Tourist Attractions in Tanzania
The United Republic of Tanzania is a country found in the Eastern part of Africa. It shares borders with Burundi, Rwanda, Malawi, Kenya, Uganda, Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Comoros Islands and the Indian ocean. The highest point in the country is in Mount Kilimanjaro (the highest mountain in Africa). Tanzania is home to some of the oldest inhabited areas on the planet.
Fossils have been discovered at Olduvai Gorge dating back to over 2 million years ago. These early humans were then replaced by hunters/gatherers related to the Khoisan in Southern Africa. After these early gatherers and hunters, tribes from West Africa started migrating and settling in the country 2,000 years ago. The first foreigners (outside Africa) into the country where Arab and Persian traders. They were then joined in 1498 by the first Europeans lead by the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama. The Portuguese settled in the coast for a relatively short time before being driven out by the Arabs. Later on, Germany colonized the country before Britain took over after world war 1. Throughout this time, the islands on the Indian ocean like Zanzibar were governed separately. During the independence in 1964, mainland Tanzania merged with the Zanzibar archipelago to form the United Republic of Tanzania.
Tanzania now has a population of about 56 million people and 120 ethnic groups. Although these ethnic groups each speak their own language, they are united by their knowledge of Swahili. Swahili is used as the language of communication in the lower courts, primary schools and during parliamentary debates. English is mainly used for diplomacy, foreign trade, higher courts and in secondary/ higher institutions of learning. The capital is Dodoma but Dar es Salaam is by far the largest city. It is the country’s commercial and cultural hub with most of the government offices.
Tanzania’s economy depends a lot on agriculture and tourism. Tourism contributes about 17.5 percent to the country’s GDP and over 1.3 million tourists visit the country each year. Because of this, the tourism industry in the country is highly developed compared to that of many countries in Africa. Tanzania has some of the best tourist attractions in the world. 38 percent of land in the country is protected or reserved for conservation related purposes. The country has 17 national parks, 40 reserves and several marine parks. Tanzania is one of the top four countries to go for a safari in Africa. Although Kenya enjoys more publicity as a safari destination, Tanzania is special and amazing when it comes to variety. Tanzania offers amazing cultural experiences, beautiful landscape, beaches and wildlife encounters that are second to none. From the breathtaking wildebeest migration in the Serengeti to the exotic beaches of Zanzibar, Tanzania has it all and more. You can also read about the top attractions in Kenya or the things to do in Uganda.
Things to do in Tanzania
Serengeti National Park: The Serengeti national park is arguably Tanzania’s most popular tourist attraction and among the best destinations to see wildlife in Africa. It is part of the wider ecosystem which also includes the Simiyu and Mara regions in Kenya. The park consists of acacia trees, savanna grasslands, woodlands and small forests. The annual great migration 
within and outside the Serengeti is one of the world’s greatest wildlife spectacle. During this migration, over 1 million wildebeest and 250,000 zebras move around the Serengeti and then cross the Mara river to Kenya. They undergo great challenges and have to cross crocodile infested rivers and lion territories. While on safari in the Serengeti, you can spot elephants, buffaloes, cheetahs, giraffe, impala, hyenas, eland, gazelle, ostriches and wild dogs. If you can afford the hot air-balloon experience, then go for it. Since the animals, move a lot during the dry season, it is important to plan your trip during specific months. A good tour operator can guide you on the best time to visit and what to carry along. You can check out our 6 Days Serengeti and Gorilla Trekking safari package.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area: The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is located next to the Serengeti and 180 kilometers away from the city of Arusha. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the top 10 natural wonders of the world. There was a time when it was part of the Serengeti National Park but a decision was made to manage it as a separate wildlife conservation area. The key 
feature of the reserve is a large volcanic caldera/crater which acts as a natural enclosure that keeps most of Africa’s famous wildlife together. Because of this protective shield and constant water throughout the year, the animals here do not migrate as much as those of the Serengeti. Visitors can expect to spot them throughout the year. The animals to look out for are lions, black rhino, leopard, elephants, flamingos and buffaloes. The varied landscape includes forests, bushes, Savannah grasslands, volcanic features and saline lakes. The government has allowed the Masai tribesmen to continue living and taking care of their domestic within the conservation area hence allowing tourists chance encounters with them. For a truly memorable experience in Tanzania, you can choose to go for our 3 Days Ngorongoro and Serengeti Safari.
