Nothing will make you appreciate the great outdoors like the lakes, mountains and wildlife of this captivating country
Get ready for an unforgettable experience in this Tanzania offers the most fulfilling experience for those who love the outdoors, adventures, or nature.
The big picture
Located in East Africa, Tanzania is a vast country made up of everything from rugged wilderness, pristine coastlines and bustling cities. It would be impossible to condense all of Tanzania’s culture and geography into one trip (or even several), but three of the country’s most northerly regions, Arusha, Manyara and Kilimanjaro, are where you’ll find some of its best known natural wonders. Even here, there is a lot to cram in, from safari experiences to Africa’s highest mountain. Depending on your itinerary, you’re probably going to want to spend at least a week here to do it in any way justice. Now get your hiking boots and rucksack, and you’re good to go!
How to get there
Tanzania is a popular travel destination from Hong Kong, but it is more common to fly from Hong Kong to Kenya, because most travellers like to hop over the border and visit both countries. The connecting game safaris makes it easy to transfer from Kenya to Tanzania or vice versa.
Must dos
1. Serengeti National park: The great wildebeest and other animals, such as Zebra, migrate north every year. As their pattern is fairly predictable, it’s possible to plan your trip to coincide with their annual migration — and trust us, it’s one natural phenomenon you do not want to miss. There’s nothing more magnificent than seeing hundreds and thousands of animals crossing the Mara river. Giraffes, warthogs, and even cheetahs can also be spotted grazing in the Serengeti grasslands — it’s just like being in the Lion King!
2. Ngorongoro conservation area: Home to the Ngorongoro Crater, the Ngorongoro conservation area is another must-visit spot in Tanzania. The Ngorongoro Crater is a volcanic caldera, which are created when an eruption of magma causes the ground to collapse, leaving a couldren-shaped hole. Viewed from afar, the huge crater will make you feel as if you’re on Mercury. There are also many hotels located near the crater with balconies overlooking the area, making for a magnificent view!
3. Lake Manyara: The diversity of flora and fauna is makes Lake Manyara so special. It’s both a watering -hole for the local wildlife and a magnet for tourists. It’s also frequented by more than three hundred migratory birds. If you’re an animal lover, this is your new happy place.
4. Mount Kilimanjaro: The highest mountain in Africa, the peaks of this dormant volcano are instantly recognisable. Simply admire the view from afar, or put your best foot forward and try one of the hiking trails. There are multiple trails ranging in difficulty, so hikers of all ranges to take on the challenge. The temperature during the summer in the Kilimanjaro region is also cool and breezy, making for a pleasant hike.
Top photo spot
That pink spot on the landscape isn’t a pink lake, it’s actually an enormous cluster of flamingoes. Lake Natron is the breeding ground of thousands of flamingoes, making a visit there a truly once in a lifetime experience. Both up-close and from afar, this amazing display from nature is guaranteed to make for a magical shot – but you might want to get a camera rather than using your phone to really capture the detail.