<p>Politics, the economic situation, tourism – where does Tanzania stand today in these respects? Here is an overview of the current situation.</p>

The state of Tanzania today

<p>You haven't left home yet, but you'd like to delve into Tanzanian culture. Be it in front of your TV or with your nose in a book, here are some ideas for learning more on your upcoming destination.</p>

Books and documentaries on Tanzania

It's like a big stone which would be a model for ecotourism management, laid down in the middle of the fishing waters of the Indian Ocean. Chumbe Island, to the South-West of the island of Zanzibar, is the first private marine park created in 1991 for conservation purposes and sustainable management of the uninhabited islands of Chumbe.  

Tanzania, the example of Chumbe Island Coral Park

On the way to a safari in Selous, the largest game reserve in Tanzania.

Many animals in the enormous game reserve of Selous

Located at a distance of 160 km from Arusha, which is about three hours by road, is Ngorongoro, a 20 km diameter crater and home to the greatest concentration of animals in the world.

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Tanzania

Ngorongoro

At an altitude of 5,895m, Uhuru Peak is the highest summit on the continent. It takes several days (between 5 and 9, depending on the trail you choose) to reach the roof of Africa.

Uhuru Peak

At 5895 m in height, Kilimanjaro is the African continent's highest summit. Whether from the air (in a plane) or from the ground when attempting its ascent, it draws the eye irresistibly.

Mount Kilimanjaro

This National Park in the centre of Tanzania is the country's second largest behind the Serengeti National Park. The wildlife there is very wild and the savanna enchanting landscapes. It is famous for its elephant population.

Ruaha

At 6km from the Machame camp, the Shira Plateau, at 3,840m high, is where the Machame and Shira trails meet. So it's a busy place.

Shira Plateau

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<p>During my <a href="/tanzania/">trip to Tanzania</a> I climbed the mythical Kilimanjaro, using the Machame trail. I therefore had the chance to cross the 3,840 meter high Shira Plateau.</p> <p>The camp is the meeting point between the Machame and Shira routes. At this altitude there is almost no vegetation at all. Clumps of giant ragwort, a local plant, appear here and there. But little by little, the landscape becomes lunar. Here, you are above the clouds. This is the last stage before you pass the 4,000 meter cap. It's often at this height that the first signs of altitude sickness appear. I can't tell you how important it is to go really slowly (pole pole, in Swahili, are the key words) and to drink lots of water - at least 3 liters a day per person. It's only the second day, the hardest are yet to come, but at this stage you are well on your way to conquering the ascent.</p>

<p>At 6km from the Machame camp, <strong>the Shira Plateau, at 3,840m high,</strong> is where the Machame and Shira trails meet. So it's a busy place.</p>

The best local travel agencies in Tanzania for family tours with kids

Family trip ideas in Tanzania

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">A family vacation in <a data-destination-id="90" data-internal-link="destination"><strong>Tanzania&nbsp;</strong></a>is educational and thrilling for both adults and children. This East African country is known for its stunning scenery and wildlife, and there’s a rich mix of cultural and historical influences. Whether on safari or on a beach vacation, your family will love a trip to Tanzania.</span></p><h3>What makes Tanzania a great destination for families?</h3><p>A Tanzanian family vacation offers a <strong>blend of natural beauty and cultural discovery</strong>. Your adventures will take you to a variety of places, from white sandy beaches to sweeping plains teeming with wildlife, or even into rugged mountain ranges and volcanoes. And you’ll meet friendly locals and diverse tribespeople along the way, introducing the children to new cultures as you go.&nbsp;<br></p><h3>Best things to do in Tanzania with kids</h3><p>For kids, Tanzania is an awe-inspiring destination. They'll find fun in a wide range of activities throughout the country, whether it's <strong>canoeing trips, meeting and learning with tribespeople, or visiting prehistoric sites</strong>. These are the top activities to do with kids in Tanzania.<br></p><h4>Meet ancient animals on an island</h4><p>Known to locals as Changu, Prison Island has a long and interesting history. Visit with a local guide to get the lowdown, then <strong>explore the tortoise sanctuary</strong>. You'll encounter the endangered Aldabra tortoises, some believed to be over 150 years old.<br></p><h4>See wildlife up close in the national parks</h4><p>Family trips in Tanzania must include a <strong><a href="https://www.evaneos.com/tanzania/tours-safari/" target="_blank">wildlife safari</a></strong> in one of the numerous national parks. While the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti are the best-known areas, Katavi and Tarangire National Parks are also spectacular. You'll have the <strong>unforgettable thrill of watching lions</strong>, buffalo, giraffes, and elephants in their natural habitat.&nbsp;<br></p><h4>Canoe through a national park</h4><p>A different kind of safari involves canoeing through Arusha National Park. It's a great way to bond with the family, and offers <strong>a scenic change from riding in vans or cars</strong>. These professionally-guided <strong><a href="https://www.evaneos.com/tanzania/tours-lakes/" target="_blank">lake</a></strong> trips take you past various animals and birds along the shore.<br></p><h4>Bike through the countryside</h4><p>Biking trips are a great option for active families, and <strong>routes are generally smooth and flat</strong>. Spot animals such as impala, zebras, or monkeys, and experience a slice of rural Tanzania as you pass through farmland and villages. Choose from various itineraries suiting all ages and abilities.<br></p><h4>Plunge into beautiful island waters</h4><p>The atolls scattered off the island of Zanzibar are <strong>favorites for scuba divers and snorkelers</strong>. Various companies provide quality excursions that explore some of the world's most beautiful reefs. You'll be wowed by the colorful coral and sea life, including fish and even dolphins.<br></p><h3>Tips for planning a family vacation in Tanzania</h3><p>Tanzania is a fantastic experience for families, as long as you do some proper preparation. Consult with your doctor for medical precautions, such as vaccinations. The <strong>best time for traveling around Tanzania is during the dry, cooler season from June to September</strong>. Traveling by road can take longer due distance and road quality, so plan accordingly and provide extra books and games for the kids.</p>

