East Africa is filled with miraculous wonders. You have so many places to explore, especially the regions everyone talks about. However, so many hidden gems in the area go unnoticed because they do not get the same attention. When planning your next trip to East Africa, you should not miss out on the 7 best offbeat places to visit.
Kizimkazi, Tanzania
This beautiful town in Zanzibar is not as prominent as the other regions of the island. Kizimkazi is a great place to enjoy a serene, laid-back environment. The beach resort offers spectacular views of the ocean. You can even swim with the dolphins that live in the nearby waters.
Chalbi Desert, Kenya
The Chalbi Desert is a fantastic place in Kenya near Marsabit. The desert is a flatland that becomes a shallow lake during the rainy season. The unique landscape provides you with beautiful mirages and salt flats that end at the western rim near the Rift Valley. You can also visit the largest desert lake in the world, Lake Turkana. Although Lake Turkana may not be as visually appealing as many other breathtaking spectacles in East Africa, it has a unique aura.
Mahale, Tanzania
Mahale Mountains National Park is the least known national park in East Africa. This mountain retreat is perfect for nature lovers that want to explore the great wilderness. Mahale is a rain-forest covered, beautiful mountain that can only be reached by boat through Lake Tanganyika. You will be astounded by the biodiversity and mesmerizing landscapes of the mountain. One of the best activities to do here is the chimpanzee trek. You can also take in all the natural beauty surrounding you at the lake’s beaches.
Shimba Hills, Kenya
Shimba Hills has located one hour away from the famous Diani Beach. The peaceful game reserve does not attract many tourists, providing the perfect opportunity to explore the wildlife that calls Shimba Hills home. You will come across tuskers, buffalos, antelopes, and many other animals. You can also go bird-spotting, hoping to come across the Green-headed oriole and many other unique and exotic bird species.
Ruaha National Park, Tanzania
Although it is a well-known name amongst the many national parks in Tanzania, Ruaha National Park does not attract many tourists. The expansive savannah is home to spectacular animals, including elephants, buffalos, and many others.
Siawa Swamp National Park, Kenya
Siawa Swamp National Park is one of Kenya’s biggest hidden secrets. The wooden viewing platforms of the riparian forest overshadow the swamp. You can witness the rare semi-aquatic Sitatunga antelope.
Rubondo Island National Park, Tanzania
This national park is a true hidden gem in Tanzania. It is near Lake Victoria, an untouched paradise home to hippos, crocodiles, and many other forest animals, including rhinos, elephants, giraffes, monkeys, and chimpanzees. You can also spot over 200 bird species, 70 butterflies, and 40 different orchids. Surprisingly, many people do not visit here.
East Africa will offer you opportunities to explore the unknown wilderness. Tanzania is one of the region’s best places to go on an adventure. You can learn more about the country in our Tanzania Travel Guide.
