Tanzania is Africa’s visual masterpiece, and visiting it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The country has stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, beautiful beaches, quaint historic settlements, and important archaeological sites that have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Great Migration in Tanzania is one of the most exciting parts of a traditional African safari because it features hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and zebras racing across the Serengeti plains in pursuit of rain. However, there is much more to this country than just a chance to see the “Big Five.” Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak, rises 5,895 meters over the surrounding grassland plains. Its majestic, snow-capped summit dominates the landscape. Climbing Kilimanjaro is a breeze, and the view from atop Africa’s tallest peak is unforgettable. After an exciting safari and mountain climbing experience in Tanzania, most tourists unwind on the pristine beaches of Zanzibar, the unique Spice Island. As befits a country with such stunning natural beauty, Tanzania is home to some of the world’s most opulent hotels and lodges.
In this article, we will discuss Tanzania, East Africa: Top Attractions, How To Reach, and More
When to visit Tanzania
Given its location near the equator, Tanzania has a mild climate all year. While there isn’t much of a difference in monthly temperatures, the amount of precipitation received varies with the seasons. It can have an impact on your vacation plans, whether you’re hoping for a relaxing beach getaway in Zanzibar, an exhilarating climb to the top of Kilimanjaro, or an exciting safari through the national parks.
- The lengthy dry season in Tanzania, which runs from June to October, is the greatest time to visit the country because the majority of days are sunny, and significant rainfall is uncommon during this time.
- The brief dry season in Tanzania, from January to February, is another popular period to visit the country because of its dry weather despite increasing humidity.
- The worst time to visit Tanzania is during the major rainy season, also known as the “long rains,” which lasts from March through May. Daily strong tropical downpours (often in the afternoon) are common and can spoil a vacation.
How to get there
- Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) serves Tanzania’s largest metropolis. 12 km (7.5 km) southwest of the city center. It serves Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. It honors Tanzania’s first president, Julius Nyerere.
- Unguja Island’s Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) is Zanzibar’s principal airport. It is 5 km (3.1 mi) south of Zanzibar City, the capital. Kisauni Airport and Zanzibar International Airport were renamed in 2010 to honor the island’s first president, Abeid Amani Karume.
- Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) serves northern Tanzania’s Arusha and Moshi. The Northern Circuit safari prefers this airport.
Travel requirements
Tanzania’s admission requirements fluctuate from nation to country. Before traveling to Tanzania, check with your government and the nearest Tanzanian embassy or consulate for the required documentation.
- Tanzania requires a valid passport.
- Tanzania requires tourist or business visas for most nationalities. Before traveling, visit your local Tanzanian embassy or consulate.
- Yellow fever certificate required. Immigration officials may request Yellow Fever vaccination or exemption certificates even though Tanzania is not endemic.
Getting Around
Due to poor road conditions, self-driving in Tanzania is not suggested; however there are many ways to get around:
- The safari operator or lodge always provides a driver-guide. Most Northern Circuit tourists drive a four-wheel drive vehicle through Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara National Parks.
- Domestic flights are the fastest and most comfortable if you wish to go across the country. Domestic aircraft connect famous safari sites to the shore. Some luxury safari lodges have their own airstrips and utilize light planes from private air charter firms to transport guests instead of long dusty drives. These Tanzanian domestic airlines accept internet bookings: Precision Air, Coastal Aviation, Air Excel, ZanAir, Regional Air.
- Budget travelers should take long-haul buses. Large buses and dala-dala connect major towns nationwide, including international lines from Dar es Salaam to Nairobi and Mombasa in Kenya.
- Tanzania has two major railways with limited weekly services. Dining and sleeping vehicles have clean bedding. However, trains should be avoided due to their ancient, dirty rolling stock, overcrowding, and theft.
You can also check out 8 Things to Know Before you Visit the Maasai Mara.
