Best Holiday Destinations in Tanzania Safaris and Zanzibar Beach Holidays. Tanzania Travel Guide, Vacation Information & Planning Tips

If you are wondering the best destination for you and your family, the best holiday destinations in Tanzania safaris and Zanzibar beach holidays is definitely a way to go. Tanzania is one of the most fabulous destinations for all kinds of travelers. Whether you are adventuring with your companions or having a family vacation, Tanzania offers abundant tourism objects that you can treasure as a beautiful memory. Explore the Tanzania and discover the best places to visit with our Tanzania travel guide of the top holidays in Tanzania tourist attractions. Tanzania was voted Africa’s leading destination in the 2021 World Travel Awards (WTA).

Not only the wildlife is the main attraction of the diverse East African nation, but also the safari, history, culture, local delicacies, accommodations, games, white sand beaches, Dar es Salaam City – one of the world’s fastest growing cities and more. The country is blessed with varied habitats including high mountains (Mout Kilimanjaro (5.895 m) – highest free-standing mountain in the world),

the seas, rivers, lakes (Lake Victoria: second largest freshwater lake in the world by area), forests, tropical islands (Zanzibar, Pemba, Mafia, Mnemba, etc) and beaches,

Beach in Zanzibar

craters (Ngorongoro Crater: world`s biggest volcanic caldera), plains and nature reserves (the largest concentration of wild animals per square kilometre in the world), etc. It is undeniable that Tanzania offers beautiful, unique and genuine experiences to all visitors.

Facts and figures of holiday destination Tanzania safaris and Zanzibar beach holidays

Area: 947,303 km2 (365,756 sq mi)
Population: 60,798,971 (2019 est.)
Languages: Swahili, English

Religion: (2010 estimate) Christianity 61%, Islam 35%, Others / None 4%
Population density: 26/km2 (67.3/sq mi)
Administrative Capital: Dodoma.
Dodoma has about 2,083,588 (2010 est.)
Currency: Tanzanian shilling
Vehicle registration: TZ
International dialing code for Tanzania: ‎+255
Form of government: Unitary dominant-party presidential socialist constitutional republic
Largest city: Dar es Salaam, population about 6,368,272 (2019 est.)
Public Holidays: New Year’s Day. 01 January 2019.
Zanzibar Revolution Day. 12 January 2019.
Good Friday. 19-April-2019.
Easter Monday. 22-April-2019.
Union Day. 26-April-2019.
Labour Day. 01 May 2019.
Saba Saba (Dar es salaam International Trade Fair Day) 07 July 2019.
Nane Nane (Farmers’ Day) 08 August 2019.

Emergency numbers: Police: 999, 112, Fire: 112, Ambulance: 112

Time zone: UTC+3 (EAT)
Entry requirements: Visa and valid passport
Power: Electrical plug D and G . 230V and 50Hz
Driving side: left

History and culture of holiday destination Tanzania

Though people come to safari in Tanzania and beach holiday in Zanzibar for its beautiful animals and tropical beaches, some cities also leave the traces of the long history of the country. For instance, it has long Arabic history in Zanzibar. No wonder there are many Arabic-influenced wonders and sights in the city. Meanwhile, the tribes of Maasai and Bantu have been in the country for centuries.

Back in 1891, it was German East Africa. Since then, various reforms were happening under the one-party constitution. Tanzania became the multi-party democracy in 1990.

There are not many old buildings counted in Tanzania. However, Zanzibar’s Stone town hosts such significant historical aspects like Anglican Cathedral, big mansion, House of Wonders, Old Fort, Sultan’s Palace, People’s Palace, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Old Dispensary, Peace Memorial Museum, as well as the Slave Chambers. The center of the historical records is available at the National Museum in Dar es Salaam.

Speaking of culture, you will want to see the Wanyambo Festival in Dar es Salaam and the Mwaka Kogwa Festival in Zanzibar. In these events, you will have opportunities to see the traditional dress and dance.

Swahili is the primary culture in the country with the influences of Arab-African mix. The towns and cities are full of Indian, Arabian, and African folks. Tribes are usually living in the rural areas.

