Top 17 Awe-Inspiring Reasons to Visit Tanzania in 2023

🖋️ By Deb | 🕒 September 15, 2022 | 📁 Reasons to Visit Tanzania

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Tanzania is one of the most popular safari destinations in Africa. It might surprise you to know that there are so many more reasons to visit Tanzania!

It’s an interesting fact that Tanzania was where the immortal words “Dr. Livingstone, I presume” were uttered. David Livingstone is only one of many famous explorers who were fascinated by Tanzania.

And for good reason – Tanzania is a lush and magical place. It’s home to more than 4 million amazing animals – there are more animals per km² than anywhere else in the world.

In fact, Tanzania is globally recognized as a critical country in the conservation of Africa’s diverse animal populations.

And if that isn’t enough reason for you to visit Tanzania, you’ll also find some of the world’s best beaches, the most fascinating cultures, and the most mesmerizing historical sites.

Whatever your interests might be, Tanzania has you covered. Here are a few reasons why your visit to Tanzania will be the trip of a lifetime.

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1. The Serengeti

*UNESCO World Heritage Site

There’s no more iconically African image than endless wildlife dotting the sweeping, grassy plain of the Serengeti National Park.

The number of animals you’ll see here is astounding. It’s estimated that some 1.3 million wildebeest alone live on the Serengeti. And more than 3000 lions.

The animals of the Serengeti are an amazing reason to visit Tanzania.

Serengeti is a word from the Maasai language, and means “endless plain”. The name is extremely fitting, especially considering that it refers to an ecosystem that stretches across 30,000 km² in northern Tanzania.

Serengeti National Park, as well as several conservation areas and protected game reserves, lie within the Serengeti ecosystem.

The most common image of the Serengeti is of the wide open grassland. However, the landscape is incredibly varied.

Serengeti Park itself covers a vast 14,763 km² of grassland, savannah, woodlands and riverine forest. These areas are home to countless numbers of animals.

The Serengeti is also one of Tanzania’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. A World Heritage site is one that has been given legal protection by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization, or “UNESCO”.

Sites chosen by UNESCO are considered to have significant value to humanity. This is an enormous statement, and the Serengeti certainly qualifies.

Numerous films and documentaries have been made of the Serengeti, but nothing can compare with actually being surrounded by the sights and sounds of Tanzania.

And if you’re thinking that aerial footage from your drone would be amazing, stop right there. Here’s what you need to know about drone use in Tanzania.

The Big 5

Any of the parks in the Serengeti ecosystem are amazing places to see the Big 5.

The term was first coined to refer to the 5 animals that were the most difficult and dangerous to hunt. These include the elephant, rhino, Cape buffalo, lion, and leopard.

Thankfully this term has come to more commonly refer to the goal of safari-goers when spotting wildlife.

Even aside from the famous big 5, there are hundreds of species of animals to see. Some of my favourites include African Wild Dogs, aardwolves, hippos, and honey badgers.

There’s nothing funnier than watching a honey badger chase away a bunch of lions. They are seriously tough little guys.

Serengeti National Park has rightfully earned its place on millions of bucket lists across the world. I hope that it’s on yours!

Can I Stay in the Serengeti National Park?

Absolutely! There is a wide variety of accommodations in the Park. Whether you prefer to sleep in a tent, a family lodge, or a 5-star luxury resort, you’ll find what you’re looking for.

Even if you prefer a self-drive safari and independent camping, this is the place for you.

2. The Great Wildebeest Migration

Over 1.5 million wildebeest participate each year in the second-largest* animal migration on the planet. They are joined by some 300,000 zebra and smaller numbers of gazelles, elands, and impalas.

In total, over 2 million animals are on the move. The columns of wildebeest (aka. gnu), at up to 1,000 animals per km², can actually be seen from space.

It’s an absolutely astounding sight, and an experience you’ll never forget.

This migration is a continuous, clockwise circle of movement that culminates annually in what has been called The Greatest Show on Earth.

The millions of animals follow the rains and the fresh grasses for grazing.

Where the Migration Begins

Although the migration is an ongoing journey, we can consider the birthing season of the wildebeest to be something of a beginning.

