Attractions Nearby Tanzania, Day Trips and Excursions

(Tanzania, TZ, East Africa)

Tanzania is surrounded on three sides by a number of African countries, including Kenya and Uganda in the north. Also often appealing for tourist excursions are the attractions of Zambia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the west, and Mozambique and Malawi in the south, where Lake Malawi is a huge draw.

Trips to the archipelago of Zanzibar, a part of the United Republic of Tanzania, are always popular with holiday makers and these islands come with many tempting attractions. Unguja is the main island, followed by Pemba. Both boast superb beaches, beautiful coastal scenery and superb dive spots.

Kenya

Most visitors to nearby Kenya spend at least part of their stay exploring the capital city of Nairobi or the country's second largest city, Mombasa. Both cities have a great deal to offer, including historic sites, restaurants and shops. However, Kenya is best known for its safari parks. With over 30 national parks and reserves, visitors may be spoilt for choice. Perhaps the most convenient for those on a flying visit to Kenya is Nairobi National Park, just a short distance from the capital. From Tanzania, drivers tend to favour the road linking Arusha with Nairobi, crossing the border at Namanga.

Malawi

Malawi doesn't attract visitors in the same numbers as other African countries. However, that said, it does have a great deal to offer in terms of natural tourist attractions. The beaches and islands that surround Lake Malawi are particularly popular. The capital of Lilongwe provides a fascinating glimpse into traditional African life, while the national parks and game reserves (Kasungu, Liwonde, Majete, Mwabvi, Nyika and Vwasa) are an added draw card. You may also like to consider visiting the Livingstonia Mission, the Thyolo Tea Estates, the Tobacco Auction, the Zomba Plateau, Mount Mulanje, the Museum of Malawi and the ancient Chongoni Rock Art. Drivers should note that the only border crossing is situated at the Songwe River Bridge.

Zambia

Nearby Zambia is a wildlife and bird life lovers' paradise. Visitor highlights include the dramatic Victoria Falls, Lake Tanganyika and the Livingstone Memorial, where the famous explorer took his last breath. The capital of Lusaka is a bustling cosmopolitan city that's enjoying something of a boom at the moment, with plenty of opportunities to shop, dine out and generally dance the night away. Also leave time to experience the wealth of wildlife at the Lower Zambezi National Park and the South Luangwa National Park, and Lake Kariba, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world.

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Visiting the nearby Democratic Republic of the Congo isn't always easy and depends very much on the current political situation. However, if it is practicable to travel here, visitors can explore a country that has a great deal to offer. The capital of Kinshasa, on the southern bank of the Congo River, is a lively city. Its main attractions include several bustling craft and produce markets, as well as craft workshops and the Institute of the National Museums of Congo.

Mozambique

The principal crossing point for Mozambique to be found at Kilambo, directly to the south of Mtwara, with a further useful crossing located at Newala. Maputo is the Mozambican capital and comes with vibrant pavement coffee shops, fun salsa bars and a number of museums. The sandy beaches at Mozambique's Bazaruto and Quirimbas archipelagos are another good reason to come here, along with the characterful Ilha de Mocambique, which is now regarded as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Rwanda

Located close to the north-westerly Tanzanian town of Bukoba, the Rusumo Falls serve as the principal border crossing into Rwanda, nicknamed the 'Land of a Thousand Hills'. This region is widely known for its instability and independent travellers should always investigate the current situation from the relevant embassy before crossing the border post. Intrepid holiday makers spending time in Rwanda will be able to choose between attractions such as the Parc National des Volcans and its gorillas, the chimpanzees at the Parc National Nyungwe Forest and the beaches of Gisenyi.

Uganda

Lying to the far north-west of Tanzania, Uganda is best reached by boat. Although there is no actual passenger ferry service in operation, cargo ships regularly sail from Mwanza to the Ugandan capital of Kampala and often accept passengers - a journey time of approximately 16 hours. Visitors to Uganda should be sure to consider a trip to see the mountain gorillas at the Bwindi National Park, a white-water rafting excursion at Jinja, or a cruise around Lake Bunyonyi. You may also like to see the most powerful waterfall in existence - the Mirchison Falls, or explore the extremely scenic Rwenzori Mountains.

Burundi

If you are planning to drive to north-westerly Burundi, the best place to cross the border is at Ngara. Whilst landlocked Burundi is not exactly known as a tourist destination, this country is certainly more appealing now that the years of ethnic conflict and political unrest have settled. This small and poor nation does have some redeeming attractions, with the capital of Bujumbura being a great place to dine out in style. Other highlights include the rock where the famous words 'Dr. Livingstone I presume?' were spoken (La Pierra de Livingstone et Stanley), sunny Saga Beach (alongside Lake Tanganyika) and the Burundi pyramid, named Source Du Nil.