Highlights of holiday destinations in Tanzania safaris and Zanzibar beach holidays

Here are the highlights that you won’t want to miss when visiting Tanzania:

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Tanzania also boasts the world heritage sites that you won’t want to miss as your once-in-a-lifetime experience. Here are different categories of the World Heritage sites that you could include in your safari in Tanzania and beach holiday in Zanzibar.

Cultural Sites

• Kondoa Rock-Art Sites (2006)
• Ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani and Ruins of Songo Mnara (1981)
• Stone Town of Zanzibar (2000)

Natural Sites

• Kilimanjaro National Park (1987)
• Selous Game Reserve (1982)
• Serengeti National Park (1981)
• Ngorongoro Conservation Area (1979, 2010)

Best places to visit of holiday destinations in Tanzania safaris and Zanzibar beach holidays

You will want to visit Tanzania because of its wildebeests and safari in Tanzania holidays of the Big 5. It is a rare opportunity for most wildlife lovers. There are dozens of parks in Tanzania to visit. You can quickly encounter wild elephants and buffaloes when strolling around the city of Arusha. Other parks are indeed accessible.

Trekking Mt. Kilimanjaro (5.895 m)

How do you feel about trekking the highest (5.895 m) mountain in Africa and tallest free-standing mountain on the planet? It is not the most challenging trek on earth, but you could get such wonderful experiences from this awesome Mountain.

Beach holiday destinations in Tanzania

If you are fond of secluded beaches, you can tag along with your friends to the mainland or Zanzibar Island. It offers tons of unspoiled beaches that you can explore.

It is always a great idea to end your Tanzania holidays by beach going. Whether you are a big fan or sunrise, sunset, or both of them, the Zanzibar archipelago can make you and your group pampered with it 30 kilometers Tanzanian coast.

Ngorongoro Crater – one of the best holiday destinations in Tanzania

The crater is the world’s largest (610 metres deep and its floor covers 260 square kilometres) inactive, intact and unfilled volcanic caldera and the home of massive game in Africa. READ MORE

Stone Age Sites

Tanzania is the living proof of the Stone Age that dominated 30,000 years ago. There are many sites you can visit. Make sure to bring your camera to document all of these exciting aspects.

Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria is the largest and most beautiful lake in Africa and the second largest freshwater lake in the world. It hosts different types of creatures which will stun you and your companions.

Scuba Diving in Zanzibar

Zanzibar is usually a high closure after exploring the safari in Tanzania. This place offers you the best diving spot off the coast of East Africa.

Best holiday destinations in Tanzania safari holidays

The Game Reserve

Tanzania is about safari experience. In the southern part of the country, you will see the opportunity to watch the UNESCO World Heritage Site: Selous Game Reserve. The reserve hosts magnificent creatures like elephant, giraffe, hippo, zebra, lion, leopard, buffalo, and so on. You can also spot endangered rhino.

Herds Migration sightseeing

Watching the great migration is one of the most fantastic safari in Tanzania experiences. There is nothing like the breath-taking almost two million wildebeest herds migration which happens in the Mara River. It usually occurs between July and October. So, make sure you come at the right time.

Mobile Safari

What is the best way to enjoy the sights of the safari holidays in Tanzania and Zanzibar? The answer with the mobile safari. When you have the safari in Tanzania holidays, you will have the golden opportunities to get on the vehicle and spot the wildlife in the appropriate distance.

National parks of holiday destination Tanzania

Serengeti National Park – one of the best holiday destinations in Tanzania

The world famous wildlife sanctuary was named best national park in the world by the world’s largest travel guidance platform and voted Africa’s best national park in the 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 World Travel Awards (WTA).

Serengeti is one of the world’s most popular national parks which is also home to adorable wildlife in East Africa. Serengeti National Park is situated in Tanzania country at the edge of Kenyan Border. The national park offers natural wonders with the heritage of the area and becomes one of the seven wonders in Africa aside the big names of Sahara Desert, Egypt’s Nile River, Botswana‘s Okavango Delta, and so forth. Today, many tourists from all around the world take Serengeti National Park tour packages as their adventure holiday destination for sure. Here the highlight of Serengeti National Park safari for your next holiday arrangement.