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The best tailor-made Tanzania trips for families with children, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

Design your perfect family vacation with a local expert in Tanzania

Tanzania family tours

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Family Vacations in Tanzania | Child-Friendly Travel

Local Travel Agencies in Tanzania that specialize in Honeymoon Travel

Our top Honeymoon Trips in Tanzania

Our top {nb_iti} Honeymoon Trips in Tanzania​ with a Local Agency. Personalize and book your tailor-made vacations and inquire with an expert.

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Tanzania Honeymoon Vacations

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Tanzania Honeymoon Vacations | Tailor-Made Trips | Evaneos

The best local travel agencies in Tanzania for two week trips

Two week trip ideas in Tanzania

The best two-week trips to explore Tanzania, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

Design your perfect two week trip with a local expert in Tanzania

Tanzania in two weeks

Two Week Trips

Two Weeks in Tanzania | 14 Day Tailor-Made Trips

The best local travel agencies in Tanzania for one week trips

One week trip ideas in Tanzania

The best one-week trips to explore Tanzania, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

Design your perfect one week trip with a local expert in Tanzania

One week in Tanzania

One Week Trips

One Week in Tanzania | 7 Day Tailor-Made Trips

The best local travel agencies in Tanzania for wildlife tours and safaris

Safari and wildlife trip ideas in Tanzania

<p>Home of Mount Kilimanjaro, and known for the famous wildebeest migration, <strong><a data-destination-id="90" data-internal-link="destination">Tanzania&nbsp;</a></strong>offers some of the most spectacular safaris in all of Africa. From vast plains to beautiful craters, and even paradise islands, a Tanzania safari is ideal for the entire family. With proper planning and amazing local guides, visitors can enjoy the sensational beauty of this magical East African country.<br></p><h3>What makes a safari in Tanzania unique?</h3><p>Tanzania has a wonderful diversity of terrain and wildlife. There’s<strong> coastal lowlands, wild savanna, and volcanic highlands</strong>, each offering a remarkable and different experience. On game drives throughout the <strong><a href="https://www.evaneos.com/tanzania/tours-nature/" target="_blank">national parks</a></strong> you can spot <strong>African lions, wildebeest, hyenas, leopards, elephants, and herds of buffalo</strong>. The great wildebeest migration provides a unique and once-in-a-lifetime experience should you time your trip right.<br></p><h3>The best places for safari in Tanzania</h3><p>Tanzania has something for everyone, and activities include wildlife tours, hiking, and cultural experiences. Below are some of the great safari destinations in Tanzania.<br></p><h4>Be part of the Great Migration in the Serengeti</h4><p>The Serengeti is home to a variety of wildlife, but the best spectacle of all is the wildebeest migration in June and July. <strong>Hordes of wildebeest make a 300-mile journey across this grassland</strong> in search of greener pastures. Board a hot air balloon to get the best view of this thundering natural spectacle.<br></p><h4>Meet Mount Kilimanjaro</h4><p>Come to Tanzania to experience the heights of the tallest mountain in Africa. With its snow-capped peaks and mild volcanic activity, this mountain provides a <strong>remarkable view across the plains of Tanzania</strong>. The lush mountain forests and alpine meadows are truly beautiful, and a range of hikes are on offer to explore the region. If hiking isn’t your thing, simply camp in a luxury tent in the mountain’s shadow and take game drives in the surrounding reserves.<br></p><h4>Explore the Ngorongoro Crater</h4><p>Any wildlife tour of Tanzania should include Ngorongoro. Sitting within a huge volcanic caldera, the landscape is essentially <strong>a bowl of life, with giant elephants, laughing hyenas, and even giraffes living side by side.</strong> You can take guided walks around the crater’s edge, or participate in the cultural dances of the local Maasai tribe.<br></p><h4>Meet lions at Lake Manyara National Park</h4><p>Lake Manyara is park is renowned for its <strong>unusual tree-climbing lions</strong>, who are often seen dangling their tails as they perch precariously on branches of acacias. On a game drive here, you’ll also see troops of baboons and playful monkeys, and around the lake spot thousands of flamingos and pelicans.<br></p><h4>Head to an ancient stone town</h4><p>Stone Town is a UNESCO world heritage site on the island of Zanzibar, just off the coast of Tanzania. This <strong>historical area has some interesting architecture</strong>, and here you can learn more about the Swahili culture and sample some of Zanzibar’s unique cuisine.<br></p><h3>What is the best time of year for a safari in Tanzania?</h3><p>The ideal period for a Tanzania safari is during the <strong>dry season between June and October</strong>. The dry months are suitable for game drives as most animals converge at the many watering holes, and the<strong> wildebeest migrations tends to take place around June and July.</strong><br></p>

