Tanzania is a poor country but has been politically stable for decades. Having an underdeveloped economy, insufficient state revenue and high public debts, tourism as an economic sector is an important position. The hotel standard satisfy elevated demands and there are excellent safari companies, thus the visitors quickly forget about the efforts to drive to the great attractions on difficult streets.

With 945.087 square kilometers, the country is one of the biggest in East Africa. With its approximately 42 million inhabitants, nearly 120 ethnicities and world-famous landscapes it shows an incredible diversity in every respect.

The Republic of Tanzania (Jamhuri ya Muungano wa Tanzania) extends south of the equator between the Indian Ocean in the east and the big lakes (Lake Victoria and Lake Tanganyika) in the west. In the south, it is bordered by Zambia, Mozambique, and Malawi. Tanzania lies in the middle of the Great Rift Valley.

Located at Lake Victoria and the Kagera River Tanzania belongs to the Nile countries.

Large areas are shaped by the tectonically active zone of the omnipresent Great Rift Valley – with the Kilimanjaro (5895m/19340 ft.) located in the north, being Africa’s highest mountain, its many ditch shoulders, trench bottoms, soda lakes, and volcanoes.

Plateaus (1000m/3280 ft. to 1500m/4920 ft. over sea level) and mountain regions (more than 2000m/6560 ft. over sea level) make up a large part of the country, although savanna landscapes dominate. However, densely forested ecosystems can be found, especially on the volcano slopes.

The coast strip at the Indian Ocean has a length of about 800kms/496 mi. . Its tropical humid climate and low height over sea level form one of the big geomorphologic regions. From here, many discoverers and colonists started their travels (see history part) and thus have also influenced today’s character of the country.
The Kilimanjaro, Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater are World Heritage Sites and points of attraction for visitors from all over the world.

Of the about 42 million inhabitants, 3,2 million live in the biggest city Dar es Salaam, 580.000 in Mwanza, 495.000 in Zanzibar City and 448.000 in Arusha. Other big cities are Mbeya, Morogoro and the capital Dodoma with approximately 180.000 inhabitants.

Zanzibar is part of the Republic of Tanzania but has autonomy rights. It consists of the islands Unguja and Pemba. Ukerewe and Mafia belong to the mainland.

The position of the country in the middle of the Great Rift Valley is impressive. Many natural geographical particularities such as Africa’s highest mountain, active volcanoes and salt lakes are a result of this position. Each of these peculiarities attracts exceptional habitats: giant lobelia on the Kilimanjaro, unique compositions of magma (Oldonyo Lengai) or flamingos and pelicans in the organism-rich soda lakes.

The Great Rift Valley is a continuous geographic trench, approximately 6.500kms/
4036 Miles! in length, which runs from northern Syria in Southwest Asia through eastern Africa to Zambia and central Mozambique in South East Africa. It is part of the big coherent rift and chasm system of the earth. In a broader sense, even the Oslofjord is a part of this giant rift over the planet. This natural heritage is visible to the naked eye from space!

The red sea and the dead sea, the horn of Africa, Africa’s highest mountains (Mt Kenya and Mt Kilimanjaro) and a lot of lakes, partly salt water and partly freshwater are located in this weak zone of the planet. Peneplains, upwarps and mountains provide a potpourri of geological features.

Two branches of the Rift cross several countries such as Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya, being 30kms/18mi to 100kms/62mi wide with a maximum depth of 1000m/3280ft. . The enormous Virunga volcanoes and the famous Ruwenzori Mountains (Uganda, Rwanda) and some of the world’s deepest lakes such as Lake Tanganjika (1470m/4821ft. depth), Lake Albert, Lake Edward and Lake Kivu form part of the western branch of the rift.

On the other side, the eastern branch contains Mt Kenya and Mt Kilimanjaro, salt lakes like Lake Natron and Lake Nakuru and the giant craters in Tanzania’s highlands.

Ngorongoro-Kraterboden
Geothermal phenomena such as geysers and thermal springs exist (and are still waiting for economical use).

