Tanzania isn’t like the travel brochures. It’s better! The lions are closer, the beaches are emptier, and Kilimanjaro is taller than you imagine. I spent three weeks exploring this country and returned with stories I tell at every dinner party.
These are the most beautiful places to visit in Tanzania worth every minute of your time. My list covers 12 spots where reality beats expectations. Trust me on this one – I’ve seen the wildlife up close and walked beaches that deserve fame but remain peaceful. This is Tanzania as it should be experienced!
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#1 tip to save money on your trip to Tanzania
Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your Tanzanian adventure.
- FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). Last summer, I flew to Dar es Salaam for just $450 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
- Food: Save money by eating at local restaurants called “mama lishe” where you can get delicious home-cooked meals for just $2-3. For groceries, I shop at Shoprite or local markets where fresh fruits and vegetables are incredibly affordable. My favorite approach is buying breakfast items and snacks to keep in my room, then enjoying local spots for lunch and dinner!
- Transport: I recommend booking shuttle buses between major cities in advance through companies like Dar Express or Kilimanjaro Express. For park visits, I’ve found hiring a driver for a few days works out cheaper than daily excursions. When I visited the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, sharing a vehicle with other travelers cut my costs by almost 40%.
Tanzania may have a reputation for being pricey for safaris. But if you follow the strategies above, you can explore its wonders on the cheap. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in Tanzania:
The Prettiest Places in Tanzania
Tanzania is like nowhere else on Earth. After watching millions of wildebeest thunder across rivers and relaxing on beaches that could break Instagram, I realized this place has a kind of magic to it. Let me show you the spots that’ll blow your mind.
1. Lake Manyara
- 📍 Location: Northern Tanzania
- 🏆 Best For: 🐘 Tree-climbing lions, birdwatching 🐦, peaceful game drives 🚙
- 📸 Top Experiences: Spotting lions in acacia trees, watching flamingos line the lakeshore, driving through lush groundwater forests
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to October for dry weather and concentrated wildlife sightings 🌞
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge – Hilltop lodge with lake views and a cliffside infinity pool
Lake Manyara is often overshadowed by bigger parks, but it delivers a surprising variety of landscapes and animals. The park opens with dense forest before transitioning into open plains, hot springs, and the glittering lake itself. It’s one of the few places where you might catch lions perched up in trees, which can be a rare behavior that makes every drive feel special.
Bird lovers will be in heaven here. During the right season, thousands of flamingos, storks, and pelicans flock to the lake’s edge. The area also supports elephants, hippos, zebras, and baboons in big numbers, especially in the dry months when they gather near water sources.
Because of its smaller size, you can cover a lot in one day, making it a perfect first stop on a northern safari route. It’s ideal for anyone looking for relaxed, scenic drives without the big crowds.
2. Mafia Island
- 📍 Location: Pwani Region, Tanzania
- 🏆 Best For: 🐠 Snorkeling, marine life 🐢, tranquil beaches 🏖️
- 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming with whale sharks, exploring Chole Island ruins, diving in Mafia Island Marine Park
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to March when whale sharks migrate and seas are calm 🐋
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Butiama Lodge – Relaxed beachfront property with sea-facing bungalows and dive packages
Mafia Island feels like a secret escape compared to more popular beach destinations. The island is surrounded by warm, shallow waters and thriving coral reefs that are perfect for snorkeling and diving. From October to March, travelers flock here for the chance to swim responsibly with gentle whale sharks that feed just offshore.
The surrounding marine park protects over 800 square kilometers of underwater biodiversity. You can spot sea turtles, colorful fish, and even dolphins on a good day. On land, explore sleepy fishing villages or visit the ancient ruins on nearby Chole Island, a short boat ride away.
Because of its smaller size and laid-back atmosphere, Mafia Island is great for travelers looking to skip the tourist rush and enjoy nature at a slower pace. With just a few lodges and no big resorts, it’s the kind of destination where you can truly unwind between sea adventures.
