Activities in Tanzania - Experience the diversity of Africa
Here we show you the most amazing activities that will make your trip to Tanzania truly unforgettable.
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The Best Activities in Tanzania at a Glance
Tanzania is full of possibilities – from classic safari adventures to cultural encounters, from mountain peaks to the beach. To give you a quick overview, we have compiled the most popular Tanzania activities for you here. Each activity brings its own magic – whether wild, relaxed or full of movement. Let yourself be inspired and find out which experiences suit your trip.
Safaris in the National Parks
A safari in Tanzania is one of the most impressive travel experiences in Africa. The world-famous Serengeti with its vast savannahs and the Ngorongoro Crater with its spectacular density of animals offer ideal conditions for unforgettable observations. Here you can see lions hunting, giraffes elegantly moving through the landscape or, with a bit of luck, spot a leopard in the shade. Our safaris not only take you to the well-known parks, but also to more remote regions that are less frequented and particularly pristine. You will be accompanied by experienced guides with a trained eye and a wealth of knowledge to ensure that you experience some extraordinary moments.
Here you can find out more about our Tanzania Safaris.
Zanzibar & the Indian Ocean
Zanzibar offers the perfect backdrop to take a deep breath, relax and enjoy. Whether snorkeling in the coral reef, strolling through Stone Town or enjoying a fresh coconut drink under the palm trees – everyone will find their own personal haven of peace and plenty of Zanzibar activities to make their vacation perfect. Smaller islands such as Mafia Island or Pemba are also ideal for divers, nature lovers and anyone who appreciates authentic island life. The combination of safari and beach makes your trip not only varied, but also perfect.
More about your suitable Zanzibar vacation you can find here.
Kilimanjaro & Mountain Climbing in Tanzania
Kilimanjaro is not only the roof of Africa, but also one of Tanzania’s most impressive destinations. Climbing the 5,895-metre-high volcano is a unique experience – scenically diverse, physically demanding and emotionally moving. You can find out more about planning and routes here: Kilimanjaro ascent. Mount Meru is a great alternative for those who want to climb a little lower but immerse themselves just as intensively in the mountain world. The 4,566-metre-high peak in Arusha National Park offers spectacular views and a much quieter atmosphere than its famous neighbor. Whether Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru – a mountain tour in Tanzania can be ideally combined with a safari or beach vacation. We will be happy to advise you on the right route, the right level of difficulty and sustainable local providers.
Walking Safaris
A walking safari is a special way of experiencing nature – quiet, intense and surprisingly close. Being on foot means perceiving your surroundings with different eyes: the crackling of dry twigs, fresh animal tracks in the sand, eye contact with a giraffe in the distance. You will be accompanied by an experienced ranger who will not only ensure your safety, but also provide fascinating insights into flora, fauna and tracking. Popular places for a guided walking safari are Arusha National Park, where you can roam through the open landscape among giraffes and monkeys, or the areas on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater, which impress with their panoramic views and pristine nature. A tour like this does not require top athletic performance – but it does require mindfulness, good footwear and the desire to encounter the wilderness quietly. If you really want to feel Tanzania, this is the right place for you.
Air Balloon Ride Over the Serengeti
A hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti is one of the most impressive moments you can experience in Tanzania. In the early hours of the morning, the balloon rises silently over the vast landscape – the sun bathes the savannah in golden light, while zebras, wildebeests and perhaps even elephants slowly awaken below you. Especially at the time of the Great Migration the view is overwhelming. You look out over thousands of migrating animals, river courses and grazing herds that run through the plains like a living pattern. The silence, the vastness and the perspective from the air make this experience something very special. After landing, a stylish breakfast usually awaits you in the open air. A balloon flight can be wonderfully integrated into a safari and is ideal for anyone who is looking for a special view of nature – and simply wants to enjoy the moment.
Trekking and Hiking
Tanzania offers ideal conditions for anyone who would like to explore the country on foot. Away from the safari routes, green hills, waterfalls and traditional villages are waiting to be discovered. The Materuni waterfalls at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro are particularly popular. The hike leads through lush vegetation, past coffee plantations and small paths with views of Africa’s highest mountain. The Kilimanjaro plateau is also ideal for day hikes and trekking in Tanzania. You walk through mountain forests and open landscapes, with a constant view of the snow-capped peak, without having to plan a multi-day ascent. Other beautiful hiking routes can be found in the Usambara Mountains or in the Great Rift Valley. The duration, altitude and level of difficulty vary depending on the region. Whether a leisurely stroll or an extended trek – hiking in Tanzania with pristine nature and cultural encounters along the way is something special.
Visit to a Maasai Village and Cultural Insights
For many travelers, a visit to the Maasai is one of the most impressive cultural experiences in Tanzania. The semi-nomadic ethnic group is known for its colorful clothing, traditional dances and deep connection to nature. In selected villages, you will have the opportunity to learn more about their way of life, rituals and the challenges of modern everyday life. A respectful approach is important. We work with communities that welcome visitors and consciously shape cultural exchange. The focus is on authenticity – not touristy staging. In addition to a visit to a village, local markets or schools can often be included. This provides a real insight into life off the beaten track. If you really want to understand Tanzania, you should meet the people who shape it – with openness, interest and mutual respect.
