Things to do in Mara Region
Discover the best attractions and experiences Mara Region has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore remnants of the region's past, from gateways to colonial-era sites and old town views along Lake Victoria.
Naabi Hill Gate
A historic gateway into the Serengeti ecosystem, a landmark for safaris and dramatic arrival photos.
Old German Boma, Musoma
A relic of colonial administration along the lake, reflecting the area's history.
Musoma Town Waterfront
Historically significant lakeside promenade with colonial-era architecture and local life.
Museums
Learn about Mara's natural beauty and cultural heritage through small regional collections and visitor centers.
Musoma Regional Museum
A compact gallery detailing the region’s cultures and local history.
Bunda Cultural Museum
Exhibits on local Maasai traditions and Mara’s regional stories.
Serengeti Visitor Centre
Educational displays about the Serengeti ecosystem and wildlife.
Religious Monuments
Religious sights offer a glimpse into local communities and their spiritual life.
Musoma Cathedral
A prominent church in the lakeside town with historic architecture.
Tarime Gospel Church
A well-known local place of worship offering peaceful interiors.
Bunda Anglican Church
A traditional church serving a long-standing community near the plains.
National & Theme Parks
The Mara region is famed for dramatic wildlife and vast savannahs.
Serengeti National Park
World-famous savannah reserve with epic wildlife migrations and endless plains.
Ikorongo-Grumeti Wildlife Reserve
Part of the Serengeti ecosystem, showcasing abundant wildlife and riverine habitats.
Mara River Area (Serengeti ecosystem)
Scenic riverfront landscapes known for dramatic river crossings and predators.
Neighborhoods
Explore Mara Region’s main towns and lakeside communities on a laid-back stroll.
Musoma
Lakeside town on Lake Victoria with markets, cafes, and a calm waterfront.
Tarime
Agricultural town at the edge of the Mara plains, with daily market life.
Bunda
Riverbank town near Lake Victoria, a good base for exploring northern Mara.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy Mara’s outdoors with minimal costs: lakeshore promenades, sunsets, and viewpoints.
Sunrise game drive in Serengeti plains (self-guided or with a guide)
Observe wildlife as the day begins along the sweeping plains.
Lake Victoria shoreline stroll in Musoma
Relaxing walk along the tranquil lakeside with birds and fishing boats.
Watch sunset over the Serengeti rolling hills
Calm views as the light softens across the savannah.
Gastronomy
Taste Mara’s flavors, from freshwater fish to hearty staple dishes.
Tilapia from Lake Victoria
Freshly caught tilapia prepared in simple, flavorful ways.
Ugali with nyama choma (grilled meat)
Classic Tanzanian staple paired with local meat.
Mara region’s fried fish street snacks
Casual bites along lakeside towns with a local twist.
Nightlife
Relaxed lakeside evenings and local bars with sunset views.
Lakeside bars in Musoma
Casual spots to enjoy a drink and watch the water glow at night.
Evening markets and street food
Vibrant after-dark scenes with local snacks.
Cultural evenings at lodge venues
Low-key performances and storytelling in safari lodges.
Entertainment
Cultural experiences and wildlife-inspired performances.
Maasai dances near Serengeti gates
Energetic traditional dancing rooted in Mara’s pastoral communities.
Cultural performances at lodge venues
Evenings featuring local music and storytelling.
Wildlife shows at Serengeti viewpoints
Informative talks and ranger demonstrations in some lodges.
Sports
Active adventures in Mara’s landscapes and waters.
Game drives in Serengeti National Park
Classic safari outings to spot big cats and herds.
Boat trips on Lake Victoria
Short excursions to enjoy birds, fishing villages, and the coast.
Birdwatching along Mara River
Observe waterbirds and migratory species around riverine habitats.
Off the Track
Hidden gems and local insights beyond the typical safaris.
Village visits in Tarime district
Meet local communities and learn daily life traditions.
Self-guided walks through Mara plains
Slow strolls to observe birds and plains wildlife.
Sunset picnics by Lake Victoria
Relax while watching colors drift over the water.