We have gone past 2018 and what this means is that Tanzania is not the destination for everybody’s vacation. Everybody wants to visit Tanzania and this is basically why we want to talk about your next vacation in Tanzania. At some point, we would even be talking about a vacation in Zanzibar because many people want to go there. Also, the truth is some know nothing about the country, its people, and its culture. Therefore, there are things you need to know before visiting Tanzania and these are the things we want to discuss here.
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Tanzania In A Glance
To begin with, the first thing you would have to know about Tanzania is that contrary to unpopular belief, it is an African Nation. Now because of the buzz around having a vacation in Tanzania, some people have this misconception of the country. Because the stories we hear are always about clear waters and beaches with white sand – this makes us mistake Tanzania for one of those Oceania countries.
Meanwhile, the United Republic of Tanzania is an East African country located within the African Great Lakes region. A lot of Landmarks popular in Africa are located partly and wholly in Tanzania. This adds to the millions of reasons why a vacation in Tanzania is on everyone’s mind. Consequently, the largest lake in Africa, Lake Victoria, and the tallest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro can all be located here.
Although Tanzania is an African country, Language will not be a barrier as almost everyone here can communicate in English. Maybe not at the same level of fluency but the important thing is you would be understood when you speak. In summary, there are about 100 different languages that are spoken in Tanzania. Therefore, if you are looking to learn a new language, one of the vacation places in Tanzania won’t be a bad idea. Animists, Muslims. and Christians are the preferred religious practices for a large number of Tanzanians with Christianity with the highest number of followers. The growth of the economy of Tanzania is so reliant on tourism that it dropped from 6.8% in 2019 to 2.1% in 2020 when COVID-19 hit.
To find out more about the economy in Tanzania, click here.
Vacation in Tanzania – Top 5 Cities to Have a Vacation in Tanzania
There is no vacation in Tanzania without a lineup of places and things to do. Subsequently, the vacation spots here make it worth visiting and here are some of the places to visit while here;
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Zanzibar (Vacation in Tanzania)
To begin with, one of the most surprising things about Tanzania is knowing that Zanzibar is also part of it. Many people are talking about Zanzibar vacation and it becomes hard to believe it is just a city. However, it is important to note that they remain autonomous even as they are part of the country Tanzania. An archipelago, that is what scholars would call Zanzibar – a place made up of a group of islands. Besides the waters and islands, there is land and settlements. One of the most prominent places here is Stone Town.
Landmarks and Places to Visit in Zanzibar
1. Bwejuu Beach
The most common activity or place to be when you come here is the beach. There are a host of activities to do once you pick one to visit. This is the Bwejuu beach which is one of the most popular islands/beaches in Zanzibar. You also have Mnemba Island, Changu Island, Nungwi Beach, Nakupenda Beach, etc.
2. Darajani Market
Shopping is a favourite for those who have had a Zanzibar vacation. One of the busiest markets around this region is the Darajani Market also in stone town. You are sure to get the full experience of a proper marketplace here.
3. Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park
Land and water will almost always equal a forest. The Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park is a typical example of this. This is one of the few places where you can find some endangered species like the red colobus monkey. You will be visited by different animals if you come here during your vacation in Zanzibar, Tanzania.
4. The Bait Al Ajaib
The Bait Al Ajaib is one of the many options for you. it is located in Zanzibar and would be the place to visit if you want to learn about the history of the land. This museum was originally built as a palace for the ruler of Zanzibar in the late 1880s. Apart from this, there are so many others scattered around Zanzibar
Things to do in Zanzibar
A combination of water and land gives you everything you are looking for when you want the perfect vacation. Hence the reason vacation places in Zanzibar, Tanzania remain the most popular when considering a vacation in Tanzania. There are so many things to do and even more places you can visit. It doesn’t matter who you are or why you are going on a vacation in Tanzania. Some of them would include;
- Visit the reserves and forests in Zanzibar
- Spend some time on the beach
- Visit one of the many spice plantations around the islands
- Go on a shopping spree at the markets in stone town
- Lastly, visit one of the museums and art galleries around town
Places to Stay in Zanzibar
We have curated the best, most exotic yet affordable hotels/resorts to stay in during your vacation in Zanzibar.
