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After the arrival of the Portuguese in
the late 15th century, the position of the Arabs was gradually undermined,
but the Portuguese made little attempt to penetrate into the interior. They
lost their foothold north of the Ruvuma River early in the 18th century as a
result of an alliance between the coastal Arabs and the ruler of Muscat on
the Arabian Peninsula.
This link remained extremely tenuous, however, until French interest in the
slave trade from the ancient town of Kilwa, on the Tanganyikan coast,
revived the trade in 1776. Attention by the French also aroused the sultan
of Muscat's interest in the economic possibilities of the East African
coast, and a new Omani governor was appointed at Kilwa. For some time most
of the slaves came from the Kilwa hinterland, and until the 19th century
such contacts as existed between the coast and the interior were due mainly
to African caravans from the interior.
In their constant search for slaves, Arab traders began to penetrate farther
into the interior, more particularly in the southeast toward Lake Nyasa.
Farther north two merchants from India followed the tribal trade routes to
reach the country of the Nyamwezi about 1825. Along this route ivory appears
to have been as great an attraction as slaves, and Sa'id bin Sultan himself,
after the transfer of his capital from Muscat to Zanzibar, gave every
encouragement to the Arabs to pursue these trading possibilities. From the
Nyamwezi country the Arabs pressed on to Lake Tanganyika in the early 1840s.
Tabora (or Kazé, as it was then called) and Ujiji, on Lake Tanganyika,
became important trading centres, and a number of Arabs made their homes
there. They did not annex these territories but occasionally ejected hostile
chieftains. Mirambo, an African chief who built for himself a temporary
empire to the west of Tabora in the 1860s and '70s, effectively blocked the
Arab trade routes when they refused to pay him tribute. His empire was
purely a personal one, however, and collapsed on his death in 1884.
The first Europeans to show an interest in Tanganyika in the 19th century
were missionaries of the Church Missionary Society, Johann Ludwig Krapf and
Johannes Rebmann, who in the late 1840s reached Kilimanjaro. It was a fellow
missionary, Jakob Erhardt, whose famous "slug" map (showing, on Arab
information, a vast, shapeless, inland lake) helped stimulate the interest
of the British explorers Richard Burton and John Hanning Speke. They
traveled from Bagamoyo to Lake Tanganyika in 1857-58, and Speke also saw
Lake Victoria. This expedition was followed by Speke's second journey, in
1860, in the company of J.A. Grant, to justify the former's claim that the
Nile rose in Lake Victoria. These primarily geographic explorations were
followed by the activities of David Livingstone, who in 1866 set out on his
last journey for Lake Nyasa. Livingstone's object was to expose the horrors
of the slave trade and, by opening up legitimate trade with the interior, to
destroy the slave trade at its roots. Livingstone's journey led to the later
expeditions of H.M. Stanley and V.L. Cameron. Spurred on by Livingstone's
work and example, a number of missionary societies began to take an interest
in East Africa after 1860.
Zanzibar
Portuguese and Omani domination
Africans are known to have inhabited both Zanzibar and Pemba islands
possibly before the birth of Christ. Thus it is possible that the present
African inhabitants of the former Sultanate consist (i) of the descendants
of these ancient natives; (ii) descendants of the ex-slaves; and (iii) of
Africans who have attained Zanzibar citizenship including the migratory
labour force which comes and goes according to the season. The original
African inhabitants of Zanzibar are believed to have migrated from the
African mainland, probably and initially in search of better fishing
facilities on a seasonal basis. The two ethnic groups were the Tumbatu, who
lived at the outset on the islet of Tumbatu off the north-west coast of
Zanzibar island, and the Hadimu, who occupied an area on the main island to
the south of the Tumbatu islet.
Later on the Tumbatu tribe extended their settlements to the main island and
now occupies the northern part of Zanzibar. The Hadimu now occupy more than
60 per cent of the total acreage of Zanzibar island in the central-eastern
parts and almost all of the region to the south of the Zanzibar town. The
main tribe which settled in Pemba was one called the Pemba; but a small
group of the Tumbatu tribe also settled in the southern part of the island.
The small and separate village communities, which these early settlers
created in the islands, formed themselves into monarchies or chieftainships,
each community being, for all practical purposes, autonomous and independent
of each other. A settlement of unknown size of population was therefore the
largest political organization known to have existed in the early history of
these islands, except perhaps where there was a kind of "confederacy" of a
large number of small neighbouring settlements. Due to the lack of political
unity based on an inter-tribal organization throughout the islands, the
settlers remained vulnerable to attack and were liable to conquest by
Asiatic and European countries whose nationals travelled from time to time
through the centuries to the East Coast of Africa in search of trade and
adventure.
Early visitors to Zanzibar and Pemba included Persians, Hindus, Jews, Arabs,
Phoenicians and possibly Assyrrians. Ancient African settlers therefore had
contact with a pot pourri of cultures and managed not only to survive and
absorb some of the newcomers, but also to adopt many of their political,
economic and social methods of organization. The Africans did not seem to
have put up any resistance to these invaders but they became used to their
comings and goings which were dictated by the seasonal monsoon winds.
Because of the African inherent vulnerability, which was due to the absence
of unity among the various ethnic groups, Arabs were able to establish a
colonial regime in the islands.
But the establishment by the Muscat Arabs of an Arab colonial state in the
nineteenth century was very recent compared with the time of arrival and
settlement in Zanzibar of Persians. Ancient traders from Shiraz, then a
small town in southern Iran (Persia), began in about the tenth century A.D.
to arrive in Zanzibar in large numbers and to intermarry with local Bantu
people there: the Tumbatu and the Hadimu. The Shirazis, who are an admixture
of Bantu and Asiatic blood and are often known as the Swahilis, were the
result of this miscegenation; and there emerged the Tumbatu and Hadimu
Shirazis. Muscat Arabs also shared in the creation of the Swahili people and
were an important cultural influence. The Comoriatis, who form a small
ethnic group in Zanzibar, come from the French islands of Comoro in the
Indian Ocean. The last population breakdown on an ethnic basis was made in
l958 and gave a summary of population figures as follows: Afro/Arab,
279,935; Asians other than Arabs, 18,334; Europeans. 507; and others, 335.
Arabs alone were about 47,000.
Swahili is the national language of Zanzibar and about one-third of Swahili
words is said to derive from Arabic. Before independence was achieved in
December 1963, two flags flew over Zanzibar: the red flag of the ex-Sultan,,
and the Union Jack. The latter billowed along with the former to show who
the real boss was. About 97 per cent of Zanzibar’s population are Moslems
but as would be expected in a place where people of such diverse cultural
backgrounds live together, the remaining three per cent are a pot pourri:
Hindus, Christians, Ismailis, and others.
The history of Zanzibar was written by the wind. As we have seen, ancient
Asiatic nationals used the monsoons to sail in their dhows to East Africa
where they traded in ivory, slaves, spices, skins and iron. Gervase Mathew
in a recent essay based on considerable research has said that the Periplus
of the Erythrean Sea "is the earliest surviving description of the coast of
East Africa".
According to Mathew, and contrary to what others had written about it, the
Periplus is a "Greek commercial handbook of the late first or early second
century". In the Periplus, which is extant, the author expressed the
surprising familiarity which Arabs at that time already had with East
Africa, their understanding of the language of the natives and intermarriage
with them.
During the seventh to the tenth century some Arabs took advantage of their
established familiarity with East Africa and rather than simply coming to
visit the place, as others had done before them for several centuries, they
actually came and settled there. These Arabs took refuge in East Africa
after having fled their countries following religious disputes among Arab
tribes over whom should be the rightful Caliph or Successor to Prophet
Mohammed. It is believed that one effect of these religious upheavals was
the flight in around A.D. 950 of al-Hasan bin Ali Sultan of Shiraz who
sailed with his six sons and followers from southern Persia and established
settlements on the East Coast of Africa and islands, one of which was
Zanzibar. With his six sons and equipped with seven ships, Ali Sultan made
his historic voyage to Zenji-bar or the country of the Blacks and thus
marked the beginning of what became known as the Zenj Empire. It is believed
that they founded seven settlements of which Kilwa Kisiwani (the island of
Kilwa, and not Kilwa Kivinje which was founded much later on the mainland)
was one. One of Ali Sultan’s sons called Au is "stated to have become the
first ruler of Kilwa island in 956"1o. It is also generally believed that
Kilwa later developed into a seat of the Zenj Empire, which lasted until the
first decade of the sixteenth century when the Portuguese conquered it.
The empire had consisted of island and coastal settlements or "cities" of
varying sizes, the best known of which were Mozambique, KiIwa island,
Zanzibar, Pemba, Mombasa (Fort Jesus), Malindi, Sofala and the Lamu
Archipelago, the last mentioned consisting of Pate, Manda, Faza (Ampaza) and
Tarkwa islets. Petty Arab sultans or sheikhs and a very high level of
civilization obtained ruled these. As a result of this civilizing influence
which the Arabs brought with them, Africans came to identify civilization
with Arabs. Hence the Swahili word "ustaarabu", which means "civilization",
and implies that to be civilized one should be like an Arab. But the
Pcrtuguese12, with their superior and more destructive weapons, wrested from
the Arabs the "mastery" of the Indian Ocean and caused the disintegration of
the Arab political control, thus interrupting, albeit only temporarily, what
was already a flourishing commercial civilization on the East Coast of
Africa.
The menacing influence of the Portuguese began with the historic voyage of
Vasco da Gama around the Cape of Good Hope to Calicut, India. in 1498. Vasco
da Gama did not bother much about conquests nor was he adequately and well
enough equipped even to attempt to conquer any settlement of appreciable
size; and the only main achievement of his first voyage was the discovery of
a new route to India. But in the course of the journey he saw East Africa
and had difficulties with Arab sultans and merchants especially in
Mozambique, Kilwa island and Mombasa. In 1502, on his second expedition. da
Gama was better equipped, having 20 ships, which was five times more than
the vessels be used in his previous voyage. He was thus ready for any
eventuality should the Arabs repeat their aggression towards the Portuguese.
On arrival in East Africa da Gama and Ruy Lourenco Ravasco hurled threats at
the sheikhs of Kilwa, Zanzibar and Brava. They told them that their
settlements would be burned down unless they were willing to acknowledge the
supremacy of King Manoel 114 of Portugal and pay him a yearly tribute in
gold. The sheikis would not heed the threats, however, and Portuguese
attacks, which spread over a wide area, followed swiftly. By force majeure
da Gama subdued Kilwa in 1502 and got the Sultan to agree to pay an annual
tribute. Ravasco did the same with Zanzibar in the following year. The
Portuguese then moved northwards to Mombasa and beyond. In all, Mombasa and
Kilwa experienced the worst treatment from the Portuguese, presumably
because they put up more determined resistance against them. Both were not
only ruthlessly sacked, but also savagely burned and destroyed. Thus in
Mombasa almost every living thing was destroyed and all who "failed to
escape had been killed and burned. Lamu, Pate, Brava and Oja were the next
targets of Portuguese attack. The two avoided destruction by capitulating
early enough but Oja and Brava defied the attack. The first declared its
allegiance to the ruler of Egypt instead, and both were "sacked and burnt".