Lake Victoria lies between the eastern and the western branch of the rift and forms part of the system.

The reason for this is the so called “triple junction”: 3 divergent tectonic plates drift away from each other. The Arabian plate and the Nubian and Somali part of the African plate hit each other on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge of the Indian Ocean.

In addition, there is another force that intensifies the geotectonic activity in this area: a “Hot Spot”.
“Hot Spots” are local, extremely hot areas under the Earth’s surface that lead to an expansion of the Earth’s crust (see i.e. Iceland’s geological situation).

Plate tectonics, continental drift, sea-floor-spreading – we have it all!

The source for the movement of the plates are convection flows that come with high temperature from the inner earth, then cool down near the earth’s surface and therefore sink into subsurface again, partially clockwise, and partially counterclockwise. Thereby the tectonic plates are shifted, in this case they move away from each other.

The lakes in the Rift have a high mineral content due to strong volcanic and hydrothermal activities. Also, many of them have no outflow to the sea. Thus, Lake Magadi, Lake Natron and Lake Manyara have a high content of sodium carbonate, which attracts a special flora and fauna.

How will the Rift develop in the future? The horn of Africa will be separated from the continent; sea water will invade the grave system separating the western part of Africa from its eastern part. Rivers like the Nile will change their flow. Or maybe the Rift is too constrained between Indian and Atlantic Ocean that it will not split further?

We are excited!

Often crystalline rocks from the Archean and the Proterozoic can be found on the surface.
By events of the past 3.5 million years (forming of the Rift) there are effusions of lava and depositions of tuffs. The volcanic cover layer reaches a maximum thickness of 2000m/6560ft.

Mountain formation and subsequent erosion led to sediment depositions on the valley bottom.
The above-described structure leads to an ecologically diversified landscape, including arid savanna, failure blocks, trench shoulders and peneplains.

The east African Rift is closely related to the history of our hominid ancestors. See also the chapter about Paleoanthropology.

You will be excited about the wonderful treasure that the geological events produced

Tanzania has a tropical and humid climate, which is more moderate at higher altitudes.

It is divided into rainy and dry seasons. In Serengeti September is the period of so-called short rains; depending on the region the main rain season will follow from October to December and again from March to May.

The large animal herds follow the rain and the resulting growth of grass.

Rainfall quantities are very different depending on the region. On the one hand up to 3000mm/117inc. of rainfall per year at Kilimanjaro, on the other hand only 500mm/19,5inc. per year in Dodoma.

Temperatures range from hot humid 25 degrees Celsius/77° F on the coast to only a few degrees above freezing in the crater highlands to hot 40 degrees Celsius/104° F in the open savanna.

In Tanzania, one can feel the global climate change, too. The known rain – and dry seasons are shifting. Weather phenomena like El Nino and La Nina often bring unexpected heavy rains. Long periods of drought are followed by extreme heavy rain –
a fatal combination, especially in the ecologically sensitive areas in the periphery.

The glaciers of Kilimanjaro are melting significantly.

It comes to increased soil erosion in times of drought by wind (weak tornados).

In many areas a warm, dry and very pleasant climate prevails over a long period.

Tanzania offers a huge diversity when it comes to the plant world. More than 11.000 species are scientifically noted and a large number still waits to be discovered.

In the coastal area there are mangrove forests, evergreen coastal forest and beach vegetation. The Pandanus Palms (Pandanus spp.) seem bizarre on the snow-white beaches. The coconut palms (cocos nucifera) provide a tropical flair and because of its fibers (used to produce mats) and its pulp (used to harvest copra and coconut milk) it is also of economic importance.

The northern Tanzania is occupied by dry savanna. The rainfall amounts vary between 300mm/11,7inches and 600mm/23,4inches per year. Depending on the water supply, a distinction is made between tree and grass savanna. Acacia (more than 30 species) is the typical tree of the savanna. The Umbrella Thorn Acacia (Acacia tortilis) with its flat tree corona is a synonym for Africa for many. Striking are also the Sausage Trees (Kigelia africana) with up to 8 kg/21 pounds heavy, sausage-like fruits. In many national parks balm trees (Commophora spp.) are widespread.

