Tanzania: everything you need to know before you go
General information :
- Official name: United Republic of Tanzania
- Area: 947,303 km²
- Population: approximately 55 million inhabitants (2018); 45% are under 15 years old
- Life expectancy: 66 years
- Illiteracy rate: 13%
- Main religions: Christian (approximately 61% of the total population), Muslim (approximately 35%)
- Languages: English and Kiswahili (official). There are also nearly 158 tribal languages/African dialects.
- Administrative capital: Dodoma
- Economic capital: Dar-Es-Salaam
- Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (Tsh) The Tanzanian shilling: €1 = 2025 TSH (October 2015).
You can exchange your money at the airport, in banks and in most lodges in the country. The US dollar is widely used and may be enough to pay for all your purchases locally (notes dated after 2004).
The history of Tanzania in a few dates:
- 8th century: the coast and the present-day Zanzibar archipelago were Arab and were part of the nation of Oman.
- 15th century: Vasco da Gama explores Zanzibar, which later attracted the Portuguese for commercial reasons.
- 16th century: the Portuguese occupy the island. It was quickly taken back by the Arabs of Oman.
- 1840: Zanzibar becomes the capital of Oman, so the slave and ivory trade could flourish.
- 1861: the sultan died. There was therefore a separation between the Sultanate of Oman and that of Zanzibar. Meanwhile, the Europeans, particularly the Germans, were exploring the land.
- 1884: the Germans began to colonise present-day Tanzania (formerly known as Tanganyika). The colony was officially established in 1897.
- 1890: Great Britain abolished the slave trade in Zanzibar.
- 1916: during the First World War, Tanganyika was conquered by the British.
- 1946: Tanganyika was placed under United Nations trusteeship.
- 1961: independence of Tanganyika
- 1962: Tanganyika becomes a republic
- 1963: independence of Zanzibar. The people depose their sultan one month after independence. The Sultanate of Zanzibar becomes the People’s Republic of Zanzibar, a one-party state.
- 26 April 1964: Tanganyika and Zanzibar united to become the United Republic of Tanzania.
Agriculture, fishing, livestock and other production:
- Tanzanian agriculture in a few figures:
Agriculture is practised on only 16.4% of the territory, on arable land. The economy is heavily dependent on the agricultural sector as it employs more than 67% of Tanzania’s working population. Agriculture also accounts for 85% of the country’s export volumes, which generates 28% of its GDP.
- Export agricultural production:
They also produce rice, sesame, maize, cassava, plantain, sweet potatoes, millet… but these products are used to feed the country.
- Livestock farming: very important, especially in tribes (the Maasai among others). Livestock represents the wealth of its owners. In Tanzania, cattle, goats, sheep and many poultry are raised.
- Fishing: also very important in Tanzania. Contrary to what one might think, most fishing does not take place in the Indian Ocean but in the lakes, and particularly in Lake Victoria.
- Mining sector: it accounts for 50% of export revenues, i.e. 5% of GDP. It is the 4th African gold-producing country. Diamonds and tanzanite are also mined.
- The exploitation of oil and gas deposits is being set up.
Tourism :
- It is a major element in the country’s economic development (12.7% of GDP).
- It is an increasingly attractive country because of its spectacular landscapes, archaeological and historical sites, wildlife and coastline stretching over more than 800 km.
- Tanzania is the largest country in East Africa.
- It is made up mainly of high plateaus with an altitude of around 1,500 m. Just over 60% of the country consists of grassy steppes and savannahs. The difference between the two is that in the savannah you also find trees.
- It is also a very mountainous country. It is home to Africa’s highest mountain: Kilimanjaro, which you can climb: (link trekking). It stands at 5,892 m. You can also admire and climb the 4,565 m Mount Meru.
- ⅓ of the country’s total area is forested. There are humid mountain forests that can grow up to 3,000 m and gallery forests – tropical trees.
- Sites listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites:
- Ngorongoro
- the ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara
- the national parks of Serengeti, Selous and Kilimanjaro
- Stown Town (Zanzibar)
- the rock art sites of Kondoa
The national parks and nature reserves
Do you dream of climbing Kilimanjaro or discovering the beauty of Lake Natron? Even more, do you dream of meeting wild animals on a safari in Tanzania? With Off Road Tanzania, enjoy an adventure travel experience off the beaten track in complete safety so you can fully savour the joys that wildlife brings!
