The Top 10 Northern Tanzania Day Trips
Here are the 10 top northern Tanzania Day Trips you should know about whether you’re an adventurer, a nature lover, or someone seeking cultural immersion, we have curated a selection of day trips that offer a variety of unique experiences. Each destination has been chosen to provide you with unforgettable moments, showcasing the best of Tanzania’s natural beauty and rich heritage. Here’s a closer look at these fantastic day trips:
Northern Tanzania Day Trips (Safaris)
- Arusha National Park Day Trip
Travel Time: 1 hour drive from Arusha / From Moshi 2 hours’ drive
Size: 552 square kilometers
Activities: Game drives, optional canoe rides, walking safaris, bird watching
Arusha National Park is a short drive from Arusha city and is perfect for a day trip. The park offers spectacular views of Mount Meru and is home to giraffes, zebras, and flamingos. You can enjoy a canoe ride on Momella Lakes to see hippos and various bird species. For those who prefer exploring on foot, walking safaris provide an immersive experience in the park’s lush forests. This park is ideal for nature enthusiasts looking to experience Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes up close.
- Tarangire National Park Day Trip
Travel Time: 2 hours drive from Arusha/ From Moshi 3 hours’ drive
Size: 2,850 square kilometers
Activities: Game drives, bird watching, walking safaris, balloon safaris
Tarangire National Park is renowned for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. The park’s varied landscape includes swamps, savannahs, and riverine forests, which support an array of wildlife. On a game drive, you’ll have the chance to see lions, leopards, and over 500 bird species. For a unique experience, consider a hot air balloon safari to enjoy breathtaking views of the park from above. Tarangire offers an exceptional wildlife viewing experience and stunning scenery.
- Lake Manyara National Park
Travel Time: 1.5 hours drive from Arusha / From Moshi 2.5 hours’ drive
Size: 330 square kilometers
Activities: Game drives, bird watching, hot spring visits, picnicking along the lake shore
Lake Manyara National Park is famous for its tree-climbing lions and large flocks of flamingos. The park features a soda lake, dense woodlands, and hot springs, providing a diverse range of habitats. Enjoy a game drive through the park to explore its varied environments, from the lake’s shores to its forested areas. Don’t forget to pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake, making for a relaxing and scenic day out.
- Ngorongoro Crater
Travel Time: 2.5 hours drive from Arusha/ From Moshi 3.5 hours’ drive
Size: 265 square kilometers
Activities: Game drives, picnicking, nature walks, bird watching, visiting Maasai villages
Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit for its incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes. The crater’s high concentration of animals includes the Big Five: lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos. A day trip here offers breathtaking views and a chance to see a wide variety of wildlife. You can also visit a Maasai village nearby to learn about their traditional lifestyle and customs. This combination of wildlife and culture makes for a memorable day.
Northern Tanzania Day Trips ( Cultural)
- Maasai Village
Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours drive from Arusha/ From Moshi 3 hours’ drive
Activities: Cultural tours, traditional dances, crafts
A visit to a Maasai village provides an insightful look into the traditional life of this famous community. The Maasai are known for their semi-nomadic lifestyle and vibrant red shúkās (cloaks). During your visit, you’ll observe their daily routines, enjoy traditional dances, and explore their crafts, such as beadwork and jewelry. This cultural experience is a wonderful way to appreciate Maasai traditions and their unique way of life.
- Chagga Village
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour drive from Moshi/ From Arusha 2 hours’ drive
Activities: Cultural tours, traditional food experiences, local crafts
Exploring a Chagga village offers a glimpse into the rich culture of the Chagga people, known for their farming skills and vibrant traditions. In these villages near Mount Kilimanjaro, you’ll see traditional houses and learn about their agricultural practices, including coffee and banana cultivation. Enjoy traditional Chagga foods and immerse yourself in local customs and history. This visit provides a deeper understanding of Chagga culture and their connection to the land.
Northern Tanzania Day Trips ( A Simple Adventure)
- Materuni Waterfalls
Travel Time: 1.5 hours drive from Moshi / From Arusha 1 hours’ drive
Height of Waterfall: Approximately 150 meters
Activities: Nature walks, swimming, coffee farm tours
Materuni Waterfalls, located near Moshi, is a beautiful spot for a day of adventure. The easy nature walk through banana and coffee plantations leads to the impressive waterfall. After enjoying the falls, you can visit a local coffee farm to learn about the coffee-making process and sample some fresh brew. Materuni offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences, making it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Chemka Hot Springs
Travel Time: 2 hours drive from Moshi/ From Arusha 1.5 hours’ drive
Depth of Hot Springs: Approximately 8 to 10 meters
Activities: Swimming, relaxing, rope swinging, picnic lunches
Chemka Hot Springs, also known as Kikuletwa Hot Springs, is a hidden natural hotsprings near Moshi. The warm, crystal-clear waters are perfect for a relaxing swim. Surrounded by lush vegetation, the hot springs offer a serene escape and a chance to unwind. You can also enjoy a picnic lunch and take a refreshing rope swing into the springs. This tranquil setting is ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Kilimanjaro Day Hike
Travel Time: 1.5 hours drive from Moshi/ From Arusha 2.5 hours’ drive
Hiking Hours: Approximately 4 to 5 hours round trip
Activities: Hiking, bird watching
A Kilimanjaro Day Hike is a fantastic way to experience Africa’s highest peak without committing to a multi-day trek. The hike to Mandara Hut on the Marangu Route takes about 2 hours to reach and another 2 to 3 hours to return. This relatively easy hike is suitable for most fitness levels and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Along the way, you’ll encounter unique flora and fauna native to the mountain’s lower slopes. This adventure provides a taste of Mount Kilimanjaro’s grandeur and is a highlight for visitors to Moshi.
- Lake Chala
Travel Time: 2 hours drive from Moshi / From Arusha 3 hours’ drive
Size: 4.5 square kilometers
Activities: Nature walks, picnicking, bird watching, kayaking
Lake Chala, located on the Tanzania-Kenya border, is a picturesque crater lake with striking turquoise waters and steep cliffs. A visit here is perfect for hiking, bird watching, and picnicking. The lake’s unique environment and scenic beauty offer a memorable day trip experience. Enjoy a leisurely nature walk around the lake or explore the water by kayaking. Lake Chala’s tranquil setting and stunning views make it a must-visit destination.
At Chiefs Tours, we are dedicated to ensuring you have an exceptional experience exploring Northern Tanzania Day Trips. Whether you’re interested in wildlife safaris, cultural experiences, or adventure activities, these day trips offer something for everyone. Contact us to customize your day trip based on your preferences and budget.