Why travel to Tanzania

Travel to Tanzania to explore Africa’s most famous safari destination, the iconic Serengeti National Park, where the Great Migration of wildebeest takes place annually. Another famous tourist attraction in Tanzania is the world’s tallest free-standing mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro. Then there’s the unique Ngorongoro Crater and the area surrounding it, home to giant tusker elephants, black-maned lions, pink flamingoes in their thousands and endangered black rhino. And let’s not forget the jungle-like Lake Manyara National Park where hundreds of baboons and blue monkeys have made their home, along with tree-climbing lions and incredibly diverse birdlife.

Of course, if you prefer to stay on a paradise island, then Zanzibar is just 35km off the Tanzanian coast. Here you can swim, snorkel, scuba dive, sunbathe and savour superb cuisine. Zanzibar is a popular honeymoon destination for good reason. It's beautiful, private, enjoys glorious weather and boasts a variety of excellent accommodation options, from modest comfort to lavish luxury. Its Arabic influences make it a fascinating place to visit, and the islands surrounding it are a joy to explore.

Why visit Tanzania

People travel here to enjoy an idyllic honeymoon on the island of Zanzibar.
You can experience the iconic Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti.
Tanzania is home to the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro.
You can get to know the legendary Masai people and find out about their fascinating customs.
Tanzania has the largest concentration and diversity of animals on the African continent.
You can visit the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, the Ngorongoro Crater.

Beach or bush – or a combination of both? The choice is yours, and with Thompsons Holidays, you can enjoy either a luxury safari in Tanzania or an island getaway, or combine the two for an unmatched travel experience. Adventure abounds in Tanzania, enquire now about a 2025 Tanzania holiday package and go on an incredible journey of discovery to this magnificent African country.

Things to do in Tanzania

Beaches and wildlife abound in Tanzania, a magnificent country that offers two very distinct types of holidays. Experience a safari in some of Africa's most famous destinations, including the Serengeti National Park and legendary Ngorongoro Crater. Or, take a trip to Tanzania to enjoy island holiday in Zanzibar, where sun, sea and sand are the order of the day, every day.

Tanzania is home to an astonishing variety of wildlife. Here you can see the legendary Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra and climb to the summit of iconic Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. Tanzania's largest city, Dar-es-Salaam, also boasts beaches worth visiting, and the friendly locals include the mighty red-cloaked Masai warriors, whose cultures and traditions are as extraordinary as their beautiful outfits. There’s also history and culture aplenty, not to mention a chance to find out how various spices, including cloves, vanilla, nutmeg and cardamom, are grown in Zanzibar, aptly nicknamed The Spice Island.

Things to do in Tanzania

Go chimpanzee trekking in Mahale National Park.
Climb up Mount Kilimanjaro.
Enjoy a walking or canoeing safari in Arusha National Park.
Hike through the unspoiled Ngorongoro Highlands.
Stay in a tented camp in the Serengeti while waiting to see the Great Migration.
Explore the lakes in the Great Rift Valley.
The romantic island of Zanzibar offers a tropical island holiday, and its magical marine park is home to whale sharks and stunning coral reefs.
Discover historic Stone Town on the island of Zanzibar.
Go scuba diving off the island of Pemba.

Whatever you decide to see and do in Tanzania, you’re in for a fantastic holiday enjoying the country’s incredibly beautiful natural attractions. Ideal for families, honeymooners, friends and even solo travellers, Tanzania is a dream come true. Let Thompsons Holidays create the perfect holiday package for you.

Know before you go...

When is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit Tanzania is between September and November in the dry season when game viewing is excellent.
The great Migration takes place between Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and the Masai Mara in Kenya in the dry season. Sometimes it’s as early as mid-June, but it is often well into August and September.

Getting there

Flight duration from Johannesburg to Zanzibar, Tanzania: 3 hour, 30 minutes.
Transport within Tanzania is by road, rail or air. In Zanzibar, transport is by car or mini bus

Do I need a visa?

South African passport holders do not require a visa to enter Tanzania.
Passport must be valid for 6 months after your trip.

What time is it?

Tanzania is 1hour ahead of South Africa.

Money matters

The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS).
US dollars are widely accepted in Tanzania.
Credit cards (Visa or MasterCard) are accepted in Tanzania.
Tipping is an accepted practice in Tanzania.
Tip in US dollars if you can – carry US$1 bills with you.

Language & phrases

Swahili is the most commonly spoken language in Tanzania.
English, French and Italian are spoken in Zanzibar.
English is an official language and is spoken throughout Tanzania.

Religion

61% of the Tanzanian population is Christian & 35% is Muslim.

Health information

Drink bottled water while travelling in Tanzania.
Smoking is banned in public places.
It is advisable to take malaria prophylactics before visiting Tanzania. Check with your travel clinic about other recommended vaccinations before you go.

Travel tips

What must I pack?

Lightweight clothing for summer, layerable jacket for cooler days and nights, beach wear.
If going on safari, take khaki or light coloured clothing.
Comfortable walking shoes, sandals, flip flops.
Sunscreen, lip balm, hat and sunglasses.
Mini first aid kit and regular prescription medication.
Hand sanitiser and insect repellent.
Camera.
Travel adaptor.

What can I do to be a responsible traveller?

Wherever possible, buy local food and souvenirs and support local artisans.
Avoid single-use plastic; rather take fabric shopping bags with you and use refillable water bottles (when local drinking water is available).
Respect each other's cultures and customs and avoid imposing your beliefs.
Do not support animal encounters and wildlife activities that are harmful or unethical.

Safety tips

Always have a map (or app) on hand, especially when travelling at night.
Be safety conscious: don’t display cash or valuables. Leave jewellery and expensive watches at home.
Keep your belongings safe – use the hotel safe for passports and valuables and watch out for pickpockets and bag snatchers when out and about.

What do I do in an emergency?