The herds spend January and February feeding around the Olduvai Gorge and on the slopes of the Ngorongoro Crater.

By the end of March, they will have given birth to roughly 400,000 calves.

The young are quickly able to move northward with the herd, and once April rolls around, the migration is on. The ultimate destination is the contiguous Maasai Mara Game Reserve, in southwest Kenya.

Along the way, they gather momentum as zebras and gazelles join them, as well as interested big cats, African wild dogs, and other predators.

The river crossings are where the most drama lies. Wildebeest plunge into the waters en masse, amid panic and confusion and incredible noise.

Crocodiles wait for their best chances. Predators keep vigil along the banks as the column of animals continues for hours.

There are many of these river crossings along the journey. The first is the Grumeti River. The most treacherous is the Mara River.

Generally, by October the drama has subsided as the grazing continues on the fresh new grasses. And then the return journey begins.

There is no greater spectacle than thousands of these great beasts charging through crocodile-infested waters and fighting to make it to the other side.

The best time to see the chaotic river crossings is generally June through August. However, this will depend on what Mother Nature has to say.

If you go, be sure to download the Herd Tracker app to see updates on the herd’s movements in real time.

Fun Fact: The largest migration is the annual migration of 10 million giant fruit bats. They leave the Democratic Republic of Congo between October and December and descend into the Kansaka National Park in Northern Zambia for an all-out fruitfest!

3. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area

*UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area stretches across northern Tanzania. It meets with the Serengeti on its west side and the Great Rift Valley on its east.

It also contains its eponym, the Ngorongoro Crater. It was so named by the Maasai people for the sound that a cowbell makes: imagine “ngoro ngoro“.

Scientists estimate that the Crater was formed about 2.5 million years ago, when a volcano thought to be roughly the size of Kilimanjaro caved in on itself.

Ngorongoro is now a magnificent and unbroken volcanic crater that is home to some of the densest concentrations of wildlife in the world.

It is a lush and stunning sight, and is often referred to as the Garden of Eden. More than 30,000 animals make their home on the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater, and over 2,500 different species.

The Crater is the best place in Tanzania to see the critically endangered black rhino. As well, you can find all of the big five in the crater, many times over.

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is also home to the Olduvai Gorge, Laetoli and the Kondoa Rock Art Cave Sites, making it an essential destination for anyone travelling to Tanzania.

• Olduvai Gorge is a steep ravine about 48 km long and 90 m deep, where some of the most important paleoanthropological sites in the world are found.
  
  Fossils of over 60 individual hominids have been located in the Gorge. Exploring this history is a great reason to come to Tanzania.

• Laetoli is a prehistoric site about 45 km south of Olduvai Gorge, that is famous for its hominina footprints. The prints were discovered by none other than Mary Leakey in 1976.
  
  Since then, several hominina and animal skeletons have been discovered in the area.

• Kondoa Rock Art Sites are on overhanging rock slabs, in caves, and in rock shelters. Some of the oldest of these were done at least 2,000 years ago. They’re located on the easter slopes along the faults of the Great Rift Valley.
  
  The paintings are considered to contain important information pertaining to the lives of the people who have and still do inhabit the area.

These three awe-inspiring archaeological sites offer an unparalleled look into the history of our planet. Excellent reasons to visit Tanzania.

4. The Maasai People

To see the tall, elegant Maasai tribespeople in their traditional dress with a magnificent wilderness backdrop is stunning. Meeting them in person is amazing.

The Maasai people live in northern Tanzania and are one of the most internationally recognizable tribes in Africa. This might be due to the fact that they live near some of the most popular wildlife parks.

It might also have to do with their distinctive dress and dance.

The Maasai in Tanzania live in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, across to the southern edge of the Serengeti.

Their dwellings are essentially small mud huts built in small groups and surrounded by a fence of thorny branches for protection from wildlife.

Many tours and safaris include a visit with these fascinating people. You’ll get the chance to see and participate in their customary dancing and singing. Join in for the best experience!

You’ll also be shown inside their simple homes and their schools. They are friendly and interesting people.