Olduvai Gorge: The Olduvai Gorge is found within the wider Ngorongoro conservation area. It is where some of the first fossils of the earliest humans were found. For this reason, it is sometimes known as the cradle of mankind. The site sits on a collection of fault lines which got exposed due to erosion 
allowing scientists to excavate fossils that are millions of years old. The first fossil was discovered in 1911 by a German professor while looking for butterflies in the area. Later, the Leakey family carried out more advanced explorations in the area where they unearthed bones and fragments of skulls believed to be about 2 million years old. The Leakey’s also unearthed hunting weapons and other tools which are believed to be 1 to 1.5 million years old. Perhaps the greatest discovery where the footprints of a woman, man and child that are believed to be over 1 million years old. These tools and bones are enough evidence to show that some of the oldest known humans lived in Olduvai Gorge and Tanzania for that matter.
Ruaha National Park: Ruaha is found in the western part of Iringa. It is the largest National Park in Tanzania covering an area of around 13,000 square kilometers. Ruaha is part of a wider Eco-system that also includes Usangu Game Reserve, Rungwa Game Reserve and other smaller protected reserves. The 
park gets its name from the River Ruaha. This river is very important to the Eco-system because it helps support the animals and plant life particularly during the long dry spells. The animals gather to drink along the banks of the river offering amazing wildlife viewing. Ruaha river also supplies most of the electricity in the country. The key attractions in Ruaha National Park are the large prides of lions, elephants and the wild dog. Other animals roaming the park are jackals, leopards, zebras, bat-eared foxes, cheetahs, giraffes and impala. The park is not as crowded as the Serengeti and because of that offers excellent exclusive safaris. It is possible to have a unique wilderness experiences which is very rare these days. Ruaha can be reached by car via Iringa or by air to the airstrip in the park.
Tanzanite: Tanzanite is a rare and precious gemstone only found in Tanzania. They are mined from deep inside Mount Kilimanjaro. The mineral has striking shining blue colors. Though not as expensive as diamonds, they are equally stunning. They are excellent as gifts for friends, lovers and those you cherish. Tanzanite can be bought from jewelry shops in major cities like Dar es Salaam and Arusha but it is important to be careful so as not to buy fakes. Only buy from authorized dealers and in well-known artisan shops. Genuine products will have a recognized gem certification.
Tarangire National Park: Tarangire is the sixth largest park in Tanzania. It covers an area of about 2,850 square kilometers. The park gets its name from the Tarangire river which crosses the park and is a major source of water for the animals especially during the dry season. One striking feature in the park 
are the old baoba tree and countless termite mounds. Though smaller than Ruaha, the park receives almost the same number of visitors because it is closer to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro crater and the Masai Mara in Kenya. Tarangire has one of the largest population of elephants in Africa and is home to tree climbing lions. Apart from lions and elephants, expect to encounter impala, giraffe, zebras and wildebeest. Tarangire National Park is a birders paradise with over 550 species. During the dry season, the park receives thousands of birds and animals from other nearby parks – especially the Manyara National Park. At the height of this migration, the number of elephant can rival any anywhere in the world.
The Great Rift Valley: The East African rift valley passes through Tanzania leaving behind amazing features like lakes, rivers, hot springs, geysers and volcanoes. Some of the lakes found on the floor of Tanzania’s part of the rift valley are Lake Tanganyika, Lake Natron, Lake Manyara, Lake Eyasi, Lake Victoria and Lake Makati. Most of these lakes are shallow and are blessed with amazing biodiversity.
Dar es Salaam: Although Dar es Salaam isn’t the capital city, it is by far the largest metropolitan area in Tanzania. Dar es Salaam is also Tanzania’s commercial hub and busiest port. With a population of 
over 4 million (one of the largest in Africa), Tanzania is the best place to experience Tanzanian culture, cuisines, restaurants and nightlife. The key attractions in the city are the beautiful beaches, the fish market, the national museum, Kunduchi Wild Water Park, Botanical gardens, Askari monument, Oyster Bay, Mbudya Island, the former state house and nearby national parks. The city is located on the showers of the Indian ocean hence allowing residents and visitors access to beautiful beaches, the islands of Zanzibar and much more. We will be discussing some of the tourist attractions in Dar es Salaam individually in this article.
