Top 10 Tanzania Activities
There is drama in Tanzania’s geography: the Great Rift Valley runs as a steep sided chasm through the country, punctuated by the great Manyara, Eyasi, and Tanganyika Lakes. You can encounter a plethora of wildlife here too, from big cats and herds of plains game to troops chimpanzee on the rain-forested peaks of Mahale.
We’ve collated a list of our ten favourite Tanzanian experiences to show you what’s possible in this incredible country.
- Follow the Great Migration
- The Chimpanzees of Mahale
- The wildlife of the Ngorongoro Crater
- The Roof of Africa
- The Big-Five in Private Luxury
- The Remote South
- On the plains of the Cheetah
- Walking with Elephants
- Zanzibar Dreams
- Tree Climbing Lions
1. Follow the Great Migration
Watch as they hesitantly plunge into the water, trying to avoid the jaws of the crocodile that lurk beneath the surface. Drama unfolds on the plains too, with hungry big cats waiting for their opportunity to pounce on their next meal. See this astonishing natural spectacle in a vehicle, on foot or even from the skies in a hot air balloon.
2. The Chimpanzees of Mahale
During your hike you’ll learn all about their personal relationships, group politics, and temperaments, gaining fascinating insights into chimp society and witnessing it all unfold before you. For something a little different, stay on Rubondo Island in Tanzania’s Lake Victoria. This incredible camp - the only property on the island - is within a pristine indigenous rainforest where 16 rescued zoo chimpanzees were released in the 1960s.
3. The Wildlife of the Ngorongoro Crater
This green and bountiful wildlife haven is rich in plains game, and the predators that follow, and promises superb game-viewing. You’ll stay in a comfortable lodge on the rim where you can enjoy a sumptuous al fresco breakfast with the crater laid out before you.
4. The Roof of Africa
We prefer the less frequented routes with fewer other climbers. The sense of adventure is palpable and your connection to this magnificent landscape is far deeper than if you’re surrounded by throngs of climbers. If you’re looking for adventure and exhilaration of a mountain climb but at a gentler pace, Mount Meru or Ol Doinyo Lengai Volcano are perfect alternatives.
5. The Big-Five in Private Luxury
When you aren’t out exploring the exclusive 350,000 acre Grumeti private reserve, make use of the 25m infinity pool, clay tennis court, media room or indulge in the tented spa.
6. The Remote South
Hop in a canoe and explore the waterways of the Selous, stopping to watch hippo, crocodile and birdlife. Get close to nature on a walking safari in Katavi, where plains game and elephant gather and jostle for the opportunity to drink from the dwindling rivers and lagoons alongside enormous pods of hippopotamus.
7. On the Plains of the Cheetah
Today the project here monitors and studies the local population as well as working towards conflict resolution. Spend an evening with the researchers, learning more about their work and efforts. Show them some of your snaps and they’ll be able to identify the cheetah you’ve photographed and share their stories with you.
8. Walking with Elephants
Fully grown adults protect tiny young calves that never stray too far from the safety of their mother’s legs. Alongside the elephant, other migratory animals frequent the area including zebra, antelope and predators. Head out on a bush walk, where you’ll be able to stop and enjoy the smaller residents too, identifying birdlife and even the termites and beetles.
9. Zanzibar Dreams
Snorkel in the clear waters amongst vibrant corals and colourful marine life, visit the aromatic spice markets, wander the streets of the historic capital, Stone Town. End the day with a dhow cruise as the sun sets, illuminating the sky in glorious oranges and reds.
10. Tree Climbing Lions
This natural phenomenon can only be spotted in two locations in Africa, one of which is Tanzania’s Lake Manyara National Park, an area particularly notable for its birdlife; 400 species have been counted. Perhaps that is why the cats are in the trees.
Why Travel with Journeysmiths
We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been creating luxury tailor-made safaris to the timeless savannahs of Africa. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you, every time.We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been creating luxury tailor-made safaris to the timeless savannahs of Africa. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you, every time.
Looking for Inspiration?
The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are truly spectacular settings filled with great herds and big cats. We take you far from the crowds and minibuses with your own private guide, staying in exclusive accommodation. Families with older teenagers will love the wildly remote Selous, Ruaha and Mahale, where you can walk, canoe and even track chimpanzees. Round it off on exotic Zanzibar.
