📍 Tanzania

TANZANIA UNTOLD: FROM HIGHLANDS TO INDIAN OCEAN SECRETS

Baobabs dotting red earth plains, mountain mist veiling tea plantations, whale sharks cruising pristine reefs. Tanzania off the beaten path.

≈ 9
Days
1700
Km
6
Stops
📖 4 min read 🔄 Last updated: 2026-01-17

Cross Dodoma and its open plains, then take the road to Moshi, with Kilimanjaro as backdrop from coffee plantations. Then climb into the Usambara mountains, villages set on ridges and tea hills. End on Mafia Island, preserved reefs and warm water, where whale sharks glide silently through the blue.

Your day-by-day itinerary

1
Day

Dodoma

baobab plains surround tanzania's quiet capital

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6 photos
Day 1
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Discover

1
Walk in downtown Dodoma to discover local markets and churches.
2
Stop at Mtera Reservoir, Tanzania's largest dam, to admire the water retention and surrounding arid landscapes.
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Activities

→
Walking discovery of Dodoma's commercial streets, the country's peaceful administrative capital.
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Next stop
⏱️ Long drive (5h+)
Distance: 470 km
Travel time: 7h
2
Day

Moshi

kilimanjaro ice gleams above coffee plantation slopes

Moshi - Photo 1Moshi - Photo 2Moshi - Photo 3Moshi - Photo 4Moshi - Photo 5Moshi - Photo 6Moshi - Photo 7Moshi - Photo 8Moshi - Photo 9Moshi - Photo 10
10 photos
Day 2
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Discover

1
Swimming in the hot springs of Kikuletwa (Chemka) in the heart of a natural oasis.
2
Guided hike to Materuni Falls on the slopes of Kilimanjaro.
3
Discovery of Lake Chala, located in a crater on the Kenya border, with the possibility of kayaking or swimming.
4
Walk in the Rau Forest to observe monkeys and tropical vegetation.
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Activities

→
Observation of Kilimanjaro from Moshi at sunrise.
🚗
Next stop
⏱️ Long drive (5h+)
Distance: 240 km
Travel time: 5h
3
Day

Arusha

highland town bridges safari and mountain worlds

Arusha - Photo 1Arusha - Photo 2
2 photos
Day 3
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Discover

1
Ascent of Mount Meru over 4-5 days, an alternative to Kilimanjaro offering a spectacular view of Arusha park.
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Activities

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Wildlife observation in Arusha park (giraffes, buffaloes, zebras) during the first kilometers of the ascent.
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Next stop
⏱️ Long drive (5h+)
Distance: 380 km
Travel time: 7h
4
Day

Lushoto

german mission villages hide in usambara mist

Lushoto - Photo 1Lushoto - Photo 2Lushoto - Photo 3Lushoto - Photo 4Lushoto - Photo 5Lushoto - Photo 6Lushoto - Photo 7Lushoto - Photo 8Lushoto - Photo 9Lushoto - Photo 10
10 photos
Day 4
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Discover

1
Hike to Java Viewpoint to admire the mountainous landscapes of the Usambara.
2
Walk to Irente Viewpoint for a spectacular panorama at sunset.
3
Excursion to Kisasa waterfall, accessible on foot through local villages.
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Activities

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Exploration of the dense forests of the Usambara and immersion in local villages.
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Next stop
⏱️ Long drive (5h+)
Distance: 410 km
Travel time: 8h
5
Day

Mafia Island

whale sharks patrol untouched coral gardens

Mafia Island - Photo 1Mafia Island - Photo 2Mafia Island - Photo 3Mafia Island - Photo 4Mafia Island - Photo 5Mafia Island - Photo 6
6 photos
Day 5
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Discover

1
Sea excursion to swim with whale sharks in the waters of Mafia Island (season from October to February).
2
Snorkeling around the Big Rocks site near Chole Island.
3
Visit to Ras Bweni lighthouse and exploration of Utende beaches.
4
Paddle trip in the Juani mangrove and discovery of natural pools.
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Activities

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Excursion to Mange sandbank, swimming and relaxation on a deserted islet.
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Next stop
Distance: 200 km
Travel time: 4h
6
Day

Dar Es Salaam

swahili harbor pulses with indian ocean trade

Dar Es Salaam - Photo 1Dar Es Salaam - Photo 2Dar Es Salaam - Photo 3Dar Es Salaam - Photo 4Dar Es Salaam - Photo 5Dar Es Salaam - Photo 6
6 photos
Day 6
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Discover

1
Discovery of the Kigamboni district, peaceful beaches south of Dar es Salaam.
2
Excursion to Bongoyo and Mbudya islands, paradise of white sand and turquoise water.
3
Visit to Kariakoo Market and Kivukoni Fish Market to discover local life.
4
Day safari to Saadani park, between savanna and Indian Ocean.
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Activities

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Cultural bike tour with the Kigamboni Community Center: discovery of daily life, local cuisine and dance.

🗺️ Itinerary map

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🛡️ Travel advice - Tanzania

Check official recommendations

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❓ Frequently asked questions

What weather should you expect?

Dry Season (June-October): Perfect safari weather with excellent wildlife viewing, minimal rainfall, and comfortable temperatures (15-25°C). Peak season with highest prices but optimal conditions for Serengeti and climbing Kilimanjaro.

Calving Season (January-March): Spectacular time for Serengeti wildlife with wildebeest births and predator action. Excellent photography opportunities, fewer crowds, moderate prices.

Wet Season (November-December, April-May): Heavy rains with challenging road conditions but lush landscapes and lower prices. Bird watching excellent, some lodges closed, authentic experiences.

How many days should I plan?

We believe you will enjoy this itinerary best by dedicating between 7 and 11 days. The next step will allow you to adjust the duration of your stay.

What to discover in Tanzania?

East African paradise with Serengeti wildlife, Mount Kilimanjaro, and pristine beaches. Experience safari adventures, traditional cultures, and incredible natural beauty. The country offers wildlife experiences with cultural authenticity and natural preservation. Tanzania provides life-changing African experiences with natural wonders and cultural richness. ⚠️ SAFETY WARNING: Generally safe for tourists but exercise caution due to petty crime in cities, armed robbery in remote areas, and wildlife dangers. Avoid displaying valuables, use reputable safari operators, stay in tourist areas after dark, and be aware that some border regions may have security concerns.