Tanzania

Serengeti wildlife, Mount Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar beaches, Maasai culture, breathtaking landscapes.

About Tanzania

Country: United Republic of Tanzania
Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)

International Airports

Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) – Dar es Salaam
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) – Arusha/Kilimanjaro
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) – Zanzibar
Mwanza Airport (MWZ) – Mwanza

Temperature in Tanzania Throughout the Year

Warm Season (December to February): Hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), especially along the coast.
Long Rainy Season (March to May): Heavy rains, with temperatures from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F); lush landscapes but challenging for travel.
Cool Season (June to October): Pleasant and dry, with temperatures around 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), ideal for safaris.
Short Rainy Season (November): Occasional rains, with mild temperatures, offering beautiful greenery and fewer crowds.

Best Time to Travel to Tanzania

June to October: Ideal for safaris and the Great Migration in the Serengeti, as well as clear, pleasant weather across most areas.

Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens

Visa on Arrival: Indian citizens can get a visa on arrival, valid for up to 90 days, at major entry points, or apply online for an e-visa.
Requirements: Valid passport (minimum six months), completed visa application, proof of accommodation, return or onward ticket, and sufficient funds.

Best Locations to Stay in Tanzania

Serengeti National Park: Known for the annual Great Migration and iconic safari landscapes with abundant wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for any wildlife enthusiast or first-time visitor. Perfect for adventure seekers, photographers, and those wanting an immersive African safari experience.
Ngorongoro Crater: A UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning volcanic landscapes and dense wildlife populations, including the Big Five. Ideal for safari lovers, nature enthusiasts, and travelers seeking dramatic landscapes in a unique, biodiverse setting.
Zanzibar: A tropical paradise offering pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and a blend of African, Arab, and European cultures. Great for beach lovers, divers, and travelers looking for a relaxed island experience with historical sites in Stone Town.
Arusha: The gateway to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, with easy access to Kilimanjaro and several national parks. Perfect for those starting their safari journey, as well as travelers interested in Tanzanian culture and local markets.
Kilimanjaro: Home to Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, attracting climbers and adventurers from around the world. Suitable for thrill-seekers, hikers, and those looking to conquer one of the world’s iconic mountains with varied climbing routes.
Dar es Salaam: Tanzania’s bustling port city with a mix of local markets, vibrant nightlife, and coastal beaches. Ideal for travelers looking to experience Tanzania’s city life, shopping, and local cuisine before heading to the islands or safari destinations.
Lake Manyara: A scenic lake area known for its flamingo population, tree-climbing lions, and diverse wildlife. Ideal for birdwatchers, wildlife lovers, and those seeking a quieter, scenic alternative to Tanzania’s more famous parks.

Top Things to Do in Tanzania

Arusha National Park • Bagamoyo Ruins • Bongoyo Island • Dar es Salaam City Tour • Gombe Stream National Park • Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park • Kilimanjaro Climb • Lake Manyara National Park • Mafia Island Marine Park • Mahale Mountains National Park • Mikumi National Park • Mount Meru • Ngorongoro Crater • Olduvai Gorge • Ruaha National Park • Selous Game Reserve • Serengeti National Park • Stone Town, Zanzibar • Tarangire National Park • Zanzibar Beaches

