Tanzania holidays: Your guide to safari, beaches and adventure

Tanzania at a glance

• Flight duration (from London): 12 hours

• Main airport: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and Abeid Amani Karume Airport (ZNZ)

• Population: 69.8 million

• Language: Swahili and English

• Currency: The Tanzania shilling

• Time zone: East Africa Time (GMT+3)

The best time to visit Tanzania

Choose the best time for your Tanzania holidays wisely, especially if you want to catch the best weather and wildlife. The best time to visit is during the dry season (June to October). With clear skies and minimal rain, the weather is ideal for Tanzania safari holidays and exploring beaches in Zanzibar. This is also the prime time for the Great Wildebeest Migration, as over two million wildebeest, zebras and gazelles thunder across the Serengeti to the Masai Mara in Kenya (best seen from July to September). Watching them cross the crocodile-infested Mara River is an experience you'll never forget.

If you want to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, plan your holiday from December to March or June to October. The weather is mild, with few showers. The wet season (November to May) brings lush green landscapes and fewer tourists. Just avoid March to May, when heavy rain can make travel tricky.

Top attractions in Tanzania

Watch wildlife at Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park is home to the Great Wildebeest Migration. You'll spot lions lounging under acacia trees, elephants roaming in herds and cheetahs chasing their next meal. For the ultimate safari, take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise. If you're lucky, you will experience one of the world's most spectacular wildlife events.

Hike Mount Kilimanjaro

Fancy standing on Africa's highest peak? At 19,341 feet, Mount Kilimanjaro is a bucket-list climb for adventurers worldwide. You don't need technical skills; stamina, determination and a love for breathtaking views are enough. The trek takes 5-9 days, depending on the route, and you'll hike through rainforests and snowy summits.

FAQs about Tanzania holidays

Q: Is Tanzania a beautiful country?

A: Yes. Tanzania is one of the most breathtaking countries in Africa. From the golden plains of the Serengeti to the snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro, its landscapes are beautiful. The turquoise waters of Zanzibar's beaches, the wildlife-packed Ngorongoro Crater and the ancient baobab trees of Tarangire make it a paradise for nature lovers.

Q: What is the best month to go to Tanzania?

A: July is the best month to visit Tanzania. The weather is dry and sunny but not hot, making it perfect for safaris, beach trips and adventure. This is prime time for the Great Wildebeest Migration, as thousands of animals cross the Mara River in the Serengeti. In Zanzibar, the beaches are stunning, with clear blue skies and calm waters.

Q: Is Tanzania safe for UK tourists?

A: Yes. Tanzania is a safe country for tourists, especially in popular tourist areas like Zanzibar, Kilimanjaro and Serengeti. Most visits are trouble-free, but petty crime can occur in busy cities like Dar es Salaam and Arusha. Be sure to stay alert and avoid flashing valuables. When on a safari, follow the guide's instructions for safety around wildlife.