Tanzania

Have you been passionate about traveling to East Africa? What do you think of Tanzania? Love Uganda Safaris is here to take you through a milestone adventure through Tanzania’s coastal plains, national parks, rolling hills and mountains, lakes, and rivers, to mention but a few. All your questions about traveling to Tanzania have been answered. Come visit the home of Lake Tanganyika – Africa’s deepest lake as well as Mt. Kilimanjaro – the tallest mountain in Africa.

Brief History and Location  

Officially known as “The United Republic of Tanzania”, Tanzania is one of the East African countries bordering the Indian Ocean. She is currently the second biggest nation in East Africa following the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) which has recently joined the East Africa Community.  Tanzania covers a total land area of 945,087 square kilometers and 61,000 square kilometers are covered by water such as rivers and lakes.

Historically, Tanzania was known as Tanganyika before her unification with Zanzibar Island on 26th April 1964, forming the United Republic of Tanzania. Her story is less like that of Kenya characterized by the Indian Ocean trade, and the emergence of Swahili culture due to intermarriages between Africans and Arab traders. Tanzania also faced some political rebellions during the struggle for independence during the colonial era. Her famous rebellion was the Maji-Maji rebellion which ran from 1905 to 1907.

Tanzania got her independence from the British on 9^th December 1961 under the leadership of Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere. Since then, Tanzania has experienced several stages of both political and social development. She is currently under the leadership of a political party known as Cama Ca Mapiduzi (CCM) headed by Her Excellency Samia Suluhu Hassan – the first female President in Tanzania.

Tanzania bordering countries

Tanzania is bordered by the Indian Ocean to the east, Kenya and Uganda, to the north, Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, to the west, and Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique to the south.

Which Currency is used in Tanzania?

The official currency in Tanzania is Tanzanian Shilling (TSH.)

As of 10^th November 2022, 1 USD = 2332.00 TSh.

It is important to remember to convert your money to Tanzania Shillings prior to your travel or entry because dollar notes that were printed before 2009 are usually rejected. However, if you forget to exchange, you can do so with the help of Love Uganda safari guides who can take you to the bank or local Forex Bureaus within the cities and towns. Inform us before so that we add that to the travel plan while scheduling setoff and arrival times to different destinations.

Tanzania’s country code:

Tanzania’s country code is +255

Requirements to enter Tanzania and Visa Acquisition

Like many other countries in East Africa, Tanzania is open to all travelers as long as they present relevant travel documents such as an Identity card and passport. You may also be required to present a stamped visa depending on which country you come from. All these documents are required whether you are entering either by land, air, or even water.

It is important to ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months and has some blank pages before you travel to Tanzania. You are advised to check your visa before you travel and get help from your agent.

For more information about travel requirements and Visa acquisition in Tanzania, follow the link below https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/tanzania/entry-requirements.

Embassies and Consulates

It is always important to get information about the country you want to visit before setting off. Love Uganda safaris advise all travelers to get relevant information from Tanzanian embassies in their respective countries. This helps you know better and mentally prepare for your trip.

For more information about Tanzanian Embassies and Consulates (Diplomatic missions) follow the link below https://www.embassy-worldwide.com/country/tanzania/.

Flight Information

Travelling to Tanzania by air should not stress you at any point. All major flights into and out of Tanzania happen at Julius Nyerere International Airport, Kilimanjaro International Airport, and Zanzibar Abeid Amani Karume Airport.

Get acquainted with up-to-date flight information by following the link below https://www.wego.com/schedules/tz/tanzania-united-republic-of-flight-schedules.

Air Tanzania – Fly the Wings of Kilimanjaro

Air Tanzania Company Limited (ATCL) is the national airline of Tanzania, carrying with it the national treasure and pride of Mt Kilimanjaro as its slogan – ‘The Wings of Kilimanjaro’. Based in Dar es Salaam, with its hub at the modern state-of-the-art Julius Nyerere International Airport out of Terminals II and III. The airline is IOSA certified and a proud member of IATA. ATCL has been a member of the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) since its establishment in 1977 following the dissolution of East African Airways.

For more information about Air Tanzania, Follow the Link below https://www.airtanzania.co.tz/.

Safety and Security

Your safety while in Tanzania is our top priority.

Tanzania is one of the countries in Africa and the world that are safe for travelers. According to the 2022 Global Peace Index, Tanzania is the sixth safest country in Africa. This is reflected in the discipline of her armed forces as well as the public in general. However, like any other country in the world, cases like theft, pickpocketing, robbery, car break-ins, and something of that sort have been reported in Tanzania. You ought to be careful with your bags, rooms, lodges, cars, etc. such cases are common in highly populated areas such as urban centers and cities.

For more information about Tanzania’s safety and security, follow the link below https://followalice.com/knowledge/how-safe-is-tanzania.