Coffee Tours and Plantation Visits
On a coffee tour in Tanzania, you will not only gain exciting insights into the cultivation and processing of coffee, but also become part of the process yourself. You will learn how the beans are harvested, washed and dried – and you can even lend a hand yourself. From roasting to grinding to brewing, you will experience how your own coffee is made from the raw bean. At the end, of course, we taste the coffee together – often with a view of the green hilly landscape where the coffee comes from. The tours give you a direct line to the people behind the product and make it tangible how much manual work, knowledge and passion goes into every cup. The experience is just as enriching for coffee lovers as it is for anyone who wants to get to know rural life in Tanzania.
Food and Culinary Delights
There are a variety of culinary activities in Tanzania. If you want to delve deeper into the regional cuisine, you can take part in a traditional cooking course. Together with local hosts, you will prepare typical dishes such as ugali, chapati or aromatic stews – often over an open fire and with fresh ingredients straight from the market. Visits to spice or coffee plantations are another highlight. There you will learn how cloves, cinnamon, vanilla or pepper are grown and processed, smell, touch and taste your way through the origin of many aromas. A stroll through a local market rounds off the culinary experience. Between colorful fabrics, fresh fruit and dried spices, you will get a feel for everyday life on site – authentic, lively and full of impressions that will stay with you for a long time.
Boat Tours and Water Sports
Tanzania’s coast and islands offer the best conditions for activities on and in the water. Whether it’s a quiet boat tour or a sporty adventure – everyone will find the right pace here. Guided trips to see dolphins are particularly popular, where, with a bit of luck, you can observe the animals in their natural environment. Diving, snorkeling and sailing tours are also among the classics. In the shallow waters around offshore islands, you can explore colorful coral reefs and discover a fascinating underwater world. If you prefer something more sporty, you will find ideal conditions for kite surfing on windy stretches of coast. The offers vary depending on the region and season, but can easily be combined with relaxation or culture. Whether as a day trip or part of a longer beach stage – water activities in Tanzania bring lightness to your trip and show another impressive facet of the country.
Mountain Biking Tours Through Rural Areas
Horseback Riding & Riding Excursions
For those who want to experience Tanzania in a special way, a horseback ride through the vast landscapes around Arusha or at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro is an impressive alternative to the classic safari. On horseback, you move silently through nature, feeling the rhythm of the animal and taking in the surroundings with all your senses. Whether through open plains, hilly farmland or along small trails with a view of Mount Kilimanjaro – horse riding excursions can be tailored to your individual needs. Depending on your wishes, they can last a few hours or several days and are suitable for experienced riders as well as beginners with basic knowledge. Particularly appealing is the proximity to the animal world, which you discover from a completely new perspective. If you are looking for exercise, nature and a certain peace and quiet, horse riding is an extraordinary and lasting experience in the middle of the East African landscape.
Conservation and Social Projects
If you really want to understand Tanzania, you not only encounter animals and landscapes, but also the people and initiatives that shape and protect the country. Many of our guests want to make a positive contribution beyond their travels – and often experience the most touching moments of their trip. A visit to the Nkoaranga Orphanage, a lovingly run orphanage that we actively support, offers honest insights into life on the ground. Schools or other social institutions can also be visited on request – always in close consultation and with the necessary respect. In the area of nature conservation, we work with our partners to promote sustainable projects. This includes the WildlifeNOW – The Mkomazi Project, which is dedicated to the protection of endangered species such as rhinos and wild dogs. You can find out more about the initiatives we support on our page conservation projects.
From Safaris to Kilimanjaro Tours
Tanzania offers an impressive variety of experiences – from classic safaris to mountain climbs and relaxing days on the beach. To make sure your trip suits you perfectly, it’s worth clarifying a few questions in advance. The choice of Tanzania activities is huge, but with the right planning you can create a coherent and unforgettable itinerary.
A key point is the travel time. Some experiences such as the Great Migration can only be observed during certain months, while other activities such as trekking or cultural programs are possible all year round. Your interests also play an important role: do you want to see animals, be active, experience new cultures or simply relax and unwind?
The duration of the trip is just as important. If you only have a week, you should concentrate on a few highlights. For longer trips, different regions and activities can be combined well.
We’ll help you choose the Tanzania activities that are right for you and combine everything sensibly – tailored to your pace, budget and travel wishes. Step by step, we will create your own personal dream trip.
FAQ – Activities in Tanzania
Which activities in Tanzania pair well with a safari?
Tanzania offers many activities that can be ideally combined with a safari. Popular activities include beach days on Zanzibar, a Kilimanjaro hike, walking safaris, coffee tours or cultural encounters with the Maasai. Hot air balloon trips or boat tours also complement the safari experience perfectly.
Are there activities in Tanzania suitable for families with children?
Which cultural experiences are especially recommended in Tanzania?
