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Tanzania has an overwhelming array of things to see and do. With such famous places as the Serengeti plains, Mount Kilimanjaro and the spectacular beaches and coral reefs of Zanzibar, Tanzania has an extraordinary range of natural wonders. Whether it’s the tree climbing lions of Manyara, baboons on the beach at Saadani, chimps on the Lakeshore or the famous Serengeti migration, Tanzania offers an unparalleled variety of game viewing opportunities.
The wonderful mosaic of cultures in Tanzania also makes it an intriguing place to visit and each region has its own unique appeal. You can explore cities and or travel extensively within the country, the excellent and comprehensive transportation system allows for even if you have only limited time.
A remarkable mix of old and new cultures can be found in Tanzania. The Swahili people have flourished along the coast and, at a time when much of the western world was wallowing in the Dark Ages, the Swahili civilization was prosperous and advanced, the knowledge and wisdom of the East, the riches gained through profitable trade and the fortunate location helped lift this society to greatness. Kilwa Kisiwani, a small island south of Dar-es Salaam, is the historic capital of the Swahili nation and some evidence of the grandeur and power of this civilization still exists there today. It is an interesting and eye opening place to visit. Lushoto in the Usambara Mountains was once the seat of a great kingdom. Tanzania’s colonial past is evident in Dar-es Salaam, where, amidst the modern office buildings, a city tour takes visitors past such landmarks as the Forodhani Hotel, the State House and the Residents Magistrate’s court Building, all of which were built in the 1800’s and used by the Government.
The history of Tanzania goes back to the beginning of time, Olduvai Gorge, possibly the world’s most famous archaeological site, is one of the highlights in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. It was here that Louis Leakey discovered the remains of the first humans. The Old Museum Building in Dar-es Salaam counts these remains among its many historical treasures.
The Maasai people of Tanzania are another fascinating feature of this multi-faceted country, with their characteristic red blankets, distinctive hairstyles and colorful jeweler, the Maasai are visually captivating. In order to held preserve their traditional, pastoralist’s way of life, the Maasai have embraced the idea of educational tourism and there are many opportunities to visit a traditional Maasai boma and learn more about this, fascinating society. The Chagga people of Kilimanjaro and the Hadzabe Bushmen of Lake Eyasi are two interesting and distinct tribes and visits to traditional villages to see their art, culture and way of life are not difficult to arrange.
Tanzania is a land of superlative or climax with beauty, the tallest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro, and an amateur climber’s delight. The greatest game parks in the world. The Tanzania National Park Authority popularly known as TANAPA was established in 1959 with the mandate all areas designated as national parks in the country in a way that ensures an appropriate balance between preservation and use.
This list of highlights is just a sample of the adventures awaiting the visitor to Tanzania. No matter what type of experience you seek, you are likely to find it here.
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