Cities and Towns

ARUSHA

Arusha is the gateway to many of Tanzania’s most famous national parks. From here you will begin your African wildlife safari to such renowned sites as the Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and Conservation Area and Olduvai Gorge. Other parks in the region include Lake Manyara, Tarangire, Arusha and Kilimanjaro. Arusha is a haven for mountain climbers and hikers, with Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru and the Crater Highlands just waiting to be explored.
One of the fastest growing cities in Tanzania, Arusha is the former headquarters of the East African Community, an economics and customs union between Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. One legacy of this status is the first rate Arusha International Conference Centre, a site used by United Nations and capable of hosting even the most ambitious of conventions. It is a centre unparalleled in East Africa, and just one of many conference facilities in Arusha.

DAR ES SALAAM

Dar es Salaam is the business capital of Tanzania and the largest city in the country. Located on the Indian Ocean coastline, this cosmopolitan centre is fascinating mix of old and new. Evidence of the colonial past remains in some of the architecture of the city, found intermingled with the many modern office buildings. Numerous hotels offer a variety of conference facilities.  Some of the extracurricular highlights of Dar es Salaam include the jaw-dropping beauty of the beach of the beaches, the varied and exciting nightlife and the proximity to Saadani and Mikumi National Parks. Day trips to Zanzibar and Bagamoyo are easily arranged. The multicultural nature of the city is reflected in the variety and selection of shopping and dining. City tours are full of interesting and historically significant stops.

DODOMA

The official capital of Tanzania, Dodoma is the administrative centre and the seat of the government. The town has a pleasant climate and relaxed atmosphere and is located in the middle of the wine producing area of Tanzania. Vineyards surround the town while the Lion Rock to the northeast provides wonderful views.

MOSHI

Moshi is the closest town to Mount Kilimanjaro and is the starting point for the popular trek up the mountain. The town has tree-lined avenues, an impressive market and breathtaking views of the awe inspiring mountain.

MWANZA

Mwanza, located on the southern edge of Lake Victoria, is another picturesque town. The economic capital of the region,  Mwanza situated on a peninsula and is a good base for visiting Rubondo Island National Park, and at certain times of the year, the western Serengeti. Mwanza is the centre of the Sukuma tribal culture, the largest ethnic group in Tanzania, and there is an interesting museum showcasing this, located a short distance outside the town.

STONE TOWN

Zanzibar’s old quarter, usually called ‘Stone Town’ is a fascinating maze of narrow streets and alleyways which leads past numerous old houses and mosques, ornate palaces, shops and bazaars. Overlooking dhows and outrigger canoes moored in the harbor, many buildings date from the 19th century slave boom. Highlights include the magnificent House of Wonders, the Palace Museum and the night market in Forodhani Gardens. There are many excursions possible from Stone Town, including boat trips, spice tours, diving, fishing, snorkeling and more.