Home of Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti and Zanzibar, and often confused about its capital.
Tanzania is the largest country in East Africa, with a long Indian Ocean coast, three great lakes on its borders and some of Africa’s most famous wildlife areas. A few facts regularly surprise visitors.
Quick FactsDodoma is the official capital; Dar es Salaam is the largest city.
Swahili and English are official.
Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar.
Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, DR Congo, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique.
Dodoma, in the centre of the country, is the official capital, though many government offices and most businesses remain in Dar es Salaam on the coast. Arusha is the safari hub in the north. See Dar es Salaam and Arusha.
Tanzania includes Africa’s highest mountain, Kilimanjaro, at 5,895 metres, as well as the Serengeti plains, the Ngorongoro Crater and the spice islands of Zanzibar. It borders Lake Victoria, Lake Tanganyika and Lake Malawi.
Swahili is the national language and a source of national unity among more than 120 ethnic groups. See languages, tribes and culture.
Read Tanzania weather, money and tipping and safety, then start with our Tanzania destination guide.
Frequently Asked QuestionsDodoma. Dar es Salaam is the largest city.
Swahili and English.
In north-east Tanzania, near the Kenyan border.
Yes, a semi-autonomous region.
The Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Zanzibar — plan a luxury Tanzania safari with Ameera Africa Safaris.
Explore →A busy town beneath Mount Meru, where most northern Tanzania safaris begin.
Explore →June to October is the classic dry season; the green season offers quieter parks.
Explore →The Great Migration and Africa’s most famous open plains. Plan a luxury Serengeti safari with Ameera Africa Safaris.
Explore →Tell us your dates and interests and we will design the route around you.
