Country Info and Facts

Your Essential Guide to Tanzania

Tanzania, a land of breathtaking diversity and profound beauty, is an East African gem that captivates every visitor. From the snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro to the vast plains of the Serengeti, the pristine beaches of Zanzibar, and the warm smiles of its people, Tanzania offers an unparalleled travel experience. As you prepare for your adventure with Maasai Spirit Expedition, here’s a comprehensive overview of essential country information and facts to help you get ready.

General Information

  • Official Name: United Republic of Tanzania
  • Capital: Dodoma (legislative); Dar es Salaam (economic hub and largest city)
  • Population: Approximately 61 million (2023 estimate)
  • Area: 947,303 square kilometers (365,756 square miles), making it slightly larger than twice the size of California
  • Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), though USD is widely accepted in tourist areas
  • Languages: Swahili (official), English (widely used in business and tourism), and over 120 local languages
  • Time Zone: East Africa Time (EAT), UTC+3 (no daylight saving time)
Tanzania was formed in 1964 by the union of Tanganyika and Zanzibar, blending mainland and island identities into a diverse nation.

Geography and Natural Wonders

  • Location: East Africa, bordered by Kenya and Uganda (north), Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (west), Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique (south), and the Indian Ocean (east).
  • Mount Kilimanjaro: Africa’s highest peak at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), located in the Kilimanjaro Region near Moshi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the centerpiece of Maasai WildCulture Adventures’ expeditions.
  • Key Features: Home to the Serengeti National Park (famous for the Great Migration), Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar’s spice islands, and Lake Victoria, the world’s second-largest freshwater lake.
  • Terrain: Ranges from coastal plains and savannahs to high plateaus and volcanic mountains, including the Eastern Rift Valley.
Tanzania’s diverse landscapes make it a global hotspot for biodiversity and adventure tourism.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

  • Climate: Tropical along the coast, temperate in the highlands (e.g., Kilimanjaro Region). Kilimanjaro itself spans five climate zones: rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, arctic summit, and descent zones.
  • Seasons:
    • Dry Seasons: January-March (short dry) and June-October (long dry)—ideal for climbing Kilimanjaro due to clear skies and stable weather.
    • Wet Seasons: April-May (long rains) and November-December (short rains)—quieter trails but wetter conditions.
  • Temperature: Moshi averages 20-30°C (68-86°F) year-round; Kilimanjaro summit drops to -20°C (-4°F) or lower at night.
For optimal climbing conditions, Maasai WildCulture Adventures recommends the dry seasons, though we operate year-round with tailored support.

Practical Travel Information

  • Visa: Required for most nationalities; a single-entry tourist visa costs $50-$100 (USD), obtainable online (e-Visa) or on arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
  • Health: Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory if arriving from an endemic area; malaria prophylaxis is recommended for lower altitudes. Consult your doctor for altitude sickness medication (e.g., Diamox) for Kilimanjaro.
  • Travel: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), 40 km from Moshi, is the main entry point for climbers. Flights from Europe/USA range from $800-$1,500.
  • Electricity: 230V, 50Hz; Type G (British) plugs—bring adapters and power banks for remote areas.
  • Safety: Tanzania is generally safe for tourists; exercise standard precautions in urban areas and follow guide instructions on Kilimanjaro.