Travel to Tanzania, top 30 best activities in 2023part1
Tanzania awakens the senses. A land of beauty and excitement, deep cultural connections and wildlife on a massive scale. There are so many different places to stay on a trip to Tanzania: authentic safari camps in national parks or lavish lodges in private game reserves, riverside accommodation, riverside camps a large lake or isolated huts on the top of the hills.
Tanzania is a country of endless skies and spectacular landscapes. Go on a safari and hot air balloon adventure to see the 'big five', huge elephants, big cats and the great wildebeest migration.
Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and Zanzibar, as well as Mount Kilimanjaro, have put Tanzania on the map, but if you dig a little deeper you'll find some breathtaking hidden gems. For example, Singita Grumeti Exclusive Reserve has no fenced borders, allowing animals to roam freely from its neighbor, Serengeti National Park. On the southern border of the Serengeti you will find Mwiba, a private game reserve teeming with wildlife. Further south, between Tarangire National Park and Lake Manyara, is the Burunge Protected Area, an invaluable wildlife corridor. Even Zanzibar has its own surprises, scratch the surface and discover private islands and exclusive villas.
Read this guide to learn all about the destination: the best activities and visits and tips to follow to fully enjoy this unforgettable experience.
?Where is Tanzania located
The United Republic of Tanzania is an East African country that borders the Indian Ocean. Its neighbors are Kenya and Uganda to the north, Rwanda, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west, and Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique to the south. The country includes the island of Zanzibar.
?How to go to Tanzania
By plane
Tanzania has several international airports served by major airlines, making getting around relatively easy. Kilimanjaro International Airport in Arusha is the second largest and busiest airport after Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam. Many airlines offer non-stop flights to Tanzania from different cities around the world. If you are coming from North America, Europe or Asia, you can use major hub airports such as Dubai, Amsterdam, Frankfurt or Istanbul to connect. Another choice is to fly to Nairobi, Kenya and then fly to Tanzania.
By train
Tanzania and its neighbors are linked by a number of railway lines. The Central Line connects Tanzania and Zambia and runs from Dar es Salaam to Kapiri Mposhi in Zambia, making it one of the best known rail lines. In addition, there is the TAZARA railway line, which connects Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, to New Kapiri Mposhi, Zambia. The Usambara Railway also connects Kenya and the Tanga region of Tanzania. From Dar es Salaam to Cape Town, South Africa, passengers can also board the luxurious Rovos Rail train, which makes several stops along the way.
By bus
Depending on your starting point, you can take different bus lines to get to Tanzania. Tanzania is accessible by bus from many African nations, and many bus companies operate there.
Several bus companies run daily services to many cities in Tanzania including Dar es Salaam, Arusha and Moshi if you are departing from Nairobi, Kenya. Depending on your location and the border crossing, the trip takes between 8 and 10 hours.
You can also travel to Nairobi by bus from Kampala, Uganda and then continue to Tanzania. There are also express buses that take around 24 hours to get to Dar es Salaam.
There is also a bus from Rwanda to Dar es Salaam, which will take you around 24 hours, or to Arusha, which will take you around 14 hours.
Additionally, transport is available from Malawi, Zambia and Mozambique to a number of locations in Tanzania. To ensure your trip goes smoothly, it is advisable to research reputable bus companies and book your tickets in advance.
By car
Tanzania has a number of entry points including the borders with Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and Zambia. It is essential to keep this in mind if you intend to travel to Tanzania by car. However, it is imperative to have all the necessary travel documents, such as a valid passport and visa, if required.
You should also confirm that your car is in excellent working order and has all the required documents, such as insurance and registration. You must be in possession of an international driving license if you are traveling to Tanzania by car.
You can check the Tanzania immigration website or the official websites of the Tanzanian embassy or consulate in your country for the requirements for entering Tanzania by car. For detailed information on visa and entry requirements, which may change depending on your nationality and the reason for your visit, you can also contact the embassy or consulate.
?How to get around during a trip to Tanzania
Domestic flights
If you arrive by plane during your trip to Tanzania, you will probably land in Dar es Salaam. Remember that local airlines with connections to other domestic destinations, such as Arusha or Kilimanjaro, are known for delays and cancellations, while flights to smaller towns, such as Kigoma, may be advertised but actually unavailable.
As a general rule, plan for flight delays and give yourself a day before catching your international flight home. Private flights are available to travel to national parks, but their price is significantly higher.
Taxis
Tanzania's largest city is Dar es Salaam, an urban center that stretches along the eastern coast. Dar Es Salaam is famous for its chaotic traffic, which can become a nightmare during office hours on weekdays. The number of traffic lights is limited and their rotation is infrequent, which means that when you take a red light, you will have to wait for a certain time.
In Dar Es Salaam, white cars are identifiable by a yellow stripe and a three-digit number on the side. It is always preferable to determine the cost of your race with the driver on the basis of a fixed price before departure. If your taxi passes through a toll station, the toll is usually paid by the taxi driver, not you.
