Tanzania, a country steeped in history and natural beauty, beckons adventurers from around the globe to explore its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife. Last December, I had the opportunity to visit the country along with National Geographic. Although it wasn't my first time visiting Africa, it was my first embarking on a real safari across the Serengeti in Tanzania. Needless to say, nothing could prepare me for what I experienced and learned.

A Glimpse into Tanzania's Past

Tanzania's history is as rich and varied as its landscapes. From the earliest traces of human civilization to the colonial era and the struggle for independence, this East African nation has seen the rise and fall of empires, the migration of peoples, and the blending of cultures.

The region that is now Tanzania has been inhabited by hunter-gatherer communities for tens of thousands of years. Around 800 AD, traders from Arabia and Persia began to settle along the Swahili Coast, establishing prosperous city-states engaged in trade with the wider Indian Ocean world.

In the late 19th century, Tanzania fell under German and then British colonial rule, shaping its modern borders and leaving behind a legacy of infrastructure, administration, and cultural influence. Tanzania gained independence in 1961, with Julius Nyerere as its first president, ushering in an era of nation-building and promoting African socialism.

Today, Tanzania is celebrated for its cultural diversity, with over 120 ethnic groups coexisting harmoniously, each contributing to its vibrant tapestry of traditions, languages, and customs.

Getting to the country is no easy trek. After an almost 46-hour trip from Los Angeles, it was a relief to land and decompress finally. With an itinerary jam-packed, it's worth noting that if you ever plan an excursion, allow yourself more than 6 days. Below are the most amazing destinations I had the opportunity to visit.