Tanzania Information

General
Born of a peaceful union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar in 1964, Tanzania is widely regarded as "The Switzerland of Africa", playing host to the United Nations and peacefully sustaining over 120 different ethnic groups.

Tanzania is a unique destination on the African continent that has yet to be discovered by many. It is a land of many wonders with an unparalleled diversity of flora and fauna. It is home to Kilimanjaro, the highest permanently snow-capped free standing mountain in the world, the exotic Islands of Zanzibar, the finest game sanctuaries of Serengeti, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, Ruaha, Selous and the Marine Park of Mafia Island.

Culture
Tanzania has over 120 different tribal groups, most of which are of Bantu origin. The major non-Bantu people on the mainland are the Masai, who inhabit the north-eastern plains of the country.

Swahili and English are the official languages. However, there are many local indigenous tongues, reflecting the tribal and cultural diversity of the country.

Local Currency
The currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian shilling.

Transport
Tanzania has two commercial airlines that operate domestic flights, namely Air Tanzania and Precision Air. There are also two train lines in Tanzania, that link Dar Es Salaam with various destinations. One can also travel by bus, which is major form of transportation for many Tanzanians. Cars can also be rented from one of the many car rental agencies in Dar Es Salaam. For tours to game parks, 4WD vehicle is required. There are also ferries that operate on Lake Victoria, Lake Tanganyika, Lake Nyasa and along the coast if you don’t want to travel by road.

Visa Information
All visitors require a visa except citizens of some Commonwealth countries, Scandinavian countries, the Republic of Ireland, Rwanda and Sudan. For these nationalities, a free visitor's pass, valid for one to three months, can be picked up at the point of entry. You will need proof of yellow fever vaccination if travelling to Zanzibar from the mainland. For more information we suggest you consult the Embassy of United Republic of Tanzania(USA) website.