Tanzania

Tanzania

Tanzania is a breathtaking East African country known for its rich wildlife, stunning landscapes, and cultural diversity. It is home to Africa’s highest mountain, pristine beaches, vast savannahs, and some of the world’s most famous national parks.

From the sweeping plains of the Serengeti to the crystal-clear waters surrounding Zanzibar, Tanzania offers unforgettable experiences for nature lovers, adventurers, and cultural travelers.


Good to Know

Category Details
Country Name United Republic of Tanzania
Capital Dodoma (official), Dar es Salaam (major commercial city)
Area (km²) Approx. 947,303 km²
Population Around 65 million people
Official / Common Languages Kiswahili (national), English (official), plus many local languages
Currency Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
Time Zone East Africa Time (UTC +3)

Visa / Travel Authorization

  • Most nationalities require a visa, which can be obtained online through Tanzania’s e-visa system or upon arrival at major airports.

  • Visa costs vary depending on nationality, but standard single-entry visas are commonly USD 50.

  • Some nationalities may have visa exemptions or different fee structures.


Culture & People

Tanzania is one of Africa’s most culturally diverse nations, with over 120 ethnic groups. Despite this diversity, the country is known for its unity, largely driven by the widespread use of Kiswahili, the national language.

  • Languages: Kiswahili is the most widely spoken language, and English is used for business, government, and tourism.

  • Religion: The population is a mix of Christianity, Islam (especially along the coast and Zanzibar), and traditional African beliefs.

  • Cultural Identity: Tanzanians are known for hospitality, traditional music (like ngoma), art, dance, and vibrant markets.


Geography & Nature

  • Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest mountain at 5,895 meters, is located in northern Tanzania.

  • The Serengeti National Park is world-famous for the annual Wildebeest Migration, one of the largest animal migrations on earth.

  • Tanzania’s geography includes coastal beaches, volcanic mountains, fertile highlands, the Great Rift Valley, and vast game reserves.

  • The archipelago of Zanzibar offers turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and a rich Swahili-Arab history.

The country has some of the highest concentrations of wildlife in the world, including lions, elephants, giraffes, cheetahs, zebras, and countless bird species.


Practical Travel Information

  • Money:
    The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is used locally. Major cities and tourist areas accept credit cards, and ATMs are widely available.

  • Electricity:
    Tanzania uses 230 V, 50 Hz electricity with Type D and Type G plugs.

  • Climate:

    • Coastal regions (including Zanzibar) are hot and humid.

    • Northern highlands (Arusha, Kilimanjaro region) are mild with cooler nights.

    • Central and western regions tend to be warm and dry.

Rainy seasons typically occur from March–May (long rains) and November–December (short rains).


Why Visit Tanzania

• Iconic Safari Destinations
The Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Selous Game Reserve, and Tarangire National Park offer world-class wildlife viewing.

• Mount Kilimanjaro
Adventure seekers travel from all over the world to climb Africa’s highest peak.

• Zanzibar Archipelago
Beautiful beaches, spice tours, Stone Town culture, and Swahili-Arab history make Zanzibar a top beach destination.

• Rich Culture and Heritage
From Maasai communities to coastal Swahili traditions, Tanzania’s cultural landscape is vibrant and diverse.