1. Zanzibar Place Hotel
This hotel is located at 831 Jumatini Rd, Zanzibar and it offers you the best experience when you want a luxurious stay in Zanzibar. We recommend this hotel for those who are looking for luxury and affordability all in one place. The hotel is accessible by car from the airport, has a serene environment and is in the middle of the stone town. Thanks to this feature, you are going to get access to the beach and city life of Zanzibar. When you are looking for the best resort to stay in during your vacation in Zanzibar, you should look here first.
2. Emerson on Hurumzi
This is one of the top resorts to spend some time in when you are on holiday in Zanzibar. This resort is located at the centre of the city, Stone Town which gives you access to more features. It was originally the home of one of the richest men in the Swahili empire. From airport pickup to planned tour guides for guests – there is so much to do when you visit this hotel/resort.
3. Pongwe Beach Hotel
Sleeping and waking up beachside is one of the best things to do when on vacation in Tanzania. This is what the Pongwe Beach Hotel provides for you as it is located on Pongwe beach (one of the most popular beaches in Zanzibar). A spa, restaurant, bar, lodge, etc. are some of the facilities that make this hotel stand out.
4. Baraza Resort and Spa
When it comes to class and comfort, nobody does it better than the Baraza in Zanzibar. Rated amongst the top 30 hotels in Africa by TripAdvisor, this resort has all you are looking for to make your vacation memorable. A serene environment is guaranteed as it is located on the beachside (Bwejuu Beach)
5. The Residence, Zanzibar
If you are ever going to reside in Zanzibar for a couple of days then the residence should always be in your consideration. This is the traveller’s choice according to a lot of travel agencies. Proximity to attractions is one of the reasons for this. It is located at the beach and is still close to some of the reserves in Zanzibar.
Vacation in Tanzania -Arusha
Being the third-largest city in Tanzania, development is one of the things the city of Arusha brings to the table. Unlike Zanzibar, Arusha has more land than water bodies/islands. It is located in the northern part of Tanzania in the eastern areas of the Great Rift Valley. Also, the city of Arusha sits on the southern slopes of Mount Meru. Mount Meru happens to be the second-highest peak in Tanzania after Kilimanjaro.
Above all, Arusha is one of the most productive cities in Tanzania when it comes to the manufacture of goods and commodities. It is also one of the reasons why most people tag it as the financial capital of Tanzania. There might not be so much in terms of places to visit for sightseeing. However, if you are looking to have a good time and if you enjoy the nightlife then your vacation in Tanzania is not complete until you visit Arusha.
Landmarks and Places to Visit in Arusha
Mount Meru is an active volcano with a height of 4566 m, located in Arusha National Park in Tanzania. Most people enjoy hiking and Mount Meru is usually a hot spot in Arusha
This is a picture of Zebras in the Ngorongoro National Park, it is one of the most common amongst tourists who visit Tanzania for vacation. Some of the other parks/reserves would include Tarangire National Park and Lake Manyara National Park. There are also safaris you can have a drive-through like the Kibowhy, Tanzania Birding and Beyond and Udare Safari.
The cultural heritage centre will be a must-see for its African art gallery and jewellery shop. There are other places you can go to if you are interested in arts and history. Some include the Arusha National Natural History Museum, Maasai Market Curios, craft, Arusha Declaration Museum, etc.
Things to do in Arusha
In Arusha, you wouldn’t be spending hours under the sun at the beach although there are top-class hotels/resorts which could give you a man-made version of this experience. When on vacation in Tanzania, if you choose Arusha as a city to be in, here are some of the things you could do;
- the nightlife (clubbing and partying)
- visit and enjoy nature in the game reserves
- watch the national Rugby team or the Arusha football club play live
- learn about the people, their history, craft, and culture at the art galleries and museums
- Lastly, stay in a luxury hotel so you do not miss the beach
Where to Stay in Arusha
Some of the best Tanzania vacation resorts can be found in Arusha and this reduces the way we will miss all the fun that would be happening in Zanzibar. Some of them would include;
1. Arusha Coffee Lodge by Elewana
The Arusha Coffe Lodge will provide you with much-needed comfort and satisfaction when you have your vacation in Tanzania. The good thing about this hotel is that they have streamlined their services to suit the tourists. Particularly, the location is the first thing that works here as it is close to Mount Meru which is the number one tourist attraction in Meru. Also, they offer tours to guests as well as airport transport when you arrive.
