The flag of Tanzania
Tanzania
Tanzania, located in East Africa, is celebrated for its vast wilderness areas. It includes the Serengeti National Park plains, a safari mecca populated by the “big five” game (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino), and Kilimanjaro National Park, home to Africa's highest mountain. Offshore lie the tropical islands of Zanzibar, with Arabic influences, and Mafia, with a marine park home to whale sharks and coral reefs.
Overview

Capital: Dodoma

Area sq km: 945087.00 km²

Area sq miles: 364900.00 mi²

Population: ~ 67.40 million

Official Languages: Swahili, English

Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TSh)

Driving Side: left

Quick Facts

ISO Codes: TZA

Calling Code: 255

Median Mobile Internet Speed:

  • Download: 22.79 Mbps
  • Upload: 11.22 Mbps
  • Latency: 26 ms
  • Global Rank: #101

Median Broadband Internet Speed:

  • Download: 17.79 Mbps
  • Upload: 11.24 Mbps
  • Latency: 19 ms
  • Global Rank: #141

Electrical Socket Type:

Socket Type D D No alternative plugs will also fit in type D sockets Socket Type G G No alternative plugs will also fit in type G sockets
Geographical Information

Continent: Africa

Bordering Countries: Burundi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Uganda, Zambia

Climate: Tanzania has a tropical climate, but varies significantly within the country. The coastal areas are typically hot and humid; the central plateau is dry and arid, while the highlands are more temperate and cool. The best time for wildlife viewing is during the dry season, from late June to October.

Travel Essentials

Emergency Police: 112

Emergency Ambulance: 114

Emergency Fire: 115

Tipping:

Vaccinations for Most Travelers: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid

Vaccinations for Some Travelers: Yellow fever, Cholera, Hepatitis B, Meningococcal disease, Polio, Rabies, Tuberculosis

Cultural Insights

History

Tanzania's history is rich and diverse. Human ancestors have lived in the area for millions of years, as evidenced by findings at Olduvai Gorge. The region was influenced by Bantu migrations, Arab traders, and European colonization. Tanzania, formed by the union of Tanganyika and Zanzibar in 1964, gained independence from British rule in the early 1960s. This mix of influences has shaped its unique cultural landscape.

Culture

Tanzania is culturally diverse and home to over 120 ethnic groups. Traditional music and dance are essential cultural expressions. The Maasai, one of the best-known tribes, are renowned for their distinctive customs and dress. Tanzania also has a solid visual arts tradition, particularly wood carving and Tingatinga painting.

Cuisine

Tanzanian cuisine blends traditional African, Arab, and Indian influences. Everyday staples include maize, rice, and beans. Ugali, a stiff dough made from maize, is a mainstay. The coastal regions, especially Zanzibar, are known for their spices and seafood dishes.

Language

Swahili and English are the official languages of Tanzania. Swahili is widely spoken and is a vital component of the national identity. English is primarily used in government, commerce, and higher education.

Politics

Tanzania is a democratic republic with a multi-party system. Since its independence, it has maintained political stability relative to its neighbours. However, travellers should be aware of local laws and customs, especially in Zanzibar, which has a predominantly Muslim population.

Religions

Safety and Legal

Tap Water

Tap Water Global Rank #140

#1 would be highest quality tap water and #195 would be lowest quality tap water.

Crime

Global Crime Rank #42

#1 would be highest in crime and #195 would be lowest in crime.

LGBTQ

Global LGBTQ Rank #181

#1 would be highest in LGBTQ friendliness and #195 would be lowest in LGBTQ friendliness.

Cannabis Laws Recreational Illegal Medical Illegal

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B

D

I

K

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