Not to be overlooked and a very special appearance is the baobab tree (Adansonia digitata). Being without leaves, the bare tree-top looks like a root system.

The story is told about the young baobab’s being so proud of its beautiful appearance and having boasted so much that all other creatures have complained about him to the Creator. Enraged, the Creator took the unrepentant Baobab, pulled him out of the ground and threw it away. The tree struck the ground with the roots on top – so today we see the roots as the top of the former arrogant Baobabs…

In some places, visitors will encounter rain forest. Particularly impressive is the vegetation zone at the entrance to the crater rim of the Ngorongoro Crater. This forest can be found from about 1200 m/3936ft. above sea level. Ferns, Figs (Ficus spp.), Senecio and Veronica are noticeable inhabitants of the rainforest.

Your driver guide knows the flora of Tanzania very well – ask him!

The mammals of Tanzania attract the visitors! “Safari”, in Swahili the word for “journey”, has become synonymous for wildlife viewing throughout the world.

The “Big Five” are famous, classified by Hemingway and other hunters as the most difficult or dangerous animals to be hunted: elephant, buffalo, rhino, lion and leopard.

However, not only the large animals are attractive: it is fascinating to watch the tiny dik-diks, the majestic elands or the bustling mongooses in all their diversity!

And only the birds! Bright red, metallic blue or canary- one is attracted by these creatures, even when one has never been interested in ornithology so far.

The national parks of Tanzania are unique. Each one is like a diamond in nature, whether Tarangire, Serengeti, Manyara or Ngorongoro, they are all unique biotopes.

Where else in the world can animals still move so freely? Where else can you see thousands upon thousands of individuals, even being in the middle of it, taking part? Where else can you meet so many predators?

The migration of zebras, wildebeests and other antelopes followed by the carnivores is a highlight of a safari. Depending on the season, the animals in Serengeti follow the water or the food. In October and November the herds come from the north, the Massai Mara, crossing the Mara River in the northern Serengeti. The walk continues to the south where many species have their offspring – almost all at the same time! A spectacle beyond compare!

For decades, Tanzania has been a politically stable country. In 1992 the multi-party system was introduced. The first president after the declaration of independence was Dr. Julius Nyerere, who was followed by Ali Hassan Mwinyi and Benjamin Mkapa. The actual head of state is Jakaya Kikwete.

Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete from the CCM (Chama Cha Mapinduyi = Revolution Party), who was elected in 2005, was reelected in 2010. However, the CCM suffered losses in favor of the liberal-conservative opposition parties CHADEMA (=Chama Cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo) and CUF (=Civic United Front). The 40-year dominance of the CMM has been broken up by a strong opposition. Observers see this as a more democratic opening of the state of Tanzania, especially with regard to the 2015 elections.

The opposition party CHADEMA won the leadership over the CUF. Stronghold of CHADEMA-voters is Arusha.

International observers evaluate the election process as largely positive. Largely, because the CCM has much more possibilities of self-representation in the election campaigns than the other parties, i.e. better vehicles, more experience, influence on the media etc.

Problems of health care, a better education for all Tanzanians and the fight against corruption were key issues before the elections.

The next elections are scheduled for 2015. The current president is not allowed to run for a third presidency.

Zanzibar has autonomy in large parts. Regional elections take place here, in 2010 for the first time on the same day as the parliamentary elections and the presidential elections for the Union. Ali Mohamed Shein (CCM) was elected in Zanzibar with slightly more votes than CFU’s candidate Seif Sharif Hamad.

Due to historical circumstances there are discrepancies between the old families of Zanzibar, which are manifested in the political parties today. If you hear of unrest in this region, then for these familiar reasons and not because of clashes between Muslims and Christians (the first president was catholic, followed by a Muslim, the third was Christian again and the actual president is Islamic again).

The unicameral parliament has 357 members and fulfills a women quota of 20%.

