For backpackers, Tanzania is a dream come true. From the sweeping savannahs of the Serengeti to the towering majesty of Mount Kilimanjaro and the laid-back beaches of Zanzibar, the country’s allure lies in its perfect blend of wildlife, adventure and cultural immersion. With international arrivals soaring by an impressive 49% in the first half of 2024, Tanzania is leading Africa’s tourism resurgence. This is the ultimate guide to backpacking Tanzania, including my experience on a Serengeti hot air balloon safari.
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Introduction to backpacking Tanzania
Backpacking Tanzania is the ultimate adventure for those seeking raw, unfiltered experiences in one of Africa’s most breathtaking destinations.
Imagine starting your day with a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti, where zebras and wildebeests roam freely below, and ending it under a starry sky at a rustic campsite.
This guide will help you make the most of your journey through this awe-inspiring country.
Where to stay in Tanzania
As a backpackers arriving in Tanzania, you will likely base yourself in Arusha. Known as the ‘safari capital’ of Tanzania, Arusha is a lively town that’s the primary hub for safaris and treks. Its central location makes it ideal for exploring the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Mount Kilimanjaro.
Backpackers are drawn to Arusha for its range of affordable hostels, local markets, and easy access to tour operators offering budget-friendly safaris.
Here some of the top recommendations for backpackers:
Mufasa City Hostel and Apartments has clean and spacious rooms. Guests like the friendly staff, on-site restaurant and laundry facilities. The convenient location means gives you easy access to city attractions.
Swahili Villa is an exceptional property with a garden, terrace and bar. Guests enjoy the cozy and clean rooms, welcoming host and delicious meals.
Banana Farm Eco Hostel is a superb eco-friendly hostel 30 minutes out of the city. Guests love its eco-farm garden, cottages and barn cabins, excellent food and the scenic beauty.
Explore the map below to find the best accommodation deals in Arusha for your dates:
These are the best things to do in Arusha
Arusha is a backpacker-friendly destination with a variety of activities that cater to nature lovers, culture enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Here are some of the best activities for backpackers in Arusha:
Explore Arusha on a walking tour
A walking tour is a fantastic way for backpackers to explore Arusha’s lively streets and learn its historyVisit landmarks like the Clock Tower, browse the Maasai Market and enjoy insights into the city’s cultural heritage from a knowledgeable guide. Book your walking tour of Arusha’s highlights here.
Visit Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park offers an accessible wildlife experience just a short drive from the city. Backpackers can enjoy game drives to spot giraffes, zebras, and buffalo, or go for a walking safari with a ranger for a more immersive experience. The park is also home to Mount Meru, a great trekking alternative to Mount Kilimanjaro. Book a full day tour of Arusha National Park here.
Taste a coffee plantation tour
Arusha is surrounded by coffee-growing regions. Visit a local plantation to learn about coffee production, from bean to cup, and enjoy tastings of freshly brewed Tanzanian coffee. Many tours also include insights into local farming practices and culture. Book yours here.
Hike to waterfalls
There are several scenic waterfalls near Arusha, perfect for day trips. The Materuni Waterfalls is a popular choice, often combined with a visit to a nearby coffee farm. Another option is Napuru Waterfall, offering a tranquil escape and great photo opportunities. Book your tour here.
Experience a traditional Maasai village
Backpackers can join guided tours to a local Maasai village to learn about their customs, lifestyle, and traditions. These cultural exchanges often include singing, dancing, and storytelling, providing an authentic glimpse into Maasai heritage. Book your tour here.
Embark on a safari
Arusha is the gateway to Tanzania’s iconic parks, including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire. Many budget-friendly safari companies operate from Arusha, offering group tours tailored to backpackers. Reserve your place on a 3 day safari of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater here.
How to get to the Serengeti from Arusha
Most backpackers travel to the Serengeti from Arusha by joining group safari tours, which offer budget-friendly options. These tours typically include transportation, park fees, guides and meals, making it a hassle-free way to explore.
The most common route is by safari vehicle, which passes through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and offers stunning scenery along the way. The drive takes about 6-7 hours to reach the central Serengeti.
For a faster option, backpackers can book a flight from Arusha to Seronera airstrip in the Serengeti. While pricier, this saves time and provides incredible aerial views.
Most tour operators in Arusha cater to backpackers, offering group safaris with shared costs, making it an affordable and accessible adventure.
