7 Awe-Inspiring things to do in Tanzania
Every country in the world has something to offer, think delicious cuisine, unique wildlife or architecture. However there are some experiences and activities that stand out more than others. Few places in the world can offer the astonishing diversity found in Tanzania, from majestic mountains and stunning tropical islands to the best wildlife parks and a fascinating mix of cultures. There’s so much to choose from, but we have narrowed it down to seven things we believe are some of the most awe-inspiring things to do in Tanzania.
Climb Mount Kilimanjaro
Challenge yourself by climbing the highest mountain in Africa, the epic Mount Kilimanjaro. Standing at 5,895 metres (19,341 feet), it rises imposingly from the savannah in Tanzania. Because of the mountains extreme height and location the vegetation varies from rainforest and moorland to alpine desert and the arctic. Each year thousands of adventurers try to tackle its snow-capped summit. The rate of ascent and altitude makes this climb a real physical and mental test. This is all worth it as you hit the summit just before sunrise. The sun rising over Kilimanjaro and the 360 degree views are spectacular!
Watch the Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti
Game viewing in the Serengeti is amazing all year round. However it’s the annual migration, when hundreds of thousands wildebeest and zebras thunder across the plains, that is truly incredible to witness. Clouds of red dust, noisy grunting and mammals forming columns that can stretch for over 40 kilometres. Especially the migration crossing the Mara and Grumeti Rivers and the wildebeest calving is a breathtaking wildlife spectacle.
Track the chimps in the Mahale Mountains
The remote Mahale Mountains, at the shores of Lake Tanganyika in West Tanzania, are famed for its chimpanzees. About 1000 to 1500 chimps live within the national park and it is one of the best places in the world for up-close encounters with chimpanzees. It’s a once in a lifetime experience to track and observe the wild chimps in the forest. Go on a walking safari and watch the fascinating chimps forage, play and their social interaction. Lake Tanganyika is so clear and full of fresh water fish that you can also enjoy a fishing-, canoeing-, or snorkelling trip. Relax at the centre of the lake on private islands with exclusive white sandy beaches.
Snorkel among the coral reefs in Zanzibar
The colourful coral reefs surrounding Zanzibar are one of the top snorkelling and diving sites in the world. Snorkel among tropical reef fish and witness the abundant marine life including manta rays, Moorish idols, clownfish, turtles and reef sharks. One of the best places to snorkel (or dive) in Zanzibar is the marine reserve Mnemba Island. Enjoy a trip on a traditional dhow boat to this sunbathing and snorkelling paradise. If you are lucky you will see dolphins and turtles on your way to the island.
Gaze in wonder at the Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater is truly a natural wonder due to the wealth of animals and beautiful colours of the landscapes. The huge crater floor is choked with wildlife including the Big Five and one of the densest population predators found anywhere in Africa. The ever changing clouds, blue lake with pink flamingos, green forest and yellow barked acacias make the views almost surreal. It’s no wonder the world’s largest volcanic crater is often called the ‘Garden of Eden’.
Go hunting with the Hadzabe Bushmen
Visit the Hadzabe Bushmen, the last remaining hunter-gatherer tribe, and get an insight into their traditional ways of life. This rural tribe inhabits the land near Lake Eyasi, an untouched area with a gorgeous soda lake. The Hadzabe Bushmen live in harmony with the earth and still hunt on wild animals with traditional bow and arrows. Take a step back in time and partake in their real life activities such as hunting, fire making or foraging for fruits, berries and honey. This is absolutely a fascinating cultural experience.
Float in a balloon over the Serengeti
The endless plains of the Serengeti are one of the most beautiful places for a balloon flight. Silently float over herds of animals and the amazing scenery, as the sun rises. Enjoy a birds eye view of the spectacular wildlife show below you, especially during the Great Wildebeest Migration. To see this famous wildlife phenomenon from the air is breathtaking. Top off this balloon safari with a champagne breakfast in the middle of the savannah.
Check our Tanzania Safari itineraries.
