Tanzania is one of the most diverse countries in Africa. It is famous for safari in national parks, the continent’s highest mountain – Kilimanjaro, the island of Zanzibar, the culture of the Maasai, and for precious gemstones – tanzanite, found only in this region of the world.
The name Tanzania was created in 1964 by combining Tanganyika (the mainland) and Zanzibar (the Indian Ocean archipelago).
Hakuna Matata – A Way of Life
In Tanzania you hear the phrase “hakuna matata” very often – meaning “don’t worry” or “no problem.” It’s not just a saying, but a real way of life – the pace is slower and everyday life lacks the rush so typical of Europe.
Mighty baobab trees:
Kilimanjaro – The Roof of Africa
Kilimanjaro (5,895 m above sea level) is the highest mountain in Africa and one of the Seven Summits. Although it is not technically difficult, it requires good acclimatization – at high altitudes oxygen levels drop sharply.
A typical ascent takes about 6–8 days. At the summit most people can stay only for several minutes due to low temperatures and lack of oxygen. Symptoms of altitude sickness include disorientation, extreme fatigue, and irritability.
Safari – The Essence of Tanzania
Tanzania offers some of the best safaris in the world – in parks such as:
- Serengeti
- Ngorongoro
- Tarangire
- Lake Manyara
It’s here that you can see the Big Five – lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros – as well as massive migrations of wildebeest and zebras.
Safari lodge:
The Maasai – Guardians of Tradition
The Maasai are a semi-nomadic people living in northern Tanzania and Kenya. They are known for:
- colorful clothing,
- high ritual jumps,
- rich bead jewelry,
- wooden clubs – rungu.
In Maasai culture, wealth is measured by the number of cattle and children. In traditional villages, a man’s house is located centrally, with the huts of his wives arranged around it. The Maasai are the only ethnic group allowed to live within the boundaries of some national parks.
Basic Swahili Phrases
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Jambo | Hello |
| Hakuna matata | Don’t worry |
| Pole pole | Slowly |
| Rafiki | Friend |
| Habari yako? | How are you? |
| Nzuri | Good / Fine |
| Sawa sawa | OK |
| Asante (sana) | Thank you (very much) |
| Kwaheri | Goodbye |
Transit Cities: Dar es Salaam and Arusha
Dar es Salaam – the largest city in the country – mainly serves as a transport hub. It is crowded, hot, and functions mostly as a transfer point.
Arusha is the main base for safaris and Kilimanjaro, but the city itself offers few tourist attractions.
Zanzibar – The Pearl of the Indian Ocean
Zanzibar, located several dozen kilometers from the mainland, is accessible by ferry or small plane. It is famous for:
- turquoise waters,
- spices,
- the carved doors of Stone Town,
- white-sand beaches.
Tanzania is a country that brings together wild nature, ancient traditions, and extraordinary landscapes – from the savannas of Serengeti to the coral reefs of Zanzibar.
Malvina Dunder 
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