You are surely wondering, “Which safari should I do in Tanzania?” Here is our selection:
By following our itineraries in Tanzania, you will be able to explore the country from north to south, where you will discover:
In the north:
- The Serengeti National Park, renowned for its large concentration of animals, is the oldest as well as the largest park in Tanzania. That is why the Maasai call it “Siringet”, which can be translated as “endless plains”. Better than the Big Five, in this park you can find the Big Nine (elephant, rhinoceros, hippopotamus, lion, leopard, cheetah, giraffe, zebra and buffalo).
- The Ngorongoro Crater, cradle of humanity, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to many flamingos and is surrounded by big cats, rhinos and elephants.
- Lake Natron, located right in the heart of Maasai territory. Thanks to Off Road Tanzania, you can immerse yourself in everyday life and be in contact with its tribes.
- Of course, Kilimanjaro, commonly known as the roof of Africa, invites the most sporty to climb its 5,895 metres! A real challenge and a real adventure that will
- The Tarangire National Park, which can be translated from Maasai as: the river (Tara) of warthogs (Ngire). It is home to many lions, buffalo, zebras and many giraffes. One part of Tarangire is home to a dense forest of baobabs and another, more marshy part, is home to herds of elephants.
- Manyara Park, known for its monkeys (notably baboons and blue monkeys), its lake and its flamingos. It is situated between Arusha and Ngorongoro, in the Rift Valley. The special feature of this park is the lions that climb trees!
- Lake Eyasi, little known, bordered by an 800-metre cliff! This region is often appreciated for the many ethnic groups that live there. In fact, this is where the oldest people in Tanzania live!
- The Ndutu region is also an extraordinary site. Indeed, this is where the herds of the Great Migration can be found from December to March, during the calving season!
In the south:
This part of the country is less touristy, and the animals there are also more wary, which is why we therefore recommend it more for a second safari. In general, travellers arrive in Dar Es Salaam and then we invite them to join us in:
- The Selous reserve, crossed by the Rufiji river. This region offers the chance to discover abundant aquatic wildlife, but you may also be lucky enough to cross paths with one of the country’s last black rhinoceroses!
- To continue this journey, we will invite you to head to Mikumi National Park, where you may well encounter many bird species and lots of savannah animals!
- Finally, if you choose to go to Ruaha National Park, you will find that it is very little visited by tourists. This park, also known as the elephants’ park, will allow you to find yourselves alone (or almost), facing unexplored expanses!
Zanzibar
Dreaming of going on a safari in Tanzania with a Zanzibar extension? Off Road Tanzania takes care of everything! To end your Tanzanian trip, we offer excursions to the islands commonly known as the “Zanzibar islands”. In reality, we are talking about the “Zanzibar archipelago”. This is made up of three main islands: Pemba, Mafia and Unguja, and smaller islands such as Changuu, where you can admire giant tortoises. Here are some ideas of what Off Road Tanzania offers to do in the archipelago:
- Stone Town, not to be missed! Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the old town offers a chance to immerse yourself in the heart of Zanzibar’s history. Unexpectedly, you can also find Freddy Mercury’s house there!
- Did you know? Zanzibar is nicknamed the spice island! That is why it offers you a colourful experience to discover its very special trees and plants.
- We offer you a safari at Fumba, to sail on the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. You will be dazzled by the fish and corals! A real discovery with just a mask and snorkel.
- The moment you all dream of: swimming with dolphins in the middle of the ocean!
- You wanted to see turtles? It is possible, head to Prison Island to visit the centenarian giant Galapagos tortoises (weighing from 50 to 250 kg)!
- Back on land with an excursion into the forest of You will meet red colobus monkeys! Jozani Forest is also notable for sheltering rare plants such as red mahogany or takamara. It can also amaze you with its dozens of species of multicoloured butterflies!
- Of course, you can also simply relax in the sun on the archipelago’s beautiful beaches!
Climate and seasons
Climate
- The climate is hot and humid on the coast, temperate inland.
- Temperatures range from 24°C to 27°C from June to September and from 30°C to 35°C from December to May. They can be cool at night.
Seasons
- The dry season runs from May to October.
- The rainy season from mid-March to early May. During the rainy season, the nights are cool, especially around Ngorongoro where temperatures can be below 10°C.
- There is a short rainy season from November to December. Rainy days are occasional.
Cultures, customs:
Tanzania is one of the most diverse countries in Africa, with around 158 ethnic groups united by a common language: Swahili, and by a sense of belonging to the same country.