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The best safaris and wildlife tours in Tanzania, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

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Wildlife Tours & Safaris in Tanzania | Meet Tanzania's Wildlife

The best local travel agencies in Tanzania for Winter vacations

Winter trip ideas in Tanzania

The best tailor-made trips to visit Tanzania in Winter, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

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Winter in Tanzania

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The best local travel agencies in Tanzania for nature tours

Trip ideas for exploring Tanzania's nature

The best trips and excursions for exploring Tanzania's nature, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

Design your perfect nature trip with a local expert in Tanzania

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Nature & National Parks

Nature Trips in Tanzania | Explore Tanzania's Nature

The best local travel agencies in Tanzania for lake vacations

Trip ideas for visiting Tanzania's lakes

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Sitting just beneath the equator, <strong><a data-destination-id="90" data-internal-link="destination">Tanzania&nbsp;</a></strong>is warm and pleasant all year round, meaning there’s never a bad time to visit and swim in this East African country’s vast and varied lakes. Surrounded by rich, exciting wildlife and offering some of the country’s finest scenery, the lakes in Tanzania are well worth a stop on your itinerary.</span></p><h3>What makes Tanzania lakes so special?</h3><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Whether it’s the birds at Lake Natron or the wildlife living within the largest tropical lake in the world, Lake Victoria, there’s something to impress any traveler at Tanzania’s big bodies of water.<strong> Try snorkeling, take boat rides and go kayaking at some of the most beautiful lakes in the country</strong>, and don’t miss an opportunity to interact with locals living on their shores.&nbsp;</span></p><h3>The best lakes in Tanzania for your itinerary</h3><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">With numerous pristine lakes, Tanzania has lots of spectacular scenery on offer. But there are a few don’t-miss destinations. <strong>Connect with <a href="https://www.evaneos.com/tanzania/tours-nature/" target="_blank">nature</a> and marvel at the country’s best natural assets</strong> at some of these glorious lakes in Tanzania.</span></p><h4>See flamingos at Lake Natron</h4><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">At the foot of the Great Rift Valley lies arguably the world's most caustic lakes, with water so alkaline it can burn human skin. The countless halophilic bacteria here, though, create a perfect environment for the pink flamingos that flock to its shores to feed. <strong>The thousands of pink birds are an unforgettable sight.</strong> Surrounding the lake, emerald green hills flank its shoresm, and adventurous travelers trek up the nearby Ol Doinyo Lengai to meet native Maasai tribespeople.</span></p><h4>Snorkel at Lake Tanganyika</h4><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Africa’s deepest lake is also the world’s second-oldest freshwater lake. But it’s impressive not least because of its size. <strong>Lake Tanganyika has rushing waterfalls, brilliant marine life including the rainbow cichlid fish, and even Nile crocodiles</strong> swimming in its sparkling waters. Brave visitors can snorkel to see the myriad colourful fish that live here.</span></p><h4>Enjoy Lake Eyasi's native culture</h4><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">The Datoga and Hadzabe tribes had a home around the shores of Lake Eyasi for centuries. Here, you’ll get a rare opportunity to <strong>meet the modern-day Datoga and Hadzabe, visit their homes and and understand their way of life</strong>. Bird watchers will love the lake's inhabitants, which includes storks, flamingos, lovebirds and pelicans.&nbsp;</span></p><h4>Lake Victoria's incredible tranquility</h4><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">By far one of the world’s most famous lakes, Victoria is enormous at over 26,000 square miles. It’s so huge, it spans three countries, including Tanzania’s neighbors, Kenya and Uganda. <strong>For the best experience, take to the waters by traditional dhow boat and sail to its verdant islands</strong>. You’ll spot all sorts of birdlife, you could catch some Nile perch for dinner, or even see a hippopotamus basking in the waters.&nbsp;</span></p><h4>Revel in Lake Nyasa's fresh waters</h4><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Home to incredible biodiversity, Lake Nyasa provides all sorts of exciting experiences for the intrepid travelers that make it here. <strong>The serene lake is the perfect spot for a refreshing evening swim</strong>, or you could explore by kayak to get out even further on the water. Livingstone Mountains makes a stunning backdrop, and the <strong><a href="https://www.evaneos.com/tanzania/tours-beaches/" target="_blank">sandy beaches</a></strong> on its shoreline means sunbathing is possible. Hike among the nearby hills and you’ll discover beautiful waterfalls along the way.</span></p><h3>Tips for visiting Tanzania lakes</h3><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>December offers the most pleasant weather</strong> for a calming vacation, but if you are a keen birder then plan your trip between June and December to enjoy sightings of flamingos and pelicans.</span></p>