However, they’re also expert salespeople. You’ll be offered souvenirs at top prices. I think it’s important to support the local people and buy from them, but don’t let yourself be taken advantage of.

Haggling is expected and they’re very good at it!

5. Mt. Kilimanjaro

*UNESCO World Heritage Site

You don’t have to climb it to enjoy the “Roof of Africa”, as Mt Kilimanjaro is known, but seeing it in person is an excellent reason to visit Tanzania.

However, you don’t need climbing experience to summit Kilimanjaro, or even special climbing equipment.

The trails are not actually steep enough to need special equipment. It’s considered a “walk-up” mountain for this reason.

The challenge is adjusting to the altitude. This takes time, patience, and ideally a bit of training.

What you do need is a licensed and registered guide. The government and the Park authority do not allow independent climbs.

If you aren’t interested in adding “climbed Kilimanjaro” to your list of achievements, but would still like a taste of the experience, you can climb just to the lower Kibo hut.

Or you can explore the base of the mountain at your leisure. Stop in at Moshi, the small town on the south face of Kilimanjaro – and be sure to have a cup of coffee while you’re there.

The city of Arusha, about an hour and a half away, is a perfect spot to enjoy the view of the mountain from.

6. Arusha

This small city lies at the foot of Mt. Meru, and offers a stunning view of Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Arusha is also known for being the centre of activity for Tanzania’s Northern safari circuit. This circuit includes the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, as well as Kilimanjaro.

However, it’s a lovely destination on its own. Visit the old colonial architecture and the museums to learn some of the history of Tanzania.

There are also vibrant and colourful markets to visit, selling anything you could possibly imagine. And once you’re shopped out, shake it off in one of the nightclubs, or try one of the excellent local restaurants.

7. Safari in Wild Tanzania

One amazing reason to visit Tanzania is the fact that you can still find wild Africa here.

While you won’t see the dense concentrations of wildlife in Southern Tanzania that you’ll see in the north, you also won’t see the dense concentrations of tourists.

There is nothing like feeling alone in the bush with the lions and the elephants, without another human soul in sight.

And while the wildlife is not as dense here as you might find in the Serengeti, for example, the is still a lot to see.

There is a much more intimate feel to it, as well, when you don’t have the sound of a dozen land cruisers in your ears.

Much of Africa has lost that wild feeling. Not only can you find it here, but in some places, you can sleep in it under the stars. Wild camping isn’t allowed everywhere, but if you get the chance, take it.

Once you’ve felt the vibration of a lion’s roar through the ground, you’ll never want to sleep in a safari lodge again.

8. The Chimpanzees

Tanzania is the perfect place to visit chimpanzees in the wild, doing what they do. Seeing chimpanzees in the wild is an awesomely unique experience.

Don’t make the mistake of thinking that it will be like spotting leopards or elephants. It can’t really be compared even to visiting the mountain gorillas.

Chimpanzees have an intelligence and social structure that will make you feel almost as if you’re peaking in your neighbour’s window.

Look into their eyes and you will see them thinking. As they’re also looking into your eyes, it’s entirely possible that they’re thinking about you.

Gombe Stream National Park is the area where famed conservationist Jane Goodall did her research some 60 years ago.

This incredible wilderness and these primates are one of my favourite reasons to visit Tanzania. You’ll have the opportunity to observe the chimps as they live their lives.

Used to being observed, they pay visitors no mind as they simply carry on their usual activities. I dare say you’ll recognize some people you know in some of them.

South of Gombe is Mahale Mountain National Park, another excellent wild spot to observe chimpanzees.

Both of these are on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, the longest freshwater lake in the world.

9. Tea Plantation

If you love tea, you’ll love seeing how it grows. And you’ll get to see the lush green fields of leaves that cover the plantations.

The teas that we drink at home are typically a blend of leaves from different parts of the world, as they all add something different to the taste.

Tanzanian tea leaves are said to add a bright, fresh taste to a cup of tea.

Tea is one of Tanzania’s main agricultural exports. It’s grown in 3 main areas of Tanzania: the Southern Highlands, the Tanga Region, near the coast, and around the southwestern shore of Lake Victoria.

