Tanzania, United Republic of
festivites
1. Eid al-Fitr: This Muslim festival marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It is celebrated across Tanzania with prayer, charity, gift-giving, and feasting.
2. Christmas: Tanzanians celebrate Christmas on December 25th as a religious holiday commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ. Christians attend church services, exchange gifts, and enjoy special meals.
3. New Year's Day: Tanzanians welcome the new year on January 1st with fireworks, music, dance, and family gatherings.
4. Independence Day: On December 9th, Tanzania celebrates its independence from British colonial rule in 1961. There are parades, speeches, and cultural performances in major cities.
5. Nyerere Day: On October 14th, Tanzania honors Julius Nyerere, the country's first president and a key figure in its struggle for independence. The day is marked by speeches, lectures, and exhibitions about Nyerere's life and legacy.
6. Maulid: This Muslim festival commemorates the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad. It is celebrated with prayer, chanting, and feasts in mosques and homes across Tanzania.
7. Karibu Travel and Tourism Fair: This annual event takes place in Arusha, Tanzania, each June. It showcases the country's tourism industry, with exhibitions, seminars, and cultural performances.
8. Saba Saba Day: On July 7th, Tanzania marks the anniversary of the founding of the Tanzanian African National Union (TANU) political party in 1954. It is celebrated with speeches, parades, and exhibitions of Tanzanian culture and history.
seasons
Tanzania has two primary tourist seasons:
1. Peak Season: This season runs from June to October and December to February, with the busiest months being July to September. It is an excellent time for wildlife viewing, but prices tend to be higher, and accommodations can book up quickly. It is recommended to make reservations well in advance and bring warm clothing for early morning game drives.
2. Low Season: This season runs from March to May and November, with April and May being the wettest months. It is less crowded, and prices are often lower, making it a good time for budget travelers. However, roads can be muddy and some parks may be closed due to flooding. Visitors should bring waterproof clothing and be prepared for occasional showers.
It is also worth noting that Tanzania experiences two short rainy seasons in November and December (the "short rains") and from March to May (the "long rains"). These rainy periods can affect travel plans, but they also create lush green landscapes and attract migratory birds.
visa
Some special VISA rules for citizens of certain countries that want to visit Tanzania, United Republic of are:
1. Visa on Arrival: Citizens from most countries can obtain a visa upon arrival at the airport or border crossing in Tanzania. The cost of a single-entry tourist visa is around $50-$100 USD depending on your nationality.
2. E-Visa: Citizens of certain countries can apply for an e-visa online before their trip to Tanzania. The cost of an e-visa is around $50 USD.
3. Special Permit: Citizens of some countries must apply for a special permit before traveling to Tanzania. This includes citizens of Afghanistan, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and other countries. The cost of a special permit varies depending on the type of permit required.
It's important to note that visa requirements and fees can change at any time, so it's always best to check with the Tanzanian embassy or consulate in your country for the latest information.
souvenirs
Here are some popular souvenirs to buy in Tanzania, along with their average prices and suggested shopping locations:
1. Tinga Tinga paintings - $20 to $200, available in local markets and galleries in Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, and Arusha.
2. Khanga fabric - $5 to $10, sold in local markets across Tanzania such as Kariakoo Market in Dar es Salaam.
3. Maasai beaded jewelry - $5 to $50, available at Maasai markets in Arusha and Moshi as well as tourist areas such as Serengeti and Ngorongoro.
4. Tanzanite gemstones - $100 to $1,000+, found in specialized Tanzanite stores in Arusha or at the Tanzanite Experience in Dar es Salaam.
5. Wood carvings and sculptures - $10 to $50, available in local markets and souvenir shops in Stone Town and Dar es Salaam.
Note: Actual prices may vary depending on several factors such as location, quality, and bargaining skills.
If you have 1 week
Tanzania is a beautiful country with many unique attractions that are worth visiting. Here's a one-week itinerary that will give you a taste of some of the best things to see and do in the country.
Day 1: Start your journey in Arusha, which is known as the gateway to Tanzania's northern safari circuit. You can visit the Arusha National Park and take a game drive to see wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, and buffalos. Hiking to Mount Meru is also a popular activity in this area.
Day 2-3: Head over to Serengeti National Park and spend two days exploring this vast wilderness. You can witness the great wildebeest migration, spot the Big Five (lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalos), and take a hot air balloon ride for stunning views of the sunrise over the savannah.
Day 4-5: Next, make your way to Zanzibar Island, where you can relax on pristine beaches, swim in turquoise waters, and explore the historic Stone Town. Take a spice tour to learn about the island's famous cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
Day 6: Return to the mainland and venture to Lake Manyara National Park, which boasts diverse habitats ranging from lush forests to open grasslands. The park is home to tree-climbing lions, pink flamingos, and baboons.
Day 7: End your trip in the Ngorongoro Crater, which is often called Africa's Eden due to its incredible wildlife population. You can take a game drive through the crater and admire the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
These destinations offer a mix of adventure, relaxation, and wildlife viewing that will make for an unforgettable trip. Make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, bug spray, and comfortable clothing for the safari drives. Enjoy your Tanzanian adventure!
If you have 2 weeks
Tanzania is an amazing country with diverse landscapes, cultures, and wildlife. Here's a two-week itinerary that will take you to some of the most fascinating places in the country:
Day 1-2: Start your trip in Dar es Salaam, the largest city and commercial hub of Tanzania. Visit the National Museum of Tanzania to learn about the history and culture of the country. Take a stroll along the beaches of Kigamboni or Coco Beach, and enjoy some delicious Swahili cuisine.
Day 3-4: Travel to the Selous Game Reserve, one of the largest protected areas in Africa. Go on a safari to see elephants, lions, giraffes, and other animals in their natural habitat. You can also go boating on the Rufiji River or take a walking safari to explore the reserve on foot.
Day 5-6: Head to Zanzibar, a beautiful island off the coast of Tanzania. Explore the narrow streets and alleys of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, and the Forodhani Gardens. Relax on the white sandy beaches and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean.
Day 7-8: Take a flight to Arusha, the gateway to some of Tanzania's most famous national parks. Visit Lake Manyara National Park to see flamingos, baboons, and tree-climbing lions. You can also go on a cultural tour to a Maasai village to learn about their traditional way of life.
Day 9-10: Travel to Serengeti National Park, one of the most famous wildlife reserves in the world. Go on a game drive to see the great migration of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles. You can also see predators such as lions, cheetahs, and leopards in action.
Day 11-12: Drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world's largest intact volcanic caldera. Go on a game drive to see the diverse wildlife of the area, including elephants, buffalo, and black rhinos. You can also visit a traditional Maasai village and learn about their culture and way of life.
Day 13-14: End your trip with a visit to Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. You don't have to climb the mountain if you don't want to, but you can go on a hike in the foothills of the mountain or visit nearby waterfalls and hot springs.
These are just some of the amazing places you can visit in Tanzania. Each location offers a unique experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Enjoy your trip!
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