Overall, Tanzanian culture is the result of Arab, African, Indian and European influences due to the country’s colonisation.
The development of cultures and tourism is affecting the way of life of semi-nomadic tribes such as the Maasai.
- Generally in the country
Traditionally, elders are honoured and respected. Children are raised under the strong influence of their parents and close relatives (neighbours, friends). Mothers carry their baby close to them in a rectangular cloth called a Kanga. They carry them at all times, even when working in the fields.
Generally speaking, Tanzanians must keep control of their emotions in public. In some places, women are not allowed to speak loudly.
- Maasai: culture and traditions
The Maasai tribe is one of the few tribes to have preserved most of its traditions. It coexists with wildlife and lives mainly from its cattle. Today, some Maasai work and sometimes go to school. It is the men and boys who look after the cattle and guard the village. The women work to earn money, often by making jewellery for tourists. They actively contribute to village life. They take care of meals, young children, milking the cattle, fetching water and wood, etc.
They live in small, often temporary houses, built with interwoven branches covered in mud and cow dung. It is the women who build the houses. When the Maasai need to migrate, they either burn the houses or leave them to return later.
The Maasai mainly eat milk, blood, maize in the form of ugali and meat (reserved rather for certain ceremonies or special occasions).
They are very recognisable by their attire: red clothing (Kanga: rectangular fabric that can be used as a shawl, head covering, skirt or dress). They also have pierced ears and earlobes stretched by the weight of their beaded jewellery.
Their culture is threatened by the countries (Kenya and Tanzania) that are pushing them towards settlement, which is also increasing their poverty.
- Zanzibar: culture and traditions
98% of the population is Muslim. Out of respect for their culture, it is recommended to wear clothing that covers the body.
Zanzibar’s culture centres mainly around music and dance. It reflects Arab, Indian and African influences. In terms of cuisine, most dishes consist of fish and shellfish cooked with all kinds of local spices. The people are warm and welcoming.
Cuisine:
- Cuisine
Tanzanians generally do not consider a meal to be a proper meal if it does not include a staple carbohydrate such as rice, cassava, plantain or sorghum. In the north-east, they tend to prefer plantain, while in the centre and south-east they favour ugali, and rice in the south and on the coast.
For every event or ceremony, they prepare large, spiced dishes.
At breakfast, depending on standards of living and of course traditions, they eat sweet buns called maandazi, buttermilk or chicken broth, and drink coffee or tea with spices, sugar and milk.
Tanzanian cuisine is very inspired by Indian cuisine. You can find sambusas and mishikakis (kebabs), biryani rice (Indian), pilau rice (spiced)…
You will commonly see ugali (boiled cracked maize or cassava flour), served with a meat stew, onions and chopped vegetables.
On the coast and in Zanzibar, you can enjoy Swahili cuisine, generally prepared with fish, coconut milk and spices.
As you will have gathered, Tanzanians eat a lot of dishes in sauce and like to add many spices to their food.
- Drink
A few tips: do not drink tap water and avoid ice cubes. When ordering a drink, you can say “bila barafu”, which means without ice.
Local tea is very strong. It is always served with boiled milk already sweetened. If you want it plain, you can ask for a “chai kavu”. Local coffee, arabica and robusta, is made in the same way, but you can easily find espressos.
There are some very good local beers such as Safari (strong), Kilimandjaro and Castle Lager (lighter). In bars, they sometimes have craft banana beers. Do not hesitate to try them!
Arts and literature :
Tanzanian art often takes the form of pottery, carpets and other everyday objects. Art represents a job opportunity for many Tanzanians. They produce many paintings, such as Tinga Tinga paintings, which have become famous around the world.
As far as literature is concerned, there are many Kiswahili books. There are works of fiction, non-fiction, poetry, prose books…
Local legislation: things to know before you leave
- Plastic bags are prohibited.
- Homosexuality is criminalised by law.
- Possession of narcotics is punishable by imprisonment.
- Drones: not recommended, as using one without authorisation may result in arrest.
- “Hunting trophies” are strictly regulated: avoid bringing back as souvenirs anything that may encourage poaching (ostrich eggs, zebra skins, turtle shells…).
- It is forbidden to film or photograph so-called sensitive installations: airports, presidential or ministerial buildings, military installations).
