Tanzania Travel: A Journey into Africa’s Beating Heart

TRVL Lifestyle
May 17
4 min read

If there’s one destination that manages to bring together untamed wilderness, vibrant culture, white-sand beaches, and a deep sense of adventure, it’s Tanzania. Whether you’ve been dreaming about standing on top of Africa, watching elephants cross the plains at sunset, or dipping your toes into turquoise waters, a trip to Tanzania offers all of this — and more.

But where do you start?

This blog gives you everything you need to know about planning a trip to Tanzania — including when to go, what to see, how to get around, and what makes this East African gem truly unforgettable.

Why Visit Tanzania?

Ask anyone who has been, and they’ll tell you: Tanzania is not just a trip — it’s a full-on experience. It’s a country where you feel alive in every moment, whether you're hiking through rainforest trails on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, sitting in a safari jeep staring at a lion 10 meters away, or sipping fresh mango juice by the Indian Ocean.

Here’s why Tanzania is worth the journey:

Incredible wildlife: Think lions, elephants, giraffes, cheetahs, flamingos, and the famous wildebeest migration.
Rich, authentic culture: From Maasai villages to Swahili coastal towns, Tanzania offers deep cultural roots and genuine connection.
Breathtaking nature: The country is packed with diverse landscapes — from volcanic craters and savannahs to coral reefs and snow-capped peaks.
Adventure in every form: Climb Africa’s highest mountain, dive with dolphins, hike through ancient forests, or just relax on the beach.

Best Time to Visit Tanzania

One of the most asked questions is: When is the best time to visit Tanzania?

The good news? There’s no bad time — but depending on what you want to do, some months are better than others.

Activity	Best Time
Climbing Kilimanjaro	Jan–Feb & Jun–Oct
Wildlife safaris	Jun–Oct (dry season)
Zanzibar beach holiday	Dec–Mar & Jun–Oct
Wildebeest migration	Jun–Aug (north), Jan–Mar (calving in the south)

The dry season (June to October) is generally the most popular time to visit Tanzania, with excellent wildlife viewing and clear skies. But don’t write off the shoulder or green seasons — fewer crowds, lush landscapes, and better prices can make it even more rewarding.

Where to Go in Tanzania

Tanzania isn’t small — and you probably won’t be able to see everything in one trip. Here’s a quick overview of the top regions and what they’re known for:

1. Arusha & Northern Circuit

This is the gateway to Tanzania’s most iconic destinations. From here you can access:

Mount Kilimanjaro (Africa’s highest peak)
Ngorongoro Crater (UNESCO World Heritage site)
Tarangire & Lake Manyara (amazing for elephants, baobabs, and birdlife)
Serengeti National Park (famous for the Great Migration)

If you're interested in a well-rounded safari experience in Tanzania, this is where you start.

2. Zanzibar

After a dusty safari or mountain climb, Zanzibar is your place to breathe. The beaches of Paje, Nungwi and Kendwa are postcard-perfect, while Stone Town offers a dose of history and Swahili culture.

Whether you want to snorkel in coral reefs, enjoy a spice tour, or do absolutely nothing, Zanzibar is paradise.

3. Southern Tanzania

Less visited and more off-the-beaten-path, the south includes:

Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park): one of Africa’s largest protected areas
Ruaha National Park: remote, raw, and teeming with wildlife

Great for returning travelers or anyone looking to escape the crowds.

How to Plan a Trip to Tanzania

Planning a trip to Tanzania doesn’t have to be complicated — especially if you work with a company that knows the country inside and out (like, yes — TRVL Lifestyle 😉).

Here are the basics:

📍 Visas

Most visitors can get a visa on arrival or apply online before departure. Your passport needs to be valid for at least six months after your arrival.

💉 Vaccinations

Yellow fever (if coming from an endemic area) and routine travel vaccines are recommended. Talk to your doctor at least 4–6 weeks before departure.

✈️ Flights

Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for northern safaris and Kilimanjaro climbs, or Zanzibar (ZNZ) for beach time. For domestic flights (like from Arusha to Zanzibar), TRVL Lifestyle arranges everything.

🧳 What to Pack

Light clothing for the day, warmer layers for evenings (especially in the mountains), good walking shoes, a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and binoculars. And of course — a sense of adventure.

Tanzania Travel Tips

Pole Pole means “slowly slowly” — and it’s not just about walking. Embrace the rhythm of Tanzania. It’s part of the charm.
Tipping is customary, especially for guides, porters, and drivers.
Respect the culture — dress modestly in towns and villages.
Cash is king — bring US dollars for tipping and smaller purchases.
Book early if you plan to climb Kilimanjaro or visit during high season.

Why Book with TRVL Lifestyle?

We’re not your average travel platform.

We’re your personal adventure partner. From the first message to the moment you land in Tanzania — and even after — we’re here to make sure your journey is unforgettable and stress-free.

We’ve teamed up with trusted, local Tanzanian experts (like THP Adventure) to create custom travel experiences with fair local pay, sustainable impact, and a personal touch.

Here’s what you get when booking with us:

✅ Local insight & honest advice ✅ Handpicked guides & lodges ✅ Customized itineraries (no cookie-cutter packages) ✅ Secure, flexible booking — pay a small deposit upfront, the rest on arrival ✅ Direct contact & 24/7 support