Mogadishu was the only town on the East Coast which seemed to have remained
intact, having been assured of this happy situation by some unusually
unfavourable weather conditions which effectively prevented the advance of
the Portuguese. By about 1510 the Portuguese had ravaged the entire
coast-line south of Mogadishu and could claim to have established effective
political control there and seized the trade route to the sub-continent of
India and beyond.
But the Portuguese lacked the necessary resources to keep the vast
territories they had captured. Dissension and intrigue soon set in, and were
followed by sabotage and assassinations of Arab quislings whom the
Portuguese had installed as puppet rulers. In 1698, which was the
bicentennial of da Gama’s historic voyage. The Sultan of Muscat in Oman Seif
bin Sultan, who had been feeling increasingly envious of the Portuguese
possessions in East Africa, incited the local Arabs to fight and they
recaptured Mombasa from the Portuguese. These Arabs. repeated their
performance in the following year by recapturing Kilwa and Pemba. But the
Portuguese managed to regain Mombasa in 1727 only to lose it again, and this
time for good, two years later. The Portuguese expulsion from Kilwa and
Pemba in 1699 virtually ended their rule in East Africa north of Mozambique.
Meanwhile the Muscat Arabs had become virtually the dominant Arab group in
East Africa notably after the earlier expulsion of the Portuguese from Fort
Jesus in 1698. Pemba and Kilwa islands were two of their earliest
strongholds. The Imam or the elected politico-spiritual leader of Oman then
claimed as his territory all the east coast of Africa north of the Rufiji
River and his governors (or liwalis) were put in charge of all the towns and
settlements in the area. But neither this nor even the Portuguese expulsion
from East Africa meant a tighter control over the East Coast by the Imam or
Sultan of Muscat. At its best his hold on the territory remained "less than
tenuous" and each city "was vassal only in proportion to the fewness of its
cannon or the timidity of the local sheikhs".’ As seems always to be the
case, the local so-called East African subjects of the Sultan of Muscat
having removed the Portuguese were not prepared to be subjected to another
colonial regime, as harsh and as ruthless in dealing with them as the
Portuguese had been. They took advantage of the existence of an internal
uprising against the Yorubi Sultans of Oman and by the early 1740s several
of the east coast towns, notably Pate, Malindi, Pemba Kilwa island, Zanzibar
and Mafia, were again showing signs of wanting to seek assistance from the
Portuguese to rid themselves of their Arab masters. Sultan al-Hasan bin
Ibrahim of Kilwa provided the necessary liaison with the Portuguese in
Mozambique and reported to them in 1759 the eruption of war between Oman and
the local Arab sultans in Mombasa and Pate. The apparent rap-preachment
between the Portuguese and their former political vassals in the east coast
culminated in an abortive Portuguese attempt in 1769 supposedly to
"liberate" the Mazrui governors of Mombasa.
In the meantime the Yorubi dynasty of Oman (1711-1744) had been overthrown
and replaced by the Omani Busaidi dynasty founded in 1744 by Ahmed bin Said
al Busaidi who died in 1784. It was during his rule that Mombasa and Pate
took the lead in expressing open and violent hostility against the Muscat
Arabs which was soon copied elsewhere with frequent incidents of murdering
the representatives of the Imam and of refusal to pay taxes to him. But it
was not until after his death, when Oman had somewhat recovered from the
effects of the protracted revolt against it by its Arab possessions in Asia,
that any serious attempt was made to consolidate Oman's suzerainty over its
African territory. Early in 1784 Said bin Ahmad, who was an unsuccessful
claimant to the Omani throne, with his son Ali travelled in anger to the
Zenji-lands and attempted to carve out a domain for himself. His son Ali
subdued Kilwa island in the following year and soon after, Zanzibar also
surrendered to them.
But the exploits of Saif bin Ahmad were short-lived. Imam’s forces arrived
soon after, even before the surrender of Zanzibar was quite complete, and
both islands were quickly regained and Ahmad banished to Lamu. A great deal
still remained to be done, however, before the ruler of Oman could claim to
have established an effective political control over his East African
territory. This task was to be undertaken by the shrewd, tough and
indomitable Seyyid Said bin Sultan (1806-I 856) who succeeded to the Omani
throne after murdering the former Imam, his brother.
With his succession to the throne, Zanzibar soon emerged as the centre of
Omani commercial operations on the East Coast of Africa and became also the
chief slave trade market. He also directed his energies towards a final
elimination of the nuisance of revolt in East Africa which had been
"tolerated" to some extent by his predecessors owing to military weaknesses
in Oman itself because of an internal uprising and political instability
arising from it.
The hardest nut for Sultan Seyyid Said to crack was Mombasa with its Mazrui
governors. The Mazrui Arabs who enjoyed a good reputation in Asia as able
leaders and who seemed bent on becoming sovereign rulers somewhere, first
took part in the leadership of Mombasa in 1727 when one of them became a
deputy governor of the place. This, it will be remembered, was the year when
the Portuguese regained Mombasa and then lost it two years later. After some
time the Mazrui family became deeply entrenched in Mombasa with the seizure
of power there by Ali bin Uthman al-Mazrui that by 1753 had also seized
Pemba and unsuccessfully attempted to do the same thing with Zanzibar. A
year after Seyyid Said had become ruler of Oman, another Mazrui governor,
Ahmad bin Said al-Mazrui, extended political control over Pate and by 1814
he or his supporters had brought Lamu also under the domain of the Mazrui
family. Thus the Mazrui challenge to the suzerainty of Seyyid Said on the
East Coast of Africa became a factor which had to be reckoned with.
But Said was not in a position to do anything about this Mazrui defiance
until the second decade of the nineteenth century since he had not yet
consolidated his control over Oman itself. In 1822 Said dispatched Hamid bin
Ahmad, who was his relative, to Zenji-bar and, within a short time Pate,
Brava and Lamu were subjected to Oman. Omani efforts to inflict an early
defeat upon the Mazrui in Mombasa were frustrated by some mix-up in which
the British were involved; but in 1826 the British had withdrawn from there,
and in the following year the Mazrui surrendered. They rebelled again
shortly afterwards, however, when Said sailed back to Oman to try to quell a
revolt there and it was not until about 1840 that the Mazrui were finally
overcome. Said thus became the undisputed ruler of the entire East Coast of
Africa north of Mozambique.
Meanwhile in 1832 Said had moved his palace to Zanzibar the better to be
able, even before Mombasa capitulated, to tighten his control over a large
section of East Africa. That is how modern Zanzibar was created.
In addition to being the gateway to East and Central Africa in the
"pre-scramble for Africa" period, Zanzibar was also important for the role
which its rulers played, albeit often by yielding to force majeure, in
supporting efforts, mainly by the British, aimed at getting at the main
sources and routes of the slave trade and ensuring its early abolition. By
1822 Sayyid Said had agreed to sign the Moresby Treaty which was to make
"illegal", throughout his dominions, the "sale of slaves to subjects of
Christian powers He also agreed to limit the slave traffic to ports in his
African and Oman dominions. To confirm the Moresby Treaty and other existing
trading regulations, the U.S. (1836) and Britain (1840) established
diplomatic relations with Zanzibar and posted their consuls there. France
also posted a consul. Zanzibar was thus the first territory in tropical
Africa to enjoy such relations. In 1845 the Hamerton Treaty further
restricted the slave trade to his East African dominions. This was a
significant step for two main reasons: first, it tightened the noose around
the neck of the East African slave trade; and second, it triggered bitter
resentment and anger among the subjects of His Highness the Sultan. Muscat’s
loss in revenue resulting from it was believed to be considerable, and it is
generally accepted that this was one reason why Muscat pressed later for a
separate sultan of its own. It is interesting to note that when a dispute
about succession arose it was referred to Lord Charles Canning, then
governor-general of India, for arbitration. He decided on 2 April 1861, that
the late Sultan’s two sons (Thuwain and Majid) should divide their father’s
possessions. Thuwain became the Sultan of Muscat and Oman and Majid of
Zanzibar. Lord Canning further "pronounced the independence of Zanzibar, as
part of the settlement. A year later Great Britain, Germany and France, in a
joint multi-lateral declaration, recognized this independence. The
recognition gave some international status to the Sultan’s claims over the
mainland, but in 1886, as documented by the Delimitation Treaty, Great
Britain and Germany violated the integrity of his territories. They,
however, recognized his sovereignty over Zanzibar.
Earlier, stories told by such explorers as David Livingstone had
ineffectiveness of the Hamerton Treaty of 1845 as slaves were still
trafficked beyond the Sultan’s realm. For instance between 1867 and 1869,
notwithstanding the determined efforts of British naval patrols, about
"37,000 slaves were successfully smuggled overseas Sir Bartle Frere, a
former governor of Bombay, headed a parliamentary committee which went to
Zanzibar in January 1873 to persuade the Sultan to end the slave trade in
his dominions. But Sultan Barghash, who had succeeded Majid in 1870, opposed
the abolition of the slave trade. It was only after threats from the British
Consul General, Sir John Kirk, that Barghash signed the treaty on 5 June
1873. This treaty made the slave trade illegal and the gates of the slave
market were closed forthwith and forever. To commemorate this momentous
emergence from darkness and inhumanity, the foundation stone of the
Protestant Cathedral was laid on the same site shortly after, in 1873.
Despite these favourable developments, the deeply entrenched institution of
slavery did not yet seem to have been finally shaken. To be sure, the slave
trade was illegal; but the legal status of slavery was not abolished in
Zanzibar until 1897; the same objective was realized in Kenya in 1904. In
Tanganyika it was not until the country had become a British mandated
territory in 1919 that slavery was finally abolished.
Reference has already been made to the Delimitation Treaty signed by Germany
and Great Britain between 29 October and 1 November 1886. The signatories
had taken this step in an attempt to settle conflicting territorial claims
over parts of East Africa. But they had done this without the Sultan being
consulted. After this amputation of his dominions the Sultan retained
sovereignty only over the islands of Zanzibar, Pemba, Mafia, and Lamu plus a
16 kilometre (ten mile) coastal strip, stretching from the Tana River in the
north to the Ruvuma in the south. Britain and Germany divided between
themselves the hinterland beyond the sixteen-kilometre limit by a line drawn
from the Umba river westward to Lake Victoria and thus fixed the present
boundary between Kenya and Tanganyika.
Barghash, as well as the Portuguese, reacted sharply to the Anglo-German
agreement. Barghash sent cables of protest to London and Berlin requesting
that he be given at least six months to consider the treaty. But this was
not granted and he was forced to sign the treaty on 7 December 1886. He died
in March 1888.
Humiliating losses of territory of this kind continued and Sultan Khalifa
bin Said, who succeeded Barghash, also bowed to the inevitable, receiving
£200,000 sterling from the Germans in exchange for the "Tanganyika" portion
of the Littoral. The Imperial British East Africa Company, formed in 1885 to
contest claims over parts of Tanganyika made by Dr. Carl Peters of Germany,
was then busy reorganizing and was chartered by the Crown in September 1888,
as the East Africa Company under the leadership of Sir William Mackinnon.