2. The African Tulip
If you have plans of visiting the Serengeti during your stay in Tanzania then this is our choice of accommodation for you. The African Tulip is a stone’s throw from the Serengeti National Park in Arusha and offers you comfort with a touch of culture. Also, it has been voted the number one hotel in Arusha for tourists on Trip Advisor.
3. Fun Retreat Resort
If your vacation in Tanzania is a family trip then there is no place you would rather be than here. It is close to Mt. Kilimanjaro Park and the resort offers tours to their guest just in case your travel agency omits it. Also, there are more than enough facilities here to make you forget about all the fun you could be having in Zanzibar and its beaches
4. Blue Ocean Safari Villa
Once the destination is Arusha and you want an option that doesn’t put a hole in your pocket, come here. Subsequently, the airport to this accommodation is just 9km, making it the closest on this list. Hiking is a popular activity amongst tourists when they visit Arusha, Tanzania. Also, the Blue Ocean Villa happens to be close to Mount Meru which is one of the hot spots for hiking in Arusha.
5. Tulia Boutique Hotel and Spa
This is another affordable option that comes with much-needed comfort and class. This hotel is located at White Rose Road which is one of the most secure and sophisticated areas in Arusha. Airport transportation is added to the many utilities this hotel has. Therefore making it one of the best options Arusha has to offer
Vacation in Tanzania – Dar Es Salaam
There is nothing you are looking for that cannot be found in the largest city in eastern Africa. Dar Es Salaam will remain a favourite when it comes to Tanzania vacation spots as it brings a blend of culture, land, and water to you. imagine a combination of the city life in Arusha with over 4 million inhabitants altogether and the islands in Zanzibar – that is what you find in this city.
This is one of the cities in Tanzania that is located on the Indian Ocean which is where it gets some of the most beautiful beaches. It remains one of the most historic cities in Africa with stories dating back to the 1800s. Also, almost all the embassies, government buildings including the Central Bank of Tanzania, and the stock exchange are located here.
Landmarks and Places to Visit in Dar Es Saleem
Islands and beaches are in surplus supply when you come to Dar Es Saleem and the Mbudya Island is one that stands out
There is no better sight to hold in Tanzania than one of the tallest buildings in the whole of Africa, the PSPF twin towers. For those who love sightseeing other places, you can look at would include the Askari Monument, Azania-front cathedral, etc.
The National Museum and House of Culture is the place to be for those who want to learn about the people and culture of Tanzania
Things to do in Dar Es Saleem
Since we are combining the geography of Arusha and that of Zanzibar, it is only right that we combine the activities too. Some of the things to do when you pick Dar Es Saleem for your Tanzania vacation would include;
- spend some time in front of the Indian Ocean
- go to one of the islands and relax for a bit
- visit the numerous sights around Dar Es Saleem
- study art and history in one of the museums
- spend time with friends and family at a recreational park
- visit the zoo since there is no game reserved here
- also, go on a shopping spree
- For those who love the nightlife, you can visit the Sea Cliff Casino, Princess Casino, etc.
Where to stay in Dar Es Saleem
If you do a Google search now, you will realize that some if not all the best Tanzania vacation resorts are located in Dar Es Saleem. They include;
1. Golden Tulip
This is not just one of the best in this city but amongst the top-ranking hotels in Arica. It prides itself as one of the few hotels in the area to offer you 24-hour room service. it is found on the shores of the Indian Ocean, giving you a perfect view and the most serene environment for relaxation and rejuvenation.
2. The Landmark Mbezi Beach Resort
A vacation is not complete without a serene environment and this is why we suggest the Landmark Mbezi Beach Resort for you. Since it is located on Mbezi Beach, a serene environment is covered. The resort can also pick you up from the airport if you make reservations online before you arrive. Swimming in the Indian Ocean is not for everyone, so they surrounded their resorts with pools of different shapes and sizes.
