Table of Contents
10 Best Honeymoon Destinations In Tanzania
Part of the East African Countries, Tanzania is a beautiful country with vast stunning places for adventure safaris. Here are the 10 best honeymoon destinations In Tanzania and they include, national parks which are homes to numerous wildlife including the big five, then the beautiful coast of Zanzibar which is a great destination for anyone looking to spend quality time with your significant other.
The following are the 10 best honeymoon destinations in Tanzania;
1. Zanzibar Island
Zanzibar is a top choice for honeymooners due to its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and history. You can relax on the white sandy beaches, explore the vibrant markets and narrow streets, and indulge in delicious cuisine with an exotic twist. Zanzibar offers a perfect place of relaxation, adventure, romance, and culture.
There are many attractions in Zanzibar, you can enjoy the coast as you explore Stone Town, Nungwi and Kendwa Beach, Jozani Chwakwa Bay National Park, prison island, Paje and Jambian, enjoy beach activities, go scuba diving, snorkeling, enjoy beautiful Zanzibar sunsets, beach front bars, enjoy boat cruises, visit marine harbors, and as well enjoy all sorts of sea food in Zanzibar and explore al other activities you may find interesting.
Don’t stress about where you will sleep while in Zanzibar, there are several lodges and you get to choose from a variety of luxurious and romantic accommodation options, including Zuri Zanzibar Hotel, The Residence Zanzibar, Xanadu Villas and Retreat, Park Hyatt Zanzibar, Blue Bay Beach Hotel and Spa, Park Hyatt Zanzibar, Park Hyatt Zanzibar, Zanzibar Serena Hotel, Baraza Resort and Spa, Baraza Resort and Spa, Melia Zanzibar, Sea Cliff Resort & Spa, Sea Cliff Resort & Spa, DoubleTree by Hilton Zanzibar , Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa Gold Zanzibar, Zanzibar and and so many others accommodations offering world-class amenities and facilities. Many offer private bungalows or overwater villas, perfect for a honeymoon.
To get to Zanzibar, fly to Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) from Tanzania or international airports. On the island, use private transfers, taxis, or buses for land travel. There’s also a ferry from Dar es Salaam for those who prefer water transport.
2. Ngorongoro Crater
Known as the “Garden of Eden,” the Ngorongoro Crater is a unique safari destination. It’s a large volcanic crater filled with wildlife, including the “Big Five.” The intimate game drives and luxurious lodges here combined with beautiful mother nature create a romantic safari experience for any couple seeking to embrace nature on their honeymoon.
Once you’re in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, you can explore the crater, enjoy game drives to see the incredible wildlife, including lions, elephants, rhinos, and many more, engage in cultural visits to the locals, take a guided trek to Empakai Crater, If you enjoy hiking, consider a trek to Olmoti Crater, Capture the mesmerizing landscapes, wildlife, and cultural elements, Experience a romantic bush dinner under the stars or enjoy a sundowner overlooking the crater, after adventurous days, unwind with spa treatments offered at some of the lodges and so much more.
There are several lodges and camps in and around Ngorongoro Crater that offer a range of lodges, from luxurious to more budget-friendly options. Some popular choices for a honeymoon include at Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge which offers stunning views of the crater and provides a luxurious and romantic setting for your honeymoon, Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge, Lemala Ngorongoro Tented Camp, The Highlands Ngorongoro, Gibb’s Farm and so many others offering a comfortable stay to the couple.
To reach Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania, you can either fly to Kilimanjaro International Airport or Julius Nyerere International Airport and then take a domestic flight to Lake Manyara Airstrip. Alternatively, you can opt for a 3-4 hour drive from Arusha to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area using a private driver or shuttle bus.
3. Serengeti National Park
The Serengeti is the most popular park in Tanzania and it’s famous for its annual Great Wildebeest Migration, where millions of wildebeest and other animals move across the vast plains. The park offers thrilling wildlife encounters and luxurious camps and lodges for a memorable honeymoon safari.
The Serengeti is famous for its abundant wildlife, including the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos, and rhinoceros). Hot air balloon rides also sound romantic, cultural visits to the local people, walking safaris(guided), birdwatching, and so much more are some of the activities you should look forward to when visiting Serengeti National Park for your honeymoon safari.
Serengeti National Park has accommodations ranging from budget ,midrange, and luxury accommodations including luxury lodges and camps like the Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, Sangita Sasakwa Lodge, Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge, Serengeti Migration Camp: Located strategically to witness the great migration. Nomad Tanzania’s Serengeti Safari Camp(mobile camp that follows the migration). These and so many others cost friendly options are available for your honeymoon.
Put Serengeti National Park on your bucket list and experience greatness in the wilderness from the great wildebeest migration sunset views, sunset views of the Serengeti vast plains, and special spa treatments.
