Tanzania Travel Guide: Where It Is, Capital, Map, Parks and Best Time to Visit
East Africa's largest country is home to Serengeti, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar.
Tanzania lies in East Africa on the Indian Ocean coast. It shares borders with Kenya and Uganda to the north, Rwanda, Burundi and the DR Congo to the west, and Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique to the south. Its official capital is Dodoma, while Dar es Salaam is the largest city and commercial centre.
Highlights include the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar. Tanzania's national parks also include Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ruaha and Nyerere. Compare it in Uganda vs Kenya vs Tanzania.
This guide is part of our East Africa travel guides. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Uganda tours and safari packages.
At a glance
- Capital: Dodoma
- Largest city: Dar es Salaam
- Languages: Swahili and English
- Best time: June to October dry season
Best Time to Visit
The dry season from June to October is best for wildlife. January and February suit calving in the south. April and May bring the heaviest rains.
Safety and Practicalities
Tanzania is a popular safari destination. Check your government's latest advisory, take malaria precautions and use licensed operators.
Historic Sites
Stone Town, Kilwa Kisiwani, Ngorongoro and Kilimanjaro National Park are UNESCO sites.
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Related Tours, Guides and Resources
- Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
- Uganda safari packages
- Uganda travel guide
- How to book a Uganda safari
- Plan your safari with our team
Itineraries That Include This Experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Uganda Safari Pages
- Serengeti National Park: Location, Wildlife, Migration and Best Time
- Kenya Travel Guide: Location, Map, Facts, Safety and Top Attractions
- Things to Do in Nairobi: Giraffe Centre, Sheldrick Trust and Nairobi National Park
- The Maasai Tribe: Culture, Dress and Visiting Maasai Communities in Kenya and Tanzania
- East Africa Travel Guides: Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi and DR Congo
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