Tanzania

The United Republic of Tanzania lies on the Indian Ocean bordered by Kenya, Uganda, Burundi, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique. The capital city and also a major port, Dar es Salaam is the natural starting point for trips in Tanzania. It is near Mount Kilimanjaro, Dodoma and the nearby island of Zanzibar. Many beautiful beaches are within easy reach of Dar es Salaam, such as those at Kunduchi, Mjimwena and Mbwa Maji. Kunduchi, 24km (15 miles) north of the city, is a fishing village with nearby ruins of Persian tombs and mosques. The beautiful island of Zanzibar is only 20 minutes’ flight from Dar es Salaam. Mount Kilimanjaro, at 5895m (19,341ft), Africa’s highest mountain is a major attraction for mountaineers. The ascent takes about three days. Tanzania’s national parks extend over some 33,660 sq km (13,000 sq miles). The Serengeti National Park is a plain-dwellers’ stronghold of 14,763 sq km (5678 sq miles), claimed to be the finest in Africa. Here are 35 species of plain-dwelling animals, including wildebeest and zebra, and also an extensive selection of birdlife. The Selous Game Reserve is larger than Switzerland and covers one-sixth of Tanzania’s land surface. Generally, the nightlife centres are in the top tourist hotels and restaurants.