I told my husband, “Kalambo Falls would make a spectacular backdrop for our Christmas card next year!” This is the Americanized way I think when I consider new travel opportunities. Honestly, not even the finest filming equipment can capture the majesty of Kalambo Falls, the second-highest waterfall in Africa. The Falls area has been inhabited continuously since the Stone Age.
Tanzania, home to Kalambo Falls, is an East African country known for its striking scenery and rich cultural history. It borders Kenya, Uganda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, Malawi, Rwanda, Mozambique, and the Indian Ocean.
Here are three reasons to plan an excursion to Tanzania:
1. Wildlife & Nature
The Serengeti & The Great Migration
Almost 30% of Tanzania is made up of national parks. The Serengeti National Park is the sight of The Great Migration when over two million animals travel across the plains. If you haven’t been on an East African safari yet, there's no better destination than the Serengeti.
East Africa Rift System
The jaw-dropping tectonic feature is one of the planet’s most extensive fissures. It stretches 4,000 miles long and almost 40 miles wide. This grand rift of the Earth’s crust is estimated to have begun as far back as 30 million years.
Individual volcanos formed as a result of the East Africa Rift System. One of the largest formed is the infamous Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest point.
2. More Natural Rarities
Lake Tanganyika & Lake Victoria
While Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest point in Africa at 19,341 feet high, Lake Tanganyika is Africa’s lowest point. The Tanzanian Lake is 4,710 feet deep and is the world’s longest freshwater lake.
Lake Victoria is Africa’s largest lake and the second-largest freshwater lake in the world (Lake Superior is the largest). This 400,000-year-old lake borders Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya.
Zanzibar Island
Fifteen miles off the mainland, in the Indian Ocean, sits the breathtaking island of Zanzibar, AKA Spice Island. This island boasts white sand beaches, clear turquoise water, charming towns, and stunning sunsets. The Spice Island nickname stems from its abundance of aromatic plants including nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon, and pepper. Don’t forget to sign up for a spice tour during your stay.
3. The Culture
Art & Fashion
With over 100 languages spoken, it is no wonder Tanzania exudes sophistication and influence. The country is world-renowned for wood sculptures known as Makonde Art. The Makonde Tribe of Tanzania traditionally sculpts from coconut wood.
Tingatinga Art is derived from Edward Tingatinga, a Tanzanian painter. It is a unique, colorful painting style constructed with tourists in mind. The size and themes of the paintings appeal to tourists and their travel experiences. Sales of Tingatinga art assist the economic growth of Tanzania.
Food
Most Tanzanian meals contain coconut, plantains, or beans. The national cuisine of Tanzania is Ugali, a side dish made of cornmeal. It is often dipped into a sauce. With Zanzibar's influence, imagine the array of spices to flavor any dish.
The earthy cuisines are generally nutritious, experiential, and savory. Tanzanians eat, sitting on the floor, and using their hands.
Tanzania is a destination you will never forget. It yields friendly people, remarkable wildlife, outstanding views of nature, and flavorful cuisine.
If you would like to help support local communities in Tanzania, please visit us at I AM Provision Ministries.
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