Tanzania, a land of breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife, is a dream destination for road trip enthusiasts. This guide will take you through five incredible routes that showcase the best of Tanzania’s natural wonders, cultural experiences, and hidden gems. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these road trips will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Source: Photo by joel herzog on Unsplash
1. The Northern Circuit – A Classic Safari Adventure
The Northern Circuit is the most popular route for good reason. It offers the quintessential Tanzanian safari experience, taking you through some of the country’s most iconic national parks and conservation areas.
Your journey begins in Arusha, often called the “Safari Capital” of Tanzania. This bustling city serves as the perfect launching pad for your adventure.
As you leave Arusha, head southwest to Tarangire National Park. Tarangire is a great introduction to Tanzania’s wildlife, known for its large elephant herds and ancient baobab trees. Keep your eyes peeled for lions lounging in the grass and colorful birds flitting between the trees.
A short drive west brings you to Lake Manyara National Park. This compact park is famous for its tree-climbing lions and large flamingo populations. The lake is a sight to behold, especially during the wet season when it attracts thousands of waterbirds.
Continuing northwest, you’ll reach the Ngorongoro Conservation Area . The highlight here is the Ngorongoro Crater, often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World”. This massive volcanic caldera is home to an incredible concentration of wildlife, including the endangered black rhino.
The last stop on the Northern Circuit is the world-famous Serengeti National Park. This vast savannah is the stage for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras traverse the plains in search of fresh grass. Even outside migration season, the Serengeti offers unparalleled game-viewing opportunities.
After experiencing the wonders of the Serengeti, your journey comes full circle as you return to Arusha.
Estimated Distance: Approximately 520 kilometers (323 miles)
Key Factors: The Northern Circuit typically includes visits to major parks like Arusha, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti. While the distances between these parks are relatively short, the distance can add up, especially if you plan to spend multiple days in each park.
2. The Southern Circuit – Off the Beaten Path
For those seeking a more secluded safari experience, the Southern Circuit offers vast wilderness areas with fewer crowds. Begin your southern adventure in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s largest city and a major transportation hub.
Head west to Mikumi National Park, often called the “Little Serengeti.” This accessible park is a great place to spot lions, elephants, and giraffes without the crowds of the northern parks.
Continue southwest to Ruaha National Park, Tanzania’s largest national park. Ruaha’s rugged landscapes and diverse ecosystems support various wildlife, including large predator populations.
As you head to Katavi National Park in western Tanzania, the journey gets more adventurous. This remote park sees few visitors but offers incredible wildlife viewing, especially during the dry season when animals congregate around shrinking water sources.
End your southern circuit at Lake Tanganyika , the world’s longest freshwater lake. Here, you can relax on pristine beaches, go fishing, or visit nearby chimpanzee reserves.
Source: Photo by Guy Basabose on Unsplash
Make your way back to Dar es Salaam, reflecting on the wild and less-traveled landscapes you’ve experienced.
Estimated Distance: Approximately 1,500-1,800 kilometers (932-1,118 miles)
Key Factors: The Southern Circuit often involves longer distances between parks, especially when traveling between Ruaha National Park and Katavi National Park.
3. The Central Circuit – Culture and Nature Combined
The Central Circuit offers a perfect blend of wildlife viewing, cultural experiences, and historical sites. This route takes you on a journey through time, from the formation of Earth’s landscapes to the dawn of human civilization, all while immersing you in the vibrant cultures of modern Tanzania.
Your adventure begins again in Arusha, the gateway to Tanzania’s northern wonders. From this bustling city, head east to Kilimanjaro National Park , home to Africa’s highest peak.
After marveling at Kilimanjaro’s grandeur, travel southwest to the shores of Lake Eyasi. This seasonal salt lake is a scenic wonder and home to some of Tanzania’s most fascinating indigenous cultures.
Here, you have the unique opportunity to interact with the Hadzabe and Datoga tribes, whose traditional ways of life have remained largely unchanged for thousands of years.
