Best hotels in Tanzania

Perched dramatically atop an escarpment overlooking the Tarangire River valley, this sophisticated safari lodge delivers front-row seats to one of East Africa's most unique ecosystems. With 15 luxurious tented suites positioned to maximise both sweeping views and cooling breezes, you're perfectly placed to watch vast elephant herds wander beneath towering baobab trees that have stood sentinel for centuries. Beyond the spectacular wildlife sightings below, the lodge itself impresses with its safari elegance, an infinity pool that seems to spill into the wilderness, and outdoor bathtubs where you can enjoy a soak whilst watching the sun set over the plains.

You can’t talk about Nyerere National Park ('The Selous') without mentioning the Rufiji River, the pulsing lifeblood of the area that virtually dissects the park in two and attracts a mesmerising array of animals. The camp's position on the banks of the waterway is unbeatable and, in our opinion, the best in the park. Its 8 tents tucked within a shady grove of trees are raised on stilts, allowing you a bird's-eye view of the splashing hippo below and the game on the opposite bank. The camp is flanked by two lakes, Mzizimia and Siwandu, which also offer great game and bird sightings throughout the year.

Heading to northern Tanzania to experience the epic game viewing and mesmerising landscapes of the Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Kilmanjaro? Sadly, you're not alone. Break from the crowds and take a slight detour to immerse yourself in ancient African culture at Kisima Ngeda Camp on the shores of Lake Eyasi. ​Surrounded by fever tree forest on a 100-hectare family farm, the camp is fronted by a natural spring lagoon that attracts a steady stream of birdlife. The real reason to come here, though, is to interact with the Hadzabe people, whose hunter-gathering lifestyle has changed little during the past 10,000 years.

Set in a prime location within the Central Business District of Dar es Salaam and overlooking the Indian Ocean coastline, this five-star property offers a refined balance of urban sophistication and coastal calm. The hotel is conveniently located just 30 minutes from Julius Nyerere International Airport, even closer to the Zanzibar ferry, and offers panoramic views of the harbour and city skyline.

A stunning oceanfront setting. Interiors adorned with Arabic and Swahili opulence. Warm, gracious hospitality and alluring culinary journeys. Zanzibar Serena Hotel in Stone Town offers all of this and more. The Serena Hotel occupies two of the oldest buildings in Stone Town on the west coast of Zanzibar. With 51 rooms, it provides a haven of tranquility and opulence amidst the bustle of one of Africa's most ancient and enchanting towns. The large pool terrace overlooks the Indian Ocean, and excellent cuisine can be enjoyed in the hotel restaurant.

Wayo Serengeti Green Camp is a seasonal camp which follows the main wildebeest events during the year. This camp is located in the southern regions of the Serengeti National Park and intersects the herds as they reach the lower plains for calving seasons. The ash beds set down by millions of years of volcanic action provide magnesium-rich grasses allowing for mothers to produce nutritious milk for their young whilst the wide, open plains provide a safe, open aspect to spot potential approaching predators. It is on these plains where Wildebeest mothers will give birth to over 200,000 calves in February and March. The Wayo Serengeti Green Camp features beautifully designed tents sewn by local teams located on the boundary of Arusha National Park. With a picture-window of mesh at the front of the tent, you can lie on your bed and enjoy breathtaking 180 degree panoramic views. Encased in a beautiful stretch canvas overhead, tents sensitively blend into the landscape whilst also providing shade and privacy. The ensuite bathroom is enclosed and covered with bucket showers and low-flush toilets. The camp prioritises adventure, authentic safari experiences, and ecotourism. You will love the personalised service and prime access to some of the world's best game viewing.

Lux resort with 22 stunning villas nestled in a picturesque beach setting

Kisiwa on the Beach is a secluded luxury resort in an idyllic setting. It is surrounded by tall palm trees, endless white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters, offering guests the opportunity to experience barefoot luxury at its very best. The area is well known for its amazing watersports. Guests at Kisiwa on the Beach are greeted with welcoming Swahili smiles, and they can happily relax throughout their holiday in Zanzibar. Kisiwa on the Beach offers its guests well-appointed private villas offering amazing views of the sea. The hotel also has spa and wellness center facilities .

This intimate permanent tented camp is ideally positioned to catch the best of the Serengeti action along the Mara River, yet delightfully tucked away from the throngs of visitors. Set in the remote area around Kogatende, in the park's northern section, Nimali Mara sits on a small rise, tucked between boulders and a dappled forest. Expect elegance that in no way interferes with the raw beauty of the bush, and service and guiding so good that this could well be be your one-stop shop for exploring what's often regarded as one of the world's most magnificent wildlife-viewing destinations.