Travel to Tanzania, a country that combines culture and natural beauty, blazes a trail to a series of experiences that you won’t find anywhere else. Below you will read about 9 facts worth experiencing on a trip of a lifetime in the Tanzanian countryside. Welcome, then, to an exciting journey through the wonderful Tanzania, a destination rich in wild beauty and cultural wealth.
#1 Chase wildlife
Starting with a safari in the national parks, Tanzania is a wildlife paradise. The Serengeti, Tarangire and Ngorongoro National Parks are some of the most spectacular and renowned wildlife areas in Tanzania.
The feeling of being face to face with lions, elephants and other wild animals in Serengeti National Park is unforgettable. Tarangire National Park is known for its large variety of elephants, while also supporting a plethora of other mammals. The Tarangire River runs through the park and provides a rich ecosystem for wildlife.
The Ngorongoro area is an amazing caldera, caused by a volcanic eruption. Within, the Ngorongoro Crater, is a unique ecological site with a wide variety of wildlife including lions, buffalo, zebras and more. The above national parks offer opportunities for safaris and wildlife observation, while also provide a unique opportunity to experience the African nature in all its glory.
Read about the unique experience of our 4-day safari in Tanzania, here.
#2 Tour on banana plantations – Tasting local beer
A visit and a guided tour of the banana plantations will give you valuable information about the cultivation of bananas and the different varieties of bananas (3 different types of banana) grown in the area. One type is eaten as a fruit, while another is only used for cooking. Finally, the last variety of banana is used to make the local beer (banana beer).
Making the local beer from bananas is a traditional process. Bananas are usually roasted, as this imparts a sweeter taste, and are then used to ferment beer. The taste of banana beer, a traditional drink, will take you on a journey through the flavors of the local Tanzanian cuisine.
#3 Visiting rice plantations
Visiting rice plantations to the world of agriculture, gives you the opportunity to learn more about the production and cultivation process of this important cereal. As you walk through the fields, you can observe the stages of rice development, from the planting stage to the harvest. During your visit, you have the opportunity to talk with local farmers and learn about their traditions, techniques they also use and the challenges they face in the fields.
Also, there is a change to try to understand the working conditions of the farmers. It is an opportunity to understand the importance of their work and the role it plays in the local community. In this way, a simple visit to rice plantations can turn into a rich educational experience and strengthen your connection with the local culture and the value of agriculture in everyday life.
#4 Meet the oldest tree
In Tanzania, specifically in the village of Mto wa mbu, you have the opportunity to see up close the Baobab tree, which dates back 2.500 years, located on the hills of Mto wa mbu village. To get there you will need a local guide, who will take you there on bicycles passing through banana plantations, traditional houses and a path where you will need to walk for 10′.
You can have the above experiences in the village of Mto wa mbu by planning a tour with a local guide. You can either request this tour from the agency you will book the safari with or arrange it entirely by yourself through the local community here.
#5 Climbing Kilimanjaro
Jumping to the top of Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain peak in Africa, is an unforgettable adventure. The height of Kilimanjaro is about 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. Its peak is called Uhuru Peak and is one of the most iconic destinations for climbers and adventurers. The climb to the top offers a stunning view of the surrounding landscapes, rewarding your effort with an unforgettable experience. You will need 3 days to climb it and 2 days to come down and of course it is outmost necessity to be very well prepared. The guide you will choose will help you with this.
#6 Meet the Materuni waterfalls
At Materuni waterfalls in Kilimanjaro, you can discover the magic of nature. The impressive waterfalls offer a relaxing atmosphere and an opportunity for photos that will last forever. There you will have the possibility to combine a coffee experience that you will read below.
#7 Coffee experience
A special experience is the “coffee experience” in the village of Materuni at the footsteps of Mount Kilimanjaro, where the locals share the art of coffee cultivation and production. A trip to the Tanzanian countryside will introduce you to the world of traditional coffee cultivation and processing, an experience that will strengthen your relationship with this aromatic beverage. You will be very actively involved in this process and you will taste the delicious organic coffee you just helped prepare. If you wish, you can then buy the coffee you made yourself at a very good price.
Don’t miss the opportunity to see the Materuni waterfalls up close and participate in the production of Tanzanian coffee. Plan this experience with the travel guide you will be having the safari or book this activity on your own, here.
#8 Visit Africa’s most famous Art Gallery
In the city of Arusha, you can visit the largest Art Gallery in Africa. This fairground is a spiritual heart for the region’s artistic world, offering a paradise for art and culture lovers. The variety of artworks you will encounter there reflects the region’s rich cultural heritage. From traditional and tribal works, to contemporary art expressions, the gallery showcases an exciting mix of traditional and contemporary displays.
Furthermore, you can discover the stories behind each work and understand how art is connected to the identity and culture of the region. This experience highlights African art in all its glory, offering a journey into a world of colors, emotions and spirit worth exploring.
#9 Dive into Chemka springs
A trip to Chemka hot springs will relax you with their crystal waters. This natural thermal bath is the perfect end to an adventurous trip. It is the only breath of fresh air for both locals and travelers as there is no access to the sea in this part of Tanzania.
These 9 experiences in Tanzania represent only a small part of the treasure that this wonderful African country hides. Tanzania offers a multidimensional world that unites nature, culture and adventure. This trip will leave you with lasting impressions and memories that will last a lifetime.
Read also: First time safari in Tanzania: Everything you need to know!