From the living history of Lake Eyasi, continue your journey to Olduvai Gorge, one of the most important paleoanthropological sites in the world. Often called the “Cradle of Mankind”, this remarkable location has yielded some of the oldest known human fossils.
Next, visit the museum, where you can see replicas of fundamental fossil discoveries and learn about the groundbreaking work of Louis and Mary Leakey. The site’s significance in unraveling the story of human origins is truly awe-inspiring.
As you complete your central circuit by returning to Arusha, you’ll have traversed not just geographical distances, but also the very timeline of human existence.
Estimated Distance: Approximately 400-500 kilometers (249-311 miles)
Key Factors: While the Central Circuit is generally shorter than the others, it can still involve significant distances, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding areas of Kilimanjaro National Park and Lake Eyasi.
4. The Coastal Route: Sun, Sand, and History
For a change of pace from Tanzania’s inland safari circuits, the Coastal Route offers a captivating blend of beautiful beaches, historical sites, and island paradise.
Source: Photo by Julia Sadowska on Unsplash
Your coastal adventure begins in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s largest city and a vibrant hub of seaside life. Explore this bustling metropolis, where modern skyscrapers stand alongside colonial architecture. Wander through the colorful Kariakoo Market, visit the National Museum, or enjoy the lively atmosphere along the Msasani Peninsula.
From Dar es Salaam, head north to the historical town of Bagamoyo. Once the capital of German East Africa, this sleepy coastal village holds a wealth of history within its weathered walls.
As you stroll through the narrow streets, you’ll encounter remnants of the town’s diverse past – from ancient Swahili ruins to German colonial buildings. Bagamoyo also played a significant role in the East African slave trade, and a visit to the Old Fort or the Catholic Mission can provide sobering insights into this dark chapter of history.
The highlight of your coastal journey comes as you board a ferry to Zanzibar Island . This tropical paradise offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Begin exploring Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its winding alleys, ornate doors, and rich Swahili culture. Beyond Stone Town, Zanzibar’s pristine beaches beckon.
For a sensory adventure, take a spice tour in the island’s interior, where you can learn about Zanzibar’s famous cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. As you conclude your coastal journey back in Dar es Salaam, you’ll carry with you the rhythms of the ocean, the scent of spices, and a deeper appreciation for Tanzania’s rich coastal heritage.
Source: Photo by Matt Benn on Unsplash
Estimated Distance: Approximately 300-400 kilometers (186-249 miles)
Key Factors: The Coastal Route primarily involves travel along the coastline, with shorter distances between popular destinations like Dar es Salaam, Bagamoyo, and Zanzibar Island.
5. Hidden Gems and Unique Landscapes
For true adventurers seeking to venture beyond the well-trodden tourist paths, this route unveils some of Tanzania’s lesser-known but equally spectacular destinations.
Your off-beat adventure begins in Arusha but quickly diverges from the usual safari routes as you head north to Lake Natron. This salt and soda lake is a surreal sight, with its striking red color created by algae that thrive in highly alkaline waters.
The lake is a crucial breeding site for lesser flamingos, and witnessing thousands of these pink birds against the red lake and stark landscape is an unforgettable experience.
Near Lake Natron, Ol Doinyo Lengai is known as the “Mountain of God” to the local Maasai people. This active volcano offers a challenging climb for the adventurous. The ascent, typically done at night to avoid the intense daytime heat, rewards you with stunning views of the Rift Valley at sunrise.
Your journey from the arid north takes a dramatic turn as you head south to Kitulo National Park . Nicknamed the “Garden of God” or “Serengeti of Flowers,” this unique park is a botanist’s paradise. Kitulo’s high-altitude grasslands burst into color during the rainy season, with over 350 species of plants, including 45 varieties of terrestrial orchids.
The final leg of your journey brings you to Mahale Mountains National Park, nestled on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. This remote park is one of the best places in Africa to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Tracking these fascinating primates through lush forests is an intimate and moving experience.
