Tanzania is a stunning East African gem that’s got it all—pristine beaches, wild safaris, and landscapes that’ll knock your socks off.
Summer is the perfect time to explore this paradise, with warm weather, clear skies, and wildlife galore.
Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? From the Serengeti’s Great Migration to Zanzibar’s turquoise waters, we’ve rounded up the coolest spots you can’t miss.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, beach bum, or culture lover, Tanzania’s got your back. Let’s dive in!
1. Serengeti National Park – Where the Wild Things Roam
If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing lions, elephants, and wildebeest in their natural habitat, the Serengeti is your spot. This iconic national park is famous for the Great Migration, where millions of animals trek across the plains.
Summer (June to August) is prime time for wildlife viewing. The dry season means animals gather around waterholes, making them easier to spot. Pro tip: Book a hot air balloon safari for a bird’s-eye view of the action.
The Serengeti isn’t just about safaris—it’s about raw, unfiltered nature. Imagine waking up to a lion’s roar or watching a sunset over the savanna. Pure magic.
2. Zanzibar – A Slice of Tropical Heaven
Zanzibar is the ultimate beach escape, with powdery white sand and water so blue it’ll make your Instagram followers jealous.
Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of narrow alleys, spice markets, and rich history.
For the best beaches, head to Nungwi or Kendwa. Snorkel at Mnemba Atoll, where colorful fish and coral reefs steal the show. And don’t miss out on Zanzibari cuisine—think fresh seafood, coconut curries, and tropical fruits.
Whether you’re chilling in a hammock or diving with dolphins, Zanzibar is pure paradise.
3. Ngorongoro Crater – The World’s Largest Intact Caldera
This natural wonder is like a giant bowl teeming with wildlife. The Ngorongoro Crater is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, buffalo) and offers some of the best game viewing in Africa.
The crater’s unique ecosystem means you’ll see everything from flamingos to hyenas in one place. Stay at a luxury lodge on the rim for jaw-dropping views.
Fun fact: The crater was formed millions of years ago when a massive volcano collapsed. Now, it’s a wildlife paradise you won’t forget.
4. Mount Kilimanjaro – Africa’s Rooftop
Calling all adventurers! Kilimanjaro is the tallest freestanding mountain in the world, and summiting it is a bucket-list experience. The best time to climb? June to October, when the weather is dry and clear.
You don’t have to be a pro—there are routes for all skill levels. The scenery shifts from rainforest to alpine desert to Arctic summit. And that sunrise from Uhuru Peak? Absolutely unreal.
Even if you don’t summit, exploring the foothills is an adventure in itself.
5. Tarangire National Park – Land of Giants
Tarangire is underrated but incredible, especially in summer when elephants gather by the hundreds near the Tarangire River. The park’s baobab trees add a surreal, almost mystical vibe.
Bird lovers, rejoice—Tarangire has over 550 species, including vibrant kingfishers and eagles. And if you’re lucky, you might spot a tree-climbing lion!
This park is less crowded than the Serengeti, so you’ll get a more intimate safari experience.
6. Lake Manyara – A Hidden Gem
Lake Manyara is small but mighty, with lush forests, hot springs, and flamingo-filled lakeshores. The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions (yep, it’s a thing here too).
Take a canoe safari for a unique perspective, or hike to the Maji Moto hot springs for a relaxing dip. The birdlife here is insane, with pelicans, storks, and herons everywhere.
It’s the perfect half-day stop if you’re heading to Ngorongoro or Serengeti.
7. Selous Game Reserve – Africa’s Largest Wildlife Sanctuary
Forget crowded parks—Selous is wild, untouched, and massive. It’s one of the few places where you can do boat safaris along the Rufiji River, spotting crocs, hippos, and elephants cooling off.
The reserve is less touristy, so you’ll feel like you have the whole place to yourself. Fly camping (sleeping under the stars) is a must-try for the ultimate bush experience.
Pro tip: Visit in July-October for the best wildlife sightings.
8. Ruaha National Park – Where Predators Rule
Ruaha is Tanzania’s best-kept secret, with some of the highest lion densities in Africa. The landscape is dramatic—baobabs, rocky hills, and dry riverbeds where animals gather.
This park is off the beaten path, so you’ll see fewer tourists and more raw nature. Look out for rare wild dogs and huge herds of buffalo.
Stay at a luxury tented camp for that authentic safari vibe.
9. Mahale Mountains – Chimpanzee Trekking Paradise
Want to hang out with wild chimpanzees? Mahale Mountains is one of the few places in the world where you can do this. The park is remote—accessible only by boat—but totally worth it.
After tracking chimps, relax on the pristine shores of Lake Tanganyika. The water is crystal clear, perfect for a refreshing swim.
This is adventure travel at its finest.
10. Pemba Island – Zanzibar’s Untouched Sister
If you think Zanzibar is dreamy, wait till you see Pemba. This island is lush, green, and way less touristy, with some of the best diving spots in East Africa.
The Misali Island reef is a snorkeler’s paradise, while the Ngezi Forest feels like something out of Jurassic Park.
For a true escape, Pemba is where it’s at.
11. Katavi National Park – The Real Wild West
Katavi is as remote as it gets. Think massive herds of buffalo, hippo-packed pools, and lions everywhere. There are no crowds, just pure, unfiltered wilderness.
The dry season (June-October) is prime time, when animals gather at remaining water sources.
This is safari for the hardcore nature lovers.
12. Mafia Island – Diving & Whale Sharks
Mafia Island is all about marine life. From July-October, you can swim with gentle whale sharks—the ocean’s biggest fish.
The coral reefs here are pristine, and the vibe is super laid-back. No big resorts, just barefoot luxury.
A hidden gem for sure
13. Usambara Mountains – Hiking Heaven
Cool off in the Usambara highlands, where the air is fresh and the views are breathtaking. Hike through lush forests, tea plantations, and charming villages.
The Irente viewpoint is a must—pack a picnic and enjoy the scenery.
Perfect for trekkers who want something different.
14. Saadani National Park – Beach + Safari Combo
Where else can you see giraffes on the beach? Saadani is the only park in Tanzania where the bush meets the ocean.
Take a boat safari on the Wami River, then relax on the quiet sandy shores.
A unique blend of two worlds.
15. Lake Natron – The Surreal Pink Lake
This alien-looking lake is bright pink due to salt-loving microorganisms. It’s also the breeding ground for flamingos.
Hike to Ol Doinyo Lengai, an active volcano, for an epic sunrise view.
One of Tanzania’s weirdest and coolest spots.
16. Gombe Stream National Park – Jane Goodall’s Chimps
Made famous by Jane Goodall, Gombe is tiny but magical. Trekking through the forest to find chimps feels like a real-life discovery channel moment.
The lake views are just the cherry on top.
A must for wildlife enthusiasts.
Final Thoughts
Tanzania is wild, beautiful, and packed with adventures. Whether you’re chasing the Big Five, relaxing on Zanzibar’s beaches, or conquering Kilimanjaro, this country delivers big time.
So what are you waiting for? Book that trip, pack your bags, and get ready for the summer of a lifetime. Tanzania’s calling—will you answer?