If you’re thinking about Tanzania travel, there are a few things you should be aware of before packing your luggage. Tanzania is well-known for its beaches, Mount Kilimanjaro, and game parks. The Serengeti National Park, where you can see the renowned African lion and other wildlife, is also located there. However, Tanzania offers much more than just animals. Everything you need to know about going to Tanzania, including how to get there, where to stay, what to eat, and the top tourist sites, will be covered in this article. So let’s get going!
There are a few key considerations if you’re planning a trip to Tanzania. Typically, tourists spend their time at game reserves or wildlife parks where they can interact with local Chagga tribe members who reside on the Kilimanjaro slopes or Maasai people. Tour guides are available to teach you basic Swahili and encourage interaction with locals. Since Swahili is the most commonly used native language in Africa, you can anticipate picking up some of it while visiting Tanzania.
It’s important to use caution and bring only a small quantity of cash with you, as you should with any destination. Although Tanzanian authorities make every effort to ensure visitors’ protection, it is still advisable to abide by these guidelines. Furthermore, due to Tanzania’s tropical climate, which can promote the development of bacteria and flora, it’s critical to take health measures. Additionally, you must shield your skin from the sun’s dangerous ultraviolet radiation.
How to get to Tanzania?
By Air
Tanzania has several international airports that are served by major airlines, making travel there reasonably simple. Kilimanjaro International Airport in Arusha is the second-largest and busiest airport after Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam. There are numerous airlines that offer nonstop flights to Tanzania from different cities all over the globe. Major hub airports like Dubai, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, or Istanbul can be used to connect if you are flying from North America, Europe, or Asia. Another choice is to take a journey to Nairobi, Kenya, then a subsequent flight to Tanzania.
By Rail
Tanzania and its neighbors are connected by a number of train lines. The Central Line connects Tanzania and Zambia and travels from Dar es Salaam to Kapiri Mposhi in Zambia, making it one of the most well-known railway routes. In addition, there is the TAZARA railway line, which links Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, with New Kapiri Mposhi, Zambia. The Usambara Railway also links Kenya and Tanzania’s Tanga region. From Dar es Salaam to Cape Town in South Africa, passengers can also board the luxurious Rovos Rail train, which makes several stops en route.
By Bus
Depending on your starting point, there are different bus routes that you can take to get to Tanzania. Tanzania can be reached by bus from many African nations, and there are numerous bus companies operating there.
Several bus companies provide daily services to numerous cities in Tanzania, including Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Moshi, if you’re going from Nairobi, Kenya. Depending on your location and the border crossing, the trip lasts between 8 and 10 hours.
You can also travel by bus to Nairobi from Kampala, Uganda, and then continue to Tanzania from there. Alternatively, express buses that take about 24 hours are available to Dar es Salaam.
There is also a bus from Rwanda to Dar es Salaam, which will take you about 24 hours, or to Arusha, which will take you about 14 hours.
Additionally, transportation is available from Malawi, Zambia, and Mozambique to a number of locations in Tanzania. To ensure a smoother journey, it is advisable to research reputable bus companies and reserve your tickets in advance.
By Car
Tanzania has a number of entry points, including those at the borders with Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Zambia. This is essential to keep in mind if you intend to travel to Tanzania by car. However, it is imperative to have all needed travel documentation, such as a current passport and a visa, if necessary.
You should also confirm that your car is in excellent working condition and has all required documentation, such as insurance and registration. Moreover, you should have an international driver’s license when traveling to Tanzania by car.
You can visit the Tanzania Immigration website or the Tanzanian Embassy or Consulate in your country’s official websites to find out the requirements for entering Tanzania by car. For detailed information on visa and entry requirements, which can change based on your nationality and the reason for your visit, you can also get in touch with the embassy or consulate.
Top tourist attractions in Tanzania
Tourists will find plenty to see and do in Tanzania. The following are a few of Tanzania’s best tourist attractions that visitors should not miss:
Serengeti National Park
When planning your vacation to Tanzania, consider visiting the Serengeti National Park. The annual wildebeest migration, in which millions of wildebeests, zebras, and other grazing animals move across the vast savannas in quest of new pasture and water, is one of the most well-known wildlife events in the Serengeti National Park. The “big five” game animals (lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and Cape buffalo), as well as cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, hippos, and other animals, can be found in the area. The Serengeti National Park is renowned for its beautiful landscapes, including the grassy grasslands, riverine forests, and rocky outcrops known as kopjes, in addition to its abundant animals. Serengeti National Park is among the best-known safari locations in the world.
Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro is a well-known attraction for being the tallest peak in Africa and one of the Seven Summits—the highest mountains on each of the seven continents. Many travelers come to Tanzania each year to take on the task of climbing the mountain..
There are numerous routes that range in length and difficulty that hikers can select from to reach the top of Mount Kilimanjaro. Lemosho, Rongai, Marangu, and Machame are the most well-traveled roads. It’s crucial to remember that climbing Kilimanjaro is a difficult endeavor that should only be attempted by those in excellent physical condition and with the appropriate supplies.
Visitors to Mount Kilimanjaro can also go on shorter hikes in the nearby foothills to experience the nearby communities and cultures. The months of June through October and December through February are the best for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. To allow for acclimatization to the altitude, it is advised to reserve a climb through a reputable travel operator and give yourself at least 6 to 8 days for the trek.
Zanzibar Island
Off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar Island is a stunning tropical paradise. It is well-known for its gorgeous white sand beaches and clear seas, which make it the perfect location for swimming, snorkeling, diving, and other water sports. Zanzibar Archipelago is not only stunning in the natural world, but it is also full of history and culture. The historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers visitors the chance to explore its winding lanes, vibrant markets, and stunning architecture, which blends Swahili, Arab, and European cultures. Additionally, the island is renowned for its delectable cuisine, which features a wide variety of dishes that honor its multicultural history. Zanzibar Island will not disappoint, whether you’re seeking excitement, leisure, or a little of both.