4. Tarangire National Park
Tarangire is known for its massive elephant herds and diverse wildlife. It’s a quieter, less crowded safari destination, offering a more intimate and private experience for couples during your honeymoon as it offers a unique combination of wildlife, and natural beauty.
Tarangire National Park has several animals including elephants, lions, leopards, zebras, giraffes, and numerous bird species, the Baobab ancient trees ad more delight to the already beautiful landscape, not forgetting the Silale Swamp which is a great area for birdwatching and is home to various water-loving species, including the rare yellow-collared lovebird.
Once you visit Tarangire National Park, you will engage in guided game drives which are the primary activity in the park, allowing you to get up close to the wildlife and explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, walking safaris offered by some lodges, bush dining(how romantic), sundowner cocktails at scenic locations with your loved one within the park, and so many other activities you can indulge in on your honeymoon.
Rest is mandatory mostly after engaging in breathtaking activities at the park has numerous accommodation options such as high-end lodges and tented camps, such as Tarangire Treetops, Oliver’s Camp, and Swala Camp, Tarangire Safari Lodge, Oliver’s Camp, Kuro Tarangire, Mawe Ninga Tented Camp, Lemala Mpingo Ridge, Sopa Lodge Tarangire, Roika Tarangire Tented Lodge, Balloon Camp Tarangire and so many others in and outside the National Park that you and your spouse may find interesting.
5.Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park in Tanzania is a beautiful destination for a honeymoon, offering a unique blend of wildlife, stunning landscapes, and luxurious accommodations.
The park is named after this stunning alkaline lake (lake Manyara) a hotspot for birdwatching and home to pink flamingos and other waterfowl, diverse wildlife such as elephants, giraffes, zebras, leopards, tree-climbing lions, scenic landscapes and beautiful vegetation.
Visit the hot springs at Maji Moto (Hot Water) in the southern part of the park for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, enjoy morning and evening game drives, bird watching and canoeing provided by some lodges on the lake Manyara, walking safaris, cultural visits especially the local Maasai communities with their unique culture and so much more are some of what you expect to engage in during your honeymoon.
Lake Manyara National Park offers a range of accommodation options, including luxurious lodges and tented camps like Lake Manyara Tree Lodge, EUnoto Retreat, Manyara Lodge offering breathtaking views and comfortable accommodations, Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge offering stunning views of the lake and the park, Migunga Tented Camp provides traditional safari experience with canvas tents and is surrounded by lush green forest and Bougainvillea Safari Lodge a more budget-friendly option and so many others.
Remember to plan your honeymoon during the dry season (June to September) for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
6.Mountain Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro, can indeed be a unique and adventurous honeymoon destination for couples who are looking to combine romance with thrilling outdoor experience.
Blessed by nature, the first attraction here is the Mountain Kilimanjaro itself as it is famous for being the highest peak in Africa, the mountain also harbors MT Kilimanjaro National Park where you will find wildlife such as elephants, cape buffaloes, leopards, cheetahs, baboons, rhinos, giraffes, and so many other mammals not forgetting the bird species and beautiful scenic view of the mountain.
For an exciting honeymoon, climb Kilimanjaro if you love adventure. Explore the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater for diverse wildlife and landscapes. Try hot air balloon rides and immerse yourselves in the local culture. Enjoy a memorable honeymoon at Mount Kilimanjaro!
Explore various accommodation options on Mount Kilimanjaro to suit different budgets and preferences. Choose from luxury lodges like Kambi Ya Tembo, Maasai Bomas, and Satao Elerai Camp for stunning views and modern amenities. Mid-range options include Kaliwa Lodge and Trackers Safari Lodge. Enjoy a comfortable stay at Kilemakyaro Mountain Lodge and create lasting honeymoon memories in this picturesque setting.
It’s essential to plan well in advance, especially for hiking, as there are limited permits and the weather can be quite unpredictable.
7.Mafia Island
Mafia Island is a fantastic honeymoon destination, offering a unique mix of natural beauty, tranquility, and opportunities for adventure. Located off the coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean, this island is known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and diverse marine life.
The Mafia Island Marine Park. This is a protected area that encompasses the surrounding coral reefs, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling, scuba diving, whale watching, island hopping, birdwatching, sailing and down cruises, spa wellness centers like massages, steam and sauna, Kitutia Ruins a 15th-century settlement with a rich history and culture, Mangroves and Kayaking, Local Culture i.e. the charming fishing villages on the island to experience the local Swahili culture, interact with friendly residents, and enjoy fresh seafood dishes, Lighthouse at Ras Mkumbi is a breathtaking views of the coastline and the Indian Ocean.