Tuk-tuks and boda bodas (motorcycle taxis) are cheaper options available throughout Tanzania, but they are more dangerous than taxis in city traffic. Many tuk-tuks and bicycle taxis are unregistered, so be aware of the risk of theft and extortion, especially at night. Uber is relatively new to Dar es Salaam and offers an alternative to taxis in the capital.
Bus
Local buses (dala dalas) are a cheap way to get around Tanzanian cities, only 0.2 euro each way, but they require some knowledge of Swahili. If you take a dala dala, expect to get closer to your neighbors as the ride is tight and bumpy. Be careful with your wallet and mobile phone on these buses.
Overland buses are an economical option for getting around town in Tanzania, but they can be extremely long and uncomfortable due to poorly maintained roads. Don't expect to have air conditioning or toilets on board – many overland buses are quite basic and have been known to break down on the side of the road.
You'll have several opportunities to use restrooms or eat at various stops along the way and it's a good idea to take your bag or backpack with you if you get off the bus.
Trains
The train is a safe transit option to connect Dar es Salaam to Mwanza and Kigoma via Tabora. There is also a second rail service that goes all the way to southwestern Zambia.
Although the rail system is a more comfortable transit option than buses, it requires some time and is notorious for long delays, which can leave you stranded at the connecting station at night.
To deal with this situation, it is advisable to carry a mobile phone with a local SIM card to make emergency calls. It is also recommended that you store your luggage securely if you are traveling in a sleeping car and intend to close your eyes. Never accept food or drink from a stranger, as drug-related thefts have been reported.
Autonomous driving
If you decide to drive yourself in urban areas, you need to know the traffic laws (or lack thereof), parking rules and potential hazards. Car thefts are rare, but thieves have stolen valuables from unlocked vehicles and opened windows during traffic stops; so keep your windows closed and your doors locked when driving.
For travel within the country, it is strongly recommended to take a 4×4 vehicle with rental insurance and a local SIM card for outgoing calls, in case your vehicle breaks down. Sections of road between towns can be extremely isolated, so try to stay off the roads at night and pack food, water and fuel accordingly.
Be aware that buses may attempt to pass you and oncoming vehicles may enter your lane to overtake other cars. In the event of an accident, go to the nearest police station to report the incident.
Transportation tips for traveling in Tanzania
Make sure you have change if you want to take local transport, as you will have to pay the exact fare and the drivers may not have change.
Do your research if you want to book a safari, as Tanzania can sometimes be expensive, take the time to find the right company for you.
When out in the wild in Tanzania, be sure to listen to your guide's advice and don't irritate the animals, as they are wild and unpredictable.
If you travel by bus between Tanzania and another country, remember that the cost of your visa is not included in the bus ticket.
Where to stay in Tanzania? Types of accommodation
Tanzania has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious lodges in national parks, historic buildings in the winding lanes of Stone Town, sprawling resorts and rustic beach huts along the beaches of Zanzibar, down to a plethora of mid-range hotels and budget guesthouses.
Hotels
Hotels in Tanzania range from expensive, beautifully finished luxury hotels with all the trappings found in popular cities and tourist areas, to generic mid-range hotels preferred by local business people, and guesthouses and cheap housing in regional towns, which, while sometimes adequate, has little atmosphere and can present security issues.
The island of Zanzibar probably offers the best choice of accommodation, from luxury resorts to beach bungalows and budget hotels. On the beach there are large, modern, comprehensive resorts catering to package holidaymakers, while the capital, Stone Town, has many hotels in atmospheric converted historic buildings, often with ornate four-poster beds and decorated with antiques and Persian rugs.
Bed and breakfast
Known locally as "board and lodgings", these establishments are often branches of local restaurants and provide very inexpensive accommodation, but they offer little more than a bed in a bare room with a door that may or may not be locked. . In these establishments, you will need to ensure that the rooms are clean, that there is water in the bathrooms and you will need to take special care of your belongings during your stay in Tanzania. These establishments cannot be reserved in advance.
Camping
There are public campsites in many national parks. Some are equipped with standard fittings, including taps, toilets and firewood; others are more rudimentary, with just a clear space to park a vehicle and pitch a tent. Park camping permits must be paid for at the same time as admission to each park. It is advisable to check the prices and operation of the sites before arrival.
Lodges
There are safari lodges in all national parks and game reserves. Some of them have hundreds of rooms and are aimed at families and tour groups, and while they have decent standards, they can feel a bit impersonal. Others are high-end luxury lodges or tented camps with just a few decadent rooms, which offer impeccable service in stunning locations. Expect to pay extortionate prices for even the most 'budget' lodges, and booking for the most popular lodges in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro National Parks is a must. Bookings can be made through specialist safari tour operators, or by contacting the lodges directly.