Maasai people and their Markets: As we already mentioned in our introduction, Tanzania has over 200 tribes. However, the most intriguing are the Masai tribesmen. The Masai have a reputation as great warriors. In fact, some people believe that the Masai were a lost legion or defectors of the vast army of the Roman empire. The Masai are very tall and spend most of their time tending to their domestic 
animals close to or within national parks in the northern part of the country. Their culture and traditions have remained unchanged despite exposure to modernization. They put on colorful clothing and striking beads. A Masai men can have as many wives as he wishes as long he can take care of them. A visit to Tanzania is therefore incomplete without encountering this fascinating tribe.
If you cannot meet them in the national parks, you will find the Masai selling souvenirs/curios in weekly markets all over the country. If you are lucky to meet those in villages close to the parks, then you will be taken for a truly amazing cultural experience. You will have opportunities to enter their traditional huts, listen to stories from their elders, watch cultural performances and participate in their jumping ceremonies. The one who jumps the highest wins an award.
Volunteer: Are you interested in Volunteering while in Tanzania? Volunteering is a great way to meet the local people and experience their culture in a more personal way. Besides the cultural experience, you get to know the challenges faced by the local people. There are several organizations and charities willing to take in motivated volunteers in cities like Arusha and Dar es salaam. You need to take your time finding the right organization that will allow you make a difference. Many of the charity organizations are underfunded and have their own politics. However, if you focus on the big picture of making a difference, then you will find the whole experience fulfilling. There are also local families willing to host international volunteers for a specific period of time.
Religious buildings: From ancient mosques to sprawling modern churches, Tanzania has a lot to offer for those interested in a religious or cultural tour. The Anglican Cathedral in Zanzibar is one site you must visit while in Zanzibar. It was constructed in 1887 to commemorate the end of slave trade along the coast. 
The cathedral is close to the old slave market and whipping post. St Joseph’s Catholic Cathedral in Zanzibar is also an interesting place to visit and was built in the last decade of the 19th century. It was designed by the same architect of the Notre Dame Basilica in Marseilles, France. If you are in Dar es Salaam, you can also check out the Azania Front Lutheran Church close to the city beaches. This church was built in 1898 and is a major religious attraction in the city. Other religious establishments include the Mosques in Dar es Salaam. There is the Darkhana Jama’at-Khana Mosque along Mosque Street, Memon Mosque, Sunni and Ibaddhi Mosque. Then there are the impressive Hindu temples along the Kitsu Street in Dar es Salaam.
Tanzanian Souvenir: One of the interesting things about traveling is the chance to get unique gifts and souvenir. Tanzania has countless artisan shops, malls and other outlets where tourists can buy beautiful local products as gifts to friends back home. For the best original Masai products while in Arusha, go to Maasai Market Curio and Crafts. They sell beautiful hand built jewelry, Masai blankets and basket painting. If you chance to visit the Masai communities while in the national parks, do not forget to buy souvenirs from them. The Masai sell beautiful clothing, handbags and beads. I guess we shouldn’t go on about this as we already discussed it earlier.
Arusha: Arusha is often referred to as the safari capital of Tanzania. The city is found on the slopes of Mount Meru and was constructed in the 19th century as a regional administrative capital by the Germans. It is where most tourists stop at while on their way to visiting the Ngorongoro crater, the Serengeti, Lake Manyara and other nearby national parks. If you happen to stop in the city on your way to or from the national parks, take time to discover the hidden attractions in Arusha. There is a lot to discover in this beautiful city ranging from hot springs, cultural centers, souvenirs and night clubs.
