The land of Tanzania is rich in natural resources, culture and beauty, and the people of Tanzania are warm and accommodating. This country has a vast bank of top tourist attractions.  We have tried to narrow them down for you.

1.  ZANZIBAR ISLAND

Also known as the Spice Island, Zanzibar derives its name from 2 Arabic words, Zenj meaning black, and Bar meaning island.  The island which is situated on Indian Ocean is an archipelago that comprises of the Pemba and Uguja islands.  The island has a variety of spices such as cinnamon, vanilla, cloves, pepper and cardamom.  Although Zanzibar plays a huge part in Tanzania’s history, it is a sovereign part of the United Republic of Tanzania.  This means that it has its own government.

Zanzi

While in Zanzibar visit Stone Town, with its colorful bazaars, narrow lanes and busy markets.  The island has beautiful sandy beaches, coastal reefs and an gorgeous expanse of sea.  There are many options for accommodation, such as Zamani Zanzibar Kempenski, Chumbe Island Coral Park, Tembo House Hotel, Ras Nungwi Beach Hotel, Dhow Palace Hotel and the Ras Michamvi Beach Resort.

2.  LAKE MALAWI

The scenic Lake Malawi was named “lake of stars” by the famous explorer David Livingstone, because of the light lanterns on fishing boats that appeared like stars in the sky.

Found in the Great Rift Valley, Lake Malawi is also known as Lake Nyasa.  It is one of the largest lakes in the world with an expansive surface area of about 29,600 sq km.  It stretches about 560 to 580 km in length, 75 km in width and is 706 meters deep.

Malawi

Lake Malawi has a national park located at the southern end of the lake.  The park holds many species of wildlife, including crocodiles, hippos, monkeys and a variety of fish like the chambo, kampango and cichlid.  The lake also has beaches and islands, such as the larger Likoma Island and the smaller Chizumulu Island.  On the islands you can find accommodation.  The lake offers scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, kayaking, water skiing and camping.

3.  SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK

Serengeti means “endless plains” in the Maasai language of the people who inhabit the land.  The Serengeti has a unique eco system, one of the oldest in the world.  The Serengeti has one of the largest mammal migrations, which makes it one of the natural wonders of the world.

Sereng

The Serengeti’s migration involves wildebeest, zebras, gazelles and buffalo that cross the plains from Kenya’s Maasai Mara in search of food and water.  The sight attracts many tourists who come to witness the great crossing.

Serengeti National Park is home to over 70 species of mammals, including the Big 5 (lions, leopards, rhinos, buffalo and elephants) and more than 500 types of birds, insects and reptiles.  The park is also home to a variety of vegetation.  The sausage tree, strangler gig, wild date palm, candelabra, euphorbia, commiphora, yellow fever tree, umbrella tree and toothbrush tree can be found.

For accommodtion, the park offers Safari lodges, luxury tented camps, mobile camps and normal camps.

4.  MOUNT KILIMANJARO

Mount Kilimanjaro is also known as “the rooftop of Africa” and is regarded as one of the 7 Wonders of Africa.  The dormant composite volcano is located in the northern part of Tanzania.  The snowy-peak mountain is one of the highest in the world.

Mount Kii

The Kilimanjaro National Park surrounds Mt. Kilimanjaro and conserves and protects the volcano. The park is home to many endangered plants and animals.

There are numerous activities to enjoy at Mount Kilimanjaro National Park.  You can hike (it takes a minimum of five nights to climb Mt.Kilimanjaro), fish for trout, camp and sight see.  The park has huts and campsites that provide accommodation, or you can stay at a hotel at the nearby Marangu Village or Moshi Town.

5.  MAFIA ISLAND

Mafia Island is located on the Indian Ocean.  The peaceful island boasts acres of white sandy beaches. Although the island is isolated, it has many activities to keep you entertained.  Mafia offers scuba diving and snorkeling, with some of the richest reefs in the world and unique fish for observation.  You can travel on nature trails and see the unique flora and fauna to be found, sail on traditional dhows and ngalawas, watch the local village craftsmen at work, have fantastic picnics on the beach, and swim in the Indian Ocean.

Mafia Island