Tanzania has everything a traveler could want: world class safaris, exotic beaches, stunning mountain ranges and more. But, there are also some amazing hidden gems that can be missed by travellers who focus only on the main tourist attractions.
For example, Olduvai Gorge is one of the oldest stone age sites in the world and you can learn about how this region of the country was once home to ancient human civilizations.
Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is Tanzania’s most accessible national park and a must-visit if you are planning to visit the country. Covering 552 square kilometers, Arusha National Park is the perfect place for a day trip or as the first or last stop on a longer itinerary.
This park is home to African buffalos, giraffes, zebras, warthogs, antelopes, dik-diks, and monkeys. You can also go on a walking safari in this park, which is ideal for those who prefer to get up close to wildlife.
Another activity you should consider while in Arusha is a canoe trip in the Momella Lakes region of the park. These alkaline lakes are a favorite destination for flamingos, who flock to the shores all year round.
Meserani Snake Park, located 25 km from Arusha town, is a great place to get a photo-op with a real-life crocodile and see some of the world’s most dangerous snakes in person. It’s a must-see for anyone who wants to explore Arusha’s unique natural history.
Lake Manyara National Park
Tanzania’s Lake Manyara National Park is one of the smallest parks, but it’s also an extremely beautiful and diverse wildlife area. The park is best known for its stunning flocks of flamingos, but it also offers excellent sightings of tree-climbing lions and Masai giraffes.
The park is best visited during summer, when thousands of flamingos breed on the lake. This is also the peak time for wildlife sightings, with zebras and wildebeests coming to the lake to drink and feed.
Located between Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park, Lake Manyara is part of the animal migration corridor that links both areas and allows animals to pass from one park to the other during the dry season.
There are many different activities to enjoy at Lake Manyara, including game drives, bird watching, and canoeing safaris. The park is a great place to see elephants and hippos, as well as water buffaloes, zebras, antelopes, and warthogs.
Serengeti National Park
Serengeti National Park is the largest and most popular wildlife sanctuary in Tanzania. Its endless plains are dotted with kopjes and rivers and are home to a variety of animals.
The park is famous for its yearly migration, which draws millions of tourists every year. This is when two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles migrate in search of fresh grasslands.
During this time, you can expect to spot many predators such as lions and leopards. Other animals to look out for include African wild dogs, spotted hyenas, and golden jackals.
In addition, you can also witness the birth of thousands of calves in southern Serengeti from December to March. Then, the wildebeests and their newborn calves head north to Kenya.
To make the most of your visit to Serengeti, book a Tanzania safari tour. The most ideal length is four to seven days so you have time to explore the park and take in all its beauty.
Zanzibar
Zanzibar is a beautiful collection of islands off the coast of Tanzania, famed for its powdery soft beaches and the rich spices that grow here. Add to that its UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stone Town and its captivating history and you’ll understand why it’s one of the best places to visit in Tanzania.
Zanzibar has been influenced by European, Arabic, Indian and Persian cultures. This is evident in the city’s architecture, culture and cuisine.
Stone Town is a World Heritage Site and a must-visit for any traveller. Its ancient quarter is full of winding alleyways, old buildings, lively bazaars and Arab-style shops.
You can also take a spice tour to learn more about the different spices that are grown here. It’s a great way to get more insight into Zanzibar’s culture and history, and is a fun activity that will help you to appreciate what makes Zanzibar so special.
