Tanzania is a land of contrasts—golden savannas on one side, turquoise shores on the other. It is home to Mount Kilimanjaro, the towering “House of God,” where local legend speaks of spirits guarding its icy peak. Below, the Serengeti stretches endlessly, where lions prowl and wildebeest thunder across the plains in the Great Migration. The Maasai people have lived here for centuries, their traditions standing strong against time.

Yet Tanzania is more than just the wild. On the coast, Dar es Salaam buzzes with energy, its markets filled with spices, fresh seafood, and the rhythms of Swahili culture. Just beyond, Zanzibar awaits—a world of white-sand beaches, spice farms, and ancient alleyways, where Arabian, African, and European influences have mixed for centuries. Cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon once made it a trading empire, and even today, the island still carries the scent of its past.

From sunrise safaris to sunset by the sea, Tanzania is where Africa’s wild heart meets island paradise.

In this guide, we’ll explore must-visit places, local flavors, and the best way to stay connected while traveling.

Must-See Attractions in Tanzania

Serengeti: A Land That Never Rests

The Serengeti is where nature moves on its own clock. Every year, millions of wildebeest and zebras cross its plains, searching for food and water. Lions follow. Cheetahs chase. This is the Great Migration, a sight you won’t see anywhere else. Even when the migration ends, the Serengeti never sleeps—elephants roam, leopards hide in the trees, and hyenas laugh under the stars.

Ngorongoro Crater: A Lost World

This massive crater was once a volcano. Now, it holds one of the richest wildlife areas in Africa. Lions rest in the grass, flamingos gather at the lakes, and rhinos wander through the mist. The Maasai people still graze their cattle near the crater, just as they have for centuries.

Mount Kilimanjaro: The Roof of Africa

At 5,895 meters, Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in Africa. In the Maasai language, its name means the "House of God." The mountain stands alone, rising from the plains with its snowy peak. Some come to climb it, while others simply watch as the morning sun turns its slopes golden.

Zanzibar: The Spice-Scented Island

Zanzibar feels like another world. White-sand beaches stretch for miles, and the air smells of cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In Stone Town, history whispers from every corner—old Arabic doors, narrow streets, and markets full of colorful fabrics. Once a trading hub, today it's a place where history, culture, and relaxation meet.

Dar es Salaam: Tanzania’s Coastal Soul

Tanzania’s biggest city is loud, lively, and full of movement. Dhows sail the coastline, markets overflow with fresh seafood, and streets hum with Swahili rhythms. The Kivukoni Fish Market is a must-see, while nearby islands like Bongoyo offer a quick escape to quiet beaches.

Local Cuisine: What to Eat in Tanzania

Nyama Choma – The Grilled Meat Feast

A favorite across Tanzania, nyama choma is meat grilled slowly over an open flame. Goat is the most popular, but beef and chicken are also common. It’s served simply—with a sprinkle of salt, a side of fresh tomato and onion salad, and sometimes ugali. Locals enjoy it with friends, often turning the meal into a long, social gathering.

Ugali – A Tanzanian Staple

This thick maize flour porridge is a part of almost every meal. It doesn’t have much flavor on its own, but it’s the perfect side for meat, vegetables, or fish. Tanzanians eat it by rolling a piece in their hands and using it to scoop up sauce—no utensils needed!

Zanzibar Pilau – Spice-Infused Rice

Zanzibar is known as the “Spice Island,” and its pilau is packed with flavor. Cooked with cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and cumin, this fragrant rice dish is often served with chicken, beef, or fish. It’s a favorite for celebrations and special occasions.

Mishkaki – Tanzania’s Grilled Skewers

These juicy meat skewers are Tanzania’s version of kebabs. Marinated in spices and grilled over hot charcoal, mishkaki is a popular street food. Vendors serve it with a tangy chili sauce and fresh lime for extra flavor.

Mandazi – A Sweet, Fried Snack

Soft and slightly sweet, mandazi is Tanzania’s take on fried dough. Sometimes flavored with coconut or cardamom, it pairs perfectly with a cup of hot chai. You’ll find it in markets, roadside stalls, and bakeries across the country.

Essential Travel Tips for Tanzania

Money & Payments

• The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the local currency, but US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas.
• Credit cards work in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but cash is needed for markets and local vendors.
• ATMs are available in major cities but can be scarce in remote areas—withdraw cash before heading into the countryside.

Getting Around

• Domestic flights are the quickest way to reach safari parks or Zanzibar.
• Dala dalas (local minibuses) are cheap but often overcrowded and unpredictable.
• Taxis don’t use meters, so always negotiate the fare before starting your trip.
• Hiring a driver with a 4x4 is the best option for safaris and rural travel, especially during the rainy season.

Staying Safe

• Tanzania is generally safe, but pickpocketing can happen in crowded areas—keep valuables close.
• On safari, always follow your guide’s advice and stay inside vehicles when required.
• Avoid walking alone at night in cities—stick to well-lit areas or take a taxi.
• Mosquito protection is essential—use repellent and consider malaria medication, especially in lowland and coastal areas.

Staying Connected in Tanzania

During our travels, staying connected is essential—whether for navigation, sharing experiences, booking transport, or planning the next adventure. So, how does connectivity work in Tanzania?

Public Wi-Fi is available in major hotels, upscale restaurants, and some shopping malls in cities like Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Zanzibar. However, these networks are often unsecured, making them risky for activities like online banking or entering personal information. Outside of these areas, reliable Wi-Fi is scarce, and speeds may not always be consistent. In remote regions, such as national parks and rural villages, internet access is extremely limited.

For travelers who need stable mobile data, purchasing a local SIM card is the best option. SIM cards can be bought at official provider stores in airports, city centers, and shopping malls. Registration is required, and you’ll need to present your passport for verification. The process is generally straightforward, but it may take some time depending on store queues and network activation.

With Tanzania JetSet eSIM, you can skip the entire process and stay connected from the moment you arrive. No searching for SIM vendors, waiting in line, or dealing with paperwork—just instant mobile data on your device.

JetSet eSIM plans come with no roaming fees, so you can stay online without unexpected charges. Need more data? Simply purchase another eSIM online in just a few clicks.

Stay connected effortlessly and enjoy your time in Tanzania!