The Union’s constitution guarantees the separation of church and state, separation of powers, multi-party system, general civil rights and autonomy for Zanzibar.

The union president is head of state, prime minister and commander of the armed forces.

The mainland is divided into 21 regions, Zanzibar into 5 regions.

The constitution guarantees an independent judicial system. The law is based on British, African and Muslim law. Tanzania has abolished the death penalty de facto, but not de jure.

The military consists of army, navy (bases in Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar and Mwanza at Lake Victoria), air force and paramilitary organizations.

In 2010, about 1.000 soldiers in UN missions were employed, such as in Sudan, Lebanon, DR Congo and Ivory Coast. Within the East African Community (EAC), the cooperation with Kenya and Uganda has been strengthened, since 2007 it also includes Rwanda and Burundi.

In 2010, Tanzania houses 280.000 refugees (from Somalia, Burundi and DR Congo).

In Arusha, a commission is concerned with the investigation of the genocide in Rwanda (from April to July 1994 the Hutu majority killed nearly 1 million people of the Tutsi minority in just three months). 75% of the Tutsi population was killed (see also the movie: Hotel Rwanda). This act of madness will be judged in Arusha. Accused are the Rwandan army, the Presidential Guard, the police and the administration.

The East African Community is an intergovernmental organization of the East African countries of Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Burundi and Rwanda, having the seat of the Secretariat in Arusha. The EAC seeks for closer cooperation in political, economic and legal fields.

A monetary union is planned for the near future with the East African shilling. A common market shall be established by the creation of an Immigration and Customs Union.

Tanzania is one of the poorest countries in the world. According to statistics, the gross domestic product (GDP) is approximately 520€ per person.

Development aid, import of capital goods, fuels and food control the development of the country. Tanzania’s membership in the East African Community (EAC) and in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) promises possible better development chances.

Tourism, export of gold and precious stones (Tanzanite!) and the agricultural production (coffee, tea and flowers) are the foreign-exchange suppliers; however, these products also depend on world market prices very much.

The agricultural sector is dualistic: on one hand there is the cultivation of export-oriented products such as coffee, tea and flowers; on the other hand a high number of many small farmers live from a subsistence economy. The agricultural sector remains vulnerable by climatic influences (e.g. weather phenomena).

The majority of the population lives from agriculture, fishing and from activities in the informal sector.

Due to privatization and reduced state influence the government provides incentives for private investments. The infrastructure has already been significantly improved, especially visible in road construction.

Tanzania fulfills the requirements of the economic concepts of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), such as fiscal discipline, inflation control, fighting corruption, implementation of free market principles, privatization and poverty reduction, so that debt relief programs become successful.

A gross domestic product growth of 7% was expected for 2010 with a moderate inflation rate. Mining, industry and some segments of the tertiary sector provide economic dynamics and are supported by a solid development of exports.

The lowest minimum wage in 2010 is approximately 50 €/month.

Commercial goods exports:
Mineral resources (gold, tanzanite) 42,3%
Agricultural products (coffee, tea, cotton,
cashew nuts, flowers, spice seeds) 30%
Industrial goods 18,9%
Fish 4,8%
Re-exports 3,9%

Commercial goods imports:
Machinery, transportation and industrial
equipment 33,7%
Oil 22,6%
Construction material 9,7%
Food 5,9%
Other 28,1%

Most important trade partners are Switzerland, the EU, South Africa, Kenya and China for exports and the EU, South Africa, India and China for imports.

The currency is Tanzania Shilling (TSH). Central bank is the Bank of Tanzania in Dar es Salaam.

Approximately 75% of the working population works in the agricultural sector. Export goods are coffee, tobacco, cotton, tea, cashew nuts, oil seeds, vegetables, sisal, flowers and cloves (Zanzibar).

In 2009, 11,5% of the country’s surface was arable land and another 27,2% was grassland.

Millions of small farmers exist alongside the big export-oriented farms.

