National Parks and ReservesTanzania boasts some of the world's most famous natural attractions, three of which are national parks in a country that offers outstanding opportunities for viewing wildlife in their natural habitat. Almost a quarter of the country is protected within a park or reserve and of these most tourists visit the 'big three' in the north: the plains of the Serengeti, famous for the annual migration of about two million wildebeest; the adjacent
Ngorongoro Conservation Area with the magnificent
Ngorongoro Crater; and
Mt Kilimanjaro National Park encompassing
Africa's
highest mountain. Other attractions, including the massive
Selous Game Reserve in the south, can be difficult or expensive to get to, and are less visited as a result.
The word 'safari' had its origins in
Tanzania, a Kiswahili word meaning 'journey', and there are unlimited safari options that can be tailor-made by any tour operator, with accommodation ranging from luxury lodges to camping. A journey by vehicle, foot, horseback or hot air balloon into prime game-viewing country is an experience not to be missed. The attractive town of
Arusha is the main gateway to the parks and reserves in the north and is the best place from which to arrange a safari.
ZanzibarLocated about 22 miles (35km) off the east coast of Tanzania,
Zanzibar is an archipelago consisting of the main island of
Unguja (commonly known as Zanzibar), Pemba Island famous for its deep-sea fishing, and about 50 smaller surrounding islands and coral reefs.
Also known as 'Spice Island', Zanzibar evokes images of an exotic paradise with white palm-fringed beaches and turquoise coves, dreamy dhows with billowing white sails, and ancient Islamic ruins. It combines Arabic alleyways and historic monuments with coral reefs and excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. Today's idyllic beach resorts belie the island's haunting history of slavery.
The island's varied history has brought with it seafarers, explorers and traders, and it became a major center for the slave industry. Its heyday was during the 19th century, when the island became the world's leading producer of cloves; its plantations still produce more than 50 different spices and fruit, and guided spice tours are a Zanzibar specialty.
Stone Town, Zanzibar's capital, is a captivating place built by Arab and Indian merchants in the 19th century from the island's coral stone. A walk through the disordered twisting alleys, past intricately-carved wooden doors and beneath ornate balconies, and with the lingering scent of spices in the air, takes one back in time to the days of a prosperous slave and spice industry. Decaying architecture, numerous mosques, a bathhouse and old fort, cool interior courtyards and lively markets are the remaining influence of the Persians and the Omani Arabs who established themselves as the ruling power here.
For centuries Zanzibar has enticed those in search of business; today it remains an irresistible attraction for those seeking a heavenly beach holiday or an exploration into its exotic heritage - or a bit of both.
Climate: Zanzibar is warm throughout the year with 7-8 hours of sunshine a day. The coastal resorts on the north and east coast are tempered by sea breezes.
Stonetown and the center of Zanzibar Island have showers throughout the year. There are heavy showers throughout the island in April and May when most tourists avoid the island and hotels close.
