5 Must-See Landmarks in Tanzania

Tanzania, one of the most famous countries in Africa, is home to some of the most amazing landmarks you’ll ever see. The unique and varied landscapes are evidence that Mother nature did not hold back when carving out this East African country.

Tanzania is covered with mountains, lakes, waterfalls and old buildings which attract tourists every year. But what are the most famous landmarks in Tanzania? We recommend you read this article to find out and enjoy your next trip to Tanzania. These landmarks are among the most visited places in the whole of Africa, making Tanzania an amazing country to explore.

Table of Contents

1. Mount Kilimanjaro

Located in northern Tanzania, Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest free-standing and tallest mountain in Africa. It is also one of the most famous landmarks in Tanzania and the most iconic. This large dormant volcano consists of three volcanic cones – Shira, Mawenzi and Kibo. While Shira and Mawenzi are extinct, Kibo is dormant and could possibly erupt again.

Kilimanjaro Mountain aerial view during scenic flight. Photo/ ABC7 New York.

Mount Kilimanjaro is a part of the Kilimanjaro National Park which draws tourists to Tanzania every year. One of the most popular activities in the park is climbing the mountain.

2. Ol Doinyo Lengai

Ol Doinyo Lengai is East Africa’s only active volcano. It is situated south of Lake Natron and is one of the most famous landmarks in Tanzania. The name Ol Doinyo Lengai means the “Mountain of God” when translated from Masai to English.

Lengai is 878 metres high and has explosive eruptions every twenty to forty years. The last bigger eruption here occurred in 1966. However, there have been some smaller eruptions recorded in 1933, 1983 and 2007. Tourists interested in climbing the mountain begin the journey at midnight to reach the summit in the morning as the sun rises.

Ol Doinyo Lengai. Photo/ World Pilgrimage Guide.

3. Kalambo Falls

The Kalambo Falls is a single-drop waterfall on the Kalambo River bordering Tanzania at the southeast end of Lake Tanganyika and Zambia. It is the second deepest fall in Africa measuring 221 metres deep. This region is also a cultural site rich in archaeological resource. It has been a site of human settlement since 300 000 BC.

4. Old Fort of Zanzibar

Also known as Arab Fort, the Old Fort of Zanzibar is one of the most famous landmarks in Tanzania. This fortification is located in Stone Town, the capital of Zanzibar and is one of the oldest buildings in the island. Its structure consists of high walls that surround an open courtyard. The courtyard originally held the building which is adjacent to the House of Wonders and facing the Forodhani Gardens.

Old Fort of Zanzibar. Photo/ GetYourGuide.

The Old Fort of Zanzibar is now a leading tourist attraction and cultural centre for Zanzibar. There are several shops all around the courtyard as large number of people show up here to enjoy entertainment and take part in festivals.

5. Ngorongoro Crater

Well, you wouldn’t talk about famous landmarks in Tanzania and fail to mention Ngorongoro Crater. This geographical feature is the largest volcanic caldera in the world. Measuring 610 metres deep and 26 kilometres square large, Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania is located in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

It is an area with wide variety of species and wildlife and is open for visiting all year round. June to September and December to February are the best months to visit Ngorongoro Crater as animals come out in big numbers to nearby water points. There are about 25,000 large animals living in the crater.

Ngorongoro Crater. Photo/ Achieve Global Series.

What Is The Main Landmark in Tanzania?

Mount Kilimanjaro is the most iconic landmark in Tanzania. The large dormant volcano is located in the northern part of Tanzania and consists of three volcanic cones.

What Is The Most Visited Place in Tanzania?

Serengeti National Park is one of the most popular destinations for tourists in Tanzania. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is best known for its unique ecosystem that comprises of extensive grasslands, distinct fauna, and attractions like Mbalageti Serengeti, Grumeti River and Lobo Hills.

What Is Tanzania Known Best For?

Tanzania is probably best known for Mount Kilimanjaro, which is the highest mountain in Africa. Almost every type of ecological system can be found here and it’s worth climbing.