Tanzania is an amazing destination. It’s packed with unforgettable experiences, located in the lush region of East Africa. From incredible wildlife to stunning beaches and welcoming locals, Tanzania offers it all. Don’t miss out on iconic spots like the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Mount Kilimanjaro, and the Zanzibar Archipelago – they’re all part of the adventurous and hospitable package Tanzania has to offer.
History of Tanzania:
Tanzania, a country in East Africa, lies just south of the Equator. It was established as an independent state in 1964 through the merging of Tanganyika and Zanzibar. Mainland Tanganyika encompasses over 99 percent of the total land area of the combined territories. While Mafia Island is governed from the mainland, Zanzibar and Pemba islands have their own separate government administration. Dodoma, designated as the official capital of Tanzania since 1974, is centrally located on the mainland. Dar es Salaam, the largest city and port in the country, plays a significant role in its economic and social life.
Historically, Tanzania’s formation as a union stemmed from Tanganyika (the mainland) and Zanzibar (the island) in 1964. Both regions were colonized by different colonial powers at different times, including Arabs, Germans, and the British.
Tanganyika gained independence from British colonial rule in 1961, while Zanzibar achieved independence from Arab control in 1964.
People and Culture:
The country boasts more than 120 tribes, each speaking its native language. However, following independence, they were united by one language called “Kiswahili,” which nearly all people speak. Swahili is the national language used in public matters, including Parliament. Nonetheless, English serves as the medium of instruction from secondary to higher education.
During your safari, be prepared to learn some Kiswahili words like “Jambo” for “hello,” “Hakuna Matata” for “no worries,” “Pole Pole” for “slowly,” “Karibu” for “welcome,” and “Asante” for “thank you.”
If you’re interested in local culture, you can immerse yourself in local food, traditional dances, local beer, and more. Much of Tanzania’s population are pastoralists, fishermen, and farmers, depending on the region.
Tanzania Weather:
Before deciding to travel to Tanzania, it’s crucial to understand the weather patterns and regional differences. This knowledge allows visitors to better plan their trips and maximize their safari experience.
Tanzania enjoys a tropical climate with temperatures ranging between 22°C and 31°C throughout the year. The country experiences two main weather conditions: the dry season and the wet season.
Dry Season (June to October)
The dry season is from June to October and is considered the peak season for tourism. During these months, the weather is generally clear and pleasant, making it the most popular time for visitors. The lack of rain and moderate temperatures provide ideal conditions for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.
Wet Season (November to May)
The wet season spans from November to May and includes both the long rains and the short rains. While this period sees fewer tourists due to the increased rainfall, it is a fantastic time for photography. The landscapes are lush and green, and the parks are less crowded. The rain can vary from all-day downpours to brief morning showers, but it rarely disrupts activities for long.
Regional Variations
Northern Parks: The northern parks, including the Serengeti and Tarangire, have a moderate climate. Rainfall peaks in April but is less intense than in Arusha. The Ngorongoro Crater rim, at an altitude of about 2,300 meters (7,545 feet), receives significant rainfall and can be quite cold in the mornings and evenings.
Arusha City; is a popular base for visitors before and after safaris in the northern parks. It is surrounded by the stunning scenery of Mount Meru, offering breathtaking views. Its pleasant weather, compared to other tourist cities in Tanzania, makes Arusha an attractive and comfortable stop for travelers.
Southern Circuit Parks: Such as Nyerere (Selous), Mikumi, Ruaha, Gombe, Mahale Mountains, and Katavi tend to be warmer than the northern parks due to their lower altitudes.
