Tanzania

Top destinations to visit in Tanzania

When planning a trip to Tanzania, there are several states worth visiting due to their unique attractions and cultural significance.

1. Arusha: Located in northern Tanzania, Arusha serves as a gateway to popular safari destinations such as the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Mount Kilimanjaro. This bustling city offers a vibrant blend of urban life and natural beauty, making it an excellent starting point for your trip to Tanzania.
2. Zanzibar: Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous archipelago known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and fascinating history. Explore the narrow alleys and bustling markets of Stone Town, indulge in water sports, or simply relax on the pristine white sand beaches. Zanzibar offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and coastal beauty.
3. Dodoma: Dodoma is the capital city of Tanzania and is centrally located within the country. While it may not be as well-known as other destinations, Dodoma offers a glimpse into Tanzanian politics and administration. Explore the city's landmarks, such as the Dodoma Cathedral and the Bunge (Parliament) Building, to gain insights into the country's governance.
4. Mwanza: Situated on the shores of Lake Victoria, Mwanza is Tanzania's second-largest city and a bustling economic hub. It serves as a gateway to various attractions, including the Rubondo Island National Park and the unique rock formations of Bujora Sukuma Museum. Take a boat ride on Lake Victoria or immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture of Mwanza.
5. Dar es Salaam: As Tanzania's largest city and main seaport, Dar es Salaam is a vibrant metropolis with a rich history. Explore its eclectic mix of architectural styles, visit the National Museum, or take a stroll along the waterfront. Dar es Salaam offers a blend of urban experiences and cultural attractions.

Best time to visit Tanzania

The ideal time for taking a Tanzania tour is during the extended dry season, which occurs from July to September. This period is highly regarded as the prime time for Tanzania safari, witnessing the Great Migration, engaging in trekking adventures, and enjoying beach holidays in Zanzibar. It's important to note that these months are considered the peak travel season, attracting a higher number of visitors.

Experiences you should not miss in Tanzania

1. Go for a hot-air balloon ride in Serengeti
Surveying the boundless plains of the Serengeti evokes a magical sensation unlike any other on Earth. For centuries, the Maasai people have made this region their home, living harmoniously alongside an extraordinary diversity of wildlife and plants found nowhere else in the world.
At daybreak, as the hot-air balloon ignites, the sun gradually emerges, and the balloon ascends to meet the colorful clouds. Below, a vast multitude of antelope, warthogs, zebras, lions, rhinos, and elephants begin their daily activities. It's a truly idyllic location to witness the awe-inspiring Great Migration, especially during the months of May to September.

2. Take a safari in Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Nestled between the Serengeti and Lake Manyara, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania is a captivating wildlife destination. Its crown jewel is the majestic Ngorongoro Crater, a massive volcanic caldera with a permanent water supply that entices animals to stay year-round.
Visitors are drawn to witness an abundance of large animals and exceptional birdwatching. On a Tanzania safari trip, you can spot lions, elephants, rhinos, Thomson's gazelles, and buffaloes, creating a breathtaking spectacle on the crater floor, while wildebeests and zebras dominate the unique ecosystem.
Lake Migadi, a tranquil oasis within the crater, attracts flocks of graceful flamingoes, while hippos spend their days submerged and emerge in the evening to graze nearby.

3. Enjoy snorkeling and diving in Zanzibar
Zanzibar, often regarded as Africa's paradise, boasts warm, sky-blue waters gently caressing shores of pristine white sand that seem to stretch on endlessly – a truly dreamlike setting. However, the real marvels lie beneath the surface.
Venturing into the waters reveals a mesmerizing world of vibrant fish schools, playful bottlenose and spinner dolphins, and the graceful presence of majestic whale sharks roaming gracefully around the captivating, kaleidoscopic coral reef. For the ultimate aquatic adventure, Mnemba Island and Kizimkazi Beach stand out as the finest spots on the archipelago, though many other beaches also offer fantastic opportunities to explore this underwater wonderland.

4. See tree-climbing lions in Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park is a breathtaking destination, featuring a diverse landscape of forests, woodlands, grasslands, and swamps. The park's unique charm lies in the fact that two-thirds of its area is covered by water, with Lake Manyara serving as a captivating habitat for thousands of flamingoes and various other bird species during certain times of the year.
The park's main attractions include an impressive population of elephants, remarkable tree-climbing lions, and the presence of hippos, allowing visitors to observe them from much closer proximity compared to other parks. Additionally, Lake Manyara boasts the world's largest concentration of baboons, adding to the fascination of this wildlife haven.
A Tanzania safari tour in Lake Manyara National Park offers an array of thrilling activities, such as wildlife drives to witness the abundant fauna, canoeing (during high water levels) to explore the water wonderland, engaging mountain bike tours, and excellent opportunities for birdwatching to admire the rich avian diversity.

5. Spend time at Mafia Island
Mafia Island, protected by the Mafia Island Marine Park, entices divers and snorkelers worldwide with its captivating undersea realm. The prime diving months are October to March, and May to October offers the best weather, though March and April bring heavy rains.
The marine park boasts stunning coral gardens and a diverse array of fish, attracting both divers and birdwatchers. Over 400 fish species and countless bird species inhabit the area. Notably, Mafia Island plays a vital role as a traditional breeding site for the endangered green turtle.
Besides its underwater wonders, Mafia Island is a desirable spot for deep-sea fishing, luring enthusiasts with tuna, marlin, sailfish, and other big-game fish.
Having a history dating back to the 8th or 9th century, Mafia Island gained significance during the 12th to 14th century as a key player in the East African trading routes.

Things to know before traveling to Tanzania

1. Visa and Passport Requirements: Check visa requirements and ensure your passport has at least six months of validity from your intended departure date.
2. Vaccinations and Health Precautions: Consult a travel health specialist for necessary vaccinations and medications, especially for yellow fever, malaria, and other diseases.
3. Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the official currency, but USD is widely accepted in tourist areas. Carry small denominations for easier transactions.
4. Safety and Security: Tanzania is generally safe, but be cautious in crowded places and avoid displaying valuables. Follow local safety guidelines and avoid travel to areas with advisories.
5. Language: Swahili and English are official languages, with English widely spoken in tourist areas.
6. Climate: Tanzania's climates vary, so pack suitable clothing for the regions you plan to visit.
7. Respect Local Culture: Observe and respect local customs, especially in rural areas. Dress modestly and seek permission before taking photos of people.
8. Wildlife Encounters: On Tanzania safari, follow your guide's instructions and keep a safe distance from wild animals. Do not feed or provoke them.
9. Drinking Water: Consume bottled or filtered water to avoid waterborne illnesses.

Why choose Acqua?

Acqua offers access to local expertise through carefully selected tour operators who possess excellent language skills, destination knowledge, and buying power. Customize your trip to Bhutan by choosing accommodation, transportation, activities, and pace. Directly booking with local operators ensures cost efficiency and supports local economies. Acqua partners with established operators for favorable rates, providing peace of mind with guarantees and insurance coverage. By choosing Acqua, you support responsible travel and contribute to community projects.