Searching for the top 12 tour activities and things to do in Tanzania? Here are the best travel safari activities you can enjoy.
From the soft white sand beaches of the Zanzibar archipelago and the clear blue waters of the Indian Ocean, to the lowlands and highlands of Tanzania’s wild side where safaris and other nature attractions are found, there are many activities you can take part in while visiting Tanzania.
Explore your options with these 12 activities to do in Tanzania:
Summit Mt. Kilimanjaro
Mt. Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa. It attracts many travelers, especially those who enjoy adventure, hiking, and mountain climbing, even if they have no experience.
If you want to test your physical and mental strength during your trip to Tanzania, climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro is a must. Your reward will be reaching Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters.
Safari Game Drives in Tanzania’s National Parks
Tanzania has over 20 national parks, each offering something special. Going on game drives is a great way to explore Tanzania’s wild side.
To see the Big Five animals, go to Ngorongoro Crater and the Moru Kopjes in Serengeti National Park.
For tree-climbing lions, visit Lake Manyara National Park. To see the largest elephant herds, drive through Tarangire National Park. A safari game drive is a must when visiting Tanzania.
Hot Air Balloon Safaris
Imagine floating gently above Tanzania’s national parks, watching animals from a bird’s eye view and enjoying the wide landscapes. Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Lake Manyara offer hot air balloon safaris.
This is an exciting and different way to see wildlife. Imagine seeing the Great Wildebeest Migration from the air, with millions of animals moving below.
Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration
To see this amazing natural event, visit Serengeti National Park in June or July. With some luck, you will see millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles moving together across the plains, following the rains to find fresh grass.
Boat Safaris & Canoeing
Another unique way to see wildlife in Tanzania is by boat. Take boat rides on the Rufiji River in Selous Game Reserve, on Lake Manyara, Lake Eyasi, or on Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest freshwater lake.
Hiking Tours
Tanzania’s highlands offer great hiking with beautiful views. You can hike in Kilimanjaro National Park on Mt. Kilimanjaro, in Arusha National Park on Mt. Meru, or in Udzungwa Mountains National Park. There are also hikes along crater rims.
Bird Watching
Tanzania is home to hundreds of bird species in many habitats, including wetlands, woodlands, rainforests, montane forests, and grasslands. The wet season is the best time for bird watching because many migratory birds arrive from Europe and Asia. The best places for bird watching include Lake Manyara, Mkomazi, Mikumi, and Rubondo National Parks.
Stone Town Half or Full Day Visit
Visit Stone Town, the historical and cultural heart of Tanzania. Walk through the narrow, winding streets to discover the town’s rich history and culture.
Swim with Dolphins and Turtles in Zanzibar
Go on a dolphin snorkeling trip in Kendwa and take a day trip to Nungwi Turtle Aquarium or Baraka Natural Aquarium to swim with sea turtles.
Visit Mafia Island Marine Park
This park has beautiful coral gardens and many fish species. Go diving or snorkeling to explore the coral reefs in the clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. The best time to visit is from October to March.
Guided Nature and Safari Walks
This is a great way to feel close to nature and see plants and small animals you might miss on game drives, like butterflies, dung beetles, ants, mongooses, and small birds such as finches. A trained park ranger will guide and protect you.
Visit Local Tanzania Communities
A trip to Tanzania is not complete without visiting local communities. Visit Maasai villages to join traditional dances. Meet the indigenous Datoga and Hadza people and learn about their ancient ways of life in a world full of technology.
To enjoy your trip to Tanzania fully, plan your activities ahead and make your bookings early.
