10 Best Places to Visit in Tanzania and Zanzibar

Nature, history, and adventure come alive in Tanzania and Zanzibar. At Lora Adventures Africa, we believe that travel should be seamless, soulful, and deeply connected to the places you visit. That’s why we’ve crafted this guide to the top 10 places to visit in Tanzania and Zanzibar, designed to help you travel with clarity and purpose.

But before we begin, let’s clear up something we often hear from our travelers:

Is Zanzibar a Different Country from Tanzania?

Short answer: No, Zanzibar is part of the same beautiful nation.

Tanzania is made up of two main parts: the mainland (where you’ll find the Serengeti, Mount Kilimanjaro, and Ngorongoro) and the islands, primarily Zanzibar (Unguja) and Pemba. When people talk about “Tanzania,” they usually mean the mainland; “Zanzibar” typically refers to the Indian Ocean archipelago off the coast.

In this article, when we say places to visit in Tanzania and Zanzibar, we’re showcasing both parts, because to understand the full magic of this country, you need to experience both its wild heart and its coastal soul.

1. Serengeti National Park

No list of the best places to visit in Tanzania and Zanzibar would be complete without the Serengeti. Known globally for the Great Migration and its breathtaking wildlife scenes, it’s a place where nature moves on a grand scale.

What to Expect: Endless plains, golden grass, and dramatic encounters with lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, and wildebeest. This is where you come for the safari of your dreams.
When to Go: June to October for game viewing; July to September to witness the Migration in the north; January to March for the calving season.
Pro Tips: Stay longer in less crowded areas like Moru Kopjes or Namiri Plains. And yes, sunsets here really are that magical. We encourage you to consider setting aside at least 3 days for a Serengeti visit.

This is ideal for first-time safari travelers, couples seeking awe-inspiring moments, and wildlife photographers. If you combine the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, you will increase your chance of witnessing the Big Five of Africa.

2. Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater is one of Africa’s most dramatic natural wonders—and one of the top places to visit in Tanzania and Zanzibar if you’re short on time but big on impact.

What to Expect: A UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with an unbelievable density of animals—lions, rhinos, elephants, flamingos, hippos, and more, all within the lush crater floor.
When to Go: June to October for clear skies and easy wildlife spotting.
Pro Tips: Arrive early to avoid the mid-morning rush. Consider nearby Empakaai Crater for a quieter, more rugged hiking experience. Ngorongoro Crater can be visited in a day for a day trip or combined with other parks in a multi-day safari package.

Perfect for families, nature lovers, and travelers who want the most wildlife in the least amount of time.

3. Mount Kilimanjaro

You don’t need to climb it to be impressed, Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak, dominates the skyline and inspires every traveler who lays eyes on it. Among all places to visit in Tanzania and Zanzibar, this one stirs the soul.

What to Expect: Towering snow-capped peaks, lush rainforest trails, and panoramic views.
When to Go: January to March and June to October for the best climbing conditions.
Pro Tips: Stay in Moshi or Arusha and explore nearby attractions like Materuni Waterfalls, Shira Plateau, or Kikuletwa Hot Springs. All are accessible without a summit attempt. You can climb up to the peak in a multi-day hiking expedition, or have a preview of the Kilimanjaro climbing experience by taking a Kilimanjaro Day Hike.

Great for adventurous spirits and those who want to witness Tanzania’s highlands up close.

4. Tarangire National Park

Tarangire is a hidden gem among places to visit in Tanzania and Zanzibar. It’s less crowded than the Serengeti but teeming with life.

What to Expect: Massive elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and peaceful game drives.
When to Go: June to October when animals congregate along the Tarangire River.
Pro Tips: Spend the night at a remote camp in the south for starry skies and nocturnal animal calls. Tarangire National Park can be visited in a day as a day trip or as part of a multi-day safari that includes other parks such as the Serengeti and Lake Manyara.

Perfect for those seeking a slower, more intimate safari experience.

5. Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara may be compact, but it’s bursting with diversity. If you’re looking for scenic variety among places to visit in Tanzania and Zanzibar, this one delivers.

What to Expect: Tree-climbing lions, pink flamingos, blue monkeys, forest elephants, and towering escarpments.
When to Go: June to October is best for game drives, though the landscape is especially lush right after the rains.
Pro Tips: Walk the treetop canopy bridge or visit the nearby village of Mto wa Mbu for a taste of local life.

Ideal for day trips, family outings, or anyone who wants a diverse wildlife experience in a short time.

6. Zanzibar (Nungwi & Kendwa)

Now to the islands. If you’re dreaming of palm-fringed beaches, head to Nungwi and Kendwa on Zanzibar’s north coast, some of the most luxurious places to visit in Tanzania and Zanzibar.

What to Expect: Powdery white sand, calm turquoise waters, and unforgettable sunsets. Unlike other beaches on the island, these aren’t heavily affected by tides.
When to Go: June to October and December to March.
Pro Tips: Visit the Mnarani Turtle Sanctuary or take a dhow cruise at sunset.

Best for honeymooners, families, and anyone craving rest with a splash of ocean adventure.

7. Stone Town, Zanzibar

Stone Town is where cultures collide and history lives in every alley. Among the places to visit in Tanzania and Zanzibar, this is where you feel the heartbeat of Swahili culture.

What to Expect: Winding alleys, coral stone buildings, bustling markets, and rich Islamic, Arab, and African heritage.
When to Go: Year-round, though the cooler months of June to October offer a pleasant walking experience.
Pro Tips: Join a spice tour, visit the House of Wonders, and shop for handmade crafts. Respect local customs by wearing modest attire.

Great for cultural explorers, solo travelers, and those who want to dive into Zanzibar’s layered past.

8. Paje & Jambiani (Zanzibar South-East Coast)

For a more relaxed and local vibe, head southeast. These laid-back villages are some of the most peaceful places to visit in Tanzania and Zanzibar.

What to Expect: Breezy beaches, kite surfing, friendly locals, and slow, beautiful mornings.
When to Go: January to March or June to October.
Pro Tips: Visit the Seaweed Center, try Swahili cooking, or cycle along the coast at sunset.

A favorite for digital nomads, solo travelers, and families seeking serenity.

9. Ruaha National Park

If you want to get far off the beaten path, Ruaha is where the wild still rules. It’s Tanzania’s largest park and one of the quietest places to visit in Tanzania and Zanzibar.

What to Expect: Big cats, elephants, giraffes, and very few safari vehicles. Ruaha is raw and untamed.
When to Go: Dry season (June to October) for prime wildlife viewing.
Pro Tips: Fly into Msembe Airstrip for easy access. Try a walking safari for a deep, visceral experience.

Perfect for experienced safari-goers, photographers, and solitude seekers.

10. Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous)

Rivers, boat safaris, and thick wilderness define Nyerere. It’s one of the wildest and most aquatic places to visit in Tanzania and Zanzibar.

What to Expect: Boat rides with hippos and crocs, riverside game drives, and thick woodlands.
When to Go: June to October. Bird lovers will also enjoy the lush green season from November to March.
Pro Tips: Combine it with a Zanzibar beach stay for the ultimate bush-to-beach experience.

A top pick for couples and intrepid travelers craving something different.

How we can help you explore the top places in Tanzania and Zanzibar

At Lora Adventures Africa, we don’t just show you the sights. We help you feel the rhythm of each place, clearly, professionally, and with a touch of soul. The most rewarding places to visit in Tanzania and Zanzibar offer more than views, they offer perspective, and we are here to help you experience that.

Let us help you craft a journey that stays with you long after you’ve left. Contact Us Now.