The company operated in the Sultan’s coastal strip in exchange for payment
of an annuity of £1 1,0(0 sterling. As the Empire builders increased their
drive for the acquisition of territories in Africa, the further erosion both
of Zanzibar’s independence and the Sultan’s sovereignty could hardly be
avoided. In 1890 Germany and Britain signed the treaty of Heligoland by
which they made a ‘‘swap" enabling the former to acquire Heligoland in
exchange for her recognition of the latter’s protection over Zanzibar. The
Kaiser, William II, unlike Bismarck who had just fallen, valued Heligoland,
which is off the North German Coast, more than Zanzibar, because he needed
the former in order to establish a naval base there. Uganda was also to be
drawn within the British "sphere of influence" at a later date.
Social Organization Before colonial invasion, the indigenous people had
built up formidable political systems and institutions. These were either
kingdoms, chief-doms or social orders such as the Maasai Age-set rule. The
Nyamwezi people under chief Mirambo, the Hehe under chief Mkwawa and a
series of kingdoms among the Chagga and the Haya people are some of such
developments recorded.
It is from some of these institutions that resistance to colonial
domination, subjugation and exploitation emerged from late 19th century to
the 20th century. For instance, in 1905-7, through the famous "Majimaji War"
the people in the Southern part of Tanzania took up arms and fought the
German rulers there. Helped by the world wars, eventually, the local people
kicked the Germans out of Tanganyika. Traces of historic exotic artifacts
have been made as evidences of the interactions between Tanzanians and the
rest of the world societies. The Periplus of the Erythrean sea, for
instance, puts clear the record that the East African coast had strong
political developments.
Further Arabian influence in the country is recorded since the 7th century
after the Birth of Christ. The occupation of the Isles and the Coastal areas
by Asian societies did culminate in a systematic inhuman slave trade. Tired
of cosmetic political changes in Zanzibar, the "Zenj" people evicted the
Arabian rulers in 1964 through an armed revolution.
Similarly, after a protracted occupation by the unsuspecting traders,
explorers and missionaries from Europe since the 15th Century Tanzania found
itself being subjected to systematic colonial domination by Germany and
Great Britain at different times before 1961. The Great Berlin conference of
1884 was the springboard of all what had happened for subjugating Tanzania
and Africa.
During the domination of Tanzania by Germans, British and Arabs, the
indigenous people were decimated, lost their destiny and cultural identity,
were economically exploited and their technology disrupted. However, the
worst evil of all committed by colonialists has been their wishful intent to
discourage individual initiative to venture, discover, make attempts and to
fabricate. The outcome is the current dependency status!
As early as 1950's different, but very interesting forms of modern struggles
for independence were being created. For example by 1954 the Tanganyika
African National Union (TANU), a political party already was a force to
reckon with under the able leadership of Julius Kambarage. Nyerere. It is
under the same political party that Tanzania got rid of British domination
in 1961. In Zanzibar, the Afro Shirazi Party emerged late in the 1950's and
toppled the arab rule on the island in 1964. Tanganyika and Zanzibar United
in that year to form the United Republic of Tanzania.
Colonial Period German East Africa
The first agent of German imperialism was Carl Peters, who, with Joachim,
Count Pfeil and Karl Juhlke, evaded the sultan of Zanzibar late in 1884 to
land on the mainland. He made a number of "contracts" in the Usambara area
by which several chiefs were said to have surrendered their territory to
him. Peters' activities were confirmed by Bismarck. By the Anglo-German
Agreement of 1886 the sultan of Zanzibar's vaguely substantiated claims to
dominion on the mainland were limited to a 10-mile-wide coastal strip, and
Britain and Germany divided the hinterland between them as spheres of
influence, the region to the south becoming known as German East Africa.
Following the example of the British to the north, the Germans obtained a
lease of the coastal strip from the sultan in 1888, but their tactlessness
and fear of commercial competition led to a Muslim rising in August 1888.
The rebellion was put down only after the intervention of the imperial
German government and with the assistance of the British navy.
Recognizing the administrative inability of the German East Africa Company,
which had thereto ruled the country, the German government declared a
protectorate over its sphere of influence in 1891 and over the coastal
strip, where the company had bought out the sultan's rights. Germany was
anxious to exploit the resources of its new dependency, but lack of
communications at first restricted development to the coastal area. The
introduction of sisal from Mexico in 1892 by the German agronomist Richard
Hindorff marked the beginning of the territory's most valuable industry,
which was encouraged by the development of a railway from the new capital of
Dar es Salaam to Lake Tanganyika. In 1896 work began on the construction of
a railway running northeastward from Tanga to Moshi, which it reached in
1912. This successfully encouraged the pioneer coffee-growing activities on
the slopes of Kilimanjaro. Wild rubber tapped by Africans, together with
plantation-grown rubber, helped swell the country's economy. The government
also supplied good-quality cottonseed free to African growers and sold it
cheaply to European planters. The administration tried to make good the lack
of clerks and minor craftsmen by encouraging the development of schools, an
activity in which various missionary societies were already engaged.
The enforcement of German overlordship was strongly resisted, but control
was established by the beginning of the 20th century. Almost at once came a
reaction to German methods of administration, the outbreak of the Maji Maji
rising in 1905. Although there was little organization behind it, the rising
spread over a considerable portion of southeastern Tanganyika and was not
finally suppressed until 1907. It led to a reappraisal of German policy in
East Africa. The imperial government had attempted to protect African land
rights in 1895 but had failed in its objective in the Kilimanjaro area.
Similarly, liberal labour legislation had not been properly implemented. The
German government set up a separate Colonial Department in 1907, and more
money was invested in East Africa. A more liberal form of administration
rapidly replaced the previous semimilitary system.
World War I put an end to all German experiments. Blockaded by the British
navy, the country could neither export produce nor get help from Germany.
The British advance into German territory continued steadily from 1916 until
the whole country was eventually occupied. The effects of the war upon
Germany's achievements in East Africa were disastrous; the administration
and economy were completely disrupted. In these circumstances the Africans
reverted to their old social systems and their old form of subsistence
farming. Under the Treaty of Versailles (1919), Britain received a League of
Nations mandate to administer the territory except for Ruanda-Urundi, which
came under Belgian administration, and the Kionga triangle, which went to
Portugal.
Tanganyika Territory.
Sir Horace Byatt, administrator of the captured territory and, from 1920 to
1924, first British governor and commander in chief of Tanganyika Territory
(as it was then renamed), enforced a period of recuperation before new
development plans were set on foot. A Land Ordinance (1923) ensured that
African land rights were secure. Sir Donald Cameron, governor from 1925 to
1931, infused a new vigour into the country. He reorganized the system of
native administration by the Native Authority Ordinance (1926) and the
Native Courts Ordinance (1929). His object was to build up local government
on the basis of traditional authorities, an aim that he pursued with
doctrinaire enthusiasm and success. He attempted to silence the criticisms
by Europeans that had been leveled against his predecessor by urging the
creation of a Legislative Council in 1926 with a reasonable number of
nonofficial members, both European and Asian. In his campaign to develop the
country's economy, Cameron won a victory over opposition from Kenya by
gaining the British government's approval for an extension of the Central
Railway Line from Tabora to Mwanza (1928). His attitude toward European
settlers was determined by their potential contribution to the country's
economy. He was, therefore, surprised by the British government's reluctance
to permit settlement in Tanganyika. The economic depression after 1929
resulted in the curtailment of many of Cameron's development proposals. In
the 1930s, too, Tanganyika was hampered by fears that it might he handed
back to Germany in response to Hitler's demands for overseas possessions.
At the outbreak of World War II Tanganyika's main task was to make itself as
independent as possible of imported goods. Inevitably the retrenchment
evident in the 1930s became still more severe, and, while prices for primary
products soared, the value of money depreciated proportionately.
Tanganyika's main objective after the war was to ensure that its program for
economic recovery and development should go ahead. The continuing demand for
primary produce strengthened the country's financial position. The chief
item in the development program was a plan to devote 3 million acres (1.2
million hectares) of land to the production of peanuts (the Groundnuts
Scheme). The plan, which was to be financed by the British government, was
to cost £25 million, and, in addition, a further £4.5 million would be
required for the construction of a railway in southern Tanganyika. It failed
because of the lack of adequate preliminary investigations and was
subsequently carried out on a greatly reduced scale.
Constitutionally, the most important immediate postwar development was the
British government's decision to place Tanganyika under UN trusteeship
(1947). Under the terms of the trusteeship agreement, Britain was called
upon to develop the political life of the territory, which, however, only
gradually began to take shape in the 1950s with the growth of the Tanganyika
African National Union (TANU). The first two African members had been
nominated to the Legislative Council in December 1945. This number was
subsequently increased to four, with three Asian nonofficial members and
four Europeans. An official majority was retained. In an important advance
in 1955, the three races were given parity of representation on the
unofficial side of the council with 10 nominated members each, and for a
time it seemed as if this basis would persist. The first elections to the
unofficial side of the council, however, enabled TANU to show its strength,
for even among the European and Asian candidates only those supported by
TANU were elected.
A constitutional committee in 1959 unanimously recommended that after the
elections in 1960 a large majority of the members of both sides of the
council should be Africans and that elected members should form the basis of
the government. The approval of the British colonial secretary was obtained
for these proposals in December 1959, and in September 1960 a predominantly
TANU government took office. The emergence of this party and its triumph
over the political apathy of the people were largely due to the leadership
of Julius Nyerere. Tanganyika became independent on Dec. 9, 1961, with
Nyerere as its first prime minister.
Zanzibar
British Protectorate
In 1890 what was left of the sultanate was proclaimed a British
protectorate, and in 1891 a constitutional government was instituted under
British auspices, with Sir Lloyd Mathews as first minister.On 14 December
1895, the Sultan was confronted with a new fait accompli involving the
transfer of the administration of the Littoral to the British Government
which was assuming administrative responsibility over the areas formerly
administered by the IBEAC. The Sultan signed a document and the British
Government agreed to continue paying the £11,000 annuity which the company
had been paying.
In August 1896, on the death of the ruling sultan, Hamad ibn Thuwayn, the
royal palace at Zanzibar was seized by Khalid, a son of Sultan Barghash, who
proclaimed himself sultan. The British government disapproved, and, as he
refused to submit, the palace was bombarded by British warships. Khalid
escaped and took refuge at the German consulate, whence he was conveyed to
German East Africa. Hamud ibn Mohammed was then installed as sultan (Aug.
27, 1896). In 1897 the legal status of slavery was finally abolished.
In 1913 Zanzibar was transferred from the Foreign to the Colonial Office and
the Governor of the East African Protectorate, which seven years later
became known as Kenya Colony, was in addition appointed the High Commission
of Zanzibar. On the spot in Zanzibar a British Resident was appointed to
administer the affairs of the Protectorate and, until 1926, was answerable
to the High Commissioner in Nairobi. In that year Executive and Legislative
Councils were introduced and the British Resident used the latter as the
main instrument of authority which he needed for the administration of the
Protectorate.