General information :
- Official name: United Republic of Tanzania
- Area: 947,303 km²
- Population: approximately 55 million inhabitants (2018); 45% are under 15 years old
- Life expectancy: 66 years
- Illiteracy rate: 13%
- Main religions: Christian (approximately 61% of the total population), Muslim (approximately 35%)
- Languages: English and Kiswahili (official). There are also nearly 158 tribal languages/African dialects.
- Administrative capital: Dodoma
- Economic capital: Dar-Es-Salaam
- Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (Tsh) The Tanzanian shilling: €1 = 2025 TSH (October 2015).
You can exchange your money at the airport, in banks and in most lodges in the country. The US dollar is widely used and may be enough to pay for all your purchases locally (notes dated after 2004).
The history of Tanzania in a few dates:
- 8th century: the coast and the present-day Zanzibar archipelago were Arab and were part of the nation of Oman.
- 15th century: Vasco da Gama explores Zanzibar, which later attracted the Portuguese for commercial reasons.
- 16th century: the Portuguese occupy the island. It was quickly taken back by the Arabs of Oman.
- 1840: Zanzibar becomes the capital of Oman, so the slave and ivory trade could flourish.
- 1861: the sultan died. There was therefore a separation between the Sultanate of Oman and that of Zanzibar. Meanwhile, the Europeans, particularly the Germans, were exploring the land.
- 1884: the Germans began to colonise present-day Tanzania (formerly known as Tanganyika). The colony was officially established in 1897.
- 1890: Great Britain abolished the slave trade in Zanzibar.
- 1916: during the First World War, Tanganyika was conquered by the British.
- 1946: Tanganyika was placed under United Nations trusteeship.
- 1961: independence of Tanganyika
- 1962: Tanganyika becomes a republic
- 1963: independence of Zanzibar. The people depose their sultan one month after independence. The Sultanate of Zanzibar becomes the People’s Republic of Zanzibar, a one-party state.
- 26 April 1964: Tanganyika and Zanzibar united to become the United Republic of Tanzania.
Agriculture, fishing, livestock and other production:
- Tanzanian agriculture in a few figures:
Agriculture is practised on only 16.4% of the territory, on arable land. The economy is heavily dependent on the agricultural sector as it employs more than 67% of Tanzania’s working population. Agriculture also accounts for 85% of the country’s export volumes, which generates 28% of its GDP.
- Export agricultural production:
- Cashew nuts, produced on the coast
- cloves from Zanzibar and Pemba. Production accounts for almost all of world production.
- Coffee from the Arusha region
- Cotton
- Sisal produced in the Tanga and Dar-Es-Salaam regions
- Tobacco
- Tea
They also produce rice, sesame, maize, cassava, plantain, sweet potatoes, millet… but these products are used to feed the country.
- Livestock farming: very important, especially in tribes (the Maasai among others). Livestock represents the wealth of its owners. In Tanzania, cattle, goats, sheep and many poultry are raised.
- Fishing: also very important in Tanzania. Contrary to what one might think, most fishing does not take place in the Indian Ocean but in the lakes, and particularly in Lake Victoria.
- Mining sector: it accounts for 50% of export revenues, i.e. 5% of GDP. It is the 4th African gold-producing country. Diamonds and tanzanite are also mined.
- The exploitation of oil and gas deposits is being set up.
Tourism :
- It is a major element in the country’s economic development (12.7% of GDP).
- It is an increasingly attractive country because of its spectacular landscapes, archaeological and historical sites, wildlife and coastline stretching over more than 800 km.
- Tanzania is the largest country in East Africa.
- It is made up mainly of high plateaus with an altitude of around 1,500 m. Just over 60% of the country consists of grassy steppes and savannahs. The difference between the two is that in the savannah you also find trees.
- It is also a very mountainous country. It is home to Africa’s highest mountain: Kilimanjaro, which you can climb: (link trekking). It stands at 5,892 m. You can also admire and climb the 4,565 m Mount Meru.
- ⅓ of the country’s total area is forested. There are humid mountain forests that can grow up to 3,000 m and gallery forests – tropical trees.
- Sites listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites:
- Ngorongoro
- the ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara
- the national parks of Serengeti, Selous and Kilimanjaro
- Stown Town (Zanzibar)
- the rock art sites of Kondoa
The national parks and nature reserves
Do you dream of climbing Kilimanjaro or discovering the beauty of Lake Natron? Even more, do you dream of meeting wild animals on a safari in Tanzania? With Off Road Tanzania, enjoy an adventure travel experience off the beaten track in complete safety so you can fully savour the joys that wildlife brings!
