Tanzania & Zanzibar – Destination Guide

Tanzania and Zanzibar offer the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, with breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and idyllic beaches. From the vast plains of the Serengeti to the spice-scented streets of Stone Town, this East African destination provides an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you’re on safari spotting the Big Five or lounging on a white-sand beach with turquoise waters, Tanzania and Zanzibar have something for every traveler.

Main Locations

Tanzania

• Serengeti National Park – One of the most famous safari destinations in the world, known for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras move across the plains.

• Ngorongoro Crater – A breathtaking volcanic caldera home to an abundance of wildlife, including lions, rhinos, and flamingos.

• Mount Kilimanjaro – Africa’s highest peak, attracting trekkers from around the globe who seek to conquer its summit.

• Tarangire National Park – Famous for its large elephant herds and ancient baobab trees.

• Lake Manyara National Park – A lush, forested area known for tree-climbing lions and flocks of pink flamingos.

Zanzibar

• Stone Town – A UNESCO-listed historic center with winding alleys, spice markets, and Swahili-Arab architecture.

• Nungwi & Kendwa – Stunning beaches on Zanzibar’s northern coast, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunset views.

• Jozani Forest – The last remaining indigenous forest on Zanzibar, home to the rare red colobus monkey.

• Mnemba Atoll – A prime snorkeling and diving spot with crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life.

• Paje & Jambiani – Laid-back beach towns on the southeastern coast, known for kitesurfing and relaxed vibes.

Highlights

🦁 Safari Adventures – Witness the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) in world-class national parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro.

🏝 Pristine Beaches – Zanzibar’s white-sand beaches and turquoise waters make it the perfect post-safari retreat.

🌍 The Great Migration – One of nature’s most spectacular events, when millions of wildebeest and zebras move through the Serengeti and into the Masai Mara.

⛰ Climb Mount Kilimanjaro – A bucket-list challenge, taking trekkers through diverse climates from rainforest to glaciers.

🦒 Cultural Encounters – Experience Maasai culture in Tanzania or explore Zanzibar’s spice farms and Swahili heritage.

🐠 World-Class Diving & Snorkeling – Discover the vibrant underwater world of Zanzibar and Mafia Island, where you can swim with whale sharks.

Arrival Airports & Transport

• Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) – Located in Dar es Salaam, this is Tanzania’s main international gateway.

• Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) – The best airport for those visiting the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, or climbing Kilimanjaro.

• Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) – The main airport for Zanzibar.

🚗 Getting Around

• Domestic Flights – The quickest way to travel between safari destinations and Zanzibar.

• Safari Vehicles – Most safaris use 4×4 Land Cruisers with expert guides.

• Ferries – There are fast ferries between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar.

• Taxis & Tuk-Tuks – Widely available in Zanzibar and major cities.

Practical Information

💰 Currency – Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but US dollars are widely accepted for tourism.

💳 Cash vs. Card – Credit cards are accepted in high-end hotels, but cash is preferred for small purchases. ATMs are available in cities and Zanzibar.

🗣 Languages – Swahili is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

💸 Tipping – Common in Tanzania; tip safari guides ($10–$20 per day), hotel staff, and restaurant servers (5–10%).

🔌 Power Outlets – Type D & G (UK-style plugs, 230V). Bring an adapter if needed.

📱 SIM/eSIM – Local SIM cards (Airtel, Vodacom) are cheap and offer good coverage. eSIMs are also available for easy connectivity. Using an eSIM is our recommended choice while travelling anywhere in the world, and our recommended provider is Holafly. For more information on eSIMs, check out this blog.

Visa/Entry Requirements

• Most travelers need a visa to enter Tanzania. You can obtain one on arrival ($50 for most nationalities, $100 for US citizens) or apply online for an eVisa.

• Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date.

• Yellow fever vaccination may be required if arriving from a country with a risk of transmission.

Food & Cuisine

🍛 Tanzanian Cuisine

• Ugali – A staple maize porridge served with stews.

• Nyama Choma – Grilled meat, often served with rice or vegetables.

• Zanzibari Biryani & Pilau – Fragrant spiced rice dishes.

• Mandazi – Sweet fried dough, similar to a doughnut.

🥭 Zanzibari Flavors

• Seafood Platters – Fresh-caught lobster, prawns, and octopus.

• Zanzibar Pizza – A unique street-food snack with a mix of savory and sweet fillings.

• Spice-infused Dishes – Influenced by Zanzibar’s spice trade, featuring cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Why Visit?

Tanzania and Zanzibar offer the best of both worlds—unforgettable safaris across vast savannahs and picture-perfect tropical islands. Whether you’re spotting wildlife in the Serengeti, scaling Kilimanjaro, or enjoying the tranquil beaches of Zanzibar, this East African gem guarantees an adventure like no other.