In the same year another important feature was incorporated in the
Constitution. The position of the British Resident was very much
strengthened by making him directly responsible to the Colonial Secretary in
London instead of to the High Commissioner in Nairobi. In fact the office of
the latter was abolished. The Sultan welcomed these changes as being
calculated to familiarize his subjects with the workings of government in a
way which had not hitherto been feasible.
In the Legislative Council the people of Zanzibar were henceforth to be
represented by a minority of nominated unofficial members. Decrees
proclaimed by the Sultan were in future to receive the approval of the
legislature; but as the Council had an official majority with the
window-dressing participation of a wholly nominated unofficial membership,
such approval was expected to be automatic and formal rather than
substantive.
Khalifa ibn Harub had became sultan in 1911. He was the leading Muslim
prince in East Africa, and his moderating influence did much to steady
Muslim opinion in that part of Africa at times of political crisis,
especially during the two world wars. He died on Oct. 9, 1960, and was
succeeded by his eldest son, Sir Abdullah ibn Khalifa.
In November 1960 the British Parliament approved a new constitution for
Zanzibar. The first elections to the Legislative Council then established
were held in January 1961 and ended in a deadlock. Further elections, held
in June, were marked by serious rioting and heavy casualties. Ten seats were
won by the Afro-Shirazi Party (ASP), representing mainly the African
population; 10 by the Zanzibar Nationalist Party (ZNP), representing mainly
the Zanzibari Arabs; and 3 by the Zanzibar and Pemba People's Party (ZPPP),
an offshoot of the ZNP. The ZNP and ZPPP combined to form a government with
Mohammed Shamte Hamadi as chief minister.
A constitutional conference held in London in 1962 was unable to fix a date
for the introduction of internal self-government or for independence,
because of failure to agree on franchise qualifications, the number of
elected seats in the legislature, and the timing of the elections. An
independent commission, however, subsequently delimited new constituencies
and recommended an increase in the numbers of the Legislative Council, which
the council accepted, also agreeing to the introduction of universal adult
suffrage. Internal self-government was established in June 1963, and
elections held the following month resulted in a victory for the ZNP-ZPPP
coalition, which won 18 seats, the ASP winning the remaining 13. Final
arrangements for independence were made at a conference in London in
September. In October it was agreed that the Kenya coastal strip a territory
that extended 10 miles inland along the Kenya coast from the Tanganyika
frontier to Kipini and that had long been administered by Kenya although
nominally under the sovereignty of Zanzibar would become an integral part of
Kenya on that country's attainment of independence.
________History
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Tanzania
Northern Tanganyika's famed Olduvai Gorge has provided rich evidence of the
area's prehistory including fossil remains of some of humanity's earliest
ancestors. Discoveries suggest that East Africa may have been the site of
human origin. Zanzibar
Tanzania
An early Arab/Persian trading center Zanzibar fell under Portuguese
domination in the 16th and early 17th centuries but was retaken by Omani
Arabs in the early 18th century. The height of Arab rule came during the
reign of Sultan Seyyid Said who encouraged the development of clove
plantations using the island's slave labor.
The Arabs established their own garrisons at Zanzibar Pemba and Kilwa and
carried on a lucrative trade in slaves and ivory. By 1840 Said had
transferred his capital from Muscat to Zanzibar and established a ruling
Arab elite. The island's commerce fell increasingly into the hands of
traders from the Indian subcontinent who Said encouraged to settle on the
island.
Zanzibar's spices attracted ships from as far away as the United States. A
U.S. consulate was established on the island in 1837. The United Kingdom's
early interest in Zanzibar was motivated by both commerce and the
determination to end the slave trade. In 1822 the British signed the first
of a series of treaties with Sultan Said to curb this trade but not until
1876 was the sale of slaves finally prohibited.
The Anglo-German agreement of 1890 made Zanzibar and Pemba a British
protectorate. British rule through a sultan remained largely uncharged from
the late 19th century until after World War II.
Zanzibar's political development began in earnest after 1956 when provision
was first made for the election of six non-government members to the
Legislative Cou
Northern Tanganyika's famed Olduvai Gorge has provided rich evidence of the
area's prehistory including fossil remains of some of humanity's earliest
ancestors. Discoveries suggest that East Africa may have been the site of
human origin. Zanzibar
An early Arab/Persian trading center Zanzibar fell under Portuguese
domination in the 16th and early 17th centuries but was retaken by Omani
Arabs in the early 18th century. The height of Arab rule came during the
reign of Sultan Seyyid Said who encouraged the development of clove
plantations using the island's slave labor.
The Arabs established their own garrisons at Zanzibar Pemba and Kilwa and
carried on a lucrative trade in slaves and ivory. By 1840 Said had
transferred his capital from Muscat to Zanzibar and established a ruling
Arab elite. The island's commerce fell increasingly into the hands of
traders from the Indian subcontinent who Said encouraged to settle on the
island.
Zanzibar's spices attracted ships from as far away as the United States. A
U.S. consulate was established on the island in 1837. The United Kingdom's
early interest in Zanzibar was motivated by both commerce and the
determination to end the slave trade. In 1822 the British signed the first
of a series of treaties with Sultan Said to curb this trade but not until
1876 was the sale of slaves finally prohibited.
ncil. Two parties were formed: the Zanzibar Nationalist Party (ZNP)
presenting the dominant Arab and "Arabized" minority and the Afro-Shirazi
Party (ASP) led by Abaid Karume and representing the Shirazis and the
African majority.
The first elections were held in July 1957 and the ASP won three of the six
elected seats with the remainder going to independents. Following the
election the ASP split; some of its Shirazi supporters left to form the
Zanzibar and Pemba People's Party (ZPPP). The January 1961 election resulted
in a deadlock between the ASP and a ZNP-ZPPP coalition.
On April 26 1964 Tanganyika united with Zanzibar to form the United Republic
of Tanganyika and Zanzibar renamed the United Republic of Tanzania on
October 29.
United Republic of Tanzania
TANU and the Afro-Shirazi Party of Zanzibar were merged into a single party
(Chama cha Mapinduzi--CCM Revolutionary Party) on February 5 1977. On April
26 1977 the union of the two parties was ratified in a new constitution. The
merger was reinforced by principles enunciated in the 1982 union
constitution and reaffirmed in the constitution of 1984.
The elections that followed the granting of self-government in June 1963
produced similar results. Zanzibar received its independence from the United
Kingdom on December 19 1963 as a constitutional monarchy under the sultan.
On January 12 1964 the African majority revolted against the sultan and a
new government was formed with the ASP leader Abeid Karume as president of
Zanzibar and chairman of the Revolutionary Council. Under the terms of its
political union with Tanganyika in April 1964 the Zanzibar Government
retained considerable local autonomy.
Abeid Karume was named First Vice President of the union government a post
he held until his assassination in April 1972. Aboud Jumbe a fellow member
of the ASP and the Revolutionary Council was appointed to succeed Karume. In
1981 32 persons were selected to serve in the Zanzibar House of
Representatives. The election marked the first poll since the 1964
revolution. In 1984 Jumbe resigned and was replaced by Ali Hassan Mwinyi as
both President of Zanzibar and First Vice President of Tanzania. In the
election of 1985 Mwinyi was elected President of the United Republic of
Tanzania; Idris Wakil was elected President of Zanzibar and Second Vice
President of Tanzania. In 1990 Wakil retired and was replaced as President
of Zanzaibar by Salmin Amour.
In 1977 Nyerere merged TANU with the Zanzibar ruling party the ASP to form
the CCM as the sole ruling party in both parts of the union. The CCM was to
be the sole instrument for mobilizing and controlling the population in all
significant political or economic activities. He envisioned the party as a
"two-way street" for the flow of ideas and policy directives between the
village level and the government.
President Nyerere handed over power to his successor President Ali Hassan
Mwinyi in 1985 Nyerere retained his position as Chairman of the ruling party
for five more years but in 1990 this post also was passed on to Mwinyi who
started his last five-year terms at that time. Nyerere retired from formal
politics but remains influential behind the scenes.
In 1990 in response to the currents of democracy sweeping much of the world
Tanzania began making substantial changes to its political system of a down.
__________Practical Information
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Country Location
Tanzania is located in Eastern Africa between longitude 290 and 410 East.
Latitude 10 and 120 South.
Most Northerly point: Bukoba 10 South Latitude
Most Southerly point: Mtalika 120 South latitude
Most Westerly point: Kigoma 290 East of Greenwhich
Most easterly point: Mtwara 410 East of Greenwhich
Tanzania has frontier to the following countries:
North : Kenya and Uganda
West: Rwanda, Burundi and Democratic Republic of Congo
South: Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique
East: Indian Ocean
Geographical Features
Tanzania is the biggest of the East Africa countries (i.e. Kenya, Uganda and
Tanzania). Has a spectacular landscape of mainly three physiographic regions
namely the Islands and the coastal plains to the east; the inland
saucer-shaped plateau; and the highlands. The Great Rift Valley that runs
from north east of Africa through central Tanzania is another landmark that
adds to the scenic view of the country. The rift valley runs to south of
Tanzania spliting at Lake Nyasa; one branch runs down beyond Lake Nyasa to
Mozambique; and another branch to north-west alongside Burundi, Rwanda,
Tanzania and western part of Uganda. The valley is dotted with unique lakes
which includes Lakes Rukwa, Tanganyika, Nyasa, Kitangiri, Eyasi and Manyara.
The uplands includes the famous Kipengere, Udzungwa, Matogoro, Livingstone,
and the Fipa plateau forming the southern highlands. The Usambara, Pare,
Meru, Kilimanjaro, the Ngorongoro Crater and the Oldonyo Lengai, all form
the northern highlands. From these highlands and the central saucer plateau
flow the drainage system to the Indian ocean, Atlantic ocean, Mediterranean
sea and the inland drainage system.
Mountain Summits:
(metres above sea level)
Mount Kilimanjaro
5,895
Mount Meru
4,566
Mount Rungwe
2,960
Uluguru Mountains
2,648
Rubeho Mountains
2,576
Livingstone Mountains
2,521
Mbizi Mountain
2,418
Mahari Mountain
2,373
Usambara Mountains
2,300
Climate:
Tanzania has a tropical type of climate. In the highlands, temperatures
range between 100c and 200c.during cold and hot seasons respectively. The
rest of the country has temperatures never falling lower than 200c. The
hottest period spreads between November and February (250c - 310c) while the
coldest period occurs between May and August (150c - 200c).
Two rainfall regimes exist over Tanzania. One is unimodal (December - April)
and the other is bimodal (October -December and March - May). The former is
experienced in southern, south-west, central and western parts of the
country, and the later is found to the north and northern coast.
In the bimodal regime the March - May rains are referred to as the long
rains or Masika, whereas the October - December rains are generally known as
short rains or Vuli.
Country Profile
Area: Total 945,000 km2
Mainland: 881,000km2
Zanzibar: 2,000 km2
Water: 62,000 km2
Forest and woodlands: 3.350 km2
Political system: Multi party democracy
Administration:
26 administrative regions (21 mainland and 5 Zanzibar), 130 administrative
districts (Zanzibar has 10 and Mainland has 120 administrative districts).