3. Mahale Mountains National Park
- 📍 Location: Western Tanzania, along Lake Tanganyika
- 🏆 Best For: 🐒 Chimp trekking, remote escapes 🛶, forest hiking 🌿
- 📸 Top Experiences: Tracking wild chimpanzees, kayaking on Lake Tanganyika, hiking forest trails in the Mahale Mountains
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: July to October for dry trails and easier chimp tracking ☀️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Mbali Mbali Mahale – Remote lakefront lodge with private bandas and guided chimp treks
Mahale Mountains offer one of the most unique safari experiences in East Africa. Located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, the park is home to a large population of wild chimpanzees. Guided treks through the dense forest lead you to close-up encounters as these primates swing through trees, forage for food, and interact with one another.
But the magic of Mahale goes beyond chimps. Towering jungle peaks surround the park, while Lake Tanganyika’s crystal waters offer kayaking, swimming, and sunset views you won’t forget. It’s a full-on nature immersion with no roads. There’s basically just trails, boats, and forest paths.
Its remote setting means Mahale isn’t for everyone, but if you’re after something raw, immersive, and off the beaten path, this place delivers. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who want to combine trekking, wildlife, and solitude in one wild and beautiful place.
4. Zanzibar Island
- 📍 Location: Indian Ocean, off the coast of mainland Tanzania
- 🏆 Best For: 🏖️ Beaches, culture lovers 🕌, foodies and spice enthusiasts 🌶️
- 📸 Top Experiences: Wandering Stone Town, snorkeling at Mnemba Atoll, relaxing on Nungwi Beach
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to October for dry, breezy days and calm seas ☀️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Park Hyatt Zanzibar – Luxury hotel in Stone Town with beachfront views and historic architecture
Zanzibar Island blends relaxation with rich history and a bit of adventure. Stone Town, the island’s cultural hub, invites you to explore narrow alleys, bustling markets, and centuries-old buildings that reflect Arab, Indian, and European influences. It’s also where you’ll taste Zanzibar’s famous spice-infused dishes and learn about its trading past.
Beyond the town, the island’s beaches are a major draw. Nungwi and Kendwa in the north offer soft white sand and calm turquoise waters. For divers and snorkelers, Mnemba Atoll offers stunning coral gardens and marine life just offshore.
Zanzibar is easy to pair with a mainland safari, making it the perfect wind-down destination after days of game drives. It works for solo travelers, couples, and families alike and gives you a taste of Tanzania’s coastal charm with plenty to do or nothing at all.
5. Mnemba Island
- 📍 Location: Off the northeast coast of Zanzibar, Tanzania
- 🏆 Best For: 🐚 Luxury escapes, snorkeling 🤿, romantic getaways 💕
- 📸 Top Experiences: Snorkeling over coral reefs, spotting dolphins, watching sunset from a private beach
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to March for calm seas and prime visibility in the water 🌊
- 🏨 Where to Stay: &Beyond Mnemba Island – Private island lodge with beachfront bandas and personalized service
Mnemba Island is about exclusivity and untouched beauty. Just a short boat ride from Zanzibar’s main island, this tiny coral atoll offers powder-white beaches, vibrant marine life, and a serious sense of seclusion. With only one lodge on the island, you won’t be bumping into other tourists, just clear blue waters and quiet shores.
Snorkeling is one of the highlights here. Coral reefs ring the island, making it a haven for tropical fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins. If you’re into diving or paddleboarding, conditions are usually perfect, and gear is included with most stays.
This is the kind of place where you unplug, slow down, and let nature take center stage. With no roads, shops, or crowds, Mnemba is ideal for honeymoons, anniversaries, or travelers craving a quiet, high-end experience surrounded by natural beauty.
