Tanzania is a beautiful country and the perfect place for you to visit on your next big vacation. It may seem a bit daunting to travel to Tanzania; however, once you look past that and discover what it offers, you will be asking yourself why you never visited Tanzania sooner.
Tanzania is remarkable, not only because of its well-renowned, action-packed safaris but also because of the amazing people, culture, nature, and lifestyle. Tanzania will leave you awestruck, captivated, and wanting more. Start planning your trip now and make sure you cover these 10 unique and usual things to do in Tanzania.
1. Visit Lake Natron
Although Lake Natron is considered one of the least livable places, its beauty and deep red colour will captivate you. The salty lake’s color results from cyanobacteria, a bacteria manifested in the water because of the high temperatures (over 41 degrees Celsius). Even more stunning is that it is home to over 2.5 million pink flamingos adapted to the unusual and unique conditions of the water.
2. Explore the Kilwa Kisiwani Ruins
Historically a wealthy and affluent port, the Kilwa Kisiwani was a prosperous empire stretched from Kenya to Mozambique. The castle-like fort is a spectacular place to visit and explore, arching stone walls and towering wooden doors.
3. Dine at The Rock
The Rock is a unique restaurant constructed on a rock in the middle of the water. Located at Michamvi Pingwe beach, The Rock’s rustic style and delicious food are something you don’t want to miss. However, depending on the tide, you can either walk up to the restaurant or need to take a boat. The Rock becomes a small island when the tide rises, and you can only get there by boat.
4. Stay in an Underwater Room at Manta Resort
The Manta Resort in Pemba has unique wooden chalets constructed in the water. Above sea level, you have a nice deck where you can sunbathe, relax, and enjoy the view. Below sea level, you have a comfortable bed surrounded by glass, allowing you to see and experience the underwater world without leaving your bed.
5. Reminisce at the Mercury House
This one is for all you Queens fans out there. You can visit Freddie Mercury’s house in Zanzibar and explore your idol’s way of life, reminiscing about their best hits!
6. Drift Away in a Hot Air Balloon
If you thought getting in a jeep was the only way to enjoy safaris in Tanzania, think again! You can go on a hot air balloon ride and explore any of the mesmerising game reserves from the sky.
7. Live Life in a Masai Village
If you are a traveller that loves to learn about culture, you have to visit one of the many Masai Village located throughout Tanzania. The villagers are friendly and welcoming and always enjoy having tourists visit their village. It will be a fun, adventurous, and educational experience.
8. Trek Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro needs no introduction. Trekking the mountain may not be for everyone; however, it is time to check Mount Kilimanjaro off your bucket list for adventure-seeking, outdoor camping, and enthusiasts. You don’t have to go all the way to the top, of course! Its sheer beauty, wildlife, and landscapes make it a worthwhile trip.
9. Dive into the Deep Blue
Tanzania has some of the most unique and serene beaches with majestic marine life. If you are an experienced diver, you can go on a guided diving expedition and explore the deep blue. If you are an adventurous diver, you can visit Mafia Island to swim with whale sharks.
10. Ride Through Tanzania on a Bicycle
Bicycling is a unique, fun, and interactive way to explore a country. Tanzania offers many guided bicycle tours that have multiple stops. You can take tours around the city or go on a trail in one of the many national parks.
Tanzania is a beautiful country that offers so much to visitors. If you also want to learn more about Kenya and Maasai Mara to plan a complete East African vacation, don’t forget to check out the 8 Things to Know Before you Visit the Maasai Mara.