Welcome to Tanzania 😊
Tanzania is a country located in East Africa with a diverse landscape that includes the Serengeti Plains, Mount Kilimanjaro, and the Indian Ocean coast. It is home to over 120 different ethnic groups, making it one of the most culturally diverse countries in Africa. Tanzania is known for its wildlife reserves, including the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which are home to some of the world's most iconic animals, such as lions, elephants, and giraffes. It also has a rich history, with evidence of human habitation dating back millions of years.
Quick Facts About Tanzania
- Currency: Tanzanian shilling
- Population: 59.73 million
- Languages: Swahili,English
Money and Finances
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). Coins come in denominations of 10, 50, 100, and 200 shillings. Notes come in denominations of 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 shillings.
ATM Network
ATMs are readily available in major cities, but only a few accept international cards. It's recommended to bring enough cash when traveling in rural areas.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are not widely accepted in Tanzania, especially outside of major cities. It's recommended to carry cash or traveler's checks. Visa and Mastercard are accepted at some hotels and restaurants, but American Express is not widely accepted.
Internet and Phones
In Tanzania, the average internet speed for downloads is 8.55 Mbps and the average upload speed is 5.28 Mbps. There is little government interference in internet use.
Phone Plans and SIM Cards
Tanzania has several telco companies including Vodacom, Airtel, and Tigo. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is around 20,000 TZS per month. There may be some sim compatibility issues so it is best to check with your provider before travelling.
Dialling to Tanzania
To call Tanzania from another country, you need to dial +255 followed by the area code and then the local number. Within Tanzania, the area codes used are 22 for Dar es Salaam, 27 for Arusha, and 24 for Mwanza.
Transport Around Tanzania
Air Travel
Tanzania has several major airports, including Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro International Airport near Arusha, and Zanzibar International Airport. These airports serve as important gateways to the country for both domestic and international travelers.
Train Travel
Tanzania does not have an inter-city train network, but it does have a scenic train ride between Dar es Salaam and Kigoma. This 14-hour journey is a popular way to see the country and costs around $20 USD per person.
Metro / Local Trains
Tanzania does not have a metro system in any of its major cities.
Buses
Buses are the primary mode of inter-city transportation in Tanzania, with several companies operating routes throughout the country. A one-way ticket from Dar es Salaam to Arusha, for example, costs around $30 USD per person and takes around 9 hours.
Rideshare
Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Bolt operate in Tanzania, with average travel prices varying depending on the distance and time of day. A short trip across town might cost around $3 USD.
Driving by Car
Driving in Tanzania can be challenging, with poor road conditions and limited signage. The speed limit on the country's highways is 80 km/h (50 mph), and Tanzania drives on the left side of the road.
Local Customs
In Tanzania, tipping is not expected but appreciated in the tourism industry. It is common to greet with a handshake and often a hug. Bowing is not a common practice. Speaking with strangers is generally friendly and polite. Men and women usually address each other by their first names.
Health and Diseases
Medical System
The health system in Tanzania is generally underfunded and under-resourced, especially in rural areas. Private healthcare facilities are available in the major cities but can be expensive. The cost for a visit to a doctor can range from $20-$50. It is recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance before visiting Tanzania.
COVID Situation
Tanzania initially downplayed the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic and stopped releasing official data in April 2020. There have been reports of high levels of cases and deaths, but the true extent of the outbreak is unknown due to the lack of official data. It is recommended to follow all local guidelines and precautions to minimize the risk of contracting or spreading the virus.
Common Health Risks
Malaria is a common health risk in Tanzania, particularly during the rainy season. It is recommended to take prophylaxis medication and use insect repellent. Other common health risks include food and waterborne illnesses, such as typhoid and cholera. Travelers should also be aware of the risk of HIV/AIDS and take precautions to prevent transmission.
Laws and Regulations
Alcohol Consumption
In Tanzania, the legal drinking age is 18. Public drinking is prohibited in most areas and there are restrictions on the sale of alcohol on certain days.
Recreational Drugs
The use and possession of recreational drugs is illegal in Tanzania and can result in imprisonment. The penalties for drug trafficking can be severe, including life imprisonment or the death penalty.
Pre-Marital Relationships
Tanzania has strict laws and cultural expectations regarding pre-marital relationships, and extramarital affairs are generally frowned upon. Couples may be required to provide proof of marriage if staying together in certain hotels.
LGBTQ and Same-Sex
Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Tanzania and is a punishable offence. There is widespread societal discrimination against the LGBTQ community.
Firearms / Guns
Gun ownership in Tanzania is only allowed with a license, which can be difficult and time-consuming to obtain. The use of firearms in criminal activities is taken very seriously and can result in harsh penalties.