Migration of Wildebeest in Serengeti Park

Have you ever seen millions of wildebeest migrating in a super long march through your TV screen? The great migration in the world-famous Serengeti National Park is the largest herd movement of animals on the planet – a spectacular wildlife event in the vast ecosystem in North of Tanzania. READ MORE

Serengeti Accommodation

Serengeti National Park has been designed as a tourist destination so it’s not difficult to find accommodation nearby.

Kilimanjaro National Park – one of the best holiday destinations in Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest (5.895 m) mountain in Africa which features three peaks: Kibo, Shira, and Mawenzi. You could also see the unique vegetations from the tallest free-standing mountain in the world.

Kitulo National Park safari in Tanzania

Kitulo National Park has another name as Kitulo Plateau and the Garden of God. The botanists slated this park as the Serengeti of Flowers. It hosts such breath-taking floral views that you won’t forget for the rest of your life.

Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park

The park hosts the moisture trees and ferns. The park’s main attraction is the attractive populations of Zanzibar red colobus monkey. But that’s not the only monkey species you’d enjoy. There are various monkey species, duikers, as well as dozens of birds species.

Katavi National Park safari in Tanzania

Katavi National Park is the third largest national park in the country and popular because of its signature views, bushes, and abundant wildlife. It hosts a significant population of hippo, antelope species, and elephants.

Arusha National Park safari in Tanzania

The small national park hosts the lake, summit, slopes, and Mount Meru. However, what makes it accessible is the laid-back experience that you can enjoy in Momella Lakes.

Gombe Stream National Park safari in Tanzania

Gombe Stream is an excellent place of lush forests and unobstructed lake views. It hosts the habitat of chimpanzee families which reside in the park’s boundaries. Hiking and swimming are favorite leisure activities here.

Saadani National Park safari in Tanzania

It is a great place to visit. Imagine that you are accompanied with the palm trees while enjoying the soothing oceanic breeze. Every aspect of the tropical coastline and islands are enjoyable here. Be prepared to get intervened by the beauty of elephants strolling around the location.

Saanane Island National Park safari in Tanzania

The small park has three islets and aquatic ecosystem. However, don’t underestimate its size since it hosts fantastic mammals like Rock Hyrax, Impala, Wild Cats, and Velvet Monkeys. Then you must be ready to see the reptiles as well. Tilapia and Nile Perch are the aquatic species which dominate the environment.

Tarangire National Park safari in Tanzania

Your safari in Tanzania adventure might not be complete without visiting Tarangire National Park. This park offers the irreplaceable sight of elephant migration, bird life, as well as rich safari in Tanzania ambiances.

Udzungwa Mountains National Park safari in Tanzania

The park is popular because of its unique biodiversity. It has grasslands, woodlands, rainforests, mountain forests, as well as steppe. The park is blessed with plants and mammals species. The traits of the environment make it great as a hiking destination.

Lake Manyara National Park safari – one of the best holiday destinations in Tanzania

Lake Manyara National Park is one of the most popular destinations because of its incredible views of ecosystems. You could also observe incredible bird life there. The thrilling and exciting rare tree-climbing lions are also the main attraction of the park. READ MORE

Mahale Mountains National Park safari in Tanzania

Mahale Mountain national park is a sanctuary of chimp safari in Tanzania. It I one of the best parks in Africa. It offers many natural wonders like the mountains, tropical vegetation, lively forest, and many more. The site hosts the ample population of primates. Of course, you will quickly encounter chimpanzees as well.

Mkomazi National Park safari in Tanzania

Mkomazi National Park has a lot of patents that nature lovers must see. The semi-arid savannah hosts magical creatures like giraffe, zebra, elephant, eland, hartebeest, and buffalo. It is also an excellent spot for bird watching since there are around 450 avian species confirmed by the experts.