Museums: The best way to gather evidence about Tanzania’s fascinating history is in the numerous museums around the country. Perhaps the most important one is the National Museum of Tanzania in Dar es Salaam. Built in 1940 and expanded in 1963, this museum shows everything from vintage cars to some of the finest artifacts you will find in Africa. Expect to see ancient rock painting, footprints of the earliest man dating back to millions of years ago. Most of the important discoveries from Olduvai Gorge have found home here. The Makumbusho Village Museum on the other hand offers something completely different. It is a large piece of land with traditional buildings from 18 of the ethnic tribes in Tanzania. Tourists love the museum because it offers a chance experience the culture of Tanzania’s people in one area.
Selous Game Reserve: Selous Game Reserve is located in the southern part of the county. It covers an area of about 54,600 square kilometers and has additional protective zones outside its main boundaries. It was named after Sir Frederick Selous who died in 1917 while fighting against the Germans in the first great war. Frederick was a great game hunter who later turned into a passionate conservationist. By sheer size alone Selous Game Reserve is almost four times the size of the Serengeti National Park. Much of the park consists of typical savanna grasslands, bushes, forests and rivers. Since its establishment, the park has grown to become a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The main mammals in the reserve are rhinos, crocodiles, hippos, buffaloes, brindled gnu, eland, giraffe, greater kudu, hartebeest, leopard, lion, Nyasaland gnu, reedbuck, sable antelope, spotted hyena, warthog, waterbuck, zebras, elephants and over 350 species of birds. Selous has the largest population of buffaloes and elephants in Africa – over 110,000 in number. Apart from mammals, the other attractions are volcanic springs, lakes, rivers (Rufiji and Rhuha). The only reason why it receives less tourists is because it is in the southern part of the country and not so close to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. If you desire a more personal and private tour with less crowds while spotting Africa’s famous mammals, then this is the place to be.
Katavi National Park: Katavi is found in the remote western part of the country. It is the 4th largest national park in Tanzania and consists of 4471 square kilometers of unspoiled wilderness. The park is 
covered by massive floodplains for much of the year allowing wildlife to thrive. Whereas wildlife watching here isn’t as dramatic as the Serengeti, the park animals do not migrate and you can encounter most of Africa’s famous animals including giraffe, 4,000 Elephants, buffaloes, lions, crocodiles, hippos, reedbuck, leopards, zebras and impala. Over 400 species of birds can be sighted here. Because of its remote location, Katavi National Park is an excellent place to escape the large crowds and experience the magic of the African wilderness. The best time to visit is during the dry months of June to November.
Lake Natron: Natron is a salt water lake found in the northern part of the country – between Ol Donyo Lengai mountains and the Ngorongoro islands. The area is very dry with temperatures reaching 60 degrees Celsius on a particularly hot day. Lake Natron gets its water from hot springs and the Ewaso Ng’iro River. The lake is generally shallow and about 3 meters deep. During the long dry season, the water reduces considerably in size as a result of evaporation leaving behind minerals and salts. Only one type of fish, algae and bacteria can survive in these highly alkalized water. Despite all these harsh conditions, over 2.5 million Lesser flamingos thrive and breed here. The flamingos fed on the algae and feel safe in the area because of its remoteness.
Lake Victoria: Lake Victoria flows in three countries – Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. It is the largest freshwater lake in Africa and the source of the great river Nile. In Tanzania, three towns are found close 
to the lake – Musoma, Mwanza and Bukoba. Most residents of the towns survive on fishing, trading between islands and farming. The main fish caught in the lake are the Nile Perch and Tilapia. Although the Tanzanian section of Lake Victoria is far away from the major cities and national parks, it has amazing tourist attractions. Between Musoma and Mwanza are countless islands which are home to wildlife sanctuaries. Some of the islands have been combined to form the Rubondo Island National Park where sport fishing and bird watching are the key activities. Tourists can also take a boat trip to explore the lakes, its islands and wildlife.
Mount Kilimanjaro: At a height of 19,331 feet above sea level, Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa. It is also the highest free-standing mountain on earth. The “roof of Africa” as it is often called was formed by earth movements 1 million years ago in the north-eastern part of Tanzania. 
Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the most visited tourism sports in Tanzania. Each year, over 40,000 hikers attempt to reach the snow-peaked uhuru peak. There are five major routes used to get to the summit including Rongai, Machame, Shirea, Lemosho and Marangu. Each route starts from a different part of the park and presents a different challenge. Marangu is more straight forward and popular but other routes are more scenic. Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro is surprisingly easier and safer compared to many of Africa’s mountains. One doesn’t need to be a seasoned mountain climber to reach the peak. If one is not fit enough or mentally ready to reach the summit, they can choose to hike up to the first section at a lower cost. The cost of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is about $2500. The price includes the services of a Guide, a cook and porters.
Singita Grumeti Reserve: This is a private enterprise and conservation project next to the Serengeti National Park. It is run by Paul Tudor Jones under a leasing agreement with the government. The reserve lies in a strategic location (west of the Serengeti) – an area with breathtaking views of the wildlife. If you want to stay in one of the finest lodges while watching the great migration away from the crowds, then this is one place you should visit. It is expensive but you will have a private and memorable safari.
Mahale Mountains National Park: The Mahale mountains are found close to the shores of Lake Tanganyika. The highest of the lot is Nkungwe at 8,069 feet above sea level. Tourists are mostly drawn to the park because of its 1000 chimpanzees. Chimpanzee tracking is without doubt the most popular attraction in the park along with the beautiful lake Tanganyika. While tracking chimps in Tanzania, it is also possible to spot yellow baboons and red colobus monkeys. The park is also excellent for photography. For about two decades, Mahale Mountains National Park was a research base for a group of Japanese anthropologists but it still has a lot to be discovered. The best time to visit the park is after the rains (May to October).
Gombe Stream National Park: Gombe is a small national park covering an area of only 52 square kilometers. Despite its small size, it is an important wildlife conservation area. Gombe has one of the largest population of habituated chimpanzees in Africa. Ever heard about Jane Goodall? Well, she is 
considered to be one of the greatest primatologists of our time. She came to study chimpanzees in Africa in 1960 – around the time Dian Fossey was in Rwanda studying mountain gorillas. Her first research station was in Gombe Stream National Park. Because of that, the park has become internationally known among primatologists and tourists interested in tracking habituated chimps. Apart from chimps, there are also smaller primates and 200 recorded species of birds to be seen. Among the birds are barbets, crowned eagles, kingfishers, palm-nut vultures, starlings and sun-birds. Other activities in Gombe Stream National Park include swimming, hiking and exploring waterfalls.
Lake Manyara National Park: This park is found close to the city of Arusha. Much of the park is made up of 330 square kilometers of water and forest. Lake Manyara is a key feature in the park. The soda/alkaline lake is considered to be one of the best places for birding in East Africa. During the rainy 
season, over 300 species of migratory birds visit the lake including flamingos. Many of the birds leave during the dry season once the lake starts losing water due to evaporation. However, flocks of flamingos remain and so do the resident mammals. You can spot hippos, elephants, giraffe and wildebeest. Perhaps the greatest attractions of the park are the rare tree climbing lions of Lake Manyara. Spotting lions climbing as they rest on top of acacia trees is very rare. You can only see tree climbing lions here, in Queen Elizabeth National Park of Uganda and in Kruger National Park of south Africa. Safaris to the Serengeti or Ngorongoro crater is often combined with a visit to Lake Manyara to offer tourists an opportunity to view wildlife in a lake and tropical forest environment.
Arusha National Park: This is one of the less visited national parks Tanzania. Why? Because of the popularity of neighboring parks like Lake Manyara, Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater. Despite that, Arusha National Park has its own share of wildlife and has an advantage of being close to the city of Arusha. Most tourists visit the park for a day or two before or after visiting the larger national parks. The key attractions of the park are Climbing Mount Meru, exploring the Ngurdoto Crater and the seven Momela Lakes. Expect to encounter Colobus monkeys, buffaloes, warthogs and zebras among many other creatures. The Momela lakes are particularly attractive with over 200 species of both resident and migratory birds.
The Arusha Cultural Centre: If you are staying in Arusha for night or two after your trip to the Serengeti or nearby parks, then this is one place you must visit for a cultural experience and some souvenir shopping. The Arusha Cultural Centre showcases Tanzanian art in all its forms. It is one of the best places in the country to learn about Tanzania’s cultural history and heritage. After visiting the Centre, you can then relax at the coffee shop and restaurant.