You are surely wondering, “Which safari should I do in Tanzania?” Here is our selection:
By following our itineraries in Tanzania, you will be able to explore the country from north to south, where you will discover:
In the north:
- The Serengeti National Park, renowned for its large concentration of animals, is the oldest as well as the largest park in Tanzania. That is why the Maasai call it “Siringet”, which can be translated as “endless plains”. Better than the Big Five, in this park you can find the Big Nine (elephant, rhinoceros, hippopotamus, lion, leopard, cheetah, giraffe, zebra and buffalo).
- The Ngorongoro Crater, cradle of humanity, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to many flamingos and is surrounded by big cats, rhinos and elephants.
- Lake Natron, located right in the heart of Maasai territory. Thanks to Off Road Tanzania, you can immerse yourself in everyday life and be in contact with its tribes.
- Of course, Kilimanjaro, commonly known as the roof of Africa, invites the most sporty to climb its 5,895 metres! A real challenge and a real adventure that will
- The Tarangire National Park, which can be translated from Maasai as: the river (Tara) of warthogs (Ngire). It is home to many lions, buffalo, zebras and many giraffes. One part of Tarangire is home to a dense forest of baobabs and another, more marshy part, is home to herds of elephants.
- Manyara Park, known for its monkeys (notably baboons and blue monkeys), its lake and its flamingos. It is situated between Arusha and Ngorongoro, in the Rift Valley. The special feature of this park is the lions that climb trees!
- Lake Eyasi, little known, bordered by an 800-metre cliff! This region is often appreciated for the many ethnic groups that live there. In fact, this is where the oldest people in Tanzania live!
- The Ndutu region is also an extraordinary site. Indeed, this is where the herds of the Great Migration can be found from December to March, during the calving season!
In the south:
This part of the country is less touristy, and the animals there are also more wary, which is why we therefore recommend it more for a second safari. In general, travellers arrive in Dar Es Salaam and then we invite them to join us in:
- The Selous reserve, crossed by the Rufiji river. This region offers the chance to discover abundant aquatic wildlife, but you may also be lucky enough to cross paths with one of the country’s last black rhinoceroses!
- To continue this journey, we will invite you to head to Mikumi National Park, where you may well encounter many bird species and lots of savannah animals!
- Finally, if you choose to go to Ruaha National Park, you will find that it is very little visited by tourists. This park, also known as the elephants’ park, will allow you to find yourselves alone (or almost), facing unexplored expanses!
Zanzibar
Dreaming of going on a safari in Tanzania with a Zanzibar extension? Off Road Tanzania takes care of everything! To end your Tanzanian trip, we offer excursions to the islands commonly known as the “Zanzibar islands”. In reality, we are talking about the “Zanzibar archipelago”. This is made up of three main islands: Pemba, Mafia and Unguja, and smaller islands such as Changuu, where you can admire giant tortoises. Here are some ideas of what Off Road Tanzania offers to do in the archipelago:
- Stone Town, not to be missed! Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the old town offers a chance to immerse yourself in the heart of Zanzibar’s history. Unexpectedly, you can also find Freddy Mercury’s house there!
- Did you know? Zanzibar is nicknamed the spice island! That is why it offers you a colourful experience to discover its very special trees and plants.
- We offer you a safari at Fumba, to sail on the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. You will be dazzled by the fish and corals! A real discovery with just a mask and snorkel.
- The moment you all dream of: swimming with dolphins in the middle of the ocean!
- You wanted to see turtles? It is possible, head to Prison Island to visit the centenarian giant Galapagos tortoises (weighing from 50 to 250 kg)!
- Back on land with an excursion into the forest of You will meet red colobus monkeys! Jozani Forest is also notable for sheltering rare plants such as red mahogany or takamara. It can also amaze you with its dozens of species of multicoloured butterflies!
- Of course, you can also simply relax in the sun on the archipelago’s beautiful beaches!
Climate and seasons
Climate
- The climate is hot and humid on the coast, temperate inland.
- Temperatures range from 24°C to 27°C from June to September and from 30°C to 35°C from December to May. They can be cool at night.
Seasons
- The dry season runs from May to October.
- The rainy season from mid-March to early May. During the rainy season, the nights are cool, especially around Ngorongoro where temperatures can be below 10°C.
- There is a short rainy season from November to December. Rainy days are occasional.