Reserve your place on a 3 day safari of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater here.
Flying in a hot air balloon Tanzania style
Once you’re in the Serengeti, why not indulge in a Serengeti hot air balloon safari. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience to have a breathtaking perspective of Tanzania’s iconic landscapes. Imagine floating silently above the savannah at sunrise, as the golden light unveils herds of wildebeests, zebras and elephants below.
This serene adventure allows you to witness the Serengeti’s untamed beauty from a vantage point few ever experience, making it one of the most unforgettable highlights of backpacking Tanzania.
Don’t miss out – book your Serengeti hot air balloon sunrise trip.
My experience on a Serengeti hot air balloon safari
The next morning began with a 4am start for our Serengeti hot air balloon safari. As someone who doesn’t function well before sunrise, I questioned my life choices as we trudged sleepily onto the field.
That feeling quickly melted away when I saw the balloons being inflated. Bursts of flaming air lit up the darkness, casting dramatic shadows on the ground and building my excitement.
Book your Serengeti hot air balloon sunrise trip in advance online for the experience of a lifetime.
Sliding into the basket compartments, I felt like a mix of an adventurer and a slightly nervous passenger. “You’ll love this,” our pilot reassured us. He had two decades of experience and a clear passion for flying, which immediately put me at ease.
Once we were airborne, the world changed. It felt like being in a dream—smooth, serene and unbelievably quiet, interrupted only by the occasional whoosh of the burner.
Below us, the Serengeti came alive: herds of gazelles darted across the plains and a lone hyena prowled for breakfast.
I wasn’t expecting the balloon to fly so close to the ground at times. It was amazing to get such an intimate view of the animals.
At one point, we swooped low over a pond and spotted crocodiles lounging by the water and hippos emerging from their slumber.
Higher up, we could see the cracks and scars of the land.
After an hour it was time to descend the Serengeti hot air balloon. We floated gracefully towards the ground and landed with barely a bump. Pretty much perfect.
When the ride ended, we celebrated with champagne and a decadent breakfast under the open sky. Sitting there with the sun warming my face and a plate of fresh fruit and pastries in front of me, I felt like I’d already had a full day’s adventure—and it wasn’t even 9am.
Book your Serengeti hot air balloon sunrise trip in advance online for the experience of a lifetime.
More activities for backpacking Tanzania
While the Serengeti is a star attraction, there’s so much more to explore in Tanzania:
Ngorongoro Crater
Standing on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, I felt like I was staring into another world. Game drives here offer the chance to see lions, elephants, and even the elusive black rhino. It’s like stepping into a real-life Eden. Reserve your place on a 3 day safari of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater here.
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro
Tackling Africa’s highest peak is on many travellers’ bucket list. People who’ve done it share stories of the breathtaking views and the emotional moment of reaching the summit. Book your Kilimanjaro day hike from Arusha or Moshi town here.
Lake Manyara National Park
This underrated gem is perfect for a day trip. Flamingos wade in its shallow waters, and the park’s tree-climbing lions add a quirky twist to the usual safari. Book your tour here.
Relaxing in Zanzibar
After all the excitement, I headed to Zanzibar for a bit of downtime. The white-sand beaches and turquoise waters were exactly what I needed to unwind. Plus, the island’s vibrant culture and spice tours added a unique touch to my stay. Read my review here.
Practical tips for backpacking Tanzania
- Getting to Tanzania: I crossed the border on a tour following my trip to Nairobi and a safari in Kenya.
- Best Time to Visit: June to October is ideal for safaris, while January to March offers a chance to see the Great Migration calving season.
- Packing Essentials: Lightweight layers, sunscreen, a camera, and binoculars are must-haves for your safari.
- Getting Around: Public buses are the cheapest way to travel, but private tour groups provide more convenience for exploring national parks.
Final Thoughts on backpacking Tanzania
Tanzania has a way of capturing your heart. Whether you’re soaring above the Serengeti, gazing into the Ngorongoro Crater or relaxing on Zanzibar’s beaches, each experience is unforgettable.
If you’re looking for a destination that combines adventure, wildlife and stunning landscapes, Tanzania should be at the top of your list. Book that hot air balloon ride, pack your sense of wonder and prepare for a journey you’ll be talking about for years to come.
Now read about all the relaxing things to do on Tanzania’s neighbouring island of Zanzibar.
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