Top Recommendations

Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park, located in northern Tanzania, offers a diverse ecosystem including lush rainforests, Momella Lakes, and the striking Ngurdoto Crater. The park is renowned for its populations of giraffes, buffaloes, and colobus monkeys, and is a birder's paradise with over 400 bird species. Mount Meru, within the park, attracts trekkers seeking stunning views. Its proximity to Arusha town makes it an accessible destination for day trips or pre-safari adventures in Tanzania.
Bagamoyo Ruins
Bagamoyo, a historic town on Tanzania’s coast, features ruins that reflect its importance as a center of trade and culture in the 18th and 19th centuries. The ruins include the Old Fort and the Kaole Ruins, remnants of ancient mosques and tombs. Once a hub for the slave trade, Bagamoyo offers a poignant glimpse into history, while its beaches and vibrant fishing community provide a serene contrast to its storied past.
Bongoyo Island Marine Reserve
Bongoyo Island, a short boat ride from Dar es Salaam, is an idyllic tropical getaway. With pristine beaches, clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, it’s perfect for snorkeling, sunbathing, or relaxing under the shade of palm trees. The uninhabited island, part of the Dar es Salaam Marine Reserve, is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists seeking a peaceful escape from the city’s bustle.
Dar es Salaam City Tour
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania's largest city, offers a blend of culture, history, and modernity. A city tour might include the National Museum, Kivukoni Fish Market, and Mwenge Woodcarvers Market. The bustling Kariakoo Market and serene Botanic Gardens provide contrasting experiences. With its vibrant nightlife, beaches, and international cuisine, Dar es Salaam is a gateway to Tanzanian adventures and a destination worth exploring.
Gombe Stream National Park
Gombe Stream National Park, famed for Jane Goodall’s groundbreaking chimpanzee research, is a haven for primate enthusiasts. Situated along Lake Tanganyika, the park features dense forests and streams ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting. Visitors can observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat, along with other animals like colobus monkeys and baboons. Its remote location ensures an intimate and unique experience for wildlife lovers.
Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park
Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, located in Zanzibar, is the island’s only national park and a sanctuary for the rare Zanzibar red colobus monkey. The park features mangrove forests, tropical woodlands, and the lush Jozani Forest, where guided nature walks reveal its rich biodiversity. It’s also home to species like bush babies and duikers. A visit here combines wildlife exploration with efforts to support conservation and the protection of this fragile ecosystem.
Kilimanjaro Climb
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, is a bucket-list adventure for trekkers worldwide. With routes like Marangu, Machame, and Lemosho, climbers traverse diverse terrains, from rainforests to alpine deserts, before reaching the snow-capped Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters. The journey tests endurance but rewards adventurers with breathtaking views and a sense of achievement. The climb also supports local economies, as guides and porters play essential roles in every expedition.
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park, nestled beneath the Rift Valley escarpment, is a stunning wildlife destination. Known for its iconic tree-climbing lions, the park also hosts elephants, giraffes, and abundant birdlife, including flamingos along its alkaline lake. The mix of forest, savannah, and wetlands creates a unique ecosystem. Visitors can enjoy game drives, canoeing, or cultural tours with the nearby Maasai communities for an immersive Tanzanian experience.
Mafia Island Marine Park
Mafia Island Marine Park is a paradise for marine enthusiasts, boasting coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves teeming with life. Visitors can snorkel or dive to witness whale sharks, turtles, and vibrant fish species. The serene beaches and traditional fishing villages provide a tranquil retreat, making it ideal for eco-tourism. Mafia Island is also a nesting site for endangered green turtles, emphasizing its importance for conservation efforts.
Mahale Mountains National Park
Mahale Mountains National Park, set on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, is renowned for its wild chimpanzee population. The park’s remote location offers an intimate wildlife experience, with trekking through lush forests to observe chimps in their natural habitat. Crystal-clear lake waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Mahale’s untouched beauty, combined with its diverse flora and fauna, makes it one of Tanzania’s hidden treasures.
Mikumi National Park
Mikumi National Park, part of the Selous ecosystem in southern Tanzania, is known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Visitors can spot lions, elephants, giraffes, and the rare wild dog while enjoying game drives or guided safaris. The park’s Mkata Floodplain resembles the Serengeti and attracts herds of zebras and wildebeests. Its accessibility from Dar es Salaam makes it an ideal option for those seeking a quick yet rewarding safari experience.
Mount Meru
Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak, offers an adventurous climb through diverse ecosystems, from dense rainforests to alpine deserts. Situated within Arusha National Park, the trek provides stunning views of wildlife, like giraffes and buffaloes, along its lower slopes. The summit, Socialist Peak, rewards climbers with breathtaking vistas of Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscapes. Mount Meru is a great acclimatization trek for those preparing to climb Kilimanjaro.
Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera and a wildlife haven. Its fertile plains support an abundance of species, including lions, elephants, rhinos, and flamingos on the central soda lake. Visitors enjoy game drives in this “Eighth Wonder of the World,” where predator-prey dynamics play out dramatically. The surrounding Ngorongoro Conservation Area also offers rich cultural experiences with the Maasai communities.
Olduvai Gorge
Olduvai Gorge, often called the “Cradle of Mankind,” is a globally significant archaeological site. Located in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, it has yielded fossils and artifacts that provide insights into early human evolution. Visitors can tour the site and its museum to learn about discoveries by the Leakey family, including hominid remains over 1.8 million years old. The gorge is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone fascinated by human origins.
Ruaha National Park
Ruaha National Park, Tanzania’s largest, offers an off-the-beaten-path safari experience. Known for its rugged landscapes, baobab trees, and abundant wildlife, it’s a haven for predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs. The Great Ruaha River attracts elephants, hippos, and crocodiles, while birdwatchers enjoy spotting over 570 species. Its remote location ensures fewer crowds, providing an intimate and authentic wildlife adventure.
Selous Game Reserve
Selous Game Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Africa’s largest protected wildlife areas. Its vast landscapes include rivers, wetlands, savannahs, and forests teeming with wildlife like elephants, lions, leopards, and hippos. Visitors can enjoy boat safaris, walking tours, or traditional game drives for a diverse experience. Selous offers an authentic wilderness adventure, with fewer crowds compared to northern parks, making it perfect for serene and immersive wildlife encounters.
Serengeti National Park
The Serengeti, famous for its annual wildebeest migration, is one of the most iconic wildlife destinations in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site hosts a vast array of animals, including lions, cheetahs, and zebras, across its golden savannahs. Visitors can enjoy game drives, hot air balloon safaris, and cultural interactions with the Maasai. The Serengeti’s breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife make it a must-visit destination for safari enthusiasts.
Stone Town, Zanzibar
Stone Town, Zanzibar’s historic heart, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its narrow alleys, carved wooden doors, and vibrant markets. The blend of Swahili, Arab, Persian, and European influences is evident in its architecture and culture. Visitors can explore historic sites like the Sultan’s Palace, the Old Fort, and the House of Wonders, or enjoy local cuisine and spice tours. Stone Town offers a rich cultural experience in a picturesque setting.
Tarangire National Park
Tarangire National Park, named after the Tarangire River, is renowned for its massive elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. The park supports diverse wildlife, including lions, zebras, giraffes, and over 550 bird species. Visitors can explore its unique landscapes on game drives or walking safaris. During the dry season, the river becomes a vital water source, attracting wildlife in impressive numbers, making Tarangire an excellent destination for safari adventures.
Zanzibar Beaches
Zanzibar’s pristine beaches are a paradise of white sand and turquoise waters, perfect for relaxation or water sports. Popular spots like Nungwi, Kendwa, and Paje offer a mix of tranquility and lively beachside activities. Visitors can snorkel, dive to explore coral reefs, or take dhow cruises. The beaches are complemented by luxury resorts and local seafood cuisine, making Zanzibar an idyllic escape for honeymooners, families, and adventure seekers alike.