1. Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration

Arguably the most awe-inspiring wildlife spectacle on Earth, the Great Migration sees over 1.5 million wildebeests, 200,000 zebras, and thousands of antelope traverse the Serengeti ecosystem. This event is a cornerstone of any safari in Tanzania, providing thrilling predator encounters and dramatic river crossings.

Best Time to Visit:

• June to October: River crossings at the Grumeti and Mara rivers

• December to March: Calving season in Southern Serengeti

Where to See It:

• Serengeti National Park

Why it’s one of the best safari experiences in Tanzania:

• It tops the list of things to do in Tanzania on a wildlife safari.

• Witnessing a river crossing where crocodiles lie in wait and lions prowl the edges is a pulse-pounding experience.

• The cyclical movement of animals also attracts large predator populations, offering amazing photographic opportunities.

2. Explore the Ngorongoro Crater

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ngorongoro Crater is one of the most unique destinations for a safari in Tanzania. Its contained ecosystem is home to the Big Five and thousands of other species.

Highlights:

• Game drives across the crater floor

• Picnic lunches with panoramic views

• See endangered black rhinos

Why go:

• It’s one of the most visually striking and wildlife-rich areas—essential for your list of things to do in Tanzania.

3. Enjoy a Balloon Safari Over the Serengeti

Add luxury and awe to your safari in Tanzania by floating above the plains at dawn in a hot air balloon.

Why It’s Special:

• Aerial views of wildlife

• Champagne breakfast

• Ideal for special occasions

Added Value:

• This unforgettable flight is a must when choosing things to do in Tanzania for a romantic or unique safari.

4. Visit Tarangire National Park for Elephant Encounters

Less crowded but teeming with life, Tarangire is a haven for elephants and a hidden gem on a safari in Tanzania.

Key Attractions:

• Large elephant herds

• Baobab-dotted landscapes

• Tree-climbing lions

Why it’s a must-do:

• Tarangire offers one of the most serene yet wild safari in Tanzania experiences.

5. Take a Cultural Tour with the Maasai People

Among the essential things to do in Tanzania is connecting with the Maasai culture. These semi-nomadic people open their homes and hearts to share their lifestyle and traditions.

What to Expect:

• Village tours

• Traditional songs and dances

• Learn about herbal medicine and cattle herding

Why include it:

• Cultural tours in Tanzania enrich your safari in Tanzania, adding a human connection to the wilderness.

6. Discover Lake Manyara National Park

For those seeking diverse scenery, Lake Manyara should top your things to do in Tanzania list.

Top Experiences:

• Canoe safaris

• Tree-climbing lions

• Flamingos and birdwatching

Why visit:

• It offers an entirely different vibe and is an important stop during your safari in Tanzania.

7. Spot the Big Five in the Serengeti

Seeing the Big Five is often the highlight of a safari in Tanzania, and the Serengeti is one of the best places to do it.

What You Can See:

• Lions, elephants, leopards, buffalos, rhinos

Highlight:

• Spotting these iconic animals is one of the top things to do in Tanzania for wildlife lovers.

8. Go on a Walking Safari in Selous or Ruaha

Walking safaris add an adventurous twist to your safari in Tanzania, letting you explore the bush on foot.

Where to Try:

• Selous Game Reserve

• Ruaha National Park

Highlights:

• Track wildlife

• Learn about the ecosystem

• Raw, thrilling encounters

Why try it:

• For hands-on exploration, this is one of the most exciting things to do in Tanzania.

9. Camp Under the Stars in the Bush

Immerse yourself completely in nature by spending a night in the wild. Bush camping is a magical part of your safari in Tanzania.

Camping Options:

• Luxury tented camps

• Mobile camps

• Budget-friendly bush camps

Why include it:

• Camping is one of the most immersive things to do in Tanzania and enhances your connection with nature.

10. Extend Your Trip to Zanzibar

After your thrilling safari in Tanzania, reward yourself with a relaxing beach holiday in Zanzibar.

