeti National Park is home to millions of animals who roam in search of new grasslands. While many of the well-known African animals can be seen here, the park is most famous for the yearly wildebeest migration.

Starting in May or early June, over 1.5 million wildebeest, as well as tens of thousands of zebra and gazelle, embark on their annual migration, making it one of nature's most impressive spectacles. The Serengeti is also a birdwatcher's paradise, with nearly 500 different species calling it home.

Tens of thousands of tourists flock to Tanzania's second-largest national park every year to witness the migration and observe the park's incredible biodiversity. The best months to see wildlife are from June to September.

6. Southern Tanzania: A Safari Paradise Beyond the Crowds

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Southern Tanzania is a hidden gem for safari enthusiasts seeking an authentic experience away from the crowds. Home to stunning national parks like Ruaha and Selous, this region boasts diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, and rare species like the African wild dog. The breathtaking landscapes, ranging from savannahs to riverine forests, provide a backdrop for unforgettable adventures, whether it’s game drives, walking safaris, or boat excursions. With fewer tourists and a sense of untouched wilderness, Southern Tanzania offers a tranquil escape into nature’s beauty.

7. Meet the last Hunters and Gatherers tribe on the planet

The Hadzabe are the most primitive tribe living on earth. They are hunter gatherers just like our ancestors were thousands of years ago. This tribe has been living near Lake Eyasi in Northern Tanzania for over 50,000 years. Additionally what make this tribe more unique is the way they speak, a unique language with clicks.

8. Zanzibar the Spice Island

15 Days trip Tanzania Zanzibar

From spice plantations to Arab-style architecture, Zanzibar has a lot to offer visitors. Whether you’re looking for a romantic beach vacation or want to see some famous historical sites, you can find it here. Some popular things to do are: visit spice plantations, go swimming in Stone Town (Zanzibar’s old city), and enjoy a meal at one of many quaint restaurants throughout the islands. There are plenty more options, so take some time to explore and check out what Tanzania is known for!

9. Enter the Empire of Elephants

Tarangire National Park is famous for several reasons, making it a popular destination within the Northern Tanzania Safari Circuit.

Firstly, the park is renowned for its large population of elephants. It is home to one of the highest concentrations of elephants in Africa, including impressive "old tuskers" with remarkable tusks. Observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is a highlight of visiting Tarangire.

Secondly, Tarangire National Park is known for its walking safaris. Unlike many other wildlife parks in northern Tanzania, Tarangire allows visitors to explore on foot in specific areas of the park. This unique experience provides a more intimate and immersive encounter with the wildlife and landscape.

Thirdly, the park boasts incredible biodiversity and high densities of wildlife, particularly during the dry season. Tarangire's diverse habitats, which include grasslands, woodlands, and the Tarangire River, support a wide variety of animals. Visitors can spot lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, impalas, gazelles, and many more species.

Lastly, Tarangire National Park is known for its wildlife migration during the dry season. While not as massive as the Great Migration in Serengeti National Park, Tarangire experiences its own smaller-scale migration. Large numbers of wildebeests, elephants, gazelles, zebras, hartebeests, and buffaloes migrate to the Tarangire River in search of water and grazing. This gathering of herbivores attracts predators, creating exciting opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Overall, Tarangire National Park offers a unique and diverse safari experience, with its iconic elephants, walking safaris, abundant wildlife, and the captivating wildlife migration.

10. Climbing Kings: The Lions of the Trees

In the heart of Manayra, a striking scene unfolds as lions rest majestically on the branches of a towering tree. This unusual sight captures the imagination, blending the wild beauty of nature with a sense of enchantment. The lions, with their golden manes glistening in the sunlight, seem almost regal as they lounge, embodying both strength and tranquility. The surrounding foliage sways gently in the breeze, creating a serene backdrop for these magnificent creatures, reminding visitors of the harmonious coexistence between wildlife and the environment. This surreal tableau invites onlookers to pause and reflect on the wonders of nature, sparking a sense of awe and curiosity.