Tanzania isn’t just about being on an African safari (though spotting lions and wildebeest in the wild is totally unforgettable). It’s also about wandering through the local markets, relaxing on the beaches of Zanzibar and soaking up the culture. I’ve been lucky enough to travel through the country twice, and here’s my list of the best things to do in Tanzania.
Take a Balloon Safari
There’s nothing quite like seeing the Serengeti from the sky. Serengeti Balloon Safaris offer hour-long flights that drift above the plains, giving you a completely new perspective on the wildlife below. The most magical time to go is between June and October, when you can watch the Great Migration unfold from above—millions of wildebeest and zebras moving in unison across the savanna.
Snorkel in Zanzibar
After your safari, trade the bush for the beach. Zanzibar is famous for its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and rich marine life. Some of the best snorkeling spots include Mnemba Atoll and Chumbe Island. Here you’ll find everything from colorful reef fish and lionfish to sea turtles and playful dolphins.
Do Some Bird Watching
One of the biggest surprises on my first safari was just how many birds I saw—Tanzania is home to over 1,000 species. Look out for the elegant Grey Crowned Crane, the jewel-toned Malachite Kingfisher, and the Red-and-Yellow Barbet. I never understood why people had birdwatching on their hobby list until I came here, trust me—it’s captivating once you start spotting them.
Note: you can get inspiration to create your own Tanzania bird bucket list: Birds of Tanzania
Meet the Maasai Tribes
During both my safaris with Shadows of Africa, we were taken to visit a Maasai tribe. They are known to live a semi-nomadic lifestyle, often taking residence near national game parks. Their traditions, customs, clothes and adobe huts in the middle of sparse fields have made them internationally known. And visiting is an absolute must-do!
You can read more about my experience here: Africa’s Maasai Tribe: The Culture & Traditions of The People
Spot the Big Five
No safari feels complete without Africa’s Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, Cape buffalo, and rhino. They were once considered the hardest animals to hunt on foot, but today they’re the most exciting to spot. It took me two safaris to see all five, if you’re lucky, you’ll check them all off in a single trip.
➞ For a little extra epic experience you might want to see how many animals you can check off my Safari Animal Bucket List!
Go Glamping
Tanzania takes camping to a whole new level. Glamping combines all the comforts of a cozy lodge—plush bedding, warm showers, and great meals—with the thrill of sleeping in the middle of the wilderness. At Osupuko Camps in the Serengeti, I woke up to the sounds of wildlife just outside my tent, while Ang’ata Tented Camp in Tarangire gave me that same “wild luxury” experience.
Take a Hike Summit Mt Kilimanjaro
If you’re looking for the ultimate challenge, Tanzania delivers with Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa. Climbing it typically takes 6–9 days, leading you through rainforest, alpine desert, and eventually to a snow-capped summit at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). For something less demanding, Mount Meru offers volcanic scenery and stunning views of Kilimanjaro. Or, for a shorter day trip, hike to Materuni Waterfall through lush coffee plantations for a refreshing break.
➞ Viator is a reputable company and you can book tours for all these hikes through them, check them out here: Mt. Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru and Materuni Waterfall
Visit the Lake Eyasi Hadzabe Bushmen
Lake Eyasi is home to the Hadzabe, one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer tribes in Africa. Some safari itineraries even include a stop here, giving you the rare opportunity to meet them firsthand. Visiting feels like stepping back in time—they live in huts, hunt with bows and arrows, and forage for their food. When I visited, they even offered me a taste of their catch that day (a baboon), which I politely declined. Instead, I left with handmade beaded dolls and a small but meaningful connection to their way of life.
Watch the Great Migration
If there’s one natural spectacle Tanzania is famous for, it’s the Great Migration. Over a million wildebeest, accompanied by zebras and gazelles, travel from the Serengeti to Kenya’s Maasai Mara each year in search of fresh grazing lands. Watching thousands of animals move together across the plains—or, even more dramatically, cross a crocodile-filled river—is a once in a lifetime experience and the highlight of many safaris.
Stay in a Luxury Lodge
You’d never think that in the dusty savannah of Africa they’d have luxury lodges, but they do, and they are epic!
Here are my favorites:
- Olerai Lodge: Found in the heart of Arusha, Olerai Lodge exudes colonial charm amid lush tropical surroundings and local farmland. It was built in 2019, with comfortable rooms, African-inspired decor, and modern amenities like hot showers and mosquito nets. I loved the meals they served during my stay, especially the tomato appetizer (mind you, I usually hate tomatoes!), chicken with rosemary cream sauce with garlic potatoes, and caramel cream.
- Lake Manyara Kilimamoja Lodge: Located in Mto wa Mbu, this lodge seamlessly blends luxurious comfort with traditional African design, offering breathtaking views of mountains and lakes to greet you each morning. The lodge itself has a dramatic design with high ceilings, unique furniture, and chandeliers. The bungalow room I stayed at was especially elegant, with multiple showers, a bathtub, a comfy bed, and a patio perfect for enjoying the sunset view. I recommend setting aside some time at the lodge to fully enjoy what it has to offer.
- Ziwani Lodge: This next one is like finding an unexpected oasis in the remote wilderness, and that is just what happened during my African safari with Shadows of Africa. Situated atop an escarpment overlooking Lake Eyasi and Swift Valley in Northern Tanzania, Ziwani Lodge boasts a beautiful design, with 7 cottages resembling miniature castles and Moroccan decor.
Traveling Soon? Use my Favorite Resources for Booking Your Trip!
Book Your Flight
Expedia is my favorite flight search engine, because it checks dozens of airlines so you can easily find the best fare deals. You can also select ‘Watch Prices’ to get an email alert when the prices change.
Book Your Accommodations
I use both Booking.com and Expedia for hotels, because each offers a couple different hotel choices and I like to compare the reviews on each one. If you have a group or are looking for more of a home atmosphere, head over to VRBO or AirBNB that has houses, apartments and even just a room for rent in every price range.
Book Your Rental Car
If love the freedom to explore like I do, driving from place to place is the best option! I always book with RentalCars.com (it’s part of booking.com) for the best prices and top brand options.
Book Some Fun Tours!
Viator and Get Your Guide are my go-to search engines for cool bucket list experiences! Each one can have different tours, so check both—why limit yourself, right?
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel can be unpredictable. Whether it’s a last-minute cancellation, an injury, or (ugh) theft, things happen. That’s why I recommend never leaving the country without travel insurance. Here are my faves: Safety Wing and World Nomads.
Get Packing & Travel Essentials Ready
Check out the Bucket List Journey Amazon Store to find all my favorite travel essentials. Everything from Packing cubes, to travel adapters and toiletry containers to walking shoes.
*Lastly, check travel.state.gov for visa requirements and safety information.
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