Tanzania

This magical country is home to Africa's highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, the continents number one wildlife destination, the Serengeti, and one of the best diving locations along eastern Africa.

The unique experiences in Tanzania are one of a kind, and just south of the equator, 6-million-year-old Pliocene hominid fossils remain. Roads weave around this ancient country where locals may call “Jambo”, a Swahili greeting meaning hello, with broad smiles as you pass.

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, the roof of Africa is only for the experienced. Looking out upon Furtwängler Glacier is a memorable moment. The Machame Route takes an extra day to acclimate yourself to the elevation; however, it is considered the most scenic path.

Each year over a million wildebeest migrates over the vast plains alongside thousands of other herbivores like gazelle and zebra. Crossing the river where crocodiles wait every so patiently for a meal, has become a tourist hotspot where operators vie for the best vantage points.

You can visit the Serengeti all year-round and guaranteed of sighting amazing wildlife with lions, cheetahs, elephants and leopards in abundance, all living in their natural habitats on the vast African plains.

The Island of Zanzibar is pure paradise on earth. Away from the plains this spice island is fringed with white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and blessed with some of the best diving and snorkelling.

Gombe Stream National Park, located on the north shore of Lake Tanganyika, is a protected area made famous by Jane Goodall and you are almost guaranteed a sighting of the chimpanzees, our closest cousins in the evolution chain.

Culturally, the kanga, a rectangular piece of cloth, depending on the colours and patterns, tells many things like your status, plans for the day and your mood – it’s a must souvenir.

Venture into a local village bar and sample the wares like a honey or banana beer and fermented sugar cane juice called pombe. Gongo is another favourite beverage and a type of gin. The cuisine is divine, and meat forms one of the staple dishes. With also an Indian influence, you'll experience tantalising curries and fresh juicy mangoes used in a variety of styles.

Best time to visit Tanzania

The Dry season extends from late June to October and is considered the best time to visit Tanzania, especially for wildlife viewing. Its also the high tourist season with the low season is from March to July. March to April are predominately the wettest months. The wildebeest migrate in the Serengeti usually during June and July with the river crossing in the north of the Serengeti best from August to September.