Tanzania, famous for its remarkable national parks and abundant wildlife, also offers a treasure trove of scenic routes that provide a unique and breathtaking view of the country’s diverse landscapes, culture, and history. While the wildlife-filled parks draw most visitors, the roads and trails outside these protected areas reveal a different side of Tanzania, one that is filled with lush highlands, sprawling savannas, dramatic mountains, and beautiful coastlines.
Whether it’s the journey through the Great Rift Valley, the ascent towards Mount Kilimanjaro, or the quiet beauty of rural villages, these lesser-explored routes offer a deeper connection with the land and its people. From the rolling hills of the Usambara Mountains to the serene shores of Lake Tanganyika, these scenic drives provide an opportunity to experience the authentic, unspoiled charm of Tanzania, far from the crowds, while also offering a sense of adventure and discovery in its hidden corners.
- The Arusha to Dar es Salaam Route (via the Great Rift Valley)
One of the most stunning drives in Tanzania is from Arusha to Dar es Salaam. This road takes you through the Great Rift Valley, a geological wonder that stretches from Lebanon in the north all the way down to Mozambique in the south. As you drive along, you’ll witness dramatic landscapes, including vast plains, towering mountains, and beautiful lakes.
The route will take you through Mikumi National Park, but the true beauty lies in the changes of scenery you will encounter. You’ll pass through vast savannas, rolling hills, and lush forests, offering an ever-changing view. One of the most spectacular sections of this route is when you drive past the Udzungwa Mountains, with their steep slopes, green rainforests, and cascading waterfalls.
When you get closer to Dar es Salaam, the landscape shifts again, with the tropical beaches of the Indian Ocean coming into view. If you have time, it’s worth stopping at Saadani National Park, which lies along the coast. This is a unique park because it’s one of the few places where you can enjoy both beach relaxation and wildlife safaris.
- The Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater Route
While both Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are famous national parks, the route connecting the two offers its own scenic rewards. This journey takes you through the Ngorongoro Highlands, which are dotted with small villages, fields of crops, and vast grasslands that stretch for miles. You’ll see rolling hills covered in acacia trees, dotted with livestock and small groups of Maasai people wearing traditional clothes.
The route will also take you to the Olduvai Gorge, a fascinating archaeological site that’s often referred to as the “Cradle of Mankind.” Here, you can get a glimpse of the area where early human fossils were discovered, adding historical interest to the scenic beauty. The drive itself is smooth and winds through the picturesque Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where the grasslands meet the lush greenery of the highlands.
The route to Ngorongoro Crater is also scenic as you descend into the crater itself, which is one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas. As you drive down into the crater, you’ll be surrounded by towering cliffs and incredible views of the unique landscape.
- The Selous Game Reserve (Now Nyerere National Park) to Ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani
This route takes you from the Selous Game Reserve (now Nyerere National Park) in southern Tanzania to the ancient ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani. The drive is long but offers incredible scenery that varies from dense bushland to open savannas and coastline.
The Selous is one of the largest protected areas in Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Driving through it, you’ll pass by winding rivers, dense forested areas, and open plains dotted with wildlife. You might spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, and buffaloes along the way.
As you head south, the road will take you along the coast and offer views of the Indian Ocean. Kilwa Kisiwani is an ancient Swahili city that dates back to the 10th century, and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. The ruins are a fascinating stop, and you’ll enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of the area, with palm trees lining the beaches and the sea sparkling in the distance.
- Moshi to the Foot of Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, stands tall and proud over the town of Moshi in northern Tanzania. Driving from Moshi to the foot of Kilimanjaro is one of the most scenic routes in the country. This drive takes you along dense tropical forests, rolling hills, and small villages. The towering peak of Kilimanjaro is visible for much of the journey, providing a dramatic backdrop to the entire drive.
As you drive, you’ll pass through plantations of coffee, bananas, and other crops, with the smells of the land and the rich green scenery filling the air. The road also takes you through the Chagga villages, where you can learn about the traditional lifestyles of the Chagga people. Some stops along the way allow you to visit waterfalls, caves, and other hidden gems that showcase the beauty of the region.
For an even more scenic experience, consider taking a detour to Miriakamba Hut, where you can enjoy stunning views of the mountain from a lower altitude. This route is perfect for anyone looking to take in both the beauty of Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscapes.
- The Tanga to Lushoto Route in the Usambara Mountains
The drive from Tanga to Lushoto in the Usambara Mountains is a relatively quiet, peaceful route that offers stunning views of hills, valleys, and villages. The Usambara Mountains are known for their cool climate, lush greenery, and a diverse array of flora and fauna. The winding roads will take you up into the mountains, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and the distant plains.
Along the way, you’ll pass through beautiful forests, and you might even spot some wildlife, such as monkeys and colorful birds. Lushoto itself is a charming town, perfect for exploring on foot. It’s located at the base of the mountains, and there are many hiking trails that lead to scenic spots, such as the Mtae village viewpoint, where you can see the beauty of the surrounding landscape in full view.
- Lake Tanganyika to Gombe Stream National Park
Lake Tanganyika, one of the deepest lakes in the world, offers a beautiful and serene landscape. The drive from Kigoma (on the shores of Lake Tanganyika) to Gombe Stream National Park is filled with amazing views of the lake itself, the surrounding hills, and lush forests. Along the way, you will pass through small villages and have the chance to see local fishermen at work.
Gombe Stream National Park is famous for its chimpanzee population, but the route to get there is equally scenic. The road runs along the lake’s shoreline and offers incredible views of the clear blue water and the distant hills of the Mahale Mountains. When you arrive at Gombe, you can take a boat trip on the lake or hike to see chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
- The Mbeya to Tunduma Route
If you’re looking for a journey that takes you through some of the most scenic parts of southwestern Tanzania, the road between Mbeya and Tunduma is a great choice. The drive passes through the Mbeya Highlands, offering views of green hills, tea plantations, and valleys. The highlands are a perfect mix of lush forests, agricultural lands, and small villages, all framed by distant mountains.
This route is also ideal for travelers interested in cultural experiences, as you’ll pass through areas populated by different ethnic groups. The natural beauty of the region is complemented by the friendly atmosphere of the villages and towns you’ll encounter along the way.
- The Kilwa to Sumbawanga Route
The journey from Kilwa to Sumbawanga is a little less travelled but offers dramatic scenery, including vast savannas, dense forests, and towering hills. You’ll pass through regions that are rich in both natural beauty and culture, with plenty of opportunities to stop and interact with the local communities. This route offers peace and quiet, far from the bustling tourist crowds.
The area around Sumbawanga is known for its peaceful atmosphere, and the route provides an opportunity to explore rural Tanzania, with opportunities for bird watching and scenic hikes. Along the way, you will be able to visit small, remote villages and experience the authentic Tanzanian countryside.
Conclusion
Tanzania is not just a land of safari parks and wildlife; it’s also home to some of Africa’s most stunning scenic drives. These routes provide a perfect way to see the country beyond the parks and get a true sense of the natural beauty and cultural richness of Tanzania. Whether you are driving alone or with friends, the journey through these beautiful landscapes will be an unforgettable part of your Tanzanian adventure.
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