Mount Meru: Even though Mount Meru is found in Arusha National Park, it had to be an attraction of its own. It is the second highest mountain in Tanzania with a height of about 4,565 meters above sea level. Mount Meru is an active strato-volcano and the most recent eruption was in 1910. The mountain 
lost much of its original size 8,000 years ago after a volcanic blast. Evidence of its past eruptions are the craters and smalls cones close to the summit. The mountain offers a steeper and more difficult climb than even Mount Kilimanjaro. Hiking routes pass through different kinds of vegetation depending on altitude – savanna grasslands, forests, heather zones and moorlands. Once hikers get to the summit, they must pass through a narrow ridge where some of the best views are possible. Apart from climbing to summit and getting beautiful views of Mount Kilimanjaro, hikers can also spot over 400 species of birds along its slopes. Small primates, leopard and antelopes also live along the slopes.
Zanzibar: Zanzibar is a collection of islands on Tanzania’s section of the Indian ocean. Its capital is Zanzibar city which sites on the largest island Unguja. Zanzibar is semi-autonomous from the mainland and has a unique cultural heritage dating back to the early centuries. It was an important trading center connecting the islands to the mainland during centuries of Arab occupation. The key tourist attraction in Zanzibar are the beautiful white sand beaches and Stone Town. Stone Town is home to some of the top cultural and historical sites in Tanzania – some date back to the early 15th Century. While on a tour of Stone town, expect to go through narrow alleyways as you catch sight of ancient mosques, the former Sultan’s palace, traditional houses and a lot more.
Mafia Island: The Mafia Island is just one good example of what Tanzania has to offer in terms of beach life. Mafia is part of the wider Zanzibar archipelago – also known as the “Spice group of Islands” which also includes Pemba, Unguja and Latham. Mafia is smaller with a population of about 41,000 people and is governed directly from the mainland. Residents depend on subsistence agriculture, fishing and tourism. Mafia island has pristine beaches and remains relatively unspoiled by tourism. Tourists can expect a more private experience with opportunities to take part in a variety of water sports including scuba diving, deep sea fishing and spotting well sharks. It is the perfect place to relax after a long safari in the mainland.
Pemba Island: Pemba (“The Green Island” in Arabic) island is also part of the Zanzibar archipelago and the so called “Spice Islands” in the Indian ocean. It covers an area of about 988 square and is 
relatively less crowded compared to Unguja. It is popular for its marine life and untouched coral reefs. It still has a large Omani Arab community who first settled several centuries ago. They intermarried with the local people giving birth to a mixed race. Pemba island has fertile soils which support the growth of large plantations of cloves and other spices. Pemba Island has gained both a positive and negative reputation as the home of some of the most powerful traditional witch doctors in the country. Thousands visit the island each year just to see these medicine men hoping to solve their worldly problems. If black magic isn’t for you, then bull fighting, snorkeling and a variety of water sports will do.
Tanzanian food and beer: One of the things to do in Tanzania is to taste the local food. Tanzanian food has heavy influences from Europe, Arabia, India and Pakistan. Most of the food is composed of 
meat and spices. Nyama Choma (roasted meat, fish or chicken) is arguably the most popular local cuisine and usually served with baked bananas – highly recommended if you are not a vegetarian. You could also try out pilau. Pilau is a rice dish which has been influenced by Indian cooking and recipes. It often includes boiled rice mixed with either chicken, fish, mutton or boiled eggs. The spices used are kachumbari, tomatoes, onions and chili pepper. If you are holidaying in one of the Islands of Zanzibar, don’t forget to taste sea food mixed with spices. Many Tanzanian’s depend on street food after work which is then washed down with local beer.
