11 Reasons Why You Should Visit Tanzania
![Mount Meru in Tanzania](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/20x11/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/15569955287_6457ec1ea2_k.webp)
The magic of Tanzania is hard to beat as is the fabulous number of holiday options it presents. With choices ranging from awesome safaris among African wildlife, the peaceful surrounds of the beautiful lakes, the highest mountain in Africa, and a simple stroll through the eclectic Stone Town, here are some of the many activities one of the most stunning regions of East Africa has to offer.
Get the Out of Africa feel
Most people visit Tanzania to throw themselves into the abundance of wildlife for which the country is renowned. The northern safari circuit is the most often travelled and offers some of the world’s most diverse safari experiences including the lush and abundant Ngorongoro Crater, the world famous Serengeti National Park, and the beautiful wilderness of Tarangire National Park. The southern parks are more remote and generally offer game drives in open-sided vehicles as well as walking safaris and boat cruises and allow for a more intimate safari experience.
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, +255 27 250 3471
Tarangire National Park, Tanzania, +255 27 250 3471
![Leopard in the Serengeti National Park](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/5143533289_8ed5f186a7_b.webp)
Explore the Rift Valley Lakes
The Great Rift Valley began forming over 20 million years ago when the earth’s crust weakened and began tearing apart. This caused many volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, forcing the valley floor to sink lower and resulted in unique landscapes and some of the most famous habitats for wildlife on the continent. One of these is Lake Manyara, described by Ernest Hemingway as ‘the loveliest I have seen in Africa’, and the picturesque lake is home to a plethora of birdlife and mammals. Others, such as Lake Tanganyika, the longest in the lake in the world, boasts brilliantly coloured cichlid fish, while the purple lava walls of Lake Eyasi contrast beautifully against its white alkaline shallows.
![Giraffe and flamingo at Lake Manyara](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/2760304332_9ebc73bdf8_b.webp)
1. Conquer Mount Kilimanjaro
Natural Feature
![Mount Kilimanjaro](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/13955709689_45fabfca5c_k-1.webp)
Pick up some gifts to take home at a Maasai market
The Maasai people are synonymous with Tanzania and arguably as well-known as the wildlife that roams the country’s grassy plains. They are also a highly skilled tribe that produce intricately beaded jewellery, beautiful blankets, and ornate wood carvings, to name just a few. The markets are generally a better and cheaper place to pick up souvenirs than hotel establishments so prepare to haggle.
![Maasai market in Arusha](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/22688965934_0bbbd35532_k.webp)
2. Slither into the Meserani Snake Park
Museum
3. Lose yourself in the beauty of Stone Town
Cathedral, Mosque, Shop
![Streets of Stone Town](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/7928137792_8b96f4b2ab_b.webp)
Let your nose lead you on a spice tour
Zanzibar has long been affectionately known as Tanzania’s Spice Island, and a tour through the spicy history of the city makes for an aromatic morning out. Guided tours will take visitors through villages and spice plantations where people can watch the spice farmers work and learn more about the local, organically grown herbs that are used in traditional dishes, medicine, and even dyes for ceremonial outfits. Afterwards, purchase fresh spices directly from their source and add them into dishes for an authentic taste of Zanzibar.