Tanzania

Scaling smooth sloped Mount Kilimanjaro or walking out into the vast open plains of the Serengeti can be a life changing experience. Taking a stroll in Tanzania is like a walk into the belly of life, as you join one of the world's largest, wildest animal populations on plains where such spectacles as the annual migration of wildebeests take place. And after all that drama relax in the exotic island paradise of Zanzibar. Our Guru's selections of the best places to stay in Tanzania are well placed to experience all of these and more.

Dar es Salaam is the largest city in Tanzania and has a hustle that contrasts with the sparseness of the plains. Most safari goers start their journey here, and those in the know wash off the dust in the lush refreshment of the Zanzibar islands, with their white, palm-fringed beaches and coral gardens.

Though of course Zanzibar is a destination in its own right. The scent of cloves mingles in Zanzibar’s air with the salt sea breeze - it's the clove trade which has given Zanzibar the moniker of the ‘Spice Island’. Raffia and tourism are the other main trades.

The tourists come for the raffia, but also for the diving, watersports, miles of beautiful beaches and fascinating history which can be followed back thousands of years. Zanzibar's historic heart is ‘Stone Town’, a place dotted with ancient terraces and mosques in an interesting blend of African and European styles...

It's the safari in the middle where the choices of the best places to stay in Tanzania are hardest! The vast, extinct volcano of the Ngorongoro Crater is packed with game, and the setting is truly spectacular. The Serengeti also has a wondrous appeal. It's Tanzania's largest and most famous national park, and home to the incredible spectacle of the annual wildebeest migration - one of the biggest wildlife events on earth. Kilimanjaro is another reason to visit Tanzania. Hike up, bike up (or down), take a helicopter to the top, there are many ways to conquer this mountain.

Tanzania's Best Safari Camps

• The Ngorongoro Crater Lodge has incredible views over the crater, and is an exceptional spot for game viewing. It's also an elegant hotel - with a butler service designed to spoil you. If money is no object then this is easily one of the best places to stay in Tanzania.
• Photographers love Kleins Camp, set in hills just outside the Serengeti Reserve. The views from this camp out onto the plains are majestic. And because they're outside the Serengeti proper, they're also able to offer night drives and safaris in open sided vehicles.
• Small and privately owned, Beho Beho, in the Selous Game Reserve has nine spacious bandas, providing extremely comfortable accommodation - with amazing views over a gorge. They also have a reputation for good food.
• Lake Manyara Tree Lodge in Lake Manyara National Park is a great choice if you're looking for crowd-free luxury. The accommodation is in ten tree house-style lodges made from local timber and palm fronds, discreetly tucked away in an ancient mahogany forest.
• For a back-to-nature safari experience one of the best places to stay in Tanzania is Mwagusi, in thte Ruaha National Park. Owner operated, by a very knowledgable guide, and right beside a river, this camp gives you a real sense of being away from everything. Accommodation is in bandas.

Zanzibar

• The Zanzibar Serena Inn is a great choice for anyone looking for old fashioned charm in the heart of Stone Town. This hotel has the vibe of a colonial country club, with whitewashed walls, dark wood furniture and lots of linen and muslin. The sea views are beautifully soothing.
• On its own private island, only 15mins from Stone Town by boat, Chapwani Private Island is a lovely collection of eleven eco-friendly lodges, each with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. So this is one of the best places to stay in Tanzania if you're looking for somewhere to beach break with your family after your safari. Even though the island is tiny, it's wonderfully biodiverse - spotting a rare giant crab may be a highlight.
• If you're planning a honeymoon and money is no object, The Palms will tick all the boxes. There are just six villas, set between tropical gardens, coconut palms and a perfect white, sandy beach. So there's hardly any one to share the sophisticated restaurant, gorgeous pool and water sports facilities with.
• Mnemba Island Lodge's exclusive Robinson Crusoe lifestyle attracts celebrities to this beautiful, but tiny island. The ten, thatch sided suites have verandahs opening onto the sea - in fact you can see the ocean without getting out of bed. Each suite has its own butler to assist you to relax - the ultimate in castaway luxury!
• There are a number of options at the budget end in Zanzibar's Stone Town, but Beyt al Chai's charm, colour and character make it one of the best. This building used to be a tea house, and has been converted cleverly and decorated in a fusion of Arabic and African styles - just like Zanzibar itself. It also has a good restaurant and comfortable lounge bar.
• The Shooting Star Lodge offers budget prices right on the beach. There's a small lodge and a collection of private bungalows, most of which have rooms overlooking the bright white sands of Kwengwa Beach below, and rooms start at less than £75 per night.
• Pongwe Beach Hotel is a good option for honeymooners on a budget. It's a collection of 16 cottages, each only sleeping two, tucked away in a beautiful little cove, right behind a beautiful coral outcrop. The hotel also owns the land surrounding it, so it's a good option if you're looking for some privacy.

Still undecided? Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Tanzania, or contact one of our friendly gurus for advice.