An African safari is a magical experience that is pretty much guaranteed to fill your children with awe. Animal characters from their favourite movies, such as The Lion King, come to life on the vast savannah, creating memories that will no doubt last a lifetime.
In this article, I’m going to delve into the best things to do in Tanzania for families with kids. I’ll focus on the most family-friendly activities while also ensuring variety so that your family never gets bored.
Go on Safari in the Famous Serengeti National Park
Accompanied by an experienced guide and from the safety of an elevated 4×4 vehicle, seeing vast numbers of game, including the Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffaloes) is a show stopping activity not only for children but for adults too. Game drives usually last several hours, so if that poses a problem for your kids, check whether your safari guide offers shorter, child-friendly game drives.
The Serengeti covers a vast pristine wilderness and requires a few days to take in all its splendour. But believe me, every day spent in the Serengeti is a brand-new experience. With over 4,000 lions, 1,000 leopards, 500 cheetahs, as well as elephants, rhinos, buffalos, hippos, zebras – don’t forget the millions of wildebeest and various antelope species – there’s never a boring moment in the Serengeti, no matter how long you may spend out there.
And then, of course, the great wildebeest migration that takes place here. Regarded as the ‘Greatest Show on Earth’, it is nothing short of spectacular for children and adults alike.
Swim in Chemka Hot Springs
If you’re looking to relax after trudging around the African bush, the soothing waters of the Chemka Hot Springs may be the best place to bring the kids. Situated on the southern foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, near the village of Rundugai, this is a little oasis in the middle of an arid desert. Imagine pools of crystal-clear blue water surrounded by lush tropical shrubs and tall trees, the type you’d only expect to find on an exotic island somewhere far away. And yet, here they are – in the middle of nowhere.
Contrary to its name, the waters are not hot but are the perfect temperature to refresh you. You could easily spend a few hours or even the entire day here, frolicking, swimming, floating gently on tubes, or jumping from the cool Tarzan swing. The tiny fish that inhabit these springs also offer a free pedicure treatment.
A narrow, gentle, flowing canal joins two main pools. The depth can drop to about 10 metres in places, but some shallow areas are safe enough for young children to swim and play in. Rubber ring flotation devices are also available to hire.
Being based near Kilimanjaro International Airport, visiting Chemka hot springs is a great way to start or end your adventures in Tanzania.
Spend Time with a Local Maasai Tribe
Known mainly for their fearsome warriors, brightly coloured clothes, and unique traditional dancing style, the Maasai are the most famous tribe in Africa and possibly the world. But there is so much that we don’t know or understand about the lifestyle and culture of these proud, resilient, and surprisingly friendly people.
Most safari lodges and tour operators include excursions to Maasai villages in their itineraries, where you get to learn about their culture and even participate in traditional activities. Simple techniques like lighting a fire without a lighter and other skills that many of us have long forgotten are demonstrated and enlightening for kids and adults alike.
Song and dance play a vital role in the lives of the Maasai, forming an integral part of several rituals. You’re certain to witness a few unusual dance routines. They will most certainly include their renowned jumping dance, and you and your kids are more than likely to get invited to join in.
Hit the Beach in Zanzibar
Easily reached by ferry or by air, the Zanzibar archipelago is perfectly suited for a family holiday. Three main islands, plus a host of other smaller ones, provide miles of white sand beaches fringed by tall palm trees and lapped by a crystal blue ocean. They all offer an idyllic backdrop to relax after or between trekking on safaris through the rugged African landscape.
Zanzibar’s calm and soothing waters provide water and beach activities for parents and children of all ages to enjoy. There are long beaches to swim, play, kayak, or just laze in the sun, with the shallow shoreline ideal for young children. The rich coral reefs that surround virtually every inch of the islands are teeming with colourful marine life, presenting wonderful snorkelling for the young and old, novices and experienced swimmers alike.
Accommodation options are aplenty on Zanzibar, ranging from luxurious resorts on the water’s edge, with all the modern comforts, to simple rustic cabanas tucked away in secluded coves surrounded only by nature.