What are the behaviors of the People of Tanzania?

From our previous experience, the people of Tanzania are hospitable, friendly, social, and lovely. Driving around the cities and urban areas, you will meet them in small groups chatting and laughing. They are easy to blend with. However, like any African society, Tanzanians have culture and etiquette. It is important that you ask your Love Uganda Safari guide about every tribe you are going to interact with before doing so. This will help you know what turns them on and off. The interaction behavior will change according to the tribes and regions of the person you will interact with, i.e. the interaction behavior of the person from the center will not be similar to the person from the North. Different people behave differently, be careful while dealing with them. But the highlight of the behavior of Tanzanians is that they are polite and welcoming.

What is the main race in Tanzania?

Like Uganda, Tanzania has diverse ethnic groups distributed in different parts of the country. Some of these tribes are ancient dwellers while others migrated not so far from the 19^th century. The Sukuma are the largest ethnic group, representing nearly 13% of the total population; the remaining large groups represent under 5% each.

Tanzania Capital City – Dodoma

However much many people consider Dar es Salaam to be the capital city of Tanzania, but the truth is that Dodoma is the official capital.  Dar es Salaam was formerly the capital during colonial days due to its strategic location at the coast – something that aided easy economic activities. In 1974, the Tanzanian government announced that the capital would be moved to Dodoma for social and economic reasons and to centralize the capital within the country.

On the other hand, both Dodoma and Dar es Salaam are prime destinations for all types of travelers be it for political, social, religious, or economic reasons. Tremendous population growths have been realized in both cities in the past years.

Tanzania Districts 

For effective administration, Tanzania was divided into zones each with a number of districts. The zones include; the Coastal zone, Northern Highland zone, Lake zone, Central zone, Southern Highland zone,  Southern zone, Tanga zone, Morogoro zone, Coast zone, Dar es Salaam zone, Zanzibar zone, Arusha zone, Kilimanjaro zone, Tabora zone, Kigoma zone, Shinyanga zone, Kagera zone, Mwanza zone, and Mara zone.

What is the weather and climate like in Tanzania?

Along the coast and in the off shore islands of Tanzania, the average temperature ranges between 27°C and 29°C, while in the central, northern and western parts temperatures range between 20°C and 30°C. Temperatures are higher between December and March, and coolest between June and July. The long rains begin in March and end in May, while the short rains begin in October and continue to early December. In general, annual rainfall varies from 550 mm in the central part of the country up to 3690 mm in some parts of the southwestern highlands.

For more information about the weather and climate of Tanzania, Follow the link below https://climateknowledgeportal.worldbank.org/country/tanzania/climate-data-historical#:~:text=Along%20the%20coast%20and%20in,coolest%20between%20June%20and%20July.

10 National parks in Tanzania, Attractions, and Activities in Tanzania

Tanzania is one of the prime tourist destinations whose attractions make a landmark of memories on the travelers that visit it. Be it wildlife, rivers, lakes, mountains, cultural and archeological sites, they are all memorable. Each destination has unique activities and attractions that comprise of mesmerizing experiences. Tanzania is a home to thousands of animal and bird species. Below are some of the national parks in Tanzania;

1. Serengeti national park

Location: North-central Tanzania entirely in the eastern Mara region and northeast of the Simiyu region

Size:  the park strides an area of approximately 14,763 square kilometers

Major attractions:  Wildebeests, gazelles and zebras

Activities:  Wildebeest migration experience, game drives, and wildlife safaris, hot air balloon safaris, birding, guided nature walks, etc.

2. Kilimanjaro national park

Location: Along the northern border of Kenya on the majestic volcanic mountains of Kilimanjaro.

Size: The Park covers an area of approximately 1,688 square kilometers

Major attractions: Mount Kilimanjaro, Kili footprints, etc.

Activities: joining safaris, mountain climbing, hiking, etc.

3. Ngorongoro Conservation area

Location: Ngorongoro district west of Arusha city

Size: The conservation areas covers an area of approximately 8,292 square kilometers

Major attractions: Ngorongoro Crater Lake – the world’s largest inactive, unbroken and unfilled volcanic caldera.

Activities: Game drives, guided nature walks, photographic safaris, community tours (visiting Tanzania’s last Bushmen).

4. Lake Manyara national park

Location: The park is located northern Tanzania just 70 kilometers northwest of Tarangire National Park.

Size: Lake Manyara national park covers an area of approximately 325 square kilometers

Major attractions: Tree climbing lions, Lake Manyara, and pink flamingo birds

Activities: Game drives (both day and night), wildlife safaris, birding, guided nature walks, etc.

5. Tarangire national park

Location: The park is located northern Tanzania south of Lake Manyara National Park.

Size: Tarangire national park covers an area of approximately 2,850 square kilometers

Major attractions: Tarangire River, Large numbers of Baobab trees, animals such as zebras, giraffes, eland, wildebeests, etc.

