Situated in East Africa, Tanzania is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, idyllic beaches and spectacularly scenic natural landscapes inhabited by abundant wildlife. This gem of a destination offers the best of both worlds, a thrilling African safari experience as well as a tropical island retreat dotting the crystalline waters of the Indian Ocean and offering some of the best snorkeling and diving in the world. Visitors can explore the Tanzanian archipelago of Zanzibar featuring palm-fringed powder-white beaches edged by sleepy fishing villages and lapped by turquoise waters, discover the colourful underwater wonderland teeming with exotic marine life, and explore the ancient winding alleyways of old Stone Town. Don’t miss a visit to the world-famous Serengeti National Park where visitors can spot the African Big Five and watch the spectacular migration of the wildebeest. Other highlights include the otherworldly Ngorongoro Crater, an excursion to one of the local villages and the Kilimanjaro National Park featuring Africa’s highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro.
Tourist Information
Language – Kiswahili and English
Currency – The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
Visa – required for some countries
Airports – Dar Es Salaam, Mwalimu JK Nyerere International Airport (DAR); Kilimanjaro, Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO); Seronera, Seronera Airport, Serengeti Airport (SEU); Zanzibar, Kisauni Airport (ZNZ)
Climate – The climate is depended on the area: generally tropical, coastal areas – hot and humid, north western highlands – cool and temperate. There are two rainy seasons: October to December is the short rain season; March to June is long rain season. The central part is dry throughout the year. Highest temperature: + 40°C, lowest: + 7°C.
Tipping – 10% (not expected)
Best time to visit – The best time for visiting Tanzania is between June and October (outside of the rainy season), when temperatures stay well below their summer peaks. Generally, Tanzania can be visited all year round.
Must visit – Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National Park, Zanzibar, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Manyara National Park
Food – Nyama choma (barbecued meat), Ugali (maize meal porridge, served with meat or stews) Mandazi (a fried dough ball that look like a savoury doughnut), Kachumbari (spicy onion and tomato salad served with meat), Wali wa nazi (coconut rice), Mchuzi wa Kamba(prawn/shrimp curry with tomatoes), Matoke (plantains boiled and served with stews), Mishkaki (spicy beef kebabs).
Drinks – Konyagi (gin), Chai (Tanzanian tea served sweet and milky in small glasses)
