Tanzania Travel can be an incredibly interesting and rewarding experience. Some more interesting facts about the country include:
- At over four times the size of Great Britain, Tanzania is the largest country in Eastern Africa.
- The word Tanzania in literally means ‘journey’ in Kiswahili, one of the country’s native languages.
- The remains of the earliest humans, including the legendary 2 million year old Homo habilis were found in the Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania.
- At 264 square kilometers, the extinct Ngorongoro Crater is the largest complete crater in the world.
- It was in the town of Ujiji near Lake Tanganyika that Stanley first spoke the words ‘Dr. Livingstone I presume?’ A plaque in the town indicates the exact place where Stanley first caught up with Livingstone all those many years ago.
- Tanzania is home to over 100 different tribal groups
- Lake Manyara National Park is home to the unique tree- climbing lions. These lions climb to the uppermost portions of the enormous Acacia trees in the area, and spend their days languishing on the branches which are some seven or eight meters above the ground.
- Serengeti translates from Masai as ‘endless plains’ or ‘an extended area’, quite an apt description when one considers the size of the world famous Serengeti National Park.
- Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania is the world’s second deepest lake.
- Kilimanjaro’s last eruption was over 200 years ago.
- Tanzania is famous for its African blackwood or mbingo carvings which are sold at a number of craft and street stalls.
- The Amani Nature Reserve in eastern Tanzania is said to be the only location on earth where African Violets in fact grow wild.
- The Coconut Crab which inhabits the waters off Zanzibar’s Chumbe Island is the largest crab in the world.
- The short Rainy Season in Tanzania is called Vuli, while the long rainy season is called Masika by the local population.
- Tanzania is approximately 3 hours ahead of GMT which means that the time in Dar es Salem is 7 hours ahead of New York and 2 hours ahead of London.
Kiswahili Translation To English
Kiswahili or Kiunguja as it is called in Zanzibar is the official language of the Tanzanian People. Although the guides on the mountain or safari will be fluent in English, it is nevertheless handy to know a couple of basic terms in the native language. Among the more useful and frequently used Swahili terms are the following:
- No problem – Hakuna Tatizo
- Hello – Habari
- How much? – Shilingi Ngapi?
- How Many -Ngapi
- Quickly – Haraka
- Hungry – Njaa
- Yes – Ndiyo
- Let’s go – Twende
- No – Hapana
- Danger – Hatari
- Help – Msaada
- Toilet – Choo
- Water – Maji
- Why? – Kwa-nini?
- I am tired – Nimechoka
- When? – Lini?
- My head aches – Kichwa changu kinauma
- Fine/ Good – Nzuri
- Goodbye – Kwaheri
- Thirsty – Kiu
- Journey – Safari
- Thank you – Ahsante
- Storm – Dhoruba
- Where? – Wapi?
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Tanzania such a unique safari destination?
Tanzania stands out because of its incredible mix of wildlife, landscapes, and culture all in one place. You can explore vast plains, volcanic craters, lakes, and tropical beaches within a single trip. Parks like Serengeti National Park are world, famous for their wildlife density and natural beauty. What really makes it special is how untouched and authentic many areas still feel. It’s a destination where nature truly takes center stage.
Did you know Tanzania is home to the Great Migration?
One of the most fascinating facts about Tanzania is that it hosts the largest land animal migration on Earth. Every year, millions of wildebeest and zebras move across Serengeti National Park in search of fresh grass. This journey includes dramatic river crossings and constant predator encounters. It’s not a one, time event but a continuous cycle that follows the rains. Seeing it in person feels almost unreal.
Is Tanzania only about wildlife safaris?
While safaris are a huge draw, Tanzania offers so much more. You can relax on the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar after your safari adventure. There’s also the chance to explore cultural traditions, especially with communities like the Maasai people. For adventure lovers, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a major highlight. It’s a destination that combines relaxation, culture, and adventure all in one.
How diverse is the wildlife in Tanzania?
The wildlife diversity in Tanzania is truly remarkable. In places like Ngorongoro Crater, you can see a wide range of animals in a relatively small area. From the Big Five to rare bird species, there’s always something new to discover. The ecosystems vary so much that each park feels completely different. This diversity keeps every safari exciting and unpredictable.
Are safaris in Tanzania suitable for first, time travelers?
Yes, Tanzania is a great choice for first, time safari travelers. The country has well, established routes, experienced guides, and a wide range of accommodation options. Visiting iconic places like Serengeti National Park or the Ngorongoro Crater makes planning easier. Many itineraries are designed to balance comfort and adventure. It’s an accessible way to experience the magic of Africa for the first time.
Still have questions?
Our local safari experts are happy to help you plan the perfect African safari.