3. The Oyster Bay Hotel
Just like the other hotels in Dar Es Saleem, the Oyster Bay Hotel is found on the shore of the Indian Ocean. The selling point for this hotel will be the facilities and utilities on the ground. Indoor and outdoor swimming pools can be found around the premises. There is also a gym, restaurants, spa, and bars on the premises which gives you comfort and relaxation.
4. The Mediterraneo Hotel and Restaurant
A taste of the Mediterranean in Swahili is guaranteed when you choose to stay at this Hotel. It is located just on the shores of the Indian Ocean which provides you with the best view and a lot of activities to do when you arrive. On arrival, those who book reservations online will be picked up by the hotel from the airport.
5. Hyatt Regency Dar Es Salaam, The Kilimanjaro
This 5-star hotel may not be located on the shore of the Indian Ocean but it is close and that makes activities on the beach easy to access. Proximity to the airport is another reason why we love the Hyatt Regency. It prides itself on having one of the best exterior and interior designs – giving you comfort and a sense of luxury during your vacation.
Vacation in Tanzania – Moshi
For those who want to be next door to Mount Kilimanjaro, Moshi is the place to be during your vacation in Tanzania. It is found in the northeastern part of Tanzania and is the capital of the Kilimanjaro region. For most tourists who enjoy the safari, this is one of the cities that they choose when they want a vacation in Tanzania.
Just like in Arusha, being in and around the mountains reduces the number of beaches that you will find here. however, an adventure is still promised as the city and her people are known for being some of the best at hospitality. The waters will not even be missed for long as there are so many resorts around town that offer you these services.
Landmarks and Places to Visit in Moshi
Snow on top of Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli. It is impossible to visit Moshi without trying to go up the largest mountain in Africa or at least taking a photo close to it
Recreational parks are all over Moshi but one that we recommend strongly is Uhuru Park. This place is perfect if you want to have a family picnic during your vacation in Tanzania or for alone time with your partner.
Things to do in Moshi
It doesn’t just end at calling a city one of the good Tanzania vacation spots. The big question is always what to do when you get there. For the city of Moshi, some of the activities would include;
- Hiking is a favourite for tourists
- Go on a food adventure
- Spend some time in a recreational park.
- there are no beaches and islands here, so if you want the waters, try the pool in your hotel
- if you love the nightlife then go clubbing here
- The forest reserves and plantations are always ready to welcome you.
Where to stay in Moshi
Some of the top-class hotels you should consider staying in would include;
1. Kilimanjaro White House Hotel
Top on the list of reasons why you should stay here during your vacation in Tanzania is the proximity to Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the starting point when you want to go hiking on the largest mountain in Africa. All the basic amenities that will be needed to give you comfort, as well as luxury, can be found in this hotel to enjoy your stay in Tanzania
2. Amans Luxury Villa
sometimes privacy is what matters and that is what this luxury villa provides for you. It is the perfect option if you are travelling in groups as you all get to stay in one building with all the utilities needed for comfort. This villa is one of the few that allows you to stay with your pet and it provides an incredible skyline view for you.
3. Panama Garden Resort
The Panama Garden Resort can be found on the foot of Kilimanjaro making it the starting point for hiking. So rather than travelling to see the attractions that brought you to Moshi, this resort put it by your bedside. The presence of a large pool makes it difficult to miss the Sea/Ocean/Beach from here. On arrival, there is airport transport available if you are going to be staying here
4. Springlands Hotel
Most hotels in Moshi are located in and around Mount Kilimanjaro and the Springlands aren’t left out. It is found on the southern slopes of the mountain making it a good starting point for some hiking up the Kilimanjaro. There are a lot of facilities here that give you a sense of comfort and luxury. Airport transportation is one and this is combined with a gym, spa, restaurant, bar, etc.
5. Kinga Home Suites
The price and packages from the Kinga Home Suites make it perfect for those who want a longer stay. a serene environment with a wide array of utilities is one of the reasons why this is a popular option amongst travellers. If you are unfamiliar with the area, they can pick you up from the airport open arrival.
Mwanza
We go finally to the second-largest city in all of Tanzania still on our quest to find the perfect Tanzanian vacation. Development as the day goes by is fast making this a strong tourism attraction. Dating back to the early 1890s, Mwanza is located on the shore of Lake Victoria. It is also surrounded by rocky hills giving the best of land and water in one location.