Population:
Estimated at 33 million people (2002);
- about 51% are women; and
- about 46% are under age 15.
Poverty: About 50% of the population are living below the poverty line.
Per Capital GNP: Estimated at US $ 246 (2001) (US$1 = T.shs. 800 in 2001)
Per Capital GDP: Estimated at US$ 251 (2001) (US$1 = T.shs. 800 in 2001)
Natural Resources:
Minerals - gold, diamonds, tanzanite and various other gemstones, natural
gas, iron ore, coal, spring water, phosphates, soda ash and salt.
Wildlife and Tourism - 12 National Parks, the Ngorongoro conservation Area,
13 Game reserves, 38 Game Controlled Areas: National Cultural Heritage Sites
(about 120 sites)
Fisheries - three large lakes: Victoria, Tanganyika and Nyasa, the Indian
Ocean coastline, rivers and wetlands. Potential yield of fish from natural
waters is estimated to be 730,000 metric tons annually, present catch is
350,000 metric tons.
Forestry and Beekeeping Non-reserved forest-land (1,903.8 km2),
forest/woodlands with national parks etc (200 km2), and Gazetted forest
reserves (1,251.7 km2).
Currency: Official currency is the Tanzania shilling or 100cents which
approximate US$ 0.004.
Tanzania Shilling exchange rate US$ 1 = T.shs. 800 (2001).
Capital City
With a population of almost 300,000 (1998) Dodoma which is located at a
distance of 309 km west of Dar es Salaam, is the country's political
capital. Dar es Salaam is the country's commercial capital. Other big urban
centres include Arusha; Moshi, Tanga and Mwanza to the north of the country,
Morogoro in the east; Mbeya and Iringa, to the west. Tabora and Shinyanga
are also important economic hubs in central Tanzania. Mwanza and Dar es
Salaam are two cities in Tanzania so far.
National Holidays (2004)
DATE
OCCASIONS
1 January
New Year
12 January
Zanzibar Revolution Day 2* February
Idd el Haj (depends on moon sighting) 9 April Good Friday 12 April Easter
Monday 26 April Union Day 1 May Workers Day 2* May Maulid ( depends on moon
sighting) 7 July International Trade Fair 8 August Farmers' Day 14 October
Mwalimu Nyerere Day and Climax of “uhuru Torch Race” 18* & 19 * October Idd
- El Fitr 9 December Indepedence Day 25 December Christmas Day 26 December
Boxing Day
National Symbols
The National Flag
Ratio length to breadth: Three to two, e.g. 3ft. x 2ft., 6ft. x 4ft. 12ft. x
8ft. Description: Green - Golden - Black and Blue, having the black center
stripe centred on diagonal rising from flag-mast to top edge of the fly, two
smaller golden stripes dividing the upper triangle portion which is green
and the lower triangle portion which is blue. Proportions of colours: Black
center stripe, centred on diagonal of flag of 6ft. x 4ft., is 13/48 of fly
and 13" wide. Golden stripes are each 1/16 of fly and 3" wide. Colour Code
and Significance:
B.S. No. 2660: 1955
Black: B.S. No. 9-103 - the People
Green: B.S. No. 0-010 - the Land
Blue: B.S. No. 0-012 - the Adjoining Sea
Golden: B.S. No. 0-002 - the Mineral wealth Uwiano wa Urefu
Kwa Upana:-
Maelezo: Tatu kwa mbili, mfano ft.3 x ft.2, ft.6 x ft.4, ft.12 x ft.8
Ina rangi za Kijani, Dhahabu, Nyeusi na Bluu ambapo rangi nyeusi imepita
katikati ya bendera kuanzia pembe ya chini kwenye mlingoti na kuishia pembe
ya juu kulia. Rangi hii huigawa bendera katika sehemu mbili zenye umbo la
pembe tatu. Rangi nyeusi imetenganishwa na pember tatu ya juu yenye rangi ya
kijani na pembe tatu ya chini yenye rangi ya bluu kwa mistari miwili midogo
yenye rangi ya dhahabu. Viwango vya rangi na maana zake.
Nyeusi - Kiwango na. 9-103 - Watu
Kijani - Kiwango na. 0-010 - Ardhi
Bluu - Kiwango na. 0-012 - Bahari + Maziwa Dhahabu - Kiwango na. 0-002 -
Madini Uwiano wa Rangi:
Rangi nyeusi kwa bender ya
Ft.6 x ft.4 ni 13/48 kwenda juu na
Ft.13 upana. Mistari ya dhahabu ni 1/16 kwenda juu na 3" upana kila mmoja.
The Tanzania National Anthem
KISWAHILI VERSION
WIMBO WA TAIFA
1. Mungu Ibariki Afrika
Wabariki viongozi wake
Hekima, umoja na amani
Hizi ni ngao zetu
Afrika na watu wake.
CHORUS:
Ibariki, Afrika
Ibariki, Afrika
Tubaki, watoto wa Afrika
2. Mungu Ibariki Tanzania
Dumisha uhuru na umoja
Wake kwa waume na watoto
Mungu, Ibariki
Tanzania, na watu wake.
CHORUS:
Ibariki, Tanzania
Ibariki, Tanzania
Tubariki, watoto wa Tanzania.
NATIONAL ANTHEM
FREE ENGLISH TRANSLATION
1. God Bless Africa
Bless its leaders
Let Wisdom Unity and
Peace be the shield of
Africa and its people
CHORUS:
Bless Africa
Bless Africa
Bless the children of Africa.
2. God Bless Tanzania
Grant eternal Freedom and Unity
To its sons and daughters.
God Bless Tanzania and its People.
CHORUS:
Bless Tanzania
Bless Tanzania
Bless the children of Tanzania
The Tanzania National Coat of Arms
The central feature of the Coat of Arms is a Warrior’s Shield which bears a
Golden portion on the upper part followed underneath by the United Republic
flag of Green, Golden, Black and Blue; and a red portion under which are
wavy bands of blue and white.
The Golden portion represents minerals in the United Republic; the red
portion underneath the flag symbolizes the red soil of Africa; while the
wavy bands represent the land, sea, lakes and coastal lines of the United
Republic.
Superimposed features on the Shield are flames of a burning torch which
signifies freedom, enlightment and knowledge; a spear signifying defence of
freedom and crossed axe and hoe being tools that the people of the United
Republic use in developing the country.
The Shield is set upon a representation of Mount Kilimanjaro. On each side
of the Shield there is an elephant tusk supported by a man on the right and
a woman on the left. At the feet of the man is a clove bush and at the feet
of the woman is a cotton bush – thus indicating the theme of co-operation.
The United Republic motto – Uhuru na Umoja – is written in Kiswahili and it
means ‘Freedom and Unity’.
The Uhuru Tourch
The Uhuru Torch symbolizes freedom and light. It was first lit on top of
mount Kilimanjaro (5,890m) in 1961. Symbolically to Shine the country and
across the borders to bring hope where there is despair, love where there is
enemity and respect where there is hatred. Yearly there is the Uhuru Torch
race, starting from different prominent places.
Contributors
December 24, 2004 new by yonamaro
Currency
The local currency is the Tanzania Shiling (TZS)
_________Getting Around
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Less perfect road, Kilosa distr.
Less perfect road, Kilosa distr.
Ingvar
When to go
For the best times of year to visit Tanzania, visit the climate page.
How to get around
Coastal Travels and Precision Air offer a wide variety of aircharters and
scheduled flights between Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Selous, Mafia, Ruaha,
Zanzibar and Lake Manyara as well as other destinations in Tanzania
Organising Safaris, Treks, Transport and Accommodations in Tanzania
For tailor-made, responsible holidays to suit individual interests and
requirements, contact Aim 4 Africa, who are based in the United Kingdom but
originate from and have strong links with Tanzania. The company focuses on
responsible holidays where local communities benefit, whilst ensuring that
visitors to Tanzania get to experience the best that this wonderfully
diverse country has to offer. Safaris to Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake
Manyara, Eyasi, Natron, Tarangire, Selous, Ruaha, Mahale, Gombe, Katavi,
Saadani and some of the less well known areas in Tanzania; Treks up
Kilimanjaro and Mt Meru, walking safaris, canoeing, cycling, hot air
ballooning; Diving, sailing and beach holidays in Zanzibar, Pemba and Mafia
islands. They also can help organize extensions to the neighboring countries
of Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda. For more information visit www.aim4africa.com,
Tel: +44 114 255 2533 (or 0845 4084541 within the UK)
Visa Information
England: Further information con be obtained from the Tanzania High
Commission in London.
North America:
Consulate in New York, 205 East 42nd Street, Suite #1300, New York, New York
10017
Telephone#(212) 972-9160, Fax# (212) 682-5232
9:30AM -1:30PM Visa Office Hours
Embassy Washington DC
2139 R Street NW, stockholm, DC 20008
Tel (202) 939-6125, Fax# (202) 797-7408
9:00AM-1:00PM Visa Office Hours
TTB Representation
North American Public Relations & Marketing Contact
The Bradford Group, 347 Fifth Avenue, Suite 610, New York, NY 10016
Tel (212) 447-0027, Fax: (212) 725-8253
_________Getting There
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International air connections to Tanzania, including code share (possibly
not complete):
Addis Ababa to Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro: Ethiopian Airlines
Amsterdam to Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro: KLM
Beira (Mozambique) to Dar es Salaam: LAM
Blantyre (Malawi) to Dar es Salaam: Air Malawi
Dubai to Dar es Salaam: Emirates
Entebbe to Dar es Salaam: Air Tanzania
Frankfurt a.M. to Kilimanjaro: Condor Flugdienst
Harare to Dar es Salaam: Air Tanzania
Johannesburg to Dar es Salaam: Air Tanzania, SAA
Lilongwe to Dar es Salaam: Air Malawi
London to Dar es Salaam: British Airways
Lusaka to Dar es Salaam: Air Tanzania
Maputo to Dar es Salaam: LAM
Mombasa to Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro: Precision Air, Kenya Airways
Mombasa to Zanzibar: Precision Air, Kenya Airways
Moroni (Comores) to Dar es Salaam: Air Tanzania
Muscat to Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar: Oman Air, Gulf Air
Nairobi to Dar es Salaam: Precision Air, Kenya Airways
Nairobi to Kilimanjaro: Precision Air, Kenya Airways, Air Kenya Aviation
Nairobi to Mwanza: Precision Air
Nairobi to Zanzibar: Precision Air, Kenya Airways
Nampula (Mozambique) to Dar es Salaam: LAM
Pemba (Mozambique) to Dar es Salaam LAM
Zürich to Dar es Salaam: Swiss, American Airlines
Direct buses run from Entebbe and Nairobi through Arusha to Dar es Salaam.
There are also buses from Mombasa to Dar es Salaam and from Voi to Moshi.
Visitors who prefer to fly in or out through Nairobi can use the Impala
Shuttle bus between Nairobi and Arusha. Overland travel from Ruanda is by
local buses and minibuses. There are also buses crossing the border from
Malawi. Any overland travel from Burundi should not be attempted.
