Between safari and dream beaches, 2 weeks in Tanzania

The jewel of East Africa, Tanzania offers travellers breathtaking scenery. Incredibly diverse wildlife and an inestimable wealth of culture. If you're looking to explore Africa, Tanzania is the place to be. The country boasts some of the world's finest wildlife parks. You can explore the Serengeti and its legendary migrations, and marvel at the vast savannah plains where thousands of wildebeest and zebra migrate every year in search of food and water.

You can also explore the Ngonrongo Crater to see lions, leopards and elephants roaming in their natural habitat. If you're looking for a more cultural experience, head to Zanzibar, an island paradise off Tanzania's east coast. Explore the narrow streets of Stone Town, the island's historic town, and visit the local markets for exotic dishes and spices. For the more adventurous, Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak, is an unforgettable climb. You can climb the snow-capped glaciers of the summit, offering breathtaking views over the plains of Tanzania.

Elephant facing Kilimanjaro in Tanzania

- © HordynskiPhotography / Shutterstock

Welcome to Tanzania, a beautiful and diverse country in East Africa that is a must-see destination that has it all. This diverse country abounds in breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife and rich Swahili culture. Whether you're looking for a safari, a beach holiday or an immersion in the local culture, Tanzania has everything to offer.

Days 1-2: Dar es Salam

Dar es Salam is a not-to-be-missed destination for travellers curious to discover Swahili culture and the urban dynamism of East Africa. The city's bustling port on the Indian Ocean offers easy access to the Zanzibar archipelago. The city itself is full of bustling markets, museums, local restaurants and modern shopping centres, offering an exciting mix of African and Arab cultures. A visit to Dar es Salaam allows you to soak up the city's lively atmosphere while exploring an important part of Tanzania's history and culture, a great way to start your trip.

Dar es Salam

- © Photolecious / Shutterstock
Mediterraneo Boutique Hotel Tanzania

Mediterraneo Boutique Hotel

Located on the seafront in Dar Es Salam
From
£94
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Days 3-8: Zanzibar

Travellers generally begin or end their trip to Tanzania with Zanzibar, the choice is yours. Before or after exploring the great plains of the Serengeti and the Ngorongo crater, Zanzibar is considered the pearl of the Indian Ocean. Fly to this island paradise to discover a thousand underwater and coastal wonders. The archipelago is famous for its heavenly white sandy beaches. Opt for the beaches of Paje and Jambiani if you're looking for something a little less touristy.

Both villages have the feel of a remote fishing village, where travellers spend long hours lounging on the beaches lined with incredible sea-view lodges. The water is just as crystal-clear in the north of the island, towards Nungwi, one of the most popular spots on the island.

© Ralf Liebhold / Shutterstock

And don't miss Stone Town, a coastal town that is one of Tanzania's cultural gems. With its narrow, winding streets, coral stone buildings, bustling bazaars and historic harbour, Stone Town offers a fascinating insight into Swahili history and culture. Lose yourself in the colourful streets, discover museums and historic sites. Don't forget to sample the local cuisine as you stroll through the night market that enlivens the seafront.

Zanzibar Clove Island Villas & Apartments Tanzania

Zanzibar Clove Island Villas & Apartments

A dream lodge in Zanzibar
From
£126
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Days 8-10: Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park is one of Tanzania's most famous parks, known for its vast plains, wildlife populations and annual wildebeest migrations. You can spend several days exploring the vast plains of the park, which is home to the famous big five - lions, buffalo, leopards, elephants and rhinos. Remember to plan your trip around the migrations. This is a truly exceptional phenomenon that should not be missed. Between January and March is the best time to observe the birth of baby wildebeest, a propitious moment chosen by the lions for hunting as they watch and follow their prey on their long journey. You're sure to witness some absolutely extraordinary scenes of wildlife.

Zawadi Camp Tanzania

Zawadi Camp

Located in the heart of the Serengeti
From
£330
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Migration in the Serengeti

- © RujStudio / Shutterstock

Days 10-12: Ngorongoro Crater

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ngorongoro Crater is one of Africa's most magnificent natural wonders, known for its high density of wildlife and breathtaking beauty. You can enjoy an exciting safari to explore this unique region and admire the incomparable beauty of nature. It's also an opportunity to meet the Masai people, a semi-nomadic herding tribe.

Masai warrior in the Ngorongoro

- © SelimBT / Shutterstock

Days 12-14: Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park is renowned for its high density of elephants and spectacular scenery dotted with magnificent baobab trees, Africa's mythical trees. During the dry season, you can observe herds of up to 250 elephants walking in groups around the Tarangire River, where they are guaranteed water whatever the season.

Herd of elephants in Tarangire Park

- © Benny Marty / Shutterstock

Day 14-15: Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria is the largest lake in Africa and the second largest freshwater lake in the world. This iconic body of water is at the heart of the region's economic, social and cultural life, providing a livelihood for millions of people. Local fishermen use traditional fishing methods to catch a wide variety of fish, while farmers use the water to irrigate their crops. Lake Victoria is also one of Tanzania's tourist hotspots, and this is your chance to explore its islands, for a totally unplugged experience that's ideal for ending your trip to Tanzania.

Lake Victoria fishermen

- © Tykhanskyi Viacheslav / Shutterstock
by Jude JONES
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