Tanzania Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Why Tanzania?

  • Tanzania is home to the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro.
  • Tanzania has an incredible variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, zebras, and wildebeests.
  • Tanzania's largest lake, Lake Victoria, is the world's second-largest freshwater lake.
  • Tanzania is home to over 120 different ethnic groups and cultures.
  • Tanzania has some of the most stunning beaches in Africa, including Zanzibar, Pemba, and Mafia islands.

History

Tanzania, known for its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich culture, has a fascinating history that dates back to prehistoric times.

The earliest known inhabitants of Tanzania were the Khoisan hunter-gatherers who lived in the region around 10,000 BC. They were later joined by Bantu-speaking tribes from West Africa, who brought with them farming techniques and iron tools.

In the 1st century AD, the coastal region of Tanzania was visited by Arab traders who established settlements and introduced Islam to the area. Over the next few centuries, the Swahili culture emerged as a blend of African, Arab, and Persian influences.

In the 16th century, Portuguese explorers arrived in Tanzania, seeking to control the spice trade in the Indian Ocean. They established several trading posts along the coast and had a significant influence on the Swahili culture.

In the late 19th century, Tanzania fell under the control of the Sultanate of Zanzibar, a powerful Arab state. However, in 1884, the German East Africa Company signed treaties with local chiefs and gained control of the mainland regions of Tanzania. This marked the beginning of German colonization in the country.

During World War I, Tanzania became a battleground between the Germans and the British, who were seeking to gain control of the region. In 1919, Tanzania was placed under British rule as a League of Nations mandate, and it was named Tanganyika.

In the 1950s, Tanganyika saw a rise in nationalist movements led by Julius Nyerere, who later became the first president of independent Tanzania. In 1961, Tanganyika gained independence from British rule, and in 1964, it merged with the island of Zanzibar to form the United Republic of Tanzania.

Under Nyerere’s leadership, Tanzania implemented a socialist ideology known as Ujamaa, which aimed to create a cooperative society and reduce poverty. However, the country faced economic struggles and political turmoil during this time.

In the 1990s, Tanzania shifted towards a more market-based economy and introduced democratic reforms. Today, Tanzania is a stable democracy and has experienced significant economic growth, driven by industries such as tourism, agriculture, and mining.

Tanzania’s rich history is reflected in its diverse population, with over 120 ethnic groups and a variety of languages and cultures. The country continues to be a popular destination for travelers, offering a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern developments.

Transportation on Tanzania

Getting to Tanzania and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Local Transportation

2021

1. Buses: Buses are the most common and affordable mode of transportation in Tanzania. They operate on fixed routes and schedules, making them a convenient option for both short and long-distance travel.

2. Taxis: Taxis are also widely available in Tanzania, especially in major cities like Dar es Salaam and Arusha. They are more expensive than buses but offer a faster and more comfortable way to travel.

3. Motorcycle taxis (boda-bodas): Boda-bodas are popular for short-distance trips and are commonly used in rural areas where roads are not well-paved. They are cheaper than taxis and can be a good option for navigating through traffic.

4. Ferries: Tanzania has several large lakes and rivers, and ferries are a common mode of transportation for crossing them. They are also used for transport between the mainland and the islands of Zanzibar and Pemba.

5. Trains: There is a limited train network in Tanzania, with the main line connecting Dar es Salaam and Kigoma. Trains are a good option for longer journeys, and some offer sleeper cabins for overnight travel.

6. Car rentals: Renting a car is a popular option for tourists who want to explore Tanzania at their own pace. However, roads in rural areas can be challenging, and it is recommended to hire a driver or guide.

7. Domestic flights: For long-distance travel, domestic flights are the quickest and most convenient option. There are several domestic airlines operating in Tanzania, with flights connecting major cities and popular tourist destinations.

8. Bicycle rentals: In some cities and towns, bicycles are available for rent. This is a great way to explore the local surroundings at a leisurely pace and is also an eco-friendly mode of transportation.

Know Before You Go...® - Tanzania Travel Tips

Before making their way to Tanzania , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Tanzania even more relaxing.

Capital: 1? The capital of Tanzania is Dodoma.
Population: 2020 56,772,000
Size: 2020 Huge.
Official Language: The official language of Tanzania is Swahili, also known as Kiswahili. It is spoken by the majority of the population and is used in government, schools, and media. English is also widely spoken as a secondary language and is used in business and higher e
Currency: Tanzania's official currency is the Tanzanian shilling (TZS), which is commonly referred to as "shilling" or "TSH". The shilling is divided into 100 cents, and banknotes come in denominations of 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, and 10,000 shillings. Coins are available in denominations of 50, 100, 200, and 500 shillings. As a popular tourist destination, Tanzania accepts various payment options, including cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile money. Cash is widely accepted in Tanzania, especially in smaller towns and local markets. It is recommended to carry small denominations of shillings for convenience, as change may be difficult to obtain. US dollars are also widely accepted in popular tourist areas, but it is advisable to carry smaller bills since change may be given in shillings. Credit and debit cards are accepted in major cities and tourist areas, but it is always best to carry cash as a backup. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted cards, while American Express and Diner
Tipping and Taxes: Tipping and taxes in Tanzania are important aspects of the country's economy and culture. Tipping is a common practice in Tanzania, especially in the tourism industry, and is often seen as a way of showing appreciation for good service. Taxes, on the other hand, are compulsory payments made to the government for the provision of public goods and services. When it comes to tipping, it is generally expected to tip around 10-15% of the total bill in restaurants, hotels, and for tour guides. In some cases, a service charge may already be included in the bill, so it is important to check before leaving an additional tip. Tipping is also common for other services such as taxi rides, hairdressers, and porters, with the amount depending on the level of service provided. In terms of taxes, Tanzania has a value-added tax (VAT) of 18% on most goods and services. This tax is included in the price of goods and services, so there is no need to tip on top of the VAT. Additionally, there is an incom
Dress Code: The dress code in Tanzania is generally conservative, with modest and respectful attire being expected in public settings.
Topography: Tanzania's topography is diverse, featuring coastal plains, highlands, plateaus, and mountains, including Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak.
Telephone: Tanzania's telephone country code is +255 and its area code is 22.