From Mozambique Tanzania can be reached from the town Quionga from where
there are minibuses (or similar) to a simple ferry at the mouth of the river
Ruvuma. Once on the Tanzanian side, the travel continues to Mtwara, if some
kind of transport can be found and if the road on the river floodplain is
negotiable.
There are passenger trains from Kapiri Mposhi in Zambia to Dar es Salaam.
Indeed, once a year an old-style train leaves from Cape Town to appear in
Dar es Salaam 13 days later. The price is forbidding for most of us.
There are also passenger ships on Lake Nyassa from Malawi to Itungi Port and
on Lake Tanganyika from Zambia and Burundi to Kigoma. There is conflicting
information on whether there is or is not at present any vessel between
Uganda and Mwanza.
_________Economy
Edit This
Economic Survey For a long time the Tanzania economy has suffered several
shocks with severe destabilizing effects. They include the oil shocks.
collapse of commodity prices, drought, breakup of the East African Community
and the Uganda war. These shocks coupled with a poor policy regime
culminated in severe economic crisis in the early 1930s. Several adjustment
measures were implemented since 1981 but by mid 1990 fiscal instability was
still severe.
The privatisation programme is now concentrating on the large and
monopolistic enterprises whose privatisation has to be preceded by
formulation of a legal and regulatory framework.
In early 1996, the Government committed itself to a shadow programme
monitored by the IMF and from September 1996 a three-year Enhanced
Structural Adjustment Facility (ESAF) underpinned by a Policy Framework
Paper (PFP). To-date, Tanzania has made significant progress in restoring
macro economic stability. Overall fiscal balance (including grant) has been
a surplus of around 0.8 to I.2 percent of GDP during the past three years.
Inflation has been controlled from more than 30 percent in 1995 to 6.6
percent in early 2000. Foreign reserves have increased from 1.5 months of
merchandise imports in 1995 to 4.5 months currently.
The Government recognises the need for a robust high growth to fight the
nation-wide poverty. Higher (6-8 percent) and sustained growth is necessary.
While growth is necessary it is important that it is broad-based and centred
on improving the livelihoods of the poor.
The Government is committed to consolidating and intensifying the
macroeconomic progress achieved to-date
Policy Framework Since the mid— 1980’s, Tanzania has implemented
far—reaching reforms in the political system, economic management and
Government administration. In 1992, a multiparty’ democracy system was
introduced and successful multiparty elections were held in 1995. The second
multiparty elections are due in October 2000. The economic reform programmes
that commenced in 1986 have converted the command-based economy into a
market one. Trade, exchange rates and interest rates are now fully
liberalised. The reform of parastatals has privatised/divested about half of
the more that 4001 parastatals. The public service reform has cut down the
workforce in Government from 355.000 (1992) to 270,000 (1997), rationalised
and streamlined functions and structures and salaries, introduced new
management systems (performance! output based) and strengthened local
Government through the formulation and implementation of the Local
Government Reform Programme
Economic Indicators
Table 3A: Gross Domestic Products (Monetary & non-Monetary GDPfc) By Kind of
Economic Activity (At Constant 1992 Prices) Table 4A: Gross Domestic
Products (Monetary & non-Monetary GDPfc) By Kind of Economic
Activity-Percentage Growth Rates (At Constant 1992 Prices)
Economic Performance
Output
Tanzania Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at constant 1992 prices recorded an
average of real growth rate of 4.0 percent per annum during 1996-1999. Given
the annual population growth rate of 2.8 percent, per capita real growth
rate was around 1.2 percent. The composition of GDP is such that,
agricultural sector accounts for around 50.0 percent, followed by trade
sector which accounts for around 16.0 percent. Financial and business
services rank third at the tune of 10 percent, followed by the industrial
sector by around 8.0 percent. The mining sector has been contributing around
2.0 percent, but there is a bright future for the sector as foreign
investments continue to flowing in. It is apparent that in the near future
the sector will record a significant proportion of GDP.
Exports
Major exports from Tanzania are agricultural commodities. During 1996-99
agricultural exports accounted for around 56 percent of total merchandise
exports. Major agricultural exports are coffee, cotton, tea, tobacco,
cashewnuts, and sisal. Industrial exports have been on the rise following
adoption of trade liberalization, and privatization of public enterprises.
Tourism is a booming sector recording earnings of over US $ 500 million
annually. Exports of minerals account earnings of around US $ 50 million,
but given heavy foreign investments flowing it this sector, it is expected
that the value of such exports will increase significantly in the near
future. The value of total merchandise exports has been declining since 1996
as a result of declining agricultural exports caused by unfavorable weather
conditions.
Economic Performance Indicators:
Please refer to the Economic Survey
_________Tours and Excursions
Edit This
Northern Parks
The most developed, but unspoilt, Tanzanian tourist route is the Northern
circuit which encompasses many of the parks and reserves in Northern
Tanzania. The circuit includes many famous national parks and landmarks:
• Serengeti National Park
• Ngorongoro Conservation Area
• Mount Kilimanjaro
Africa's highest mountain.
Other famous parks include:
• Tarangire National Park
• Lake Manyara National Park
• Arusha National Park
!--
Probably the most important consideration for any visitor to Tanzania is the
time of year. Broadly speaking the rains fall in East Africa between April
and May, and November. See climate for more.
--> Southern Parks
In the south of Tanzania lie some of the most untouched game reserves in
Africa:
• Selous Game Reserve
Remote and wild, the Selous is the largest game reserve in Africa. The
Rufiji River flows through the reserve attracting great herds of Tanzania
elephant and allowing the visitor to experience the reserve by boat. The
reserve has the largest number of elephants out of all the reserved wildlife
areas in the country. It also has a wide variety of other animals including
lion, wild dog and crocodiles.
• Ruaha National Park
Due to its relative inaccessibility Ruaha is Africa as it once was yet with
all the comforts that today's traveller expects. The name derives from the
great Ruaha River which flows along its entire border creating spectacular
gorges. The Ruaha protects a wide variety of habitats including evergreen
forest and swamp and contains the largest elephant population of Tanzania.
Western Parks
In Western Tanzania, on the banks of Lake Tanganyika, lie two parks that are
famous for their wild chimpanzees and the research that goes on into animal
behaviour.
• Mahale Mountains National Park
• Gombe Stream National Park
Contributors
December 24, 2004 new by yonamaro (1 point)
[Add New]
African Safari Journals
Edit This
Trip journals contain valuable nuggets of information that will improve your
safari experience to Tanzania immensely.
African Safari Journals has a collection of Serengeti and Ngorongoro crater
diaries written by people who have travelled there on safari to provide you
with advice, recommendations and tips that you won't find anywhere else.
World66 rating: [rate it]
zipcode: KT4 7AD
url: www.african-safari-journals.com
address: 8 Moorland Court, Ardrossan Gardens, Worcester park, UK
tel: 0208 224 1044
Tour Tanzania Safaris
Edit This
i
photo by: Rama
The Tour Tanzania Safaris is a comprehensive information service for
visitors to southern Tanzania.
The little visited areas of southern Tanzania provide some of the most
spectacular natural and cultural highlights of any visit to Africa.
Vast tracts of wilderness such as Selous Game Reserve and Ruaha National
Park offer distinctive safari opportunities without the crowds found in the
better known parks.
Walking safaris and boat safaris provide different game viewing
perspectives.
The southern highlands have fantastic trekking and scenery and more..
World66 rating: [rate it]
tel: +255 777 991576
url: www.tourtanzania-safaris.com
email: info@tourtanzania-safaris.com
Kilimanjaro Trek
Edit This
Africa is a diverse and amazing continent, it offers some of the most
extreme examples of nature found on earth. The most notable example is
Kilimanjaro, the worlds highest walkable mountain.
Like a giant dominating the horizon, Kilimanjaro calls out to the adventurer
"JUST TRY ME!" This call has been answered by countless explorers. One
company that has lead over 15,000 of these explorers to an attempt to the
summit is Africa Travel Resource.
This company has an 87% summit success rate and an exemplary safety record.
They offer 6 different trek routes that more..
World66 rating: [rate it]
address: http://amazingtours.rezgo.com/2007/12/how-to-kill-kilimanjaro.html
email: amazingtours@rezgo.com
_________People
Edit This
Maasai
Maasai
yonamaro
The history of human habitation in Tanzania goes back almost two million
years, and the fossils found at Olduvai Gorge by Louis and Mary Leakey now
stand among the most important artifacts of the origins of our species.
Artifacts of later Paleolithic cultures have also been found in Tanzania.
There is evidence that communities along the Tanzanian coast were engaging
in overseas trade by the beginning of the first millennium AD. By 900 AD
those communities had attracted immigrants from India as well as from
southwest Asia, and direct trade extended as far as China. When the
Portuguese arrived at the end of the 15th century, they found a major trade
center at Kilwa Kisiwani, which they promptly subjugated and then sacked.
The Portuguese were expelled from the region in 1698, after Kilwa enlisted
the help of Omani Arabs. The Omani dynasty of the Bu Said replaced the
region's Yarubi leaders in 1741, and they proceeded to further develop
trade. It was during this time that Zanzibar gained its legendary status as
a center for the ivory and slave trade, becoming in 1841 the capital city of
the sultan of Oman.
In Tanzania's interior, at about the same time, the cattle-grazing Maasai
migrated south from Kenya into central Tanzania. Soon afterward the great
age of European exploration of the African continent began, and with it came
colonial domination. Tanzania fell under German control in 1886, but was
handed over to Britain after WWI. Present day Tanzania is the result of a
merger between the mainland (previously Tanganyika) and Zanzibar in 1964,
after both had gained independence. Tanzania has like many African nations
experienced considerable strife since independence, and its economy is
extremely weak. However, political stability does appear to have been
established in recent days.
::::::::Arusha Travel Guide
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do and see
buko
buko
hp
Arusha is one of the bigger cities in the north of Tanzania at the base of
Mt. Meru, not far from the border with Kenya. It is well known as an African
congress centre and the International Tribunal for the Ruandese genocide is
located here.
Safari tours to Serengeti, Ngoronogoro, Manyara and Tarangire usually start
in Arusha. The city is also an excellent base for visiting the Arusha
National Park where you find a wide range of habitats, from the lakes where
many water birds can be watched, through the highland montane forest and on
up to the imposing summit of Mt. Meru.
__________Getting There
Edit This
buko
buko
hp
Kilimanjaro international airport is 40 minutes from Arusha towards Moshi.
It has connections from i.a. Amsterdam, Johannesburg and Nairobi. Domestic
flights to Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam and various air strips in the national
parks strt from Arusha airport, west of the city.
There are buses leaving to all over the country and international buses
directly to Nairobi (6 hours). Impala Hotel run minibuses which go twice
daily to and from Nairobi. From Arusha they start at 8 and 14 hours.
_________Tours and Excursions
Edit This
Arhsua is the main center for safari's to the Ngorongoro crater and
Serengeti national parks. There are a great many safari companies located in
Arusha.