Cultures, customs:
Tanzania is one of the most diverse countries in Africa, with around 158 ethnic groups united by a common language: Swahili, and by a sense of belonging to the same country.
Overall, Tanzanian culture is the result of Arab, African, Indian and European influences due to the country’s colonisation.
The development of cultures and tourism is affecting the way of life of semi-nomadic tribes such as the Maasai.
- Generally in the country
Traditionally, elders are honoured and respected. Children are raised under the strong influence of their parents and close relatives (neighbours, friends). Mothers carry their baby close to them in a rectangular cloth called a Kanga. They carry them at all times, even when working in the fields.
Generally speaking, Tanzanians must keep control of their emotions in public. In some places, women are not allowed to speak loudly.
- Maasai: culture and traditions
The Maasai tribe is one of the few tribes to have preserved most of its traditions. It coexists with wildlife and lives mainly from its cattle. Today, some Maasai work and sometimes go to school. It is the men and boys who look after the cattle and guard the village. The women work to earn money, often by making jewellery for tourists. They actively contribute to village life. They take care of meals, young children, milking the cattle, fetching water and wood, etc.
They live in small, often temporary houses, built with interwoven branches covered in mud and cow dung. It is the women who build the houses. When the Maasai need to migrate, they either burn the houses or leave them to return later.
The Maasai mainly eat milk, blood, maize in the form of ugali and meat (reserved rather for certain ceremonies or special occasions).
They are very recognisable by their attire: red clothing (Kanga: rectangular fabric that can be used as a shawl, head covering, skirt or dress). They also have pierced ears and earlobes stretched by the weight of their beaded jewellery.
Their culture is threatened by the countries (Kenya and Tanzania) that are pushing them towards settlement, which is also increasing their poverty.
- Zanzibar: culture and traditions
98% of the population is Muslim. Out of respect for their culture, it is recommended to wear clothing that covers the body.
Zanzibar’s culture centres mainly around music and dance. It reflects Arab, Indian and African influences. In terms of cuisine, most dishes consist of fish and shellfish cooked with all kinds of local spices. The people are warm and welcoming.
Cuisine:
- Cuisine
Tanzanians generally do not consider a meal to be a proper meal if it does not include a staple carbohydrate such as rice, cassava, plantain or sorghum. In the north-east, they tend to prefer plantain, while in the centre and south-east they favour ugali, and rice in the south and on the coast.
For every event or ceremony, they prepare large, spiced dishes.
At breakfast, depending on standards of living and of course traditions, they eat sweet buns called maandazi, buttermilk or chicken broth, and drink coffee or tea with spices, sugar and milk.
Tanzanian cuisine is very inspired by Indian cuisine. You can find sambusas and mishikakis (kebabs), biryani rice (Indian), pilau rice (spiced)…
You will commonly see ugali (boiled cracked maize or cassava flour), served with a meat stew, onions and chopped vegetables.
On the coast and in Zanzibar, you can enjoy Swahili cuisine, generally prepared with fish, coconut milk and spices.
As you will have gathered, Tanzanians eat a lot of dishes in sauce and like to add many spices to their food.
- Drink
A few tips: do not drink tap water and avoid ice cubes. When ordering a drink, you can say “bila barafu”, which means without ice.
Local tea is very strong. It is always served with boiled milk already sweetened. If you want it plain, you can ask for a “chai kavu”. Local coffee, arabica and robusta, is made in the same way, but you can easily find espressos.
There are some very good local beers such as Safari (strong), Kilimandjaro and Castle Lager (lighter). In bars, they sometimes have craft banana beers. Do not hesitate to try them!
Arts and literature :
Tanzanian art often takes the form of pottery, carpets and other everyday objects. Art represents a job opportunity for many Tanzanians. They produce many paintings, such as Tinga Tinga paintings, which have become famous around the world.
As far as literature is concerned, there are many Kiswahili books. There are works of fiction, non-fiction, poetry, prose books…
Local legislation: things to know before you leave
- Plastic bags are prohibited.
- Homosexuality is criminalised by law.
- Possession of narcotics is punishable by imprisonment.
- Drones: not recommended, as using one without authorisation may result in arrest.
- “Hunting trophies” are strictly regulated: avoid bringing back as souvenirs anything that may encourage poaching (ostrich eggs, zebra skins, turtle shells…).
- It is forbidden to film or photograph so-called sensitive installations: airports, presidential or ministerial buildings, military installations).