Descend into the Magical Ngorongoro Crater
Rising to just under 2,300 metres above sea level and spanning 19 km across, the Ngorongoro Crater is considered a natural world wonder. The views from anywhere around its rim are spectacular. The crater drops steeply to the floor, lying 610 metres below, spanning a 260 km² area and is jam-packed with wildlife.
Among the 25,000 animals that never leave the crater are lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, black rhinos, buffalos, zebras, wildebeest, dozens of antelope species, and hundreds of bird species. However, there are no giraffes or crocodiles. Also inside the crater, Lake Magadi is home to thousands of lesser flamingos, which add more life and colour to this magical Eden of Africa.
With such a high concentration of wildlife in a relevant small area, the Ngorongoro Crater provides perhaps the best opportunity for its visitors to get close to some of Africa’s giants and most feared predators.
Cycle through Banana Plantations in Mto Wa Mbu
Situated just above Lake Manyara, just two hours west of Arusha, the small town of Mto Wa Mbu offers a welcome break from safaris perfectly suited for families…as long as the kids can ride bicycles!
Two—to three-hour bike rides take you through picturesque banana, coffee, and rice plantations. Along the way, you will learn about the cultivation and significance of these crops to the local population. A ride through the town will take you to the local market, a school, and a restaurant where lunch is served, and you can savour something few people ever get to taste—banana beer!
This beautiful and fascinating region is home to over 120 tribes, including the Maasai, which all live harmoniously, sharing the land, water and resources.
The stunning scenery along the entire route will greet you with spectacular Lake Manyara views. Your camera will be working overtime here.
Explore Historical Stone Town in Zanzibar
A walk through the historic Stone Town is a must-do for any visitor who wants a fascinating lesson on the history and culture of Zanzibar. Once the heart of the spice, ivory, and slave routes, Stone Town is rich in history, architecture, and cultures, with essences of Africa, Persia, Arabia, and Europe all crammed into one square kilometre.
Stone City is very walkable, even with children. You can join a guided walking tour, lose yourself in its narrow winding streets, and walk past cathedrals, mosques, forts, museums, and elaborate buildings. Not to be missed are the old slave market and Darajani Market, the best places to buy spices, local foods, and authentic souvenirs. If you’re into rock music, the house of Freddy Mercury will be a certain hit for you.
Go on a Canoeing Safari on Lake Manyara
Covering about two-thirds of Lake Manyara National Park, a canoe safari on Lake Manyara is a novel way of admiring this scenic landscape and its wildlife from a different vantage point. Double canoes allow parents to take their children on board, making it ideal for an unforgettable and unique family experience.
The shallow nature of the lake and having a canoe guide alongside at all times make this activity safe, too. Not fed by any river system, the spring-fed lake is lined with salty marshlands, grassy plains, and dense forests, attracting a multitude of animals and vibrant bird life that can be viewed from the water.
Around its shores, game like buffalo, giraffe, impala, elephant, monkeys and thousands of pink flamingos are frequently spotted, making it a favourite spot for wildlife photographers.
Admire Elephants in Tarangire National Park
Not far from Lake Manyara, Tarangire National Park is home to most of Tanzania’s iconic wildlife species and contains one of the largest elephant populations in Africa, with some herds being over 300 strong. Witnessing hundreds of these graceful giants foraging and moving through the forest is magical.
High-end and budget-friendly lodges within this park offer many safari options, including day and night game drives, walking safaris and, perhaps, the ultimate experience – hot air ballooning safaris. Seeing the savannah from the comfort of a hot air balloon is truly riveting, but do note it’s one of the more expensive activities you can enjoy in Tanzania and will add around $500 per person to the cost of your safari.
As with most game parks in Tanzania, the best time to visit Tarangire National Park is during the dry season, between July and October, when the animals congregate along the Tarangire River, which bisects almost the entire park.
Tanzania is a diverse tourist destination perfect for families with children. Whether you’re seeking spectacular natural scenery, unparalleled wildlife, serene white sand tropical beaches, or historical and cultural sights and experiences, they’re all right here in Tanzania.