The largest mall in the country, five fish processing plants, and home of the Toto football club – there is a lot to do when you come here. A combination of both land and water activities can be found here thanks to the geography of the location.
Landmarks and Places to Visit in Mwanza
The Bismarck Rock is one of the sites to behold when you come to Mzanza and it can be found on Lake Victoria. There are other sights to see scattered around town, some of which include the Samaki roundabout, Kamanga Ferry Terminal, etc
Arts and culture are preserved in the museums and you can check one out to learn and appreciate the people and place even more. One of the notable ones in Mwanza is the Sukuma Museum.
Lake Victoria is a must-see, it is one of the reasons why people choose Mwanza when they come for a vacation in Tanzania. It is the largest lake in Africa with a surface area of approximately 59,947 km2 (23,146 sq mi).
Things to do in Mwanza
It doesn’t matter if you are coming alone to rest from work or as a couple, there will always be something for you here when you come to enjoy a vacation in Tanzania. Some of them include;
- go sightseeing around town
- Learn and appreciate history at their museums
- spend some time at one of their beaches
- visit lake victoria
- spend some time at the park
- go on a shopping spree in the mall
Where to stay in Mwanza
For Mwanza, you have a lot of options in terms of where to stay during your Vacation in Tanzania but some that stand out would include;
1. Gold Crest Hotel
The Gold Crest is located in the city centre in Mwanza and this gives you proximity as a selling point. It is close to different notable landmarks and places to visit. From the goldcrest, you get a good view of Lake Victoria giving you the perfect setting for an afternoon chill by the window side. Tours are offered to interested guests just in case their travel agencies fail to cover this.
2. Maliaka Beach Resort
Nothing says vacation in Tanzania like a beach resort and this is one of the best you can find in the country. Yes, a vacation in Zanzibar is good but Mwanza has everything they have too. This resort comes with a lakeside spa and an infinite pool for its guests. The beach provides you with a serene environment to make your vacation the best,
3. Hotel Tilapia
The Tilapia is the definition of luxury and comfort in Mwanza. Once your reservation is made, plans are set to pick you up from the airport when you land and take you straight to the hotel. Where you will be graced by the most serene environment capable of giving you the time of your life. Tour services are available on request when you arrive
4. Victoria Palace Hotel
if road trips are boring for you, we recommend you go for the Victoria Palace Hotel due to its proximity to the airport in Mwanza. In less than no time, you will be unpacking your bags if you choose to stay here. This, however, is not the only reason why we recommend this hotel to you. It comes with a serene environment and a lot of utilities which combine to bring you comfort and luxury at an affordable rate
5. Leyshof Hotel
In the heart of the city, you will find one of the best options when you are looking for a place to stay. From their prices to how the hotel was built, you will know it was made for the tourists. There is airport transportation available and all other amenities to bring comfort and luxury to your vacation in Tanzania
What to know when planning a vacation in Tanzania
Water and mountains are the main features of Zanzibar which make the two most popular activities, hiking and time on the beach. There is so much for you to do whether you choose to stay on the city side or beachside. Fishing, Snorkeling, Going on a boat cruise, watching the sunset at the beach. These are a few of the things that can be done there. If you choose to stay on land then hiking, sightseeing and shopping will usually be how you get your dose of adventure.
If you use prescription drugs or have an underlying health condition, talk to your doctor before making the trip. They usually will give you advice on the drugs to take and the ones to keep back. They will also recommend you to doctors in the area in case of an emergency. Mosquito nets are a must but most hotels will have this covered for you. Do well to check in with your tour guide on the availability of these things before you land.
The crime rate in Tanzania is relatively low when compared to other African countries and this is one of the most important features to consider when trying to find the perfect vacation spot. After much consideration, we would say that Tanzania is safe to visit for a vacation. However, we will always recommend that you go with an agency that plans out the vacation. You know where you are going or what you are doing at every given time.
A vacation in Tanzania will be the best decision you ever made, so what are you waiting for?
Click here to check out the 8 Best Vacation Spots in East Africa for You.
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