Ruaha National Park safari in Tanzania

If you are fond of landscape, this park can make the right choice in your next destination. There are a lot of plants to observe. But the main attraction of wildlife is the Greater Kudu.

Rubondo Island National Park safari in Tanzania

Rubondo Island National Park offers magnificent views of birdlife and butterflies. All the visitors can enjoy it from the lake shore. Fishing is also everyday activities which you can easily arrange nearby the lodges.

Mikumi National Park safari – one of the best holiday destinations in Tanzania

Mikumi National Park is a hotspot for tourists traveling in Tanzania. And it’s no surprise – this beautiful park is easily accessible, full of wildlife, and features miles of stunning, natural lands. Proximity to Dar es Salaam makes this a popular destination for those who can only spend a few hours, or a day, within the park. Without too much time wasted on travel, you can spend your day exploring the park through a Mikumi National Park Safari.

Taking a Mikumi National Park Safari is the best option for visitors and tourists. The park houses zebras, cheetahs, elephants, buffalos, lions – and about 500 more species. You’re almost guaranteed to spot a hippo slipping into the mud, or a giraffe sheltering itself under a tree. The wildlife is abundant and free in nearly 1,300 square miles of land, making Mikumi National Park the fourth largest park in Tanzania.

More than 60 species of mammals, 400 bird species, and 1,200 plant types call this park home, making it the perfect place to sightsee and immerse yourself in a true Tanzanian wildlife experience. Prepare to see both predator and prey as you travel through the park, remembering to stay within the boundaries or rules that your safari guide sets.

Overnight stays

Feeling adventurous and want to stay overnight in the park? Several Mikumi National Park safaris offer overnight stays in villas or camps in the park. This is ideal for travelers who want to have a more immersive experience and spend an extended amount of time camping or backpacking in the park. Your itinerary might include traveling throughout the park during the day, exploring the waterfalls, trails, forests and lakes, and spend nights at campsites or luxury verandas under the stars. It’s a romantic getaway, combined with a little bit of adventure.

Best time for visiting the best holiday destinations in Tanzania safari

Just a short drive from Dar es Salaam, Mikumi National Park is easily accessible by car. If you’re planning on trekking through the park for several days on your safari, plan ahead for the season you’re visiting by bringing hats or rain gear in order to prepare for all types of weather. The best months to embark on a safari through the park are between June and October during the dry months, when rain is rare. Weather is typically sunny and dry during these months, making it the perfect time to travel here.

Discover the holiday destinations in Tanzania’s major cities on your vacation in Tanzania

Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam is on track to become an African Megacity. It is a major city which grew from a fishing village. Nowadays, it is popular because of its commercial port. It is also the core of the history exhibits in Tanzania. Tanzania also has unique offers from arts, media, fashion, film, music, and television. Most of the locals are Swahili-spoken people.

The city is also the spot for the arrival and departure for most tourists who visit Tanzania for its national parks, reserves, and safari in Tanzania tours. During the day time, it often has traffic congestion. But it does not mean that you can’t enjoy your time there. There are a lot of places that you can visit in the daylight. Meanwhile, the sunset also offers you such nightlife. Your exceptional dining experience can be dynamic from the Zanzibari cuisine to traditional Indian. Even, you can taste the foods which come from many places around the world, including Italian, Turkish, Thai, Chinese, as well as Japanese cuisine.

Dar es Salaam is a vibrant city which is prevalent for its fish market. Besides, it also offers careful craft markets and restaurants. Its architecture is breath-taking. Most of them are the acculturation of Arab, Indian, African, British and German.

The city upgrade is almost done. If you come in the right time, you will see the big difference and changes of major city roads, the DART system (Bus Rapid Transit), high-rise buildings, Kigamboni Bridge, Julius Nyerere international airport terminal III, Tanzanite Bridge, Mbezi central bus terminal and the new Dar es Salaam sgr central train station are the most prevalent change, that has changed the city’s appeals.

