10 Reasons To Visit Tanzania
Laying south of the Equator in East Africa along the Indian Ocean, Tanzania is one of Africa’s most popular tourist destinations. Breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a rich cultural heritage make Tanzania a dream destination for many travelers. The warmth and polite nature of Tanzanians is what will keep you coming back. Before I dive into 10 reasons to visit Tanzania, here is a bit of history on how the current country of Tanzania came to be.
History
Before Tanzania was one country, it was made of two separate regions Tanganyika and Zanzibar. The name “Tanzania” was created by unifying these two states into one country. Tanzania, which is a combination of “Tan” and “Zan” was derived from the first three letters of both Tanganyika and Zanzibar, and the suffix “ia” was added. “Tan '' came from Tanganyika which is made of two words Tanga which means “sail” and Nyika meaning wilderness in Swahili. “Zan '' from Zanzibar came from “zenji” which means black according to the local community and “barr” the Arabic word for coast or shore. So technically Zanzibar means coastal black people. Fascinating, isn’t it? Tanzania’s history is rich and diverse. Long before colonization by Germany and later on Britain, Tanzania’s coastal towns served trade routes. Arabs, Indians, Chinese, and Persians made their way inland to flourishing kingdoms. Their influence is still present today in the architecture of the ancient towns and Tanzanian food.
Best Time To Visit
Due to its location near the equator, Tanzania is an ideal destination all year round. However, if you are looking for optimal times for a safari adventure, July to October is ideal for game viewing since the animals will likely gather around water wells. If you are looking to visit Tanzania’s coastal regions including Zanzibar, June to October and December to February are the best time. January to February and September to October are marked by clear skies which are ideal for mountain climbing like Kilimanjaro. You could also choose a convenient time when you can indulge in all Tanzania has to offer. Tour Tanzania from coast to park and discover magic you could only find in East Africa. As you choose when is the most convenient time for you, here are 10 reasons to visit Tanzania;
1. The Great Migration
Tanzania’s Serengeti and Ngongoro are two of the three hosts of the Great Migration alongside Maasai Mara in Kenya. The Great Migration is a cyclic event in pursuit of greener pastures and water sources. Each year, millions of animals, mainly wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles embark on a journey across the vast plains of Serengeti into the Maasai Mara. Lurking on their path waiting are predators like crocodiles, lions, and cheetahs. As they join the journey, it turns into a full spectacle with the brutal nature of the wilderness put on display. What unfolds is a fight for survival by the herbivores both on land with thousands of their newborns who can easily become prey to the unrelenting predators. It is considered one of the wonders of the world and for a good reason.
2. Mount Kilimanjaro
Whether you enjoy mountain climbing or live for the stunning sights of nature, Mount Kilimanjaro is worth a visit. This wonder of nature is the tallest mountain in Africa and the highest free-standing mountain in the world. Beyond its captivating snow-capped towering sight, Mount Kilimanjaro is an extremely important ecosystem for both wildlife and humans. Home to the Chagga people, the mountain’s rich volcanic soils are great for agriculture. The montane vegetation and pure water springs all over the mountains are habitats to some of Africa’s most diverse animal and birdlife. Carry along your camera, there are endless breathtaking sights to capture.
3. Zanzibar, the Spice Island
Among all the places Tanzania has to offer, the best and most wondrous of them all is Zanzibar. Zanzibar is also known as the “Spice Island '' and is one of the top tourist destinations in the world. Zanzibar’s white sandy beaches are the perfect getaway. Relax at the beach, go swimming or better yet go snorkeling and enjoy the colorful lifeforms under the clear blue waters. Explore the beauty and longevity of Swahili architecture through the narrow maze of streets at Stone Town. Here you will find great souvenirs. Complete your trip with a spice garden tour to see how all your favorite spices are grown.
4. Ngorongoro Crater
A natural wonder of the world, Ngorongoro Crater is a sight to behold. This stunning jewel of Tanzania is a haven to some of the most diverse wildlife in the world. Explore the world’s largest, intact, and unfilled volcanic caldera. It is referred to as the “Garden of Eden” due to the breathtaking sight created by the animals wandering the grassland with the crater walls creating a stunning backdrop. Within the Ngorongoro Conservation area, you will find Olduvai Gorge, a geological formation millions of years old where the earliest known human skeletons were found.
5. Chimpanzee Trek
in the Mahale Mountains One of the 10 reasons to visit Tanzania is to go on a chimpanzee trek. There is nothing quite like it. The Mahale mountains, located in west Tanzania along the shores of Lake Tanganyika are home to these magical creatures. The trek in this dense forest is refreshing and a break from the concrete jungle we live in. Awaiting you at the end of the trek are chimpanzees with incredibly human-like behavior from adults arguing with each other to the babies clinging to their mothers.
6. Maasai People
One of the world's most famous cultures, the Maasai reside in southern Kenya and northern Tanzania. Maasai are one of the few cultures in East Africa that retained their cultures and traditions even after colonization. Their distinctive attire is made of checked red shukas and beautiful beadwork. The nomadic tribe are known for their tall nature and morans who were warriors. Enjoy warm interactions with this incredible tribe who are very welcoming to all visitors.
7. Stunning Landscapes, Wildlife and Birds
Tanzania is home to the Big 5; elephants, lions, giraffes, rhinos, and leopards. Tanzania’s parks, reserves, and conservations are teeming with diverse wildlife and often grant tourists a chance to see the untamed nature of the jungle play out. Besides animals, Tanzania has a wide array of birds including some rare native species in its forests, parks, and even lakes. The landscapes are spectacular and diverse ranging from vast grasslands, montane regions, valleys filled with lakes, and white sandy beaches leading to turquoise waters.
8. Tanzanian People
Tanzania’s culture is one of politeness and respect. From the young to the elderly, customs and manners govern interactions. Greetings are favored before any conversation can begin. You will always find warmth and help since many Tanzanians are still guided by “Ujamaa”, a culture of fraternity where members of the society rely upon and support each other. Ujamaa was a concept introduced by Tanzania’s first president Julius Nyerere. This sets Tanzanians apart and makes a visit to the country enriching culturally.
9. Tanzania Food
Tanzania’s rich cultural heritage is evident in its cuisine. The food has a strong Indian/Arabic influence, particularly along the coastal areas and Zanzibar. Spices are used generously to create delicious dishes that are uniquely Tanzanian. Sample Biryani, Pilau, Wali wa Nazi, Chapati, Urojo, and many other dishes. Foodies should not miss out on the night food market at Forodhani Gardens in Zanzibar.
10. Accommodations
Imagine spending your evening watching the sunset in a luxurious resort overlooking stunning landscapes. At night, you will be lulled to sleep by the sound of the river nearby and wake up to birds chirping in the morning. Tanzania’s accommodations provide the ultimate safari experience which alone is enough of a reason to visit Tanzania. Experience pure bliss in Four Seasons Serengeti or more intimate options like tented camps such as Selous Serena Camp. Tanzania is stunning, magical, and absolutely breathtaking. The above 10 reasons to visit Tanzania does not even scratch the surface of what this wondrous country has to offer. Tanzania offers you breathtaking beaches, the splendor of nature seemingly undisturbed by people, historical towns, and geological wonders. Added to friendly and welcoming locals, Tanzania is the perfect destination.
Guest Post: Written by Sharon B.
Cover Image by klimentgrozdanoski from Pixabay