6. Mount Kilimanjaro
- 📍 Location: Kilimanjaro Region, Northern Tanzania
- 🏆 Best For: 🥾 Bucket list treks, mountain views 🏔️, adventure lovers 💪
- 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the Machame or Lemosho Route, watching sunrise from Stella Point, reaching Uhuru Peak
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: January to March or June to October for stable weather and clear summit views 🌤️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Kaliwa Lodge – Cozy base lodge with forest views near Machame Gate, perfect for acclimatizing
Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s tallest peak and a major draw for trekkers around the world. The mountain rises dramatically from the plains, offering multiple routes to the summit, each passing through unique landscapes from rainforest to alpine desert. No technical climbing is required, but it’s still a serious physical challenge.
Most treks last five to nine days, depending on the route you choose. Guides and porters are required, and they’ll help with everything from meals to tent setup. Along the way, you’ll get stunning views, including the famous glaciers near the summit.
Reaching Uhuru Peak at over 19,000 feet is unforgettable, but even the journey itself is rewarding. The sense of achievement, the changing terrain, and the camaraderie with fellow hikers all make it worth the effort. For many, climbing Kilimanjaro is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that leaves a lasting impression.
7. Ngorongoro Crater
- 📍 Location: Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Northern Tanzania
- 🏆 Best For: 🦁 Big Five safaris, stunning landscapes 🌄, cultural encounters 🛖
- 📸 Top Experiences: Game drives on the crater floor, spotting black rhinos, visiting a Maasai village
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to October for dry weather and easier wildlife viewing ☀️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge – Cliffside lodge with panoramic crater views and traditional stone design
Ngorongoro Crater is one of the most iconic safari destinations in Tanzania. Formed by a collapsed volcano, this vast caldera stretches about 12 miles wide and shelters a high concentration of wildlife year-round. You’ll see elephants, zebras, lions, and possibly even the endangered black rhino—all within a few hours on the crater floor.
The setting is just as jaw-dropping as the animals. Picture wide green plains ringed by steep walls and dotted with lakes, fig trees, and acacia forests. Early morning drives often mean misty views and fewer crowds, giving the area a dreamlike feel.
Many visitors also get a chance to meet the Maasai people who live around the conservation area. Their colorful dress, traditions, and cattle herding way of life add depth to the experience. The crater is perfect for first-time safari-goers who want maximum wildlife without driving a lot.
8. Olduvai Gorge
- 📍 Location: Between Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti, Northern Tanzania
- 🏆 Best For: 🧠 Archaeology fans, history lovers 📚, cultural travelers 🗿
- 📸 Top Experiences: Touring the Olduvai Museum, viewing excavation sites, walking along the ancient gorge
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to October when roads are dry and access is easiest ☀️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Foresight Eco Lodge & Safari – Cozy eco-lodge in Karatu with garden, terrace, free Wi‑Fi and parking
Olduvai Gorge is one of Tanzania’s most fascinating historical sites. Known as the “Cradle of Mankind,” this deep ravine has yielded fossils and tools that have helped scientists piece together the story of early human evolution. You’ll find a small but well-curated museum on-site that walks you through key discoveries, including ancient bones dating back nearly two million years.
A guided visit gives you access to real excavation sites and a clear view of the gorge’s stratified rock layers. It’s an eye-opening place where history feels close and tangible. You don’t need to be an archaeology expert to appreciate what’s been uncovered here.
The area also sits in a scenic stretch of Tanzania’s northern circuit. While most travelers come for the wildlife, Olduvai adds an intellectual and cultural stop to the journey. It’s a quick but meaningful visit that offers something very different from the typical safari experience.
9. Pemba Island
- 📍 Location: Zanzibar Archipelago, Tanzania
- 🏆 Best For: 🌴 Seclusion, diving 🤿, spice farm visits 🌶️
- 📸 Top Experiences: Diving at Misali Island, touring spice plantations, exploring ancient ruins in Ras Mkumbuu
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: July to October for calm waters and cooler, dry weather 🌤️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: The Aiyana Resort & Spa – Elegant beachfront resort with tropical gardens and private villas
Pemba Island is a quiet, green escape far from the crowds. Often overshadowed by its neighbor Zanzibar, this island feels more untouched and less developed, which is exactly what makes it special. If you’re into diving, the coral walls off Misali Island offer some of the most vibrant marine life in East Africa.