At the coast, Lake Victoria and other water bodies, fishing is an important source of food and income. Nile perch, tilapia and other cichlids dominate the inland fishery. At the coast (Tanga, Bagamoyo) sardines, amongst others are caught for pet food processing. Fishing is mainly done at night. During the day the fish is dried on the ground at the road – an unfamiliar sight!

The Indian Ocean contains bream, marlin, barracuda, yellow fin tuna, sailfish and many other salt water fish and shellfish – test the rich offerings in the restaurants at the coast!

Tanzania mines gold (good reserves), diamonds, tanzanite (Kilimanjaro) and other 180 precious stones. Likewise copper, silver, phosphate rock, coal, natural gas (Mchuchuma), lead, iron ore, cobalt, magnesium, nickel, uranium, tungsten and tin.

Export earnings in 2008 were 43,2%. The listed corporation TanzaniteOne (mining of the “blue diamond”) plays an important role.

In the future, more coal, oil, natural gas, uranium and iron ore are to be produced. Since 2010 there is a minimum state shareholding of 10% on all mining operations.

2009 mining: 36.000kg/96.480pounds gold, 11.000kg/29.480pounds silver, 180.000 carats of diamonds, 6.100kg/16.348pounds tanzanite and 27.000 tons of coal, to show only a few examples.

Firewood and other traditional fuels provide the vast majority of the energy supply. Solar energy is still under-developed. Attempts to win energy from sisal waste have been made. The public Tanzania Electricity Supply Company (TANESCO) produces 957 to 3786 GWh, of which 2486 GWh are produced by renewable energy sources (especially hydropower). The consumption often exceeds the supply and power outages are frequent. Therefore the use of coal, natural gas and crude oil should play a major role.

From 2011 on, an East African Power Pool will be formed with Kenya and Uganda.

The industrial areas are in Dar es Salaam and other cities. Food and beverages, textiles, paints, batteries and building materials (e.g. cement) are the main products in addition to metallic products. A plan of long-term industrialization through foreign investors is in place (in so-called Export Processing Zones, EPZ). Low domestic purchasing power and lack of competitiveness are inhibiting development.

The TRC (Tanzania Railway Corporation) operates a 2.700km/1676mi rail network, mainly the central line Dar es Salaam-Kigoma, with branch lines to Kidatu, Mwanza and Mpanda and the Tanga line between Tanga, Moshi and Arusha with corresponding link lines, the connections between the two others. The TAZARA (Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority) maintains an approximately 1.800km/1117mi long line between Dar es Salaam and the copper belt in Zambia.

Some lines are suspended due to current weak economy.

The international airports in Kilimanjaro (Arusha), Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar provide connections to the world. There is a large number of smaller airports in Tanzania, sometimes only with sand-based runways. 2009 a total of nearly 3 million passengers were transported.
Precision Air (private) is expanding its links to South Africa this year.

The public Air Tanzania (The Wings of Kilimanjaro) attempts to strengthen its position by extended offerings.

Tanzania has 15 national parks and 17 wildlife reserves. Furthermore, there are seven UNESCO world heritage sites: the Kilimanjaro (the highest mountain in Africa), the Serengeti with its 15.000 square kilometers, the Ngorongoro Crater with its incredible wildlife, the Selous Game Reserve, the ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani as well Songo Mnara and Stone Town on Zanzibar. An impressive range of excellent sights!

Tourism has become a very important industry and is the strongest growth engine. In 2010 the country could take 1,2 billion USD from tourism. Approximately 650.000 visitors came into the country, most of them from other East African countries. About 70.000 visitors came from Great Britain, 60.000 from the U.S., 52.000 from Italy and 20.000 from Germany.

Usually the starting point for visitors is the Kilimanjaro Airport near Arusha. From there, many go on safaris to the Northern Circle (Manyara, Tarangire, Ngorongoro and Serengeti). Best suited for beach holidays is Zanzibar with snow-white beaches and a turquoise sea. In recent times some operators also approach the lesser-known parks and reserves of the South because of their unspoiled state (see also the author of the document Wild Ways Adventure).

All-terrain land cruisers are used for safaris and the accommodation services range from basic to luxury.