Bewer Tim - Lonely Planet Tanzania

E-reader devices vary in their ability to show our maps. To get the most out of the maps in this guide, use the zoom function on your device. Or, visit http://media.lonelyplanet.com/ebookmaps and grab a PDF download or print out all the maps in this guide.

Wildlife galore, idyllic beaches, snow-capped Kilimanjaro, moss-covered ruins, friendly people, fascinating cultures Tanzania has all this and more wrapped up in one adventurous and welcoming package.

DOUGLAS STEAKLY / LONELY PLANET IMAGES
Boys and boat on a beach, Zanzibar ()

More than almost any other destination, Tanzania is the land of safaris. Thousands of wildebeest stampede across the Serengeti plains. Hundreds of hippos jostle for space in wild Katavi National Park. Massive elephant herds pass through Tarangire National Park on their seasonal migration routes. Chimpanzees swing through the treetops in the lushly forested Mahale Mountains. Wherever you go in the country, there are unparalleled opportunities to experience wildlife. Take a boat safari down the Rufiji River in Selous Game Reserve, past snoozing crocodiles and elephants cavorting on the riverbank. Watch a giraffe silhouetted against an ancient baobab tree in lovely Ruaha National Park, while zebras graze placidly nearby. Sit motionless as fish eagles soar overhead in Rubondo Island National Park and waterbirds peck in the shallows. See flamingos wading in Lake Manyara National Park, and hold your breath while a lion pads in front of your vehicle in Ngorongoro Crater.

But its not just the wildlife that enchants visitors. Tanzanias Indian Ocean coastline is also magical, with its tranquil islands and sleepy coastal villages steeped in centuries of Swahili culture. Travel back in time to the days when the East African coast was the seat of sultans and a linchpin in a far-flung trading network extending to Persia, India and beyond. Relax on powdery white sand beaches with gently swaying palm trees and vistas over the turquoise sea. Take in pastel-coloured sunrises and immerse yourself in languid coastal rhythms. Sail on a wooden dhow, with its sails billowing and its rigging creaking in the wind. Watch sea turtles nesting. Dive into crystal-clear waters, past spectacular corals and shoals of colourful fish.

Above all, dont miss the chance to get to know Tanzanias people. Walk through the Crater Highlands guided by a spear-carrying, red-shawled Maasai warrior. Get to know the semi-nomadic Barabaig near Mt Hanang. Experience the hospitality of a Tanzanian meal or the rhythms of a traditional dance. Watch a Makonde carver bring a piece of wood to life. Hike from village to village in the Usambara Mountains, stopping to chat and barter at the local markets. Learn to cook Haya-style in Bukoba. More than anything else, it is Tanzanians themselves with their characteristic warmth and politeness, and the dignity and beauty of their cultures who make a visit to the country so memorable. Chances are that you will want to come back for more, to which most Tanzanians will say karibu tena (welcome again).

ARIADNE VAN ZANDBERGEN / LONELY PLANET IMAGES
Giraffes, Ngorongoro Conservation Area ()

The pounding hooves draw closer. Suddenly, thousands of wildebeest stampede by in a cloud of dust as one of East Africas greatest natural dramas plays itself out on the Serengeti plains (). In this most superlative of East African parks, time seems to have stood still. A lion sits majestically on a rock, giraffes stride gracefully into the sunset, crocodiles bask on the riverbanks and secretary birds gaze quizzically at you from the roadside. The wildlife watching is outstanding at any time of year. Just be sure to allow enough time to appreciate all the Serengeti has to offer.

Wildebeest, Serengeti National Park
ARIADNE VAN ZANDBERGEN / LONELY PLANET IMAGES

Mt Kilimanjaro

Its difficult to resist the allure of climbing Africas highest peak (), with its snow-capped summit and views over the surrounding plains. And hundreds of trekkers do this climb each year, with a main requirement for success being adequate time for acclimatisation. But there are also other rewarding ways to experience the mountain. Take a day hike on the lush lower slopes, spend time learning about local Chagga culture or sip a sundowner from one of the many nearby vantage points with the mountain as a backdrop.

Elephants with Mt Kilimanjaro in the background, Kilimanjaro National Park
GERRY ELLIS/GETTY

Ngorongoro Crater

If you get a day without cloud cover, Ngorongoros magic starts while youre still up on the rim, with the chill air and sublime views over the enormous crater (). The descent takes you down to a wide plain cloaked in hues of blue and green. If youre lucky enough to find a quiet spot, its easy to imagine primeval Africa, with an almost constant parade of animals against a quintessential East African backdrop. Go as early in the day as possible to maximise viewing time and to take advantage of the morning light.

Trekkers looking at Ol Doinyo Lengai, Ngorongoro Conservation Area
DAVID ELSE / LONELY PLANET IMAGES

Zanzibars Stone Town

Whether its your first visit or your 50th, Zanzibars Stone Town () never loses its touch of the exotic. First, youll see the skyline, with the spires of St Josephs Cathedral and the Old Fort. Then, wander through narrow alleyways that reveal surprises at every turn. Linger at dusty shops scented with cloves, watch as men wearing white robelike kanzu play the game bao. Admire intricate henna designs on the hands of women in their bui-bui (black cover-all). Island rhythms quickly take over as mainland life slips away.

Stone Town, Zanzibar
MICHAEL FAY/GETTY IMAGES

Chimpanzee Tracking

Chimpanzee tracking () can be hard work: climbing up steep, muddy paths, stumbling over twisted roots, making your way through dense vegetation. But in an instant the sweat is all forgotten, as chimpanzees become visible in a clearing ahead. Tanzanias remote western parks Mahale Mountains and Gombe are among the best places anywhere to get close to our primate cousins. Combine chimpanzee tracking with a safari in Katavi National Park or exploration of the Lake Tanganyika shoreline for an unforgettable adventure far off the beaten track.