New Dar es Salaam SGR Main Train Station

New Dar es Salaam SGR Main Train Station / Photo: Bertim

East Africa’s longest bridge

New Tanzanite Bridge – East Africa’s longest bridge / Photo: Courtesy Of South Korea’s GS E&C

The Dar es Salaam Bus Rapid Transit System

The new BRT has become the best solution to traffic congestion. These operate on the dedicated bus lanes so that you can reach the destination on time. You can’t find the bus at night, though. Dar es Salaam city won 2018 Sustainable Transport Award for its Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, becoming the first African city to win the prize.

Arusha

Your journey could start from Arusha since it is the gateway to the northern part of the national park’s selection.

Dodoma Capital City Upgrade

Tanzania is upgrading Dodoma to a new modern capital city. It is custom-built capital, which is an excellent destination for strolling around. Food stalls, souvenirs stalls, and local experiences are pretty abundant.

New Dodoma stadium to become largest stadium in Africa

The proposed stadium upon completion will be the largest stadium in Africa with a 100,000 sitting capacity.

Kigoma

Kigoma is the end of the line for the Central Line train. Lake Tanganyika is one of the interesting points. It is also the starting point of Gombe National Park.

Mbeya

Back then, it was the center for the gold rush at Lupa. It is the central city which hosts as transit junction between Tanzania, Zambia, and Malawi.

Morogoro

It is the home of the famous Sokoine University, Tanzania’s national agricultural institute. It hosts spot for a prevalent, educational tour, cultural tours, and hikes.

Mwanza

Mwanza is the second largest city in Tanzania and features the artificial lake which accompanied by the fills strewn with abundant boulders. Indian influences are noticeable in this city. The moment you stroll around, you will see the busy port and industrial center. It is where you will reach Rubondo Island, National Park.

Mtwara

It was a typical fishing village. As time goes by, it is the major southeastern town in the country. Mtwara is the new face of Tanzania. Its excellent infrastructure is prevalent for tourists.

Tanga

It is the second-largest seaport in Tanzania. For a peaceful Tanzania holidays, it hosts the full streets for cycling. It boasts beautiful architecture with the charm that you might never find in other destination.

Iringa

Iringa is district capital. It is the agricultural center in Tanzania and the gateway of Ruaha National Park. It has a pleasant climate since of the highland features.

Tabora

It was the trading center which spread the influences on the Lake Tanganyika with Bagamoyo and the sea. It is now holding the historical sites and rail fans.

Zanzibar City / Stone Town

Zanzibar is the melting points and acculturation center which involves Africa, Europe, Arabia, and India.
The city is the Swahili coastal trading spot in East Africa. It presents the face of urban fabric and townscape that reflect the culture of the Zanzibar locals. It is also called as Stone Town of Zanzibar. It is a perfect representation of the trading town. The Stone Town of Zanzibar brings together the different cultures from Arab, Africa, India, as well as European countries and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It is easy to spot significant buildings which are centuries old. Dated back from the 18th and 19th centuries, the monuments include the Old Fort, House of Wonders, Old Dispensary, Sultan’s Palace, Catholic Cathedral, and many more.

The authenticity of the centuries-old building demonstrates the traditional urban fabric and landscape. You can see this clearly in their buildings, streets, and dwellings. The local artists have held an essential role in maintaining and acculturation these influences and interchanges.

Musoma

Musoma is the capital of the Mara region. Its appeal is the sunrise and sunset views over the water. To make it a more memorable experience, consider having bed and breakfast with someone special.

Bukoba

The small town boasts the mesmerizing waterside ambiance with a peaceful place to sit back and relax.

Moshi

The city with the mixture influence of Asian and African cultures. It sits at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro and often becomes the staycation of the hikers and fellow visitors.

Top places to visit for nature and wildlife of best holiday destinations in Tanzania and Zanzibar

Both flora and fauna of Tanzania are diverse. It has abundant parks and reserves which are open to the nature lovers. Tanzania National Parks Authority has done such great work in encouraging the conservation of nature. The wildlife features four million wild animals in different parks. There are 430 different species and subspecies in total. For the beginners, it is recommended to visit Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Leisure activities of holiday destination Tanzania safaris and Zanzibar beach holidays

Tanzania offers you a lot of leisure activities to spend quality time with your significant ones.

