About Tanzania
Tanzania is East Africa's premier safari destination, home to the legendary Serengeti plains, Africa's highest peak Mount Kilimanjaro, and the pristine beaches of Zanzibar. Experience the Great Migration, explore ancient Stone Town, and discover incredible wildlife diversity.
Quick Overview
Capital: Dodoma
Largest City: Dar es Salaam
Languages: Swahili (official), English (official), Arabic (in Zanzibar)
Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
Time Zone: UTC+3 (East Africa Time)
Explore Tanzania by Topic
Best Places to Visit in Tanzania
Discover the top 28 must-see destinations in Tanzania, from iconic landmarks to off-the-beaten-path treasures.
Serengeti National Park
One of Africa's most iconic wildlife reserves, home to the Great Migration where over 1.5 million wildebeest and zebras traverse the plains annually. Witness dramatic...
Mount Kilimanjaro National Park
Africa's highest peak at 5,895 meters and the world's tallest free-standing mountain. A bucket-list trek requiring no technical climbing skills, offering diverse ecosystems from rainforest...
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring the world's largest intact volcanic caldera. The crater floor hosts 25,000+ large animals including all Big Five species and...
Zanzibar Stone Town
A UNESCO World Heritage site and historic Arab trading port featuring narrow winding alleys, ornate carved doors, bustling bazaars, and fascinating cultural fusion of African,...
Tarangire National Park
Famous for its massive elephant herds (up to 3,000 individuals) and iconic baobab trees. The Tarangire River attracts incredible wildlife concentrations during dry season, offering...
Lake Manyara National Park
Compact park known for tree-climbing lions, vast flocks of flamingos, and diverse habitats from groundwater forest to open savannah. Ernest Hemingway called it 'the loveliest...
Zanzibar Beaches (Nungwi)
Consistently ranked among Africa's best beaches, Nungwi offers powdery white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and year-round swimming without tidal variations. Perfect for diving, snorkeling, and...
Olduvai Gorge
Known as the 'Cradle of Mankind,' this archaeological site yielded some of humanity's earliest ancestor fossils. The museum displays 3.6-million-year-old hominid footprints and tools, offering...
Recommended Itineraries for Tanzania
Plan your perfect Tanzania trip with our expertly crafted itineraries for every travel style and duration.
5-Day Tanzania Explorer
- Day 1: Arrive in Tanzania, explore city center
- Day 2: Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3: Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4: Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5: Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Tanzania
- Days 1-2: Tanzania city highlights
- Days 3-4: Regional exploration
- Days 5-6: Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7: Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Tanzania
- Days 1-3: Tanzania comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6: Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9: Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12: Southern attractions
- Days 13-14: Return to Tanzania, departure
Where to Stay in Tanzania
From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, Tanzania offers accommodations for every traveler.
Budget Options ($40-70)
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-Range ($100-200)
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury ($400-1000+)
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti
Ultra-luxury safari lodge in the heart of Serengeti with infinity pool overlooking watering hole, spacious suites with floor-to-ceiling windows, and...
Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge
Well-established lodge built into hillside overlooking Serengeti plains. Traditional African design with modern comfort, infinity pool, and excellent game-viewing location.
Serengeti Wildebeest Camps
Mobile tented camp following the Great Migration with comfortable tents, en-suite bathrooms, and authentic bush experience. Excellent value for Serengeti...
Singita Grumeti Reserves
Collection of three exclusive lodges in western Serengeti offering unparalleled luxury and privacy. Located on the Great Migration route with...
Where to Eat in Tanzania
Discover the culinary delights of Tanzania, from local street food to fine dining experiences.
The Rock Restaurant
Iconic restaurant perched on a rock in the Indian Ocean. Accessible by boat at high tide, offering fresh seafood, Italian-inspired...
Lukmaan Restaurant
Stone Town institution serving authentic Swahili and Indian dishes since 1970s. Famous for biryanis, curries, and fresh juices. Local favorite...
ZanziBarista
Cozy coffee house in Stone Town serving excellent Tanzanian coffee, fresh pastries, and Swahili snacks like mandazi and katlesi. Perfect...
Forodhani Night Market
Legendary night market in Stone Town where vendors gather at sunset serving authentic Zanzibari street food. Try Zanzibar pizza, urojo...
Mercury's Restaurant
Named after Freddie Mercury who was born in Zanzibar, this cafe in Stone Town serves good coffee, breakfast, and light...
Emerson Spice Tea House Restaurant
Rooftop fine dining in historic Stone Town mansion with stunning harbor views. Multi-course Swahili tasting menus featuring fresh seafood and...
Getting Around Tanzania
Budget Breakdown for Tanzania
Plan your spending with our comprehensive cost guide. Currency: USD.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $10-25 (hostels, guesthouses, camping) | $40-80 (mid-range hotels, decent lodges) | $250-600+ (luxury lodges, 5-star hotels, private villas) |
| Food (per day) | $10-20 (street food, local restaurants, self-catering) | $25-50 (mix of local and tourist restaurants, some nicer dining) | $80-200 (fine dining, resort meals, drinks) |
| Transportation | $5-10 (dalla-dalla, walking, occasional taxis) | $15-30 (taxis, Uber, occasional domestic flights) | $50-150 (private transfers, fly-in safaris, chartered flights) |
| Activities | $15-15 (free beaches, markets; save for occasional paid park entry) | $20-40 (park entries, snorkeling, tours) | $70-200 (exclusive tours, private guides, special experiences) |
| Daily Total | $40-70 | $100-200 | $400-1000+ |
Best Time to Visit Tanzania
Best Season: June to October (dry season, best wildlife viewing)
Peak Season: June to October (dry season, best wildlife viewing)
Avoid: March to May, November (rainy season, fewer crowds, lower prices)
Essential Travel Tips for Tanzania
- Research visa requirements before your trip
- Learn a few basic phrases in the local language
- Carry cash as cards may not be accepted everywhere
- Respect local customs and dress codes
- Purchase travel insurance before departure
Safety Information
Travel Advisory
Exercise normal caution in most areas. Exercise increased caution in border regions with Mozambique and DRC. Dar es Salaam requires awareness in specific areas after dark.
Avoid demonstrations and political gatherings
Limit movements after dark in urban areas
Use reputable tour operators for safaris and excursions
Register with STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) if US citizen
Keep valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items
Use ATMs inside banks or shopping malls during daylight
Hire registered taxis or use ride-sharing apps in cities
Visit the US/UK embassy website before travel and enroll in STEP for emergency alerts
Carry proof of yellow fever vaccination required for entry and checked at borders
Dress conservatively on Zanzibar and in Muslim areas; cover shoulders and knees away from beach
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Tanzania?
The best time to visit Tanzania is June to October (dry season, best wildlife viewing). March to May, November (rainy season, fewer crowds, lower prices) may have less favorable conditions.
Do I need a visa for Tanzania?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Check with your nearest embassy or consulate for Tanzania for current requirements before travel.
How many days do I need in Tanzania?
For a comprehensive Tanzania experience, we recommend 7-10 days. However, you can have a great trip in 5 days focusing on highlights.
Is Tanzania expensive to visit?
Budget travelers can expect $40-70 per day, mid-range $100-200, and luxury $400-1000+.