Resorts
There are dozens of beach resorts on Zanzibar and a few places on the mainland coast that cater to holidaymakers looking for the typical sun, sea and sand experience. Most were sensibly constructed, with rooms in low makuti thatched building blocks. They offer B&B, half-board, full-board or "all-inclusive" rates (extras like water sports and children's activities can be included). Reservations can be made directly with the resort or through local tour operators. Room rates in resorts tend to be seasonal – high season is from early June to mid-October and again from Christmas to mid-February; at those times,
?What to eat in Tanzania
Gastronomy
Influences and exoticism
Tanzania's local cuisine is surprisingly diverse. It reflects the national characteristics of African, Arabic and Persian cuisines. The colonial influence from Europe, as well as the active development of tourism added some European dishes to the Tanzanian menu. Thus, she became even more exotic and unique. There are no exquisite fancy dishes in traditional cuisine. The main idea of African food is to be as hearty as possible. Most recipes use poultry and goat as meat. Plants, vegetables and fruits play an important role. They often make dishes unique.
sweets
Particular attention should be paid to sweets in Tanzania. Arab culture has profoundly changed this sphere of cooking. Among culinary recipes, dishes based on honey are of great importance. Tanzanian honey is loved by lovers of this product due to its saturated taste. Fruit ice cream, cakes with banana custard and samosa pies are worth mentioning. The coffee and almond dessert, Halo, is also very tasty. This is a sweet mass with the addition of cereals. Fresh fruits, which are sometimes served with honey, as well as maandazi cakes, similar to candied cakes, are very popular.
Coffee and tea
Coffee and tea are the main beverages in Tanzania. It is customary to drink tea with milk. This tradition was established by English settlers. The coffee in Tanzania is considered one of the best in the world; it is definitely worth trying. You can quench your thirst with freshly squeezed fruit juice with ice. Guests in the country are still offered cutlery in restaurants and cafes. However, local people are used to eating with their fingers. Locals put three fingers together to take food. There are always shoots of a young carnation. They are not added to food. They can be chewed for a few seconds before the start of the meal. This makes it possible to refresh the mouth and reveal all the taste characteristics of the dishes. Special pastry cakes are served. They are used to replace bread.
Top 5 best Tanzanian dishes
Chips Eggs
Chipsi mayai, which means “chips and eggs” in Swahili, is a popular comfort food in Tanzania. In its purest form, it's nothing more than an omelet with chips, but that's exactly where its beauty lies – in its simplicity. You will also notice that fries in Tanzania are a bit different from those in the West: they are always made with fresh potatoes, cut and peeled by hand, and fried until tender. crisp yellow. You'll find Mayai chipsi sold at most restaurants and outdoor food stalls, and locals usually like to eat it with toothpicks and a squirt of ketchup. The breakfast of champions!
Grilled meat
Nyama choma translates to "grilled meat", the most common type being goat meat. Normally the meat is detached from the carcass and tossed on the grill right in front of you, letting you know it's fresh. Once on the grill, it is left to cook very slowly over hot coals, which gives it a wonderful smoky taste. You'll also notice that the meat is chewy, gamey, and full of flavor, a stark contrast to the soft, tender steaks found in the West. The goats aren't pampered on a farm and the meat isn't aged, and that's exactly how the locals like it. Nyama choma is best eaten with a group of friends; cooking a dish can take from 45 minutes to an hour,
habit
Ugali is the most common staple food in Tanzania because it is easy to cook and affordable. Cornmeal and water are slowly cooked until they reach a paste consistency, after which they are allowed to set for a while before eating. It's hard to draw a good comparison, but it could be likened to a cross between polenta and mashed potatoes (maybe).
To taste it, you have to break off a piece and crush it into a small ball in the palm of your hand; this is then dipped into the main course and put in the mouth. It can be served with almost any main course, but is usually eaten with nyama choma or mchuzi, a kind of soup or stew. It can be hard to get used to, but once you do, it can get weirdly addicting. Attention !
Skewer
Mshikaki are skewers of marinated meat cooked slowly over hot coals. You will no doubt notice a pleasant difference in taste compared to the barbecued meat found in the West. For what ? Because African meat simply tastes better!
Mshikaki is a popular street food and you'll often see it served outside nightclubs and in open-air restaurants late at night. The Mshikaki stands out on the street and usually draws crowds in the early hours of the day. There is a wide variety of meats, but the most popular are goat, beef and mutton. Grilling isn't rushed and you may have to wait a bit, but it's the slow cooking that gives that great flavor and is worth it. Order at least five or six, because if you only order one or two, you'll probably find yourself queuing up for more.
Pizza Zanzibar
Popular on the island from which it takes its name, this “pizza” is probably one of the most interesting and delicious things you will eat in Tanzania. It starts with a sheet of dough which is then filled with onions, peppers, meat, a raw egg and maybe a slice of cheese, all wrapped in a sandwich sized pocket. and then placed on the pan to fry in a puddle of oil. What emerges is a crispy, chewy square that looks like an oversized, delicious dumpling. It is also possible to find dessert versions, such as chocolate and banana.
When traveling to Tanzania, it is absolutely necessary that you try it at least once (or two or three or four or five times).
Don't be afraid to try new things here; they are fresh, safe and simply delicious. Good tasting.
Continue reading part two
Source: websites