Ngorongoro Crater
A visit to Tanzania is not complete without a stop at the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater. The massive volcanic caldera that makes up this UNESCO World Heritage Site is more than 2.5 million years old, and at its base there is a thriving ecosystem of wildlife. The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the best locations in Tanzania to see the “big five” game animals—elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinoceroses. Additionally, it is home to over 400 different kinds of birds, making it a haven for bird watchers. Visitors can join a safari tour guide to explore the crater and take in this particular ecosystem’s breathtaking natural beauty.
Lake Victoria
When traveling to Tanzania, it is worthwhile to explore Lake Victoria, a natural marvel. With a surface area of more than 68,000 square kilometers, Lake Victoria is the second-largest freshwater lake in the globe and the largest lake in Africa. Tourists frequently take boat excursions to the lake’s numerous islands, including Rubondo Island National Park, a hidden gem for wildlife watching. By exploring the fishing villages and markets along the shore, visitors can immerse themselves in the community’s culture while also getting a taste of the region’s fresh lake fish. There are over 300 species of fish and over 200 species of birds to be discovered, so fishing and birdwatching are common activities on the lake for those looking for adventure.
What to eat on your visit to Tanzania
Although most hotels and lodges will cater to your needs, it is worth considering the cuisine of Zanzibar and Mount Kilimanjaro to see if you would rather prefer a vegetarian option. The island of Zanzibar has an extensive food scene, with numerous street vendors and nighttime markets, so you can sample some foods, including Nyama Choma, Zanzibar Pizza, and Mshikaki, while you’re there.
Among the staple foods, ugali is a great choice. It’s filling and delicious, and the price is right. You’ll probably find this to be a convenient meal for budget travelers. For vegetarians, rice and beans are excellent choices, and Indian food is popular, as is Chipsi Mayai.
Where to stay in Tanzania
Depending on your budget, you can stay anywhere from luxury safari lodges to beach resorts. Tanzania has accommodations for all budgets, from high-end luxury lodges to modest guesthouses. Luxury accommodations are plentiful but not as luxurious as European or American hotels. You can find budget lodgings in regional towns, but remember that they lack atmosphere and are usually less secure.
Tanzania offers a variety of lodging choices as well as several large cities where visitors typically stay. The biggest city and commercial center of the country, Dar es Salaam, is a popular vacation and business destination. As the “Gateway to the Serengeti,” Arusha is the starting point for safari trips and a base for touring the country’s northern region. While Stone Town, the island’s cultural center, provides a distinctive fusion of Swahili, Arab, and Indian influences along with a variety of lodging options that honor the region’s rich heritage and culture. Tanzania offers a variety of choices, whether you want to experience city life fully or seek solace in a remote wilderness retreat.
Culture and customs
Tanzanian culture is a vibrant and interesting fusion of native African customs as well as Arab, Indian, and foreign influences. Extensive families and close-knit social groups play a significant part in daily life, and Tanzanians are renowned for their warm hospitality and strong sense of community. Tanzanian culture also places a strong emphasis on music and dance, with numerous ethnic groups having their own distinctive styles of singing, dancing, and percussion. In addition, Tanzania has a lengthy and intriguing history, which can be learned about by visiting historical sites and ancient ruins.
You should be prepared for the local traditions and cultures before visiting Tanzania. The locals are especially respectful of elderly visitors and vacationers. If you are over 60, you might notice fewer businesses increasing their prices. Because Tanzanians view older tourists as wiser, they might not attempt to upsell you.
It’s important to know how to greet individuals in your community appropriately depending on your age and relationship. Depending on where you are, pleasantries might be as straightforward as a handshake. Tanzanians, for instance, favor using their right hand to consume and extend greetings to others.
Some useful tips about your travels to Tanzania
To preserve money while traveling in Tanzania, you should keep a few things in mind. First of all, you need to have comfortable hiking shoes. Most of the country is at a higher altitude, so it is important to bring appropriate warm clothing. The only way to ensure you are comfortable while hiking is to buy the necessary equipment. You should also plan to spend some time in the bush, and you should pack warm clothing.
Regarding safety, Tanzania is relatively safe to travel in. However, you should take some precautions, particularly if you are a solo female traveler. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry; do not leave your cell phone in plain view.
Tanzania is known for its friendly people, but you must be cautious about scams. Many travelers have been victims of theft or lost belongings. It is wise to avoid exposing yourself to any of these situations.
Regarding transportation, there are several options for getting around the country. You can either hire a car with a driver or take the train. Taking the train is also a great way to save money while traveling in Tanzania. It is cheaper and more comfortable than driving, and trains are also available. So, take the time to explore your choices and plan your travel accordingly. This will ensure you have an enjoyable and stress-free trip to Tanzania!
Conclusion
When you visit Tanzania, you can take in the varied landscape and learn about the local culture firsthand. You can go on a wildlife safari, climb Kilimanjaro, or even go kitesurfing while on holiday! Whatever you do, make sure to spend some time relaxing on the white sand beaches. Wildlife excursions, kiteboarding, and a buzzing nightlife are all great options for adventure seekers.
Note: The prices mentioned in this article are approximate and may change depending on the time of year and other factors.
If you enjoyed our article, you can also check the Top National Parks to visit in Africa, our Serengeti National Park Guide or you can learn more about the snakes of Africa.
* Affiliate Disclaimer: Some of the links in our articles are affiliate links. This means that if you click on the link and make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products and services that we believe in and that we think will be useful for our readers.