You’ll learn how the tea is picked, and at what stage of growth. You’ll of course get to taste a cup made from the local leaves.

And you’ll get to gaze upon the verdant fields of tea, most of which remain unchanged since the Colonial Era, when they were first planted.

10. Moshi & a Coffee Plantation

Anyone who worships at the foot of the mighty coffee bean will enjoy a visit to a coffee plantation.

Kilimanjaro is the heart of coffee country in Tanzania. Moshi is the hub of this cash crop, and there are many plantation tours offered.

You’ll get to see the entire operation, from planting and harvesting, all the way through to that delicious cup of magical elixir.

The high-quality beans grown here are named Chagga AA, after the local tribe. A bag of beans is the perfect reminder of your trip when you get home.

11. The Hadza

One of the world’s last remaining tribes of hunter-gatherers lives in Northern Tanzania. Their daily lives are irrevocably tied to the land they inhabit.

The Hadza, or Hadzabe, live light, turning their backs on material possessions, as well as the idea of social class distinctions. They subsist on game, wild berries and other edible plants.

Today’s population of Hadza people live mainly around Lake Eyasi and in parts of the Serengeti ecosystem.

There are estimated to be around 1,300 remaining today, with less than 30% still surviving based solely on the ancient nomadic hunter-gatherer lifestyle.

A tour of a Hadza tribal village is a part of many safaris offered in this area. It’s a fascinating glimpse, into an ancient way of life, and you won’t want to miss the opportunity to see it.

12. The Ol Doinyo Lengai 

How many opportunities will you get to climb a live volcano? In Tanzania, you can have that opportunity.

Ol Doinyo Lengai means Mountain of God in the Maasai language, as it’s a sacred location for the Maasai people. It’s located in Northern Tanzania, right between Serengeti National Park and the city of Arusha.

At an elevation of 3,188 m, Ol Doinyo Lengai is a challenging 12 to 14-hour climb. The trek is unique in that it’s often done at night o avoid the daytime heat.

The climb is a steep one, and only for the fit and motivated. However challenging you may find it, though, the view of the lava lake and of Tanzania from the top will make you forget the struggle.

If you’re travelling independently, the Maasai Giraffe Eco Lodge is a fantastic place to stay. You can arrange an experienced guide there who can make the climb an amazing one for you.

13. Zanzibar – A Can’t-Miss Reason to Visit Tanzania

*UNESCO World Heritage Site – Stone Town

The word Zanzibar conjures up exotic aromas of spices and salt air. If you plan to be in Tanzania, don’t miss the chance to visit the paradise of Zanzibar.

In fact, Zanzibar itself is a great reason to visit Tanzania.

Though most commonly thought of as an island, Zanzibar is actually an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, south of the Somali Sea.

It consists of 2 main, large islands and many small ones. These are often known collectively as the Spice Islands.

The 2 large islands are Pemba Island and Unjuga. It’s Unjuga which is informally known as Zanzibar and is most frequently visited by tourists.

It’s a wonderland of beaches, history, beaches, wildlife, ocean swims, and beaches. Add in a beachside cocktail and some al fresco dining and you have a lovely respite from life.

Yes, the beaches are an amazing part of a visit to Zanzibar, but a spice tour is also a must. In addition, the historic Stone Town is full of architecture reminiscent of its past rulers that is fascinating to see.

Stern white Arabic buildings sit next to pretty Indian ones in an eclectic blend. European and Persian influences also colour the space.

And underneath the maze of narrow pathways, coral stone buildings, and iconic carved wooden doors, is a foundation of native Swahili.

14. Amazing Diving

Africa has some of the best scuba diving in the world, and some of the best of that can be found in Tanzania. Read more about it in IWIF’s article Dive Tanzania.

Whether you need a reason to stay longer in Zanzibar, or you’d like to see what’s swimming in Lake Tanganyika – go for a dive.

Tour the balmy waters around Zanzibar and other islands in the archipelago to see manta rays, sperm and humpback whales.

From sheer wall dives to unspoiled coral reefs, diving in the Spice Islands has it all.

