The answer to the first question depends of course on your preferences. If you are a sports enthusiast, you are probably interested in climbing Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru. If you just want to relax, you might want to go to the white sandy beaches along Tanzania’s coast or to Zanzibar. Ultimately, however, a combination of activities is particularly suitable for a great holiday.

The second question is easier to answer. From our own experience and some statistics we can say that the north of the country is particularly interesting for tourists. This is where some of Tanzania’s largest and most famous national parks are located.

The North of Tanzania

The Kilimanjaro National Park is home to the Kilimanjaro mountain of the same name. This one was created from a former volcano. The entire massif, collectively known as Kilimanjaro, comprises the three mountains Mount Shira, Kibo and Mawenzi. Who says, he “climbs the Kilimanjaro” thus actually hikes up in the massif the highest of the three summits, namely the Kibo. Once you reach the top of the Kibo, you have reached Uhuru Peak at an altitude of 5,895 meters. From there, one has a great view to the other two mountains, which are normally not part of an ascent of Kilimanjaro. Furthermore, you have a great view to Mount Meru.

Mount Meru is located in the Arusha National Park and is also popular with outdoor sports enthusiasts, but much less well known than Kilimanjaro. Unfortunately! The ascent of Mount Meru is not only ideal for acclimatization and as preparation for an ascent of Kilimanjaro. It captivates rather by an extremely varied animal and plant world and magnificent panoramas.

In addition, there are several national parks in northern Tanzania, which are often used for safaris. One of them is the already mentioned Arusha National Park, whose fauna and flora is less varied than those of the others. Moreover, most of the “Big 5” of the wild animals of Africa will be searched here in vain. Rather, you should go to the large national parks of the country. These include in particular the Serengeti, Tarangire, Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro National Park. These national parks are home to an enormous variety of flora and fauna. Some of the national parks are therefore not listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites for nothing. Besides these, there are of course other national parks all over the country, which are also very worth seeing. However, especially in the case of combined trips, they can only be reached with a great deal of time, money and organization and are therefore visited by fewer tourists.

The coast of Tanzania and Zanzibar

Last but not least Tanzania offers beach and sea for holidaymakers. The island of Zanzibar is very popular with tourists. The north of the island has some of the most beautiful beaches, the east is good for kitesurfing. Moreover, Zanzibar city and its old part Stone Town is worth a visit because of its rich history. If, on the other hand, you want to take it easier and travel far away from the hustle and bustle, you will feel very comfortable at Tanzania’s coast south of the cities Tanga and Pangani. Ushongo Beach, for example, is home to The Tides Lodge and Mawimbi Villa. We have spent a great time there and would recommend it to anyone for a stay. Of course, you can also simply set off on your own and discover the country on your own. However, we would recommend that you plan your trip well and seek support if necessary, as Tanzania is not equally well developed for tourism everywhere and some activities such as safaris or ascents of Kilimanjaro can only be carried out with a certified guide. If we can support you, we are always there for you. Otherwise, have a great time!

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