Beyond the chimps, Mahale offers a unique combination of forest-covered mountains and crystal-clear lake waters, creating a landscape of remarkable beauty. As you make the long journey back to Arusha, you’ll have time to reflect on the unique experiences and diverse landscapes you’ve encountered.
Estimated Distance: Approximately 1,000-1,500 kilometers (621-932 miles)
Key Factors: This route often involves traveling through remote areas, which may have less developed roads and longer distances between destinations. Also, the specific distance will depend on your itinerary, including parks like Lake Natron, Kitulo National Park, and Mahale Mountains National Park.
Additional Tips for Your Tanzanian Road Trip
To make your journey the best it could be, here are tips you must consider:
Vehicle Choice
A 4×4 vehicle is essential for most of these routes, especially those venturing into remote areas. The roads can be rough and unpredictable, particularly during the rainy season. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and equipped with spare tires and basic tools.
Camping Options
Camping is a popular and cost-effective way to experience Tanzania’s wilderness. Many national parks have designated campsites with basic facilities. However, always check in advance and make necessary bookings, especially during peak seasons.
Permits
Since you’ll be driving around Tanzania, you must have the legal paper to do so. Therefore, having your global driving permit with you is important so you won’t get in trouble with the authorities.
Safety Considerations
While road-tripping in Tanzania is generally safe, it’s crucial to stay alert and follow some basic precautions:
- Be aware of wildlife, especially when driving through national parks.
- Avoid driving at night when possible, as road conditions can be hazardous and wildlife more active.
- Respect local customs and dress codes, particularly when visiting rural areas or religious sites.
- Carry enough water and snacks, as services can be limited in remote areas.
- Inform someone of your travel plans, especially when venturing into less-visited regions.
Best Time to Go
The best time for a road trip in Tanzania depends on your specific route and interests. Generally, the dry seasons (June to October and December to March) offer the best game viewing opportunities and road conditions. However, the wet seasons have their charm, with lush landscapes and fewer tourists.
Embracing The Journey
Remember, a road trip in Tanzania is as much about the journey as the destination. Take time to enjoy the changing landscapes, interact with local communities, and savor the moments of solitude in the African wilderness . Each route offers a unique perspective on Tanzania’s diverse beauty, from Serengeti’s famous wildlife spectacles to the southern parks’ hidden gems.
Whether you’re watching the sunrise over the Ngorongoro Crater, following chimpanzees through the forests of Mahale, or feeling the sea breeze on Zanzibar’s beaches, a Tanzanian road trip promises adventures that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home. So pack your bags, grab your map, and prepare for the journey of a lifetime through one of Africa’s most captivating countries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it safe to drink tap water during the road trip?
Drinking tap water in Tanzania is not recommended. Stick to bottled or purified water throughout your journey. Carry a reusable water bottle and water purification tablets for remote areas.
What’s the best way to handle currency exchange for a Tanzanian road trip?
The Tanzanian Shilling is the local currency. You can exchange some money at the airport or in major cities. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments but always carry cash for rural areas and small businesses.
What’s the mobile phone coverage like on these road trip routes?
Mobile coverage is generally good in cities and along major roads but can be patchy in remote areas. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for better coverage and data rates.
Are there any specific driving laws in Tanzania that I should know?
In Tanzania, drive on the left side of the road. The speed limit is typically 50 km/h in urban areas and 80 km/h on highways. Always carry your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance documents.
What should I do if I encounter wildlife on the road?
If you encounter wildlife, slow down or stop altogether. Never approach or feed wild animals. Give them plenty of space and be patient until they move away.
Are there good vegetarian/vegan food options available during the road trip?
While traditional Tanzanian cuisine includes meat dishes, vegetarian options are available, especially in tourist areas. In more remote locations, it’s advisable to communicate your dietary needs in advance.
What’s the best way to respect local cultures during the road trip?
Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and when visiting religious sites. Ask permission before taking photos of people. Learn a few basic Swahili phrases to show respect for the local language.