We’ve collated a list of our ten favourite Tanzanian experiences to show you what’s possible in this incredible country.
At Journeysmiths we take you out into the wilds to enjoy all kinds of activities with expert, personable guides. Read our top ten Tanzania family safari experiences.
The best time to visit Tanzania will depend on the activities you are interested in and the wildlife you'd like to spot. Read our month-by-month seasonal guide, and responses to your most popular Tanzania safari questions
Spanning a huge array of diverse environments, Tanzania offers an unmatched range of African safari experiences. It’s renowned for the Great Migration of the Serengeti, but that’s just the start of the unforgettable possibilities. Whether you are planning a family safari, seeking seclusion and exclusivity as a couple, or options suited to an individual, Tanzania has locations and seasons perfect for everyone. Luxury safaris in Tanzania, with guaranteed amazing spectacles for all, are more than just feasible: they are a reality.
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Acacia-dotted savannahs, winding waterways and spectacular sunsets – this is quintessential Serengeti. Spot prides of lions laying in the shade as elephants lumber past, or feel the energy of thousands of migrating wildebeest as they lope across the plains.
Arusha is more than just a thriving city for passing through – it’s an excellent stopover for cultural experiences and hiking trails in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru.
Formed 2.5 million years ago after an ancient volcano erupted and then collapsed, the Ngorongoo crater is one of Tanzania’s most unique safari destinations. Thousands of birds and animals live here among the grasslands and Lake Magadi.
Over 2,500 elephants meander through Tarangire, but this park is also great for spotting leopard and admiring gigantic baobab trees that are hundreds of years old.
Famously described by Hemingway as the loveliest lake in Africa, Lake Manyara is home to flamingos, hippos and, curiously, tree-climbing lions. Flanked by the Rift Valley escarpment, this is one of the most scenic spots in northern Tanzania.
Katavi National Park sits in western Tanzania with a high density of wildlife and a rather low density of visitors. It’s an exclusive safari destination that is easily paired with the Mahle Mountains.
Dense rainforest cascades down the slopes of the Mahle Mountains to the shores of record-holding Lake Tanganyika. At 1,436 metres deep, this lake is a haven for wildlife and watersports alike.
Ruaha National Park has Tanzania’s largest population of elephants with over 12,000 migrating through each year. Somehow, the park remains one of the country’s least-visited.
There’s no better place to relax after a safari than on the island of Zanzibar. Surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean and known for its vibrant spices, Zanzibar is bliss for body and mind.
Create memories of a lifetime together on an epic family safari in Tanzania. Witness the endless, game-filled plains of the Serengeti, explore the natural wonder of the Ngorongoro Crater and experience the magnificent wildlife in Tarangire.
Nyerere National Park (previously Selous) may be the largest wildlife reserve in Africa – and it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site – but it’s surprisingly little visited. This is a marvellous destination for a private safari.
The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are truly spectacular settings filled with great herds and big cats. We take you far from the crowds and minibuses with your own private guide, staying in exclusive accommodation. Families with older teenagers will love the wildly remote Selous, Ruaha and Mahale, where you can walk, canoe and even track chimpanzees. Round it off on exotic Zanzibar.
We’ve collated a list of our ten favourite Tanzanian experiences to show you what’s possible in this incredible country.
At Journeysmiths we take you out into the wilds to enjoy all kinds of activities with expert, personable guides. Read our top ten Tanzania family safari experiences.
The best time to visit Tanzania will depend on the activities you are interested in and the wildlife you'd like to spot. Read our month-by-month seasonal guide, and responses to your most popular Tanzania safari questions
Spanning a huge array of diverse environments, Tanzania offers an unmatched range of African safari experiences. It’s renowned for the Great Migration of the Serengeti, but that’s just the start of the unforgettable possibilities. Whether you are planning a family safari, seeking seclusion and exclusivity as a couple, or options suited to an individual, Tanzania has locations and seasons perfect for everyone. Luxury safaris in Tanzania, with guaranteed amazing spectacles for all, are more than just feasible: they are a reality.