Mafia Island has a lot of hotels and lodges for honeymooners, and they include; Pole Pole Resort, Kinasi Lodge, Chole Mini Lodge, Shamba Kilole Eco Lodge, Maisara Mafia Beach Lodge, Kileni lodge and several others.
8.Selous Game Reserve
Selous Game Reserve, is a fantastic honeymoon destination for wildlife and nature enthusiasts. It offers a unique and romantic experience with its vast wilderness, diverse wildlife, and a range of activities.
Selous, is one of Africa’s largest game reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering exclusive safari experiences with fewer crowds and diverse wildlife like elephants, lions, leopards, and wild dogs, the Rufiji River cuts through it, providing a unique setting for boat safaris where hippos, crocodiles, and various birds can be spotted. Guided walking safaris offer intimate encounters with Selous’ flora and fauna. Other activities include bird watching, fishing, and camping. The reserve’s stunning landscapes and varied ecosystems make it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Selous Game Reserve has various accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets like Selous Serena Camp, Selous Mapumziko Lodge, Beho Beho, Sand Rivers Selous, Rufiji River Camp and so many others offering you and your loved one the comfort you deserve during your honeymoon.
Remember to plan your honeymoon in advance, as Selous can get quite busy during peak safari seasons.
9.Mahale Mountains National Park
Mahale Mountains National Park in Tanzania is a stunning and unique honeymoon destination for nature and adventure-loving couples. The park is renowned for its lush forests, pristine beaches along Lake Tanganyika, and, most notably, the opportunity to track and observe wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
Visit Mahale for a unique wildlife experience, observing habituated chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Couples can explore lush forests with guided hikes, spotting colobus monkeys and diverse bird species. Enjoy boat safaris and sport fishing on Lake Tanganyika with experienced guides. Other attractions include scenic trails, diverse flora and fauna, and various wildlife encounters.
Mahale Mountains National Park is a great choice for a private honeymoon. Consider staying at lodges like Greystoke Mahale, Mahale Paradise Beach Lodge, Chadakatavi, Mbali Mbali tented camp, and Kungwe beach lodge for a romantic experience. Visit during the dry season (June to October) for the best chimpanzee trekking. Work with tour operators to plan your dream honeymoon in Mahale.
6 Interesting Facts About Tanzania
Tanzania is a diverse and culturally rich East African country with a lot to offer. Here are six interesting facts about Tanzania:
- Mount Kilimanjaro: Tanzania is home to Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa and one of the world’s most famous mountains. Climbers from around the world visit Tanzania to attempt the challenging ascent of this iconic mountain.
- Serengeti National Park: The Serengeti, located in Tanzania, is one of the most famous wildlife conservation areas in the world. It is known for its incredible annual migration of wildebeest and zebras, as well as its diverse range of wildlife, making it a top destination for safaris and wildlife enthusiasts.
- Zanzibar Archipelago: Tanzania includes the islands of Zanzibar and Pemba, collectively known as the Zanzibar Archipelago. These islands are renowned for their beautiful beaches, rich history, and unique culture, with Stone Town on Zanzibar Island being a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Great Rift Valley: The East African Rift, part of the Great Rift Valley, runs through Tanzania. This geological wonder has created a diverse landscape of mountains, valleys, and lakes, including Lake Tanganyika, the second-deepest lake in the world.
- Ngorongoro Crater: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a massive volcanic caldera in northern Tanzania, known as the Ngorongoro Crater. It is home to a dense concentration of wildlife and offers some of the best opportunities for game viewing in Africa.
- Diverse Cultures: Tanzania is home to over 120 different ethnic groups, each with its own languages, traditions, and customs. Swahili and English are the official languages, and the country’s diverse culture is celebrated in its art, music, and festivals.
FAQs About Tanzania
Certainly, here are four frequently asked questions about Tanzania:
- How do I climb Mount Kilimanjaro, and what is the best route?
- Many people visit Tanzania to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Popular routes are Machame and Marangu. You need permits and should use licensed tour operators. Choose a route based on your experience and preferences.
- What is the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti, and when is the best time to witness it?
- The Great Wildebeest Migration is a spectacular natural event in the Serengeti where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other animals migrate in search of fresh grazing. The timing varies but often takes place from June to October in the northern Serengeti.
- Is it safe to go on a safari in Tanzania?
- Tanzania is generally safe for safaris, but it’s essential to follow safety guidelines provided by your safari guide and lodge. Wildlife safaris are conducted by experienced guides, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
- What cultural experiences can I have in Tanzania?
- Tanzania offers a rich cultural experience. You can visit local tribes, like the Maasai, to learn about their traditions and way of life. Participating in cultural activities, such as traditional dances, can be an enriching part of your visit.