Tanzania Travel Guide: The Ultimate Safari & Island Adventure

Tanzania is a land of breathtaking landscapes, iconic wildlife, and rich cultural experiences. From the endless plains of the Serengeti, to the towering peak of Mount Kilimanjaro, to the white sands of Zanzibar’s beaches — this country offers some of the most unforgettable travel experiences in the world.

In this guide, you’ll discover the best time to visit Tanzania, top national parks and wildlife highlights, must-do activities, and practical travel tips to help you plan your dream trip.

Best Time to Visit Tanzania

• For safaris, visit from June to October for peak wildlife viewing and dry weather.

• June & July are the best months to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration.

• January & February are ideal if you want to experience the calving season, with lots of predator action.

• For Zanzibar island life, the beach is great year-round, but February offers perfect tropical vibes, and July is cooler and more comfortable.

Tanzania’s Wildlife and National Parks

Serengeti National Park

The Serengeti is one of the most famous safari destinations in the world — and for good reason:

• Home to the second largest terrestrial mammal migration on the planet.

• Named one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa and among the Top 10 Natural Travel Wonders of the World.

Each year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, along with zebras and gazelles, embark on the circular Great Migration:

• Starting in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Southern Serengeti),

• Moving clockwise through the Serengeti,

• Heading north to the Masai Mara in Kenya.

This incredible spectacle attracts predators such as lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas, providing unmatched wildlife viewing.

[IMAGE: Map of Wildebeest Migration Route]

Other wildlife highlights:

• Large lion populations (one of the best places in Africa to observe prides)

• 70 species of large mammals

• 500+ species of birds

Best Things to Do in Tanzania

Here’s a curated list of top experiences and must-see places across the country:

Nature & Wildlife

• Ngorongoro Crater — World’s largest unbroken caldera, Big Five viewing

• Seronera — Central Serengeti, great for big cats and migration action

• Cheetah Rock — Excellent predator viewing in Serengeti

• Serengeti Hippo Pool — Watch hippos wallowing and interacting

• Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park — Home to rare Red Colobus monkeys
  
  

Adventure & Outdoors

• Mount Kilimanjaro — Climb Africa’s highest peak

• Mount Meru — Second highest mountain, great alternative trek

• Kikuletwa Hot Springs — Natural thermal pools near Moshi

• Mbudya Island & Bongoyo Island — Secluded tropical beach escapes
  
  

Beaches & Islands

• Nungwi Beach — Vibrant beach town with water sports & nightlife

• Paje Beach — Kite surfing & relaxed beach vibes

• Nakupenda Beach Nature Reserve — Stunning sandbar beach near Stone Town
  
  

Culture & History

• Stone Town — UNESCO World Heritage site, rich history & architecture

• Old Slave Market — Important historical site in Stone Town

• Forodhani Gardens — Popular evening street food market

• Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation Pond

• Cultural Heritage Centre — Art & crafts shopping, Arusha

Tanzania’s Hidden Gems

Explore beyond the main tourist routes with these lesser-known highlights:

• Ngurdoto Crater — Beautiful, off-the-beaten-path volcanic crater

• Mbudya Island — Snorkeling & beach day trips from Dar es Salaam

• Kikuletwa Hot Springs — Secret swimming spot surrounded by fig trees

• Bongoyo Island — Marine reserve ideal for snorkeling

• Ruaha National Park — Tanzania’s largest national park, wild & remote

• Meserani Snake Park — Educational reptile park near Arusha

• Zanzibar Butterfly Centre — Interactive conservation experience

• Lake Chala — Crater lake on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro

• Materuni Waterfalls — Scenic hike & coffee tours near Moshi

• Selous Game Reserve — One of Africa’s largest game reserves

Currency

• Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)

• 1 USD ≈ 2,299 TZS (check for latest rates).

• Credit Cards (mainly Visa) accepted at:

  • Park entrances

  • Upscale hotels & lodges

  • Some tour operators

• ATMs are common in major towns; less so in remote areas — bring cash for safaris or beach trips.

Electrical Plugs

• Plug Types: D and G

• Voltage: 230 V

• Frequency: 50 Hz

• Recommendation: bring a universal adapter with surge protection.

Safety

• Tanzania is generally a safe country for tourists, especially if you are part of an organized safari or tour.

• Almost 1 million visitors come each year with few incidents.

• Usual precautions:

  • Be aware of your surroundings in large cities.

  • Keep valuables secure.

  • Follow the advice of your tour operator and local guides.