:::::::::Arusha National Park Travel Guide
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do and see
x
Mt Meru caldera
Ingvar
Lying between the peaks of Kilimanjaro and Meru, Arusha National Park is an
outstandingly beautiful area. The Park has a wide range of habitats, from
the string of crater lakes where many water birds can be watched, through
the highland montane forest and on up to the imposing summit of Mt. Meru.
The forests contain a wealth of birds and other animals, like the beautiful
bushbuck easily glimpsed in the grades between the ancient cedar trees, or
the black and white colobus monkeys climbing along their branches. The
interesting geology of the area is reflected in the impressive view of the
ash cone and cliff face leading to the summit of Mt. Meru.
Everywhere throughout the Park there are chances to observe the natural
world at its own pace, to see different animals in their various habitats
and absorb something of the serenity of the surroundings. Those who ascend
the summit of the mountain will be rewarded with unparalleled views of the
majestic Mt. Kilimanjaro and the Rift Valley.
Three distinct areas are to be found within Arusha National Park: Ngurdoto
Crater, the Momela Lakes and the rugged Mt. Meru. Altitudes range from 1,500
meters (4,921 feet) above sea level at Momela to over 4,500 (14,764 feet)
meters at the summit of Meru. The vegetation which occurs in the Park is
correlated to the altitude and geology of the area. Ngurdoto Crater is
surrounded by forest whilst the crater floor is a swampy area. The Momela
Lakes, like many in the Rift Valley, are alkaline, and Mt. Meru is a mixture
of lush forests and bare rocks.
Associated with these different vegetation zones and places are different
types of animals: migrating water birds settle on the lakes, waterbuck and
reedbuck are found near water, while shy bushbuck and duikers keep to the
forested areas. It is obviously impossible to say exactly where different
species will be encountered but it is possible to build up a picture of the
most likely species to be found in any area. Within this wide range of
habitats almost 400 species of birds have been recorded in the Park. Some of
these are migratory and present between October and April, others are
permanently resident in the forests.
::::::::Bagamoyo Travel Guide
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do and see
Bagamoyo is a town on the Tanzanian coast, about 75 km north of Dar es
Salaam. It is one of the so called young Swahili towns and was founded in
the late 1700s when Moslem families related to the ruler of Oman settled
here. In the 19th century Bagamoyo became in important town for trade in
ivory and slaves for the Arab market. The slave trade route through the
interior of the country from Lake Tanganyika ended here. In 1868 Catholic
missionaries were allowed to settle and their history can be studied in the
Catholic museum. By the end of the 19th century Bagamoyo was the most
important town on the coast, and the German colonialists made it their
capital. However, in 1891 they moved the capital to the new city Dar es
Salaam, and the importance of Bagamoyo subsequently declined, particularly
after the railway had been built from Dar es Salaam westwards. A few
kilometres south of Bagamoyo are the Kaole ruins, including two mosques,
which were excavated in the 1950s. There are also remnants of a few tombs
from the 13th century Although a number of European explorers started their
expeditions in Bagamoyo, David Livingstone did not come to the town until
his body was carried there after his death for further transport to Zanzibar
and London. A number of stone buildings from the German times have been
restored in recent years. There is also a German burial place. Today
Bagamoyo can be reached easily on a newbuilt tarmac road from Dar es Salaam
and new tourist hotels have opened.
:::::::::Bukoba Travel Guide
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do and see
Ben VanderVeen shooting video in Tanzania
Ben VanderVeen shooting video in Tanzania
Ben VanderVeen
Location and Climate
Bukoba is on the western shore of Lake Victoria in the extreme northwest of
Tanzania. Bukoba is the regional capital and the largest town in the Kagera
region, which borders Uganda to the north, Rwanda to the west, and Burundi
to the southwest.
The climate is sunny and warm most of the year. Evenings can get cool but
never cold. Rains occur almost every morning from March through May. It
almost never rains in the p.m. hours.
People and Occupations
Bukoba has a population of about 100,000 people, and the Kagera region over
one million. The main ethnic group of the region are the Bahaya, who speak
Ruhaya. (Most people in town speak Swahili, and basic English is understood
at most shops.) The main occupation is agriculture, the main commercial
product is coffee, and the main food crop and dietary staple is matoke
(large green bananas that are roasted or steamed). There are many NGOs,
volunteers and other wazungu (ex-pats) in Bukoba and the surrounding area. A
few travellers pass through from Mwanza (overnight by ferry) and Kampala
(six hours by bus).
Orientation
Bukoba is a fairly small town and the centre of town is flat and compact,
though many people and organisations are located in the surrounding hills.
Bukoba has a bay with a sandy beach, a port with a ferry that travels to and
from Mwanza, a small airport, a bus stand, and numerous hotels and bars.
There are two main streets, both paved: Jamhuri Road goes from a cluster of
old German buildings and government offices near the Lake Hotel to the
centre of town where the market and the bus stand are located. Government
Road goes from the port to the town centre (about 3 km) and proceeds out of
town to Kampala and Muleba.
:::::::::
Kondoa Travel Guide
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do and see
Haubi badlands, Kondoa
Haubi badlands, Kondoa
Ingvar
Kondoa (or Kondoa-Irangi) is a small town along the old caravan route from
the Indian Ocean to Lake Tanganyika. A still existing artesic water source
here provided the caravans with good and plenty of water. Today the main
communication route is north-south, from Arusha to Dodoma, a road that looks
impressive on the map, being a section of the old Cape-Cairo highway. In
reality the road is in poor condition and difficult during rains. It is
supposed to become asphalted before the end of 2006.
A 3 km long road from the main road leads westwards into town crossing the
Kondoa River on a narrow bridge. (Don’t take photographs of the bridge, as
you are likely to be seen from the police station close by.) The town
consists of dusty streets and low buildings, only few being two-storeyed.
Polite children will greet the European visitor “Good morning, teacher!” any
time of the day. There is nothing special to see, but the friendly
tranquility that the visitor is met with among its predominantly Moslem
inhabitants makes it worth while to stay there a day or two. The spiced
coffee served in a kiosk at the bus stand can be recommended.
Ten or fifteen years ago it was a rare event to come across a bottle of beer
in town, but times are changing. Today there are several bars and simple
restaurants, some of them quite nice.
Remnant buildings from the German time can be seen east of the bridge, now
used by the district administration. The post office, the most impressive
building in town, is in the same area. A bank office can also be found
there, and with some luck and plenty of time it may be possible to change
money. The earlier extremely erratic electric power supply has improved
dramatically with the connection of Kondoa to the national grid. The
telephone exchange is still manual (unless recently changed).
The town is the economic centre in the Irangi Hills, which has a blend of
several ethnic groups. The dominant group today is the Irangi
agriculturalists. Of particular interest is the Sandawe, a remnant of the
ancient San (bushman) peoples that are today mainly found in the Kalahari.
Sandawe artists have produced many rock paintings, the oldest believed to be
20-30 000 years old. Some of these are shown to visitors. To see them one
has first to travel northwards about 30 km (i.e. 40-60 minutes, depending on
weather) along the main road to the village of Kolo. There the
representative of the Department of Antiquities has to be approached to get
a permit and a guide, both of which are compulsory.
The Irangi Hills are also infamous for their severe soil erosion. Some
badlands can be seen from the main road. An area with gullies huge enough to
be considered a tourist attraction can be seen at the village Haubi. To
reach there, turn east at the village Gubali onto a road only negotiable
with a Landrover or similar. If you get stuck, ask for help from the fathers
at the Haubi catholic mission.
Moslem visitors will feel at home in Kondoa. A big new mosque was erected
some years ago. Christian congregations mainly consist of immigrants and
government officials. At Haubi there is an impressive Catholic
establishment.
____________Getting There
Edit This
There are bus connections from Arusha and Babati arriving in Kondoa from the
north, and from Dar es Salaam and Dodoma, arriving from the south. Travelers
from Arusha to Dodoma or vice versa often have to stay the night in Kondoa
and change buses there. During heavy rains the buses may have to be canceled
or may get stuck along the road. Travelers from the west can use a direct
road from Singida, but during the rainy season it is advisable to go through
Babati or Dodoma instead. There is also a road from Tanga across the Maasai
plains, with a not quite reliable bus service.
The bus stand is at the central market square.
A cross-country vehicle can make the 160 km disance from Dodoma in about
three and a half hours during the dry season. During the rainy season the
time is totally unpredictable.
::::::::::Lake manyara national park Travel Guide
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do and see
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park
Simon
About two-thirds of the park is covered by the alkaline lake.
Mto Wa Mbu (Mosquito Creek) is a popular base for visiting the park. The
village runs its own Cultural Tourism Program here that offers village
walks, short bicycle tours and boating trips on the lake. Ask at Holiday Fog
Resort or the Jambo campsite.
:::::::
Lushoto Travel Guide
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do and see
Lushoto
Lushoto
Hilda Osinga
Lushoto is the major town and district centre, albeit small, in the Usambara
Mountains, halfway between the coast and the parks. It can be reached if
turning from the main Dar es Salaam-Moshi road at Mombo. Direct buses run
from Dar es Salaam and Arusha. It was founded by the German administration
after the people of the area had been "pacified" about one hundred years
ago. The Germans even planned to move their capital here because of the
pleasant mountain climate.
It offers excellent opportunities for hiking both in the mountains, partly
covered by Afromontane forest. Ecological tours are organized and are a good
way of exploring the region. The popular pot plant Saintpaulia has its only
wild occurrences in Tanzania, and particularly in the Usambara Mts.
It's a great place to get away from the heat of the coast or the dust of the
plains. The people are particularly hospitable and the whole town has a
lovely vibe to it. Accomodation in the town centre is cheap and there are
some more upmarket options in the surrounding area. A word of warning
though, those who suffer vertigo might want to think twice about taking the
bus up the perilous road from Mombo!
:::::::Mafia island Travel Guide
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do and see
i
Mafia island is just perfect. Great diving, great beaches and great weather.
What more do you need?
Chole Bay, Mafia's protected deep-water anchorage, is part of a protected
marine park. Its natural horseshoe shape offers great beaches. Outside the
bay there are some unique reefs that offer spectacular diving, including
colourful coral gardens, walls at various levels and many shelves and coral
heads.
::::::::::Mikumi national park Travel Guide
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do and see
Male Lion
Male Lion
Stine MS
A Day-Trip from Dar Es Salaam to Mikumi National Park
Around the back of the Dar Es Salaam airport we found a very smart-looking
private charter company terminal and hangers, which contrasted strongly with
the rest of the decrepit-looking airport. The operation was owned and run by
a Canadian guy married to a Tanzanian. One of his 10-seater Cessnas took us
on a 50-minute flight to Mikumi National Park about 150 miles inland to the
west where we landed on a grass airstrip ("Landing is Mainly Recommended
during Dry Season") and immediately began a game drive. The park consists
largely of flat, lightly timbered savannah and contains a good selection of
game. We saw many impala, zebra, wildebeest, giraffe, hippopotamus and
elephants (including a baby born that morning waddling along after his
mother).We managed to get close to a majestic pride of seven lions lazing in
the shade of a large acacia, and we spotted a few red buck, a lone warthog,
a couple of eland, and a clan of six evil-looking spotted hyenas.
