Africa is the world’s second largest and second most populated continent, with over 1.2 billion people spread across more than 50 different countries. One of these countries, located along the eastern coast of Africa, under the Nyiri Desert of Kenya and across Lake Tanganyika from The Democratic Republic of the Congo, is Tanzania.
With a landscape consisting of savannas, lakes and highlands that are covered in warm tones and rich, earthy colors, Tanzania is the setting for more adventures than you could fit in a lifetime. Home to Mt. Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar and some of the best safari territory, Tanzania is known as one of the most beautiful countries in Africa. Deciding what to see first might be the hardest part of the trip, so here are a few ideas for planning your adventure.
Diving With Fish
Off the coast of Tanzania is the Zanzibar Archipelago, a semi-autonomous region of Tanzania that is made up of several small islands, the larger of which, Unguja and Pemba, offer diving and snorkeling attractions. Residing in the Indian Ocean, these islands are where an abundance of vibrant reef fish and small marine life, like sea turtles and dolphins, live. Before you go see them, do a little research on some of the Indian Ocean’s commonly found ocean critters so you can name them when you spot them in the clear water of the islands.
Wildlife Watching
If you’re hoping to see some of the African wildlife, an observing safari may provide you with the viewing opportunities you need. Tanzania is known for its vast wilderness, where elephants and lions roam through the plains and rest under Acacia trees.
Safaris involve a lot of driving in open vehicles (meaning no roof/passenger doors), but when you catch a glimpse of a giraffe or zebra, you’ll want to have your binoculars and camera ready. Be aware that the roads in safari parks are unpaved, dusty and bumpy, which may be irritating for individuals who wear contacts or glasses. Consider preparing for your trip with LASIK to avoid this problem altogether, and to increase your comfort while wildlife spotting.
Mountain Climbing
Tanzania is also home to Mt. Kilimanjaro, the world’s tallest free-standing mountain. With an altitude of 5895 meters above sea level, this dormant volcano is the largest mountain in Africa. Only half of the people who try to climb this mountain make it to the top, as they often underestimate the hike and do not take enough steps to prevent altitude sickness, which can be deadly. If climbing to the top of this mountain is on your itinerary, you’ll need to make some preparations, like studying up on safe routes to take, and making sure you bring the right, light gear for your week-long hike up the mountain.
Whether you’re diving into beaches of brightly-colored fish, photographing zebras and elephants, or climbing to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro, you’re going to have a new cultural experience that’s loaded with opportunities to learn about Africa. One of the best parts of traveling the world is the opportunity to broaden your mind and experience new horizons — and Africa is the perfect place to develop experiences that will grow your world view.
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