Here are the activities that might suit you best:

Nature

The diverse nature of Tanzania is absolution! There are many ways to enjoy the safari in Tanzania experience with your family or friends.

Tanzania’s National Parks and Reserves

• How to plan a budget safari in Tanzania
• How to plan a luxury safari in Tanzania

Markets

Some cities in Tanzania have markets that offer a fantastic item from fresh veggies and fruits, crafts, souvenirs, fishes, apparels, and many other things.

History

Learn about the culture and history of Tanzania in its historical sites.

Swahili Culture

Another heritage experience you may get in best holiday destinations in Tanzania is the exploration of Swahili culture. It offers a wider experience despite sight-seeing as you can also enjoy authentic Swahili local cuisines. All of these heritage experiences can be arranged for your Tanzania tour in advance or ask the lodge to arrange it for you.

Joining a cause

Tanzania is a developing country that opens to the world for volunteering and causes opportunities. There are many programs that you could join with, and you could end up with fruitful experience.

Hiking

Tanzania has some great hiking spots. If Kilimanjaro (5.895 m) is too challenging, you could also consider conducting at Udzungwa Mountains National Park. It will reward you with the soothing waterfall views.

Water Parks: Fun City/Kunduchi Wet “N” Wild

It is the names of amusement parks. It’s a great way to spend your leisure time in Dar es Salaam.

Best Pasta and Pizza in Dar es Salaam

Zuane offers the best pasta and pizza in Tanzania. If you crave for comfort food, it is the best place to visit.

Beach holiday destinations in Tanzania

Zanzibar has such fantastic beaches. Here are the beaches you have to visit in Zanzibar.

Ras Nungwi

Ras Nungwi is a perfect place for you and your family. It provides an excellent spot for swimming and walking out to the sea. Enjoying the ocean with your family can be a great idea to kill your leisure time in Zanzibar.

Kendwa

Kendwa provides laid-back opportunities for its visitors. Its soothing and pure appearance makes it an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy their leisure time. The sand of the beach is very supportive for conducting certain activities like volleyball or football.

Paje Beach

If you are visiting the Southeastern part of Zanzibar, you must not miss visiting Paje. It is also an excellent place for swimming with your companions. Nearby the beach, you can easily find bungalows, beach bars, and small restaurants.

Bwejuu

It is a unique destination because of its seaweed fishing village. Besides the local warm, it also boasts natural beauty. It is a secluded beach town with less crowded at peak time. If laid-back experience is what you’re looking for, Bwejuu beach is a go.

Kiwengwa

Kiwengwa most interesting point is the simple stretches of sand on its beach. It is also a great spot to swim with your companions. It also boasts natural beauty, which is different from other shores.

Burj Zanzibar: world’s tallest timber tower

The Burj Zanzibar, a visionary architectural marvel, is set to redefine urban living in East Africa. This 96m mixed-use skyscraper, rising impressively above the Tanzanian coastline, is designed to be the tallest hybrid-wooden structure in the world. Integrating sustainable building practices with cutting-edge design, the Burj Zanzibar will offer residential, commercial, and leisure spaces, harmonizing luxury and eco-consciousness. The tower will  offer a total of 187 luxurious apartments and the international luxury hotel brand Canopy by Hilton will operate from Burj Zanzibar.

Its innovative use of hybrid-timber building technology not only minimizes environmental impact but also showcases the potential of sustainable construction materials. The Burj Zanzibar stands as a beacon of modernity and ecological responsibility, promising to transform Zanzibar’s skyline and setting a new standard for green architecture globally.

Photos: Courtesy Of OMT/CPS

Blue Amber Resort Zanzibar

The biggest luxury resort in Africa.

The project which is set to cost US$ 1.6 billion will have an underwater restaurant and nightclub, villas and penthouse apartments, five leading international luxury hotels, a deep water marina, aqua park, medical facilities, duty-free retail district, equestrian centre and polo ground, private international school, signature golf course and a private airport. The seven-phase Zanzibar resort development spans 411 hectare along 4km of Indian Ocean coastline.