Activities: Game drives, wildlife safaris, birding, guided nature walks, cultural tours, etc.

Other national parks in Tanzania

Tanzania is a home of multiple animal, bird and plant species dwelling in quite a number of national parks and game reserves. These include;

• Arusha national park
• Mahale mountains national park
• Gombe national park
• Mkomazi national park
• Katavi national park
• Saadani national park
• Kitulo national park
• Udzungwa national park
• Ibanda Game reserve
• The Mikumi national park

Tanzania Beaches

Being a country with direct access to the Indian Ocean, Tanzania is a reliable destination for travelers who love spending time at the beach.  Below are some of the beaches in Tanzania;

•  Nungwi Beach
• Mnemba Island
• Kendwa Beach
• Saadani National Park beach
• Sange Beach
• Ras Kutani Beach
• Fanjove Island
• Ushongo Beach
• Vumawimbi Beach
• Misali Island

Transport and Accommodation

For a better exploration in Tanzania, travelers ought to use road transport means. That is when they will be able to enjoy scenic views of the landscape, savannah vegetation, rugged and rolling hills, human settlements and plantations. However, if you do not like driving the dusty and muddy potholes of Tanzania, Love Uganda Safaris can arrange and book for you a domestic flight to any Tanzanian destination. Traveling by air is always easy and quick.

Accommodation in Tanzania depends on the needs of the traveler. Whether you need a budget, midrange or luxurious stay in Tanzania, Love Uganda Safaris has got you covered. Tanzania has good Eco resorts and safari lodges that meet both local and international standards.

Do I need travel insurance while coming to Tanzania?

When you start any journey, you have 50% chances of getting an accident, why then not insure? This is of course not to scare you but to remind you that having a travel insurance is an added security measure for every travelers. Unless otherwise stated, Love Uganda safaris does not cater for clients’ travel insurance.

Is Tanzania Rich or Poor?  

According to the World Bank, Tanzania has achieved relatively strong economic growth and declining poverty rates, over the past decade, despite rapid population growth. The country remains a lower middle-income country despite the global pandemic-induced contraction of GDP per capita in 2020.

Additionally, Tanzania is rich with fertile lands, national parks, game reserves, lakes, rivers, etc. In terms of minerals, Tanzania has diamonds, tanzanite, ruby, garnet, limestone, soda ash, gypsum, salt, phosphate, gravel, sand, dimension stones and graphite ), and fuel minerals like coal and  uranium.

For more information about the Economy of Tanzania, follow the link below https://www.worldbank.org/en/country/tanzania/overview.

Is Tanzania a good country to live in? 

Tanzania is one of the safest countries to live in East Africa. Her natives are generally welcoming and social.  Whether for business in the urban centers or agriculturalists in the villages, Tanzania is a good country to live in.

What is Tanzania best known for? – What are interesting facts about Tanzania? 

1. Nearly 30 Percent of Tanzania is National Parks
2. Lake Tanganyika is the Second Largest Lake in the World
3. Mount Kilimanjaro is the Tallest Mountain in Africa
4. Baobab Trees Can Easily Live 1,000 Years
5. Zanzibar was the center of Slave trade back in the days.

Best time to visit

Tanzania is an open destination and welcomes travelers all year round. However, depending on which destination and the activity you want to do, some love wet seasons while other love dry seasons. Love Uganda safaris advises travelers depending on the activities they like doing for instance those who love wildebeest migration experience in Serengeti National Park the dry moths of late June to October  are recommendable first.

Travel tips – What to consider before traveling to Tanzania

Love Uganda Safaris cares about your safety while you travel to Tanzania. Below are some of the tips that you should keep at the back of your mind in order to have the best experience in Tanzania;

• Carry some pain killers and antimalarial drugs while coming to Tanzania
• Ensure to check your luggage before leaving one lodge or hotel to another
• Do not tempt thieves by leaving your bags open, speaking on phone in crowded places
• Do not walk alone at night
• Carry some changed money, you may need to tip a driver or guide during your safari
• Carry copies of your travel documents and identification documents including your passport.
• Carry power bank and spare batteries if you can.
• Tanzania is a hot destination, light clothes should be more than heavy ones. You can carry one or two jackets depending on how long you plan to spend in Tanzania.
• Follow the park rules and regulations strictly if you are to visit the national parks since you may be penalized or threaten animal attack in case you violate them.
• Some items like drinks, sunglasses, etc. can be bought in local markets, you may not need to come with them.

Conclusion

Planning to travel can be one of the most challenging parts to everyone intending to visit a new destination. However, with a good travel and safari advisor, it can become a memorable experience. This is why Love Uganda safaris takes the initiative of giving you up to date information so that you can explore Tanzania in the best way possible.