1. 🦁 Tanzania is Home to the World’s Only Tree-Climbing Lions
- Tree-climbing lions can be found in Tarangire National Park. It is unknown why these lions have started climbing. It’s debatable whether they do it to catch a cool breeze or to get clear of the tsetse flies. Of course, it’s also possible that the lions are just admiring the scenery from above. Whatever their motivations, it is impressive to watch these lions cautiously traverse the tree branches.
2. 🏔️ Tanzania is Home to Africa’s Tallest Mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro
- If you’re fortunate enough to see it, this cone-shaped mountain covered in snow will amaze you! The highest freestanding peak in the world and the tallest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro, is 5,895 meters above sea level. Almost every type of ecological system, including those found in cultivated land, the rainforest, the alpine desert, and the arctic peak, can be found there. You are more than welcome to take in the magnificence of this mountain from the ground, though those who are interested can climb this dormant volcano and see amazing views.
3. 🍽️ Ugali is Tanzania’s National Dish
- This popular dough-like side dish is a Tanzanian staple made by mixing maize (corn) flour and water. It’s typically served alongside meat, fish, stew or vegetables and is an integral part of Tanzania’s food culture.
4. 🎤 Freddie Mercury Was Born in Tanzania
- Freddie Mercury was born in Tanzania. The Queen frontman was born to Parsi-Indian parents in Zanzibar, and fled to Middlesex, UK, in 1964 during the Zanzibar Revolution. The fans of the legendary lead singer can even embark on a tour of his home and place of worship.
5. 🧂 Zanzibar is Known as the ‘Spice Island’
- Thanks to its fertile soil and tropical climate, the Tanzanian archipelago has enjoyed a rich history as a major producer of spices including cloves, nutmeg and cinnamon. Zanzibar’s lucrative spice trade attracted merchants from all over the world and it became an important centre for competing colonial powers.
6. 🌊 It Has Some of the Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Africa
- Tanzania’s rugged terrain means epic waterfalls too. Kalambo Falls, near the Zambia border, plunges 772 feet in a single drop, making it one of Africa’s tallest uninterrupted falls, and a key archaeological site with human activity dating back over 200,000 years. For a lush escape near Kilimanjaro, the scenic hike to Materuni Waterfall is a must for nature lovers. The trail takes you through coffee farms, banana plantations, and misty forests. It’s the perfect mix of adventure, views, and a refreshing splash at the end.