Zanzibar Domino Commercial Tower

Plans unveiled for Africa’s second tallest building in Zanzibar situated on a manmade island.

The project which is set to cost US$ 1.3 billion will be a 70-storey building offering visitors, residents and businesses: entertainment, culture, conferencing services, 560 luxury apartments, a five- and six-star hotel with a total of 360 keys, and other features such as spas and wedding chapels can be accessed separately by helicopter, boat or bridge. Upon completion the skyscraper will be the second most expensive single-standing building ever constructed behind the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai.

Zanzibar Domino Commercial Tower – Photos: Courtesy Of TCG international consultants / xcassia

City Break and Beach Holiday in Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam is big. Sometimes, it is a bit tricky to pick places to visit. But two things are best from Dar es Salaam: beach holidays and city break in Dar es Salaam.

Dar es Salaam is a popular destination for beach lovers because of its tropical beaches of the Indian Ocean.

About an hour from the airport, you can reach the Coco beach. If you have enough time, you could explore all the beaches from Coco Beach, Kigamboni, Kunduchi, Bongoyo Island,

Mbudya Island, and so on. All of the beaches are visitable all seasons. Each has different perks from marine life, stretched sands, the trees, and many more.

Activities and best places to visit of holiday destinations in Tanzania safaris and Zanzibar beach holidays

Many travel experts slate the holiday destination Tanzania safaris as world-class wildlife and beach holidays destination. You and your companions can enjoy it from the safari in Tanzania and beach holidays, marine reserves to the historical sites. The best holiday destinations in Tanzania offer perfect spots for tourists to enjoy their holiday. If you are looking to add the activities in your itinerary, here are the attractions that you shouldn’t miss when visiting Tanzania.

• National Parks (Kilimanjaro National Park, Serengeti National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, Tarangire National Park, Mikumi National Park, Selous Game Reserve, etc)
• The annual wildebeest migration and the Big Five safari experience

• The National Museum of Tanzania
• Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro (5.895 m)

Mount Kilimanjaro

• Diving in Pemba Island/Pemba Channel
• Prison Island, Zanzibar
• Mount Meru
• House of Wonders, Zanzibar
• Serengeti Hippo Pool
• Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre
• Old Fort, Zanzibar
• Ngorongoro Crater
• Mto Wa Mbu Village: Famous Maasai Tribe Culture

Masai Woman

• Forodhani Gardens, Zanzibar
• Kitulo Plateau
• Isimila Stone Age site
• The Rock Restaurant, Zanzibar
• Best things to do in Zanzibar
• Things to do in Pemba Island
• Thing to do in Mafia Island
• Things to do in Dar es Salaam
• Things to do in Stone Town
• Zanzibar Vacations
• More..

Zanzibar Island

Food & drink in your holiday destination Tanzania

Tanzania has unique delicacies which made of rice, grains, spices, and fruits. Special occasions are identical with meats, chicken, and fish. Consider checking on traditional dishes such as Ugali, Pilau, Chapati, Vitumbua, Nyama, and duckling Dar es Salaam.

Chai (tea) is the most popular drink in Tanzania. You will find this on almost every stall in the cities.

• Best restaurants in Dar es Salaam
• Best restaurants in Zanzibar
• Best bars in Dar es Salaam
• Best bars in Zanzibar

Best times to visit the best holiday destinations in Tanzania safaris and Zanzibar beach holidays

Winter is the coldest time in Tanzania. It happens from June to September. Busy time is from July to August. The rainy season occurs from March to May.

Safari Lodge

How to get to the best holiday destinations in Tanzania safaris and Zanzibar beach holidays

International Airports in Tanzania

• Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) is 12km south-west of Dar es Salaam City.
• Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) is approximately 5km south of Zanzibar City.
• The new Msalato international airport in the capital city Dodoma is under construction.
• The new Mwanza international airport is under construction.
• Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is 40km east of Arusha City.