The island itself is covered in lush forests and spice farms, giving it a distinctly earthy and aromatic vibe. You can explore ruins, visit sleepy coastal villages, and take boat rides through mangroves. It’s not a place with big resorts or nightlife, but that’s the charm.
Travelers looking to slow down, unplug, and explore a rawer version of island life will love Pemba. It’s perfect for honeymooners, divers, and anyone craving space, nature, and authenticity with beautiful views and a relaxed pace.
10. Ruaha National Park
- 📍 Location: Southern Tanzania
- 🏆 Best For: 🐘 Remote safaris, wildlife photography 📷, off-grid experiences 🏕️
- 📸 Top Experiences: Game drives near the Great Ruaha River, spotting lions and elephants, birdwatching in the baobab woodlands
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to October during the dry season for reliable wildlife sightings 🐾
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Ruaha River Lodge – Riverside safari lodge with stone cottages and stunning wildlife views
Ruaha National Park is one of Tanzania’s largest and wildest reserves. Located in the southern circuit, this park gets fewer visitors than Serengeti or Ngorongoro, which means more space and better chances for uncrowded wildlife viewing. The park is especially famous for its massive elephant herds and frequent predator sightings.
Game drives take you through varied landscapes, from wide-open plains to dense woodlands and rocky hills. The Great Ruaha River is the park’s lifeline, drawing animals in large numbers during the dry months. It’s also a hotspot for birdwatching, with over 570 species recorded in the area.
If you want a raw, off-the-grid safari with real adventure vibes, Ruaha delivers. It’s best for travelers who have already done the more famous parks or who prefer a more intimate, less commercial safari experience. The park’s size and diversity make every day of exploring feel new.
11. Serengeti National Park
- 📍 Location: Northern Tanzania
- 🏆 Best For: 🦓 Great Migration, classic game drives 🚙, Big Five viewing 🐘
- 📸 Top Experiences: Witnessing the wildebeest migration, hot air balloon safaris, spotting predators on the plains
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to October for dry weather and prime migration viewing 🐃
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Melia Serengeti Lodge – Upscale eco-lodge with infinity pool and wildlife views in the heart of the park
Serengeti National Park is the image that comes to mind when people think of an African safari. Its vast golden plains seem to stretch forever, and it’s home to one of the most impressive wildlife events on Earth, the Great Migration. Each year, over a million wildebeests and zebras move across the park in search of fresh grass, drawing predators and photographers alike.
Even outside of migration season, the Serengeti teems with life. You’ll find elephants, cheetahs, giraffes, and prides of lions across its diverse terrain. Sunrise game drives are especially magical, with soft light and cool air making animals more active.
The park is massive, but well-organized safari camps make it easy to access different areas. It’s a must-visit for first-time visitors to Tanzania and one of the few places where every drive feels cinematic and unforgettable.
12. Tarangire National Park
- 📍 Location: Northern Tanzania
- 🏆 Best For: 🐘 Elephant herds, birdwatching 🦅, baobab landscapes 🌳
- 📸 Top Experiences: Game drives along the Tarangire River, seeing elephants up close, spotting rare bird species
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to October for dry season wildlife concentrations 🦒
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Tarangire Safari Lodge – Hilltop lodge with tented rooms and views overlooking the river valley
Tarangire National Park is one of Tanzania’s most underrated safari spots. While it doesn’t get as much buzz as Serengeti or Ngorongoro, it delivers incredible wildlife sightings, especially during the dry season when animals gather near the Tarangire River. You’ll likely see elephants in huge numbers, some strolling just feet away from your vehicle.
The park’s landscape is also a standout. Iconic baobab trees tower across the savanna, and wetlands attract hundreds of bird species. If you’re into photography or birdwatching, this place is full of surprises at every turn.
Tarangire works well as a first or final stop on a northern safari circuit. It’s less crowded, rich in wildlife, and easy to explore in a day or two. For travelers looking for something a little quieter but still packed with action, Tarangire offers a laid-back but thrilling safari experience.