Festivals and cultural events: Like every country, Tanzanians celebrate special event each year to celebrate culture, political milestones and success. Sauti za Busara is a musical festival celebrated for four days every February of the year in Dar es Salaam. It brings together musical talents from all over 
Africa for amazing performances. A major attraction of the event is the carnival and street parades where everyone is invited to participate. There is also the Serengeti Cultural Festival held every middle of July. Visitors to the Serengeti get to take part in traditional dance performances as they check out some of the country’s finest artists. The Zanzibar International Film Festival is equally amazing. This festival showcases movies from all over the world and is said to be the largest film/arts festival in East Africa. It helps promote African movies to international audiences. Finally, there is the Nyama Choma (roasted meat) festival in March. This event celebrates popular African food and participants can taste grilled meat, barbecued ribs and other local cuisines.
Information about traveling to Tanzania
To enter Tanzania, you will most probably need to arrive through two of the country’s largest airports – The Kilimanjaro international airport and Julius Nyerere International Airport. Once in the country, you can board a bus or train from the big cities to any destination within the country. If you are arriving from Kenya, you can take a bus from Nairobi to Arusha and then to national parks like the Serengeti. Within a town or city, the best means of transport is using a private taxi or a small bus – known as Dalla-Dalla. These stop anywhere and do not have specific schedules or a fixed number of passengers. Tanzania has a good railway network connecting to its neighbors Kenya and Zambia. It may not be developed to the highest standards but it is safe. If you love adventure and marveling at beautiful scenery, then take a train.
In order to enter into the country, one needs to have a Tanzania visa. Visas can be obtained from the nearest Tanzanian embassy or diplomatic mission. It is also possible to obtain a visa from the airport and the different ports of entry into the country. Citizens of the East African Community and some SADC countries may not need a tourism Visa. The tourism visa costs about $50. Tanzania has not yet adopted the multiple entry East African Tourist Visa system that allows one enter countries in East Africa simultaneously. Before applying for the Tanzanian Visa, ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months. Apply for the Tanzania visa here.
Before traveling to Tanzania, ensure that you have taken a yellow fever shot. A proof of inoculation will be required in form of a certificate. Malaria is a real threat in Tanzania and you need to take anti-malarial pills before traveling. You also need to consider vaccinating against hepatitis B, dengue fever, typhoid and tetanus (They are not a requirement like Yellow fever).
The main currency in the country is the Tanzanian shilling. US Dollars and credits cards are widely accepted. That said, we recommend that you get hold of Tanzanian shillings just to be on the safe side. You will find yourself unable to use your credit card in some cases. Almost all ATM machines do not issue out foreign currency. If you are planning to purchase items while in Tanzania, know that there are no fixed prices except if you are to go to large shopping malls. It is therefore important to learn how to bargain if you are planning to stay in Tanzania for a while. Bargaining skills are very important when buying local souvenir or when visiting the local central markets.
Like most countries in East Africa, tipping Guides, Rangers and hotel staff is something you need to consider. It may be a good or bad thing depending on your values. Regardless, it is important to note that many of the Guides and Hotel staff in developing countries are paid poorly. Some work only seasonally. It is therefore important to reward those who do an excellent job of ensuring that your time was spent well while in the country. You will need cash to pay for the tips. If you feel that giving tip creates a dependency syndrome, then simply thank them for any extra good work.
Tanzania has humid and hot climate for most of the year depending on the region you are visiting. The best time to visit Tanzania is during the dry season. The dry season falls in the months of May to July and also in the months of November to March. The rainy season also occurs twice but is more pronounced around April. You will therefore be surprised to find towns and cities close to mountains like Kilimanjaro and Meru colder than your country.
Tanzania is a relatively safe country in Africa for both women and men. It has an advanced community policing systems where people are involved in identifying criminals. However, you need to exercise caution and avoid traveling at night especially in large cities like Dar es Salaam. Avoid lone streets and ensure that you move with a local Guide when in places you are not familiar with. While in the national parks, you need to be cautious as you might encounter all kinds of insects, poisonous snakes and predators. Some of the beaches may have sharks during certain times of the month. Always choose a trust worthy tour operator to manage your safari. Read reviews about the company you are planning to use and ensure that there are no red flags before sending any money. Your tour operator is very key in ensuring that you are safe at all times.
Last but not least, it is important to travel with proper clothing for both a standard safari and for the Indian ocean beaches. Bright colored clothes attract insects. Wear something white or put on khakis. Tanzanians are modest people and it would be wise to dress conservatively when away from the beach.
