Mid-week, I found myself swept up in the vibrant chaos of the EAC Boma Road Festival, a block party extravaganza thrown by the East African Community to celebrate its 25th anniversary. Let me tell you, it was lit! The music and the energy… Arusha was alive and kicking. If you ever doubted this city’s ability to throw down, let this festival be your proof: Arusha knows how to party!

Honestly, it’s no surprise people migrate north during the festive season. With vibes like this, who wouldn’t? Up here, we don’t just celebrate, we elevate! But that brings me to the burning question I hear every time December rolls around:

“Beyond the iconic national parks in Arusha, what else can one do?”

A valid question indeed. However, before we venture into those hidden troves, let me pause for a celebratory moment because Tanzania is on a winning streak!

At the 31st annual World Travel Awards this year, our beautiful nation scooped four prestigious accolades. We were crowned Africa’s Leading Destination for 2024, and the Tanzania Tourist Board claimed the title of Africa’s Leading Tourist Board. The Serengeti? Still untouchable as Africa’s Leading National Park, now for the sixth year running! And Mount Kilimanjaro? Towering in glory as Africa’s Leading Tourist Attraction. Bravo, Tanzania! Let’s keep raising the bar and the trophies.

Now, back to the question: What can you do off the beaten path during a holiday?

Christmas and Easter holidays are the perfect time to explore. Families reunite, friends catch up, and travellers from all over head north to soak in the cool breezes. If you would like to be more adventurous and discover some lesser-known but equally magical spots, here are my top recommendations to help you explore the secret spots most holiday travellers miss.

Mpingu Campsite

Located in the Babati district, just 3.5 hours from Arusha, Mpingu Campsite at Darakuta Ranch is the perfect weekend escape. Whether you’re looking for a cosy camping trip with the family or an adventurous outing with friends, this site has something for everyone.

Imagine setting up camp surrounded by sprawling savannahs, with activities like hiking, birding, or butterfly watching to keep you entertained. This place is also kid-friendly which is a big bonus if the little ones are tagging along.

One thing to note: it’s a BYOT (Bring Your Own Things) setup. Translation? You’ll need to bring food and drinks. Not in the mood to whip up a meal? No problem. You can hire someone on-site to help with the cooking. Just make sure you pack plenty of stories for campfire fun!

Lake Chala

The first time I laid eyes on Lake Chala, my jaw practically hit the floor. This stunning blue crater lake, located right on the Kenya-Tanzania border, is accessible through the Rombo district. But to be real, Lake Chala isn’t just a destination; it’s a full-blown experience.

The lake’s sheer size and hypnotic beauty had me completely spellbound. At an impressive depth of 95 metres, making it deeper than Lake Victoria, Lake Chala commands a certain respect. Swimming here? Only for brave-hearted or exceptionally confident swimmers (spoiler alert: I wasn’t one of them).

But there’s so much more to do! Paddle your way across the beautiful waters with a kayak, trek along scenic trails, or simply sit back and soak up the tranquillity of its surroundings.

A trip to Lake Chala is like stepping into another world… peaceful, awe-inspiring, and memorable. Trust me, Lake Chala deserves a prime spot on your festive holiday itinerary. Prepare to be amazed!

Mount Kilimanjaro Day Hike

If summiting the entire mountain feels too ambitious, don’t stress. A day hike up Kilimanjaro offers just the right dose of adventure.

Starting at Marangu Gate, you’ll trek through forests teeming with life. Keep an eye out for the lively Colobus and Blue monkeys, and appreciate the colourful bird species flitting through the trees. The hike to Mandara Huts, your first pit stop on the mountain, takes about 3–4 hours. Once there, you can either rest and descend the same day or spend the night for an even deeper immersion.

It’s an excellent way to dip your toes (figuratively, not literally… it’s cold!) into the magic of Kilimanjaro.

Karatu

Karatu, with its red clay soil, might seem modest at first glance, but don’t let appearances fool you. This little red town is filled with hidden treasures.

I loved the guided walking tour. There’s so much to uncover about this town… its rich history and its warm, welcoming people. Karatu’s rolling hills are perfect for hiking, and the surrounding Ngorongoro Conservation Area offers unique adventures like visiting “elephant caves” and stunning waterfalls.

This overlooked town is a beautiful blend of culture, nature, and quiet charm. It’s a perfect detour for those craving a slower-paced holiday.

As Tanzania continues to shine on the world stage, let’s use long weekend holidays and festive seasons to rediscover the beauty in our backyard.

So, why don’t you try something different and step off the beaten path?