tanzania
Land of Spice, Sand, and Safaris
Tanzania is one of the most diverse nations on the African continent, while being an underappreciated excursion. From the wildlife-teeming Serengeti to the spice island of Zanzibar, Tanzania is a string of endless adventures that await.
Safaris don’t get any better than in Tanzania. The adventures offer you breathtaking hikes, a glimpse of the Big Five, and a day with the intriguing local tribe, the Masai. For the influencers, Kilimanjaro’s icy peak is a wonderful backdrop for those beautiful Instagram snaps. The mountaintop ascent, though, is what every adventurer envisions of experiencing.
Tanzania’s capital, Dodoma, is not the bustling metropolis you’d expect for a capital city; rather, it’s a laid-back town that embraces a slower pace of life. Here’s more detailed information on Tanzania;
Tanzania’s capital, Dodoma, is not the bustling metropolis you’d expect for a capital city; rather, it’s a laid-back town that embraces a slower pace of life. Here’s more detailed information on Tanzania;
History of Tanzania
Tanzania was home to one of the earliest human settlements. Prehistoric stone tools and fossils found in Olduvai Gorge (The Cradle of Mankind) date back approximately 10,000 years to the Later Stone Age. The earliest inhabitants of Tanzania were likely Khoisan-speaking hunter-gatherers.
The first Europeans to visit the country were the Portuguese led by explorer Vasco da Gama in 1498. This ultimately led to Portuguese control over Zanzibar in 1505. This dominance lasted until the early 18th century when Omani Arabs helped the locals expel the Portuguese. Omani Sultan Seyyid Said named Zanzibar City his capital in 1840, transforming it into a major trade hub, notably for the Indian Ocean slave trade.
The first Europeans to visit the country were the Portuguese led by explorer Vasco da Gama in 1498. This ultimately led to Portuguese control over Zanzibar in 1505. This dominance lasted until the early 18th century when Omani Arabs helped the locals expel the Portuguese. Omani Sultan Seyyid Said named Zanzibar City his capital in 1840, transforming it into a major trade hub, notably for the Indian Ocean slave trade.
Tanganyika, as it was known, saw significant upheaval during German colonial rule from 1897. The Germans’ rule faced fierce resistance led by Chief Mkwawa of the Hehe toward the end of the century. The devastating Maji Maji Rebellion of 1905-07 also roused a spirit of resistance for the locals but it yielded nothing. The Germans kept an iron grip over Tanganyika until the end of World War I.
After the fall of the Germans in the war, Tanganyika was reclaimed by the British who ruled the country until it ultimately gained independence. The upturn of African nationalism found its way to Tanzania. The ideology was centered on the Tanganyika African National Union (TANU), a political party formed by Julius Nyerere. TANU’s great influence contributed to the eventual independence of Tanzania on 9th December 1961.
After the fall of the Germans in the war, Tanganyika was reclaimed by the British who ruled the country until it ultimately gained independence. The upturn of African nationalism found its way to Tanzania. The ideology was centered on the Tanganyika African National Union (TANU), a political party formed by Julius Nyerere. TANU’s great influence contributed to the eventual independence of Tanzania on 9th December 1961.
Capital of Tanzania
Dodoma is the capital of Tanzania. This country-wide city combines administrative significance with a touch of the rustic. Dodoma’s streets are dotted with federal buildings, modest markets, and the occasional donkey cart, offering a refreshing contrast to the coastal chaos of Dar es Salaam.
Here, you can explore the neatly laid-out vineyards, savor grapes, and perhaps ponder the irony of a capital city that feels more like a tranquil retreat than the epicenter of chaos.
Here, you can explore the neatly laid-out vineyards, savor grapes, and perhaps ponder the irony of a capital city that feels more like a tranquil retreat than the epicenter of chaos.
Language in Tanzania
Tanzania has over 120 languages spoken across its territory. Tanzania has two official languages, namely English and Swahili. However, Swahili is spoken as a first or second language by the vast majority (95%) of the population. English is only spoken in the urban areas and only covers 10% of the country. Other languages include Kisukuma, Kimasai, Kichaga, Kihaya, Kinyamwezi, among others.
Currency in Tanzania
The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the official currency of the nation. 1 shilling is made of 100 senti with banknotes and coins with denominations from 500 to 10,000. Currently, $1 equates to around 2,648 TZS. Most restaurants, shops, markets, and local operators transact in TZS. However, several high-end resorts and hotels accept USD.
itinerary
Arrive at Julius Nyerere International Airport
Meet our Discover ME Representative
Discover ME Partner Driver will pick you and drive you to the Hotel
Discover ME will host our daily group dinner at the Hotel
Meet our Discover ME Representative
Discover ME Partner Driver will pick you and drive you to the Hotel
Discover ME will host our daily group dinner at the Hotel
This guided sightseeing adventure will not only showcase the city’s top attractions but also provide you with an opportunity to interact with the local community, shop for authentic goods, and delve into the rich history of Tanzania. During this half-day tour, you will have the chance to visit key landmarks that define the essence of Dar es Salaam. The itinerary typically includes stops at: National Museum, Fish Market, Kariakoo Market, and Mwenge Woodcarvers Market where talented artisans showcase their craftsmanship. Learn about the significance of woodcarving in Tanzanian culture and even purchase a one-of-a-kind piece to take home. You will gain a deeper appreciation for Dar es Salaam’s heritage and connect with its dynamic community on a more personal level. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a lover of arts and crafts, or simply curious about local life, this experience promises to be both educational and memorable.
Tanzania is home to over 100 tribes, each with its own distinct traditions, languages, and customs. While these diverse tribes are spread across the country, experiencing a glimpse of their heritage in one place is a rare treat that can be found at Makumbusho Village. During your tour of the village, you will have the chance to visit few houses that re- present majority of tribes as well as witness traditional dances performed by members of various tribes. These vibrant performances provide a glimpse into the rich artistic traditions that have been passed down through generations. After your tour, you can indulge in a local buffet lunch featuring an array of traditional dishes. This culinary experience allows you to further appreciate the flavors and ingredients that define Tanzanian cuisine.
Discover the rich heritage of Utengule, home to the famous rift valley gourmet coffees that has graced Tanzania for years. Immerse yourself in the art of coffee roasting and indulge in a sensory experience at their roasting house in Dar es Salaam. Join them for a captivating two-hour tour brimming with coffee knowledge and history and savor the opportunity to sample their exceptional coffee varieties. For all coffee enthusiasts, this is an experience from seed to coffee. If you have some extra time on your way back to the hotel, consider passing by Mlimani City Mall. This popular shopping destination offers a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Bagamoyo also known as Mji Mkongwe by the locals, is a town steeped in history that stands as a destination for those seeking to understand Tanzania’s rich and complex history. located on the eastern coast of Tanzania and nestled along the shores of the Indian Ocean in the Coast Region, its significance lies in its past, a tapestry woven with threads of Arab, German, and African influence. Notable for The Old Fort, Liku House, The First Multiracial School, Old Slave Market, German Customs House, and Slave House Prison.
Discover ME Partner driver will be ready to drive you to the Airport-please be on time or you will have to make personal arrangements for your airport transportation.