Or you could plunge into the cooler waters of Lake Tanganyika and see – not crocs or hippos, as the lake is free of them – but the more than 350 fish species that call it home.

Of those 350 species, some 250 are rare cichlids, most of which can’t be found anywhere else.

If it sounds amazing, but you aren’t a diver – become one! Many Tanzanian dive sites have nationally recognized certification courses for you to take advantage of.

Another checkmark on the bucket list.

15. The Tree Climbing Lions

Lions just weren’t built to climb trees. Their “ankles” – are they called ankles on lions? – don’t bend the same way that, say, leopards’ do.

They might do alright getting up into the low branches, but watching a lion try to get down can be pretty comical. Often times they’re forced to just take a flying leap.

And then there are the tree-climbing lions of Tanzania. There are only educated guesses as to why this particular group of lions decided they were going to climb trees.

One of these is that they want to leave the heat of the African savannah on the ground, and catch some better-than-nothing breezes in the branches.

The other is that they are trying to escape the bugs. Insects can be a huge annoyance, especially for an animal that spends a great deal of time with bits of last night’s supper smeared on its cheeks.

Whatever the reason, it’s a sight to see, and not one you’ll soon forget. Sightings of these lion rebels are pretty guaranteed in Lake Manyara National Park.

16. Mwanza

There are so many things to see, and so many reasons to visit Tanzania on the back of a safari vehicle.

But there are also some great urban reasons to visit. Mwanza is one of those.

Mwanza is the capital city of the region of the same name. Regions are Tanzania’s answer to states or provinces; it has 31.

The city of Mwanza has a population of about 1.2 million people and is considered Tanzania’s second-largest city.

It’s also home to Tanzania’s largest tribe, the Wasukuma.

It’s an excellent choice for a bit of city time, when Dar es Salaam seems a bit too big and chaotic, at 4x the population.

Mwanza sits on the shores of Lake Victoria and is sometimes known as the City of Rocks. The reason will be obvious to you.

The hills surrounding and within the city are covered with massive roundish boulders. In among the boulders on the hills sit hundreds of houses.

Apparently, this is where the land is cheapest. While a local fisherman may not be able to afford a nice flat plot of land, the same size lot in between the boulders is quite affordable.

Mwanza is a typical mix of concrete block houses without running water, and veritable mansions on the hill, looking over the town past their swimming pools.

The city has a lot of interesting activities that can teach you a bit about the place and its people. Just east of town is the Bujora Cultural Centre and the Sukuma Museum.

The cultural centre has camping and tours, and there are dancing, music, and other cultural activities to take part in.

As well, Saanane National Park is located within the city Saanane is the smallest national park in Tanzania. Small but interesting.

If you have time, hop on a dala dala and ride around the city with the locals. This is a great way to see the area and experience the locals, as well as to get from place to place.

17. Balloon Safaris

You may need to create a special saving account for it, but a balloon safari over the Serengeti is a once-in-a-lifetime, unforgettable experience.

The approximately 1-hour ride is generally in the neighbourhood of US$600. But if you save just $10 a year for 6 years…it’s not that much.

Seriously, it’s not money that you’ll regret spending, but you may regret not taking the chance to float over Tanzania in utter silence.

From the sky you can get a true feel for how vast the park is. Parts of your ride will be high in the sky to give you a bird’s perspective. At other times you’ll float just meters over sunbathing hippos or browsing giraffes.

If you happen to be in the area at the time of the Great Migration, imagine the view from above.

Summing It Up: So Many Reasons to Visit Tanzania in 2023!

These are only 17 reasons to visit Tanzania. There are so many more. See how many you can come across while you’re there. I don’t think the list has an end.

Its reputation as a top safari destination is well-earned but it only touches the surface of the magic that Tanzania has in store for the traveller. Make it your next travel destination.

You might also like:
• 17+ Awe-Inspiring Reasons to Visit Tanzania
• 5 Hidden Gems: Tanzania Off The Beaten Path
• 24 Best Things to Do in Zanzibar (with map)
• The Best Dive Site in Tanzania
• Find Your Dream Destination in Africa

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