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Lake vacations in Tanzania | Explore Tanzania's lakes

The best local travel agencies in Tanzania for Summer vacations

Summer trip ideas in Tanzania

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Summer in <strong><a data-destination-id="90" data-internal-link="destination">Tanzania</a></strong> is a great time to visit. Whether it's the savanna or the beach you're looking for, you'll find it in this East African nation. Feel the sand between your toes when you combine a trip to the safari parks with a beach or island getaway. A rich mix of cultures and fantastic hospitality await you in Tanzania.</span></p><h3>Why should I visit Tanzania in the summer?</h3><p>Tanzania is a great place to visit to beat the Northern Hemisphere winter blues. Wildlife parks are usually quieter at this time of year, with smaller crowds. At the end of the dry season, animals are easier to spot at watering holes as water and vegetation will have become scarce. While summer days in Tanzania are warm, nights are cool and comfortable for rest and relaxation.<br></p><h3>Best things to do in Tanzania in the summer</h3><p>Most visitors come to Tanzania in the summer for its <strong>world-famous <a href="https://www.evaneos.com/tanzania/tours-nature/" target="_blank" data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.com/tanzania/tours-nature/">wildlife parks</a></strong>. However, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy, such as hiking, tasting local cuisine, relaxing on gorgeous <strong><a href="https://www.evaneos.com/tanzania/tours-beaches/" target="_blank" data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.com/tanzania/tours-beaches/">beaches</a></strong>, or even a hot air balloon trip over the savanna. Here are the top experiences.&nbsp;<br></p><h4>Go into the wild of Serengeti National Park</h4><p>Summer in Tanzania is considered one of the best times to visit the famed Serengeti. This is a great opportunity to spot animals out in the open. You'll see <strong>lions, wildebeest, buffalo, and leopards</strong> in their natural habitat.<br></p><h4>Take on Mount Kilimanjaro</h4><p>The summer months are some of the best for climbing <strong><a href="https://www.evaneos.com/africa-travel" target="_blank" data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.com/africa-travel">Africa</a>'s highest mountain</strong>, Kilimanjaro. There's usually less snow at the higher elevations during summer, and the path will be drier during your multi day climb. Keep your fingers crossed for a clear morning as you reach the summit for fabulous views.&nbsp;<br></p><h4>Hit the beach on a castaway island</h4><p>Visit the coastal archipelago of Zanzibar for <strong>picture-perfect white sandy beaches</strong> and warm turquoise waters. Divers and snorkelers will enjoy the diverse sea life found just off Zanzibar's coast, while the beach offers relaxation or water sports.<br></p><h4>Explore the Ngorongoro Crater</h4><p>A guided day trip to this UNESCO World Heritage Site and conservation area is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This caldera provides a <strong>natural sanctuary for a wide variety of animals</strong>, including black-maned lions, black rhinos, and elephants.&nbsp;<br></p><h4>Soar in the sky on a balloon safari</h4><p>Top off your Tanzania vacation with a different kind of safari. <strong>Conditions are perfect in early summer</strong> for a balloon safari, during which you can observe the massive herds of animals in the national parks. Up here, it's nothing but you, the clear air, and views of the savanna as far as the eye can see.<br></p><h3>What's the weather like in Tanzania in the summer?</h3><p>Tanzanian summers coincide with the wet season <strong>between November and March</strong>. January and February are the driest months. Days have average <strong>highs usually over 86°F</strong>, with highland regions being much cooler. Jackets are handy for the cooler temperatures in the early mornings and evenings. The wet season starts in early February, so sturdy rain gear and boots are recommended.</p>

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The best tailor-made trips to visit Tanzania in Summer, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

Shira Plateau Vacations

Shira Plateau: How to get there?

Shira Plateau: When to go?

Shira Plateau: For how long?

Shira Plateau: What to see in the surroundings?

Tanzania: our articles for your vacation