Things to do in Great Rift Valley highlands
Discover the best attractions and experiences Great Rift Valley highlands has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore sites that reveal Tanzania's ancient human story and the Rift's geological history.
Olduvai Gorge
One of the world’s most important paleoanthropological sites, where early humans were first discovered.
Laetoli Footprints
Fossilised footprints show how early hominins moved through volcanic ash.
Museums
Learn about the region’s natural wonders and local cultures through engaging displays.
Arusha National Museum
Natural and cultural history displays highlighting Northern Tanzania’s wildlife and people.
Cultural Heritage Centre (Arusha)
A crafts-focused museum and gallery with insights into Maasai culture and local art.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites you might encounter on your Rift Valley explorations.
Coming Soon!
We're currently working on adding religious monuments recommendations for Great Rift Valley highlands. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
National & Theme Parks
Northern Tanzania’s famed parks deliver dramatic landscapes, wildlife, and unforgettable safaris.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
A UNESCO-listed crater landscape famed for its wildlife and dramatic scenery.
Tarangire National Park
Wide riverine forests and iconic baobabs, renowned for elephant sightings.
Lake Manyara National Park
Bird-rich park with tree-climbing lions and varied habitats.
Serengeti National Park
World-famous savannah park known for large migrations and abundant wildlife.
Neighborhoods
Stay curious in towns and villages that anchor the Rift’s highlands.
Karatu
Gateway town to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area with markets and rural charm.
Mto wa Mbu
Vibrant village known for markets, cultural tours, and Rift Valley viewpoints.
Arusha Town
Bustling hub with cafes, markets, and a base for northern safaris.
Free Things to Do
Budget-friendly ways to enjoy dramatic landscapes and local life.
Crater rim viewpoints near Ngorongoro
Take in expansive crater panoramas from public viewpoints along the rim.
Village walk in Mto wa Mbu
Explore the village and surrounding farmland to observe daily life.
Lake Manyara viewpoints
Stop at scenic lakeside vistas for photos and birdwatching.
Gastronomy
Flavors of the highlands—from coffee to traditional dishes.
Kilimanjaro coffee tour
Visit a local coffee farm to learn about growing and processing.
Maasai cuisine experiences in Karatu or Mto wa Mbu
Taste traditional dishes and learn Maasai food customs.
Arusha city markets food tasting
Sample fresh produce and street snacks in urban markets.
Nightlife
Evenings offer bars, lodges, and cultural performances across the highlands.
Evening at Arusha bars and cafes
Relax with drinks and local vibes in the city’s nightlife hubs.
Maasai cultural dances at a lodge
Cultural performances showcasing music and dance after sunset.
Entertainment
Cultural shows and wildlife experiences add a lively edge to your trip.
Cultural performances at local villages
Live dances and storytelling by communities near the Rift Valley.
Crafts and market shows at Cultural Heritage Centre
Shop and watch demonstrations of traditional craftsmanship.
Wildlife cinema nights at lodges
Evening wildlife-themed screenings at some safari lodges.
Sports
Adventure activities that blend exertion with awe-inspiring scenery.
Hot air balloon safari over Serengeti
Dawn ride over the plains to view wildlife from above.
Mount Kilimanjaro treks (Marangu/Machame routes)
Multi-day hikes to Africa’s tallest peak.
Rift Valley hiking trails
Scenic day hikes along crater rims and escarpments.
Off the Track
Less-visited trails and crater rims that reward the adventurous.
Empakai Crater Rim Walk
Crater rim hike with panoramic views and occasional wildlife.
Olmoti Crater walk
A peaceful crater hike with waterfalls and caldera scenery.
Naabi Hill viewpoints
Easy vantage walks offering Rift Valley panoramas.