8 Most Charming Places in Tanzania

Stretching from the Indian Ocean coast to the highest peak in Africa, Tanzania contains some of the continent’s most varied and visually striking landscapes. The spice-scented streets and coral-stone architecture of Zanzibar reflect centuries of trade across the Indian Ocean, while the remote plains of Ruaha National Park offer one of East Africa’s least crowded and most wildlife-rich safari experiences. Towering above it all, Mount Kilimanjaro dominates the northern skyline, shaping both the region’s geography and its global identity. Tanzania has well-established safari circuits, domestic flights, and guide networks, but many regions remain lightly developed. This balance allows visitors to access remote places without the heavy commercialization seen in some other major tourism hubs.

Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park is the largest nature reserve in Tanzania. In 2008, it merged with the neighboring Usangu Game Reserve, now covering more than 20,000km². There are campsites located all over the park, which make for perfect vantage points from which to see the wildlife up close.

Going on a safari here is unlike any other. There are endless ways to explore the park, each with a warm and helpful guide along the way. Most of these safaris are done from the safety of a car, whereas others are conducted on boats. The animals you will see and the people you will meet will create memories that last a lifetime.

Mahale Mountains National Park

Another one of Tanzania's stellar national parks, the Mahale Mountains, is located along the tranquil shores of Lake Tanganyika in eastern Tanzania. Initially created to protect a large segment of Tanzania's chimpanzee population, the park has become a world-class tourist destination.

The Greystone Mahale Camp is particularly stunning. This one-of-a-kind lodge is the perfect place for a romantic getaway with your significant other. There are, of course, plenty of guided tours inland to observe and, at times, interact with the various groups of chimpanzees that call the park home.

Nyerere National Park

Located on in Eastern Tanzania, the Nyerere National Park transports its guests into the thick of the African savannah. Guests can enjoy this park any way they want. There are traditional safaris, boat safaris, and even the option to survey the park from a hot air balloon.

Tours into the bush are also available. These tours allow guests to observe the wildlife up close and personal. They also give visitors the chance to visit some of the remote villages located within the park. The locals here are famous for their warm demeanor and hospitality.

Mafia Island

Despite its somewhat foreboding name, Mafia Island couldn't be further removed from any semblance of violence or organized crime. Located along the east coast of Tanzania, Mafia Island's pristine beaches and crystal-blue water are nothing short of magical.

Mafia Island's beaches are a hotspot for nesting turtles, and its shallow waters teem with marine life. For those daring enough, the best months to spot whale sharks are from October to February. Even if aquatic life is not to your taste, the laid-back and peaceful nature of the island is enough to make this a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Mount Kilimanjaro

Sitting along its northern border with Kenya is Mount Kilimanjaro, the largest mountain in Africa. Sitting at roughly 5,895 meters (19,340 feet) tall, Kilimanjaro looms over the vast plains of the African savannah.

Climbing to the summit of the mountain is no easy feat, but reaching the top is certainly worth it. For those who have no interest in hiking Kilimanjaro, there is a fantastic national park nearby. The park offers many tours led by accommodating and friendly guides.

Lake Manyara National Park

Found in the north of Tanzania, Lake Manyara National Park is another great destination for those wanting to get a closer look at the spectacular African wildlife. There are numerous tours available that grant visitors the chance to observe herds of elephants, curious giraffes, and even lion pride.

Aside from the traditional methods of looking at wildlife, there is also a tree-top canopy walk in some places. This gives the park's guests a new and unique way of viewing different kinds of primates and exotic birds. It is a great place to take friends and family.

Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the world's largest inactive volcanic calderas. The surrounding area is teeming with wildlife and is the perfect place to experience a more traditional safari. The land is home to all the usual animals, along with the semi-nomadic Maasai, who still live and hunt in the area.

There are dozens of high-end resorts guests have to choose from. If staying at a resort is not to your liking, then there are various campsites set up throughout the park that all come with a surprising amount of comfort despite being in the middle of the wilderness. The staff who work at these accommodations are more than happy to help and assist wherever they are needed.

Zanzibar

The Zanzibar Archipelago is located off the east coast of Tanzania. There is a lot to do in Zanzibar, and it has quietly become one of the most prominent tourist destinations in Tanzania. Whether you are looking for a relaxing time at the beach or want to explore the city itself, there is something here for everyone.

The Nakupenda Beach Nature Reserve is a great place to visit, especially for wadding in the warm turquoise blue water and shallow sandbank that the island is famous for. The old quarter of Zanzibar is another great attraction. Filled with a rich history and Arabian-infused architecture and culture, the city of Zanzibar is one of the more unique places in Africa. Its charm and energy are apparent the moment you arrive.

Discover Tanzania’s Hidden Charms

Tanzania is one of the best-kept secrets of Africa. Home to an endless amount of attractions and entertainment, it is no wonder more people are deciding to come and visit every year. No matter if you want to explore the county's wildlife or take a relaxing vacation on the beach, Tanzania has all of its bases covered.