New Julius Nyerere International Airport Terminal 3

The new Julius Nyerere International Airport (JNIA) terminal III in Dar es Salaam is already operating since August 2019. There are addition to the 24 crafts operating in the airport. That means the number of flights to Tanzania will increase and you will have more flexible times in using the airlines service.

New Zanzibar International Airport Terminal 3

The new terminal III at the Zanzibar international airport is already operating since June 2021 and will serve international flights while terminal 2 will become the domestic flights terminal.

New Mwanza International Airport

The new Mwanza international airport is under construction.

Photo: Courtesy of Mwanza Tourism

New Msalato International Airport in Dodoma

The new Msalato international airport in the capital city Dodoma is under construction.

Travelling in Tanzania

Plane, bus, train, ferry (Zanzibar/Indian Ocean and Mwanza/Lake Victoria):

Getting around Tanzania by Boat and Ferry

Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar ferry

It is an excellent way to travel between Zanzibar Island and Dar es Salaam City.

Mwanza/Lake Victoria

New Great Lakes region largest vessel MV Mwanza

The construction of a new 1,200 passengers ferry is currently undergoing. With its 90-meter length, this new ferry will be the largest vessel on the African Great Lakes, and sail on Lake Victoria.

The vessel will have a first-class section with a capacity for 60 people, business class for 100 people, second class for 200 people and economy class which will be carrying 834 passengers. Basing at Mwanza, this ferry links ports in Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.

East Africa’s largest fresh water passenger and cargo ship was floated at the Mwanza South Port on February 12 2023. The ship is currently 96 percent complete.

MV Mwanza Photo: Courtesy Twitter / @mamayukokazini

Ukerewe District/Lake Victoria

The construction of a new ferry that will have the capacity of carrying 300 passengers per trip has completed.

Getting around Tanzania by bus

Purchase the ticket a day prior for ensuring your seats.

New Bus Terminal in Dar es Salaam

The Magufuli Bus Terminus construction will be in two phases and will serve 700 buses on a daily basis. Phase-I will take 1.5 years (construction is completed since January 2021) and Phase-II will commence afterwards with construction of shopping facilities and hotels.

New Bus Terminal in Dodoma

Construction of a mega bus terminal in Dodoma is completed since July 2020. According to sources within the Municipality the new bus terminal have the capacity to host more than 200 upcountry buses, 600 medium-sized (hiace and coaster) and an additional 300 taxis.

Photo: Courtesy Of Mhandis

New Bus Terminals in Mwanza

Construction of two bus terminals in Mwanza are completed since July 2023.

Taxi

Is available in all major towns. More flexible to get you to the places, not on the bus routes.

Dalla-Dalla

It is a cheap minibus solution to travel within the cities.

Getting around Tanzania by Train

Train often comes with the delays. But it is beautiful to experience and enjoy Tanzania from a different perspective. Book in advance since it is in high demand.

New Electric Train Construction

A new US$ 14 billion 2,561-km railway link with fast trains is connecting the coast of Tanzania to the centre of the country and neighbouring countries. The electric trains commenced operation in July 2024.

For those who are not up to the slow traffic of conventional train, you can opt to Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) electric train which is much faster than old trains in Tanzania. However, this electric train transport is still in development. The government launched the first and second phase of electric train transport from Dar es Salaam to Morogoro and Dodoma in July 2024.

Photo: Tanzania Electric Train – Courtesy of Tanzania Railways

After completion, the Tanzania Standard Gauge Railway (TSGR) will be the longest electric railway and one of the most modern in Africa. Hyundai Rotem won a US$ 296 million contract to supply the first 80 electric multiple units and 17 electric locomotives to the Tanzania Railways Corporation.

Photo: Tanzania Electric Train – Courtesy of Tanzania Railways

Entry requirements of holiday destination Tanzania

There are about 66 countries that can enter Tanzania with a visa. Check if your country is on the list. Some countries can grant permission upon arrival. Make sure to contact your Embassy of the United Republic of Tanzania or travel agent with the exact information.