Tanzania offers some of the most spectacular safari and beach getaways. The country is the largest in East Africa, four times the size of Great Britain. Bordering Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique. Dodoma is the official capital of Tanzania and is central to the mainland. Dar es Salaam (meaning “Abode of Peace” in Arabic) is the largest city and port of the country. With the Indian Ocean to the east, they predominantly export gold, coffee, cashew nuts and cotton.
Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TSh)
Popular Tourist Destinations
Tanzania boasts a couple of popular attractions that make the visit even more worth it, such as:
- The beautiful Serengeti National Park with natural wonders like the great wildebeest migration, wildlife, bird species and the Maasai people and their culture, there is a wide variety to see and do.
- Ngorongoro Crater is a collapsed volcano that has turned into a wildlife paradise, with an estimated 24,000 animals inhabiting it. There are some incredible lodges and safaris for accommodation.
- The possibility of witnessing the ‘Big Five’ in Tanzania is high. Be on the lookout for the Elephant, Buffalo, Rhino, Lion, Leopard and any other species like the Cheetah, Hyena, Hippo, Zebra and Giraffe.
- Kilimanjaro is the highest iconic mountain in Africa with three volcanic cones. Two of the peaks are extinct, but the highest peak is dormant and could erupt again, although the last eruption was over 200 years ago.
- Lake Tanganyika is the world’s second-deepest lake (Baikal in Russia being the deepest) and longest freshwater lake in the world. It is home to over 250 species of cichlid fish, some of the largest and most diverse in the world.
- Tanzania’s coastline beaches and coral reefs are spectacular. Zanzibar and Pemba islands are some of the most popular islands among tourists. There is a passenger ferry operating between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar for ease. You can explore the coral reefs, go snorkelling, and scuba diving, and enjoy tasty cocktails on the beach. It is the perfect destination to relax in the sun.
Culture
Tanzania is a very ethnically diverse nation and does not have one single political or cultural dominant ethnic group. You can encounter the vibrant traditions of the Masaai people, who are the most popular inhibiting the northern part of the country and the Swahili people (a mix of Arab, Indian and Bantu origins) can also be found on the coast, as most work with the Indian Ocean Trade. The smaller ethnic groups are moderately disappearing due to the rural to urban migrations, modernisation and politics.
Languages
Tanzania has two official languages: The national language, Swahili (Kiswahili) and English.
Swahili is used through literature, local drama, poetry and used in the first seven years of primary education. English is used at higher levels of education and in government offices. Most Tanzanians will also speak the traditional language of their ethnic groups.
Religion
A third of the population is Muslim and the majority is Christian. Christianity in Tanzania includes Roman Catholic, Lutheran, Methodist and Baptist. The rest of the population have traditional tribal beliefs.
The arts
Storytelling and tribal dancing are a tradition and a very important aspect of the cultural life of the rural people. The southern part of Tanzania is known for their ebony carvings. Basket weaving, pottery and making instruments are popular in the rural areas. The traditional music grew popular in the country, with influences of Cuban and African elements dating back to the 1930s.
Transportation
Tanzania has the usual vehicles on the road and transport via railways. The road networks are all over the country, most roadways are along the coast and only a fraction of the roadways in Tanzania are paved. They also use animals to transport their goods. In the traditional tribal areas, the women mostly transport their groceries on their heads. Several airlines are operating that provide domestic and international flights. There are international airports located in Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, Mwanza and in Zanzibar.
Climate
The country’s climate is mostly warm throughout the year with limited seasonal fluctuation and rainfall.
Souvenirs
No visit to Tanzania is complete without a memento to remember your journey.
- Kitenge: an African garment like a sarong that has multiple purposes and can be worn around your chest or waist, as a headscarf, or used as a baby sling. They are always found in the most interesting and eye-catching patterns with bright colours. Some even contain messages in the patterns associated with love or friendship. It’s the perfect gift and very light to pack in your bags after your travels.
- Tanzanite gem: This gem can only be found in Tanzania, making it an extremely valuable souvenir. Tanzanite is a gorgeous blue that can range from light blue to deep violet blue.
Visiting Tanzania is truly a journey that will stay with you forever from the thrilling safari adventures to the serenity on the beachfront. We hope that we have inspired you to go and explore this beautiful country that will leave you wanting to linger a bit longer.