Why Go:

• Turquoise waters

• Historical Stone Town

• Snorkeling and spice tours

Why it matters:

• Relaxation in Zanzibar is the perfect conclusion to a vibrant list of things to do in Tanzania.

11. Climb Mount Kilimanjaro

Reaching the Roof of Africa is a bucket-list goal for many. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the most iconic things to do in Tanzania, offering a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. With multiple routes to choose from and scenery that transforms with elevation—from rainforests to glaciers—this trek is more than just a climb; it’s a spiritual journey.

Why it’s Unique:

• It’s the highest free-standing mountain in the world.

• No technical climbing experience is needed.

• Summit sunrise views are unforgettable.

12. Explore Arusha National Park

Often overlooked, Arusha National Park is perfect for short safaris or acclimatization days before climbing Kilimanjaro. Despite its small size, the park features diverse habitats, including montane forests, lakes, and volcanic craters.

Highlights:

• Canoeing on Momella Lakes

• Colobus monkey sightings

• Mount Meru hiking base

13. Visit the Hadzabe and Datoga Tribes at Lake Eyasi

Add a cultural twist to your safari in Tanzania by meeting the Hadzabe (hunter-gatherers) and the Datoga (blacksmiths) communities. Engage in traditional practices and discover a side of Tanzania untouched by modernity.

What You’ll Experience:

• Join a morning hunt with the Hadzabe

• Watch traditional metalwork by the Datoga

• Cultural exchange through storytelling and dance

14. Birdwatching Across Tanzania’s Parks

Tanzania is a paradise for bird lovers, with over 1,100 recorded species. From colorful bee-eaters to the rare shoebill stork, birdwatching can be a highlight of any safari in Tanzania.

Best Locations:

• Lake Manyara

• Serengeti

• Rubondo Island

15. Visit the Usambara Mountains

Escape the savannah heat in the lush Usambara Mountains, ideal for hiking, cultural tours, and enjoying tea plantations.

Why Go:

• Breathtaking viewpoints

• Eco-friendly lodges

• Cooler climate and rich biodiversity

16. Snorkel or Dive in Mafia Island Marine Park

This lesser-known island is a diver’s paradise. Mafia Island’s protected marine park offers pristine coral reefs and a chance to swim with whale sharks.

Highlights:

• Uncrowded dive spots

• Rich marine biodiversity

• Seasonal whale shark encounters (Oct–Feb)

17. Explore Rubondo Island National Park

Located on Lake Victoria, Rubondo offers a unique mix of forest and lake ecosystems. It’s one of Tanzania’s least visited parks but delivers exclusive experiences.

What to Do:

• Chimpanzee tracking

• Sport fishing

• Boat and canoe safaris

18. Discover Katavi National Park

Remote and wild, Katavi is ideal for seasoned safari-goers looking to escape the crowds. It’s known for huge hippo pods and thrilling predator sightings.

Key Features:

• Unspoiled wilderness

• Massive buffalo herds

• High chances of predator action

19. Take a Boat Safari in Gombe Stream National Park

Made famous by Jane Goodall, Gombe offers up-close views of chimpanzees in their natural forest habitat. A boat safari is the best way to access this park.

Experiences:

• Chimp tracking treks

• Scenic boat rides on Lake Tanganyika

• Birdwatching in lush forests

20. Hike Mount Meru

Often overlooked in favor of Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru is Tanzania’s second-highest peak and offers a challenging, less crowded trekking option.

Why It’s Worth It:

• Excellent acclimatization trek for Kilimanjaro

• Stunning views of Arusha and Kilimanjaro from the summit

• Wildlife encounters en route

Whether it’s your first visit or a return adventure, this guide will help you discover the very best things to do in Tanzania while on safari. From epic wildlife migrations to rich cultural encounters and high-altitude treks, your safari in Tanzania promises endless opportunities for awe and discovery.