We took a break from the game drive in the middle of the day to sit by a
waterhole in one of the four camps in Mikumi, and enjoyed a cold Kilimanjaro
Beer and a simple lunch. In the strong mid-day sun this tranquil spot was
quiet and still, and hardly a creature stirred other than the butterflies.
The park also has good bird life, and we identified lilac-breasted and
Abyssinian rollers, marabou stork, hammerkops, red bishops, egrets, a
hornbill and several other species. The park staff are welcoming, friendly,
and very knowledgeable. (Contributed by Howard Banwell)
________Sights
Edit This
Bamboon in Mikumi
Bamboon in Mikumi
Stine MS
There is plenty of animal life in this quite small national park, west from
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. You can see all kinds of wild animals, among them
giraffes, elephants, impalas, bamboons, hippos, crocodiles, many types of
birds, and if you are lucky; LIONS! Remember to hire an autorial guide on
your safari trip, and don't forget the camera!
To see the crocodiles and the hippoes, your car stops by two small lakes,
the crocodile and the hippo pool. You are also able to get out of the car to
take a better look at these enormous and fantastic wild animals. Enjoy!
___________Museums
Edit This
Where you stop to pay the fee to enter the park, there is also a little park
museum. This museum has free entré. Here you can get an overwiew of the
park, and see some of the animals you can expect to meet while you are on
safari. Here are also some brochures and other souvenirs.
::::::::Moshi Travel Guide
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do and see
photo
Yona Maro
Moshi is a busy little town set on the edge of the plains where they start
to climb towards the huge Mt. Kilimanjaro massif. On this southern side, the
mountain remains shrouded in cloud for most of the day, the snows being
visible only early morning and late evening if you are lucky .. Moshi means
"smoke" in Swahili language. Between Moshi and Arusha is Kilimanjaro
International Airport.
_______Things to do
Edit This
While in Moshi we paid a visit to Scenery Safaris (www.scenerysafaris.com).
They are truly a professional and friendly company. We trekked Kilimanjaro
with them, the guide Alex, was amazing and without him we would never have
summited. The food was great, never thought that we could be served such a
menu on the mountain. On our free day, they organised a horse riding day
trip on a nearby farm with picnic lunch.
We then went on a safari in a newly converted landcruiser, and this was the
highlight of our trip. Tuma, our driver guide was professional. We spent 5
days in the bush, visiting Tarangire, Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. On
the last day, we were offered dinner in an Italian restaurant in the middle
of Moshi Town.
When you are in Moshi, pay them a visit or give them a call.
The St. Austins Team Trek and Safari 2008!
::::.Mtera Travel Guide
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do and see
Water birds, Mtera
Water birds, Mtera
Ingvar
Mtera was once a small village with 200 inhabitants in the Rift Valley
between Iringa and Dodoma , until a huge dam was built across the Ruaha
River and created a large reservoir called Mtera reservoir. The dam was
completed in 1981 as a storage reservoir for the power plant at Kidatu.
Later two turbines were installed also at Mtera with a capacity of 80 MW,
which makes it a major contributor of energy in Tanzania . Mtera reservoir
is one of the best places for birdwatching in Tanzania . The shallow waters
at the former Logi Mbuga can be particularly recommended. To go there you
turn west from the main road at Chipogoro. At Logi village guides can be
easily obtained. Another excellent birdwatching site is Pakwaya (or Takanya)
mbuga at the main road between Mtera and Chipogoro. An mbuga is a seasonal
wetland and this site is not connected to the main reservoir. Note that it
is not allowed to take photos at the dam and the hydropower plant. As always
when visiting rural, non-touristic areas in Tanzania , courtesy visits
should be made to the village governments in order to avoid
misunderstandings. Mtera reservoir can be combined with a visit to Ruaha
National Park and in fact the two are part of the same ecosystem. The
reservoir is an important water source for the animals during the dry
seasons.
__________Getting There
Edit This
There are daily buses between Iringa and Dodoma . The road is part of the
old British “ Cape-Cairo Highway ”, but it is poorly maintained. A
fourwheel-drive is necessary.
::::::Mwanza Travel Guide
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do and see
lake victoria
lake victoria
Hans ten Have
Mwanza is Tanzania's second largest port on Lake Victoria. It's a commercial
center for the region, and acts as a gateway to Bukoba through the MS
Victoria which leaves the city three times a week.
_________Getting There
Edit This
These plane wrecks are not a pretty sight at Mwanza airport
These plane wrecks are not a pretty sight at Mwanza airport
Hans-Peter Harmsen
Mzanza is centrally located in the country. It is relatively close to the
Serengeti which makes it a good starting place for safari's but maybe not as
good as Arusha.
From Mzanza, direct flights go to Bukoba, Arusha and Bahar dar among others.
::::::::::Ndutu Conservation Area Travel Guide
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Cheetas in Ndutu Conservation Area
Cheetas in Ndutu Conservation Area
Hans-Peter Harmsen
In February and March this is the game park to be.
The animals that trek around the Serengeti national park plains start in the
Masai Mara National Park in Kenya in August ending up here just south of
Serengeti National Park in February.
This is where the small animals are born before the trek back north starts
again.
Since Ndutu is a conservation area and not a national park, driving outside
the indicated roads is allowed here.
::::::::Ngorongoro crater Travel Guide
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The Crater
The Crater
Mike Norris
The Ngorongoro crater is one of the finest places in Tanzania for watching
game. It's a must see and it should be on the top of your priority list.
In fact, it's not really a crater it's a caldera, a collapsed volcano. The
crater (we still call it a crater) has a diameter of 19km, it is about 600m
deep. The bottom is flat, almost treeless and filled with some small creeks
and lakes.
Ngorongoro is thought to have formed about 2.5 million years ago from a
large volcano whose cone collapsed inward after a major eruption, leaving
the present vast, unbroken caldera as its landmark.
The crater is loaded with game. Gazelles, zebra's, elephants, hyena's,
buffalo's, hippos, lions and many many birds including ostriches. Only the
giraffe is not present. The steep pathway down into the crater forbids this
tall legged animal to descend.
The area was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979. (See
http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/39 for details.)
:::::::::Njombe Travel Guide
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view over Njombe town
view over Njombe town
Ingvar
Njombe, at an altitude of about 2000 m a.s.l., is one of the coolest places
in Tanzania . In June-August it can be distinctly cold. The climate may be
the main reason for the high number of churches found along the only main
street of the town, as the place has been a convenient and pleasant base for
missionaries. The traveller coming from the north will pass through
extensive wattle and tea plantations in an unusually flat terrain which is
part of the geologically ancient Gondwanaland erosion surface. South and
southeast of Njombe is a very beautiful, hilly landscape with extensive
grasslands.
:::::::Olduvai gorge Travel Guide
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Oldupai gorge
Oldupai gorge
Ingvar
The Olduvai (or more correctly Oldupai) Gorge contains some of the most
important archaeological sites for our understanding of the history of our
species and earlier hominids. The oldest finds date back about 2 mill.
years.
Above the gorge there is a museum with competent staff. There is a minor
charge for entering the museum area. With a guide it is also possible to
travel into the gorge itself.
The name Oldupai comes from the Maasai word for the plant Sansevieria which
is particularly common in the area.
:::::::::::Pangani Travel Guide
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photo_1
yonamaro
Pangani is a sleepy small Swahili town at the coast south of Tanga at the
outlet of Pangani river. It has nice beaches.A number of hotels are said to
have mushroomed in recent years. The mangrove forests are also particularly
extensive here.
There is a fantastic beach 16kms south of Pangani called Ushongo Bay. It is
possible to swim all day as there is water even at low tide. I can recommend
The Tides Lodge, it has great food and has great beach side cottages. From
Tides Lodge is possible to snorkel and scubs dive on Maziawe Island marine
park which is has excellent marine life. The Tides can arrange transfers to
Saadani and Pangani, and even has it's own airstrip if you want to charter
your own plane to Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam. Well worth a visit.
__________Sights
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photo_2
yonamaro
Pangani is the Zanzibar of the Tanzanian mainland. It lies 45 km south of
Tanga. Although its history goes back a long way it was developed by the
Arabs as a settlement and slave trading centre. Being much less known it is
much more peaceful than Zanzibar and the beaches around Pangani are
virtually unspoilt. There is a variety of accommodation available although
our basic programmes use the Argovia Lodge. By using public transport from
Moshi we are able to provide a good quality coast holiday with all
facilities such as diving, tours, fishing at a reasonable price. It is
possible to upgrade to a private vehicle and luxury accommodation.
City tours: Pangani town elders serve as knowledgeable guides who can impart
their vast knowledge of Pangani history and culture going back to the 15th
century as they take you through the town. In 1810, the Arabs constructed
the central boma building, people were buried alive under the pillars during
construction as it was believed this would ensure strong foundations. Later
the German administration used the buidings as a colonial district office
and added a european style roof giving the building a unique appearance. The
intricate Arab carved doors and foundation (still strong!) remain and the
building is now used as the district commissioners office. The city tour
includes numerous historical monuments: the original slave depots and slave
market where arabs traded slaves to India and Arabia, the Freedom Grounds,
Islamic and German graves, ancient mosques and traditional houses. In the
streets carpet makers, woodcarvers, basket weavers, painters and other
artisans sell a wide variety of hand made items.
:::::::Pemba Travel Guide
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Located just north of Zanzibar, Pemba is a serene island. Quiet beaches and
mangroove groves along the shore, rainforest covers the inland. Not much
tourist infrastracture, though there are a couple guesthouses ($10 per
night) at Wete and a diving center.
There are regular slow ships going to Zanzibar (can take six to eight hours,
$20), a ship to Tanga is going once a week. Also it's not a problem to find
dhow to Mombasa.
:::::::Ruaha national park Travel Guide
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giraffes in Ruaha N.P.
giraffes in Ruaha N.P.
Ingvar
Ruaha National Park is a not much visited national park, although one of the
largest wilderness areas in Tanzania . It has a reputation of being remote,
but actually it is only 115 km from Iringa on an all-weather road.
The Great Ruaha River runs through the park. It has been considered a
permanent watercourse but in recent years it has actually dried up during
the dry season, with crocodiles and hippos surviving in pools with standing
water. Animals also include a big number of elephants as well as greater and
lesser kudu, zebra, bushbuck, giraffe, roan antelope, sable antelope,
buffalo, eland and several others. Various kinds of woodland and bushland
dominate the vegetation. Many visitors consider it the best of all parks in
Tanzania .
_______Getting There
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Buses from Iringa run to Tungamalenga, 20 km from the gate. There is no
public transport to the park itself. It is therefore necessary to hire a
vehicle, which will anyway be mandatory inside the park. It is also possible
to hire “all-inclusive packages” through the lodges in the park, all of
which are, however, extremely expensive. Less wealthy visitors are
recommended to stay the night in Tungamalenga. There are regular flights to
the park airstrip.
:::::::::Saadani National Park Travel Guide
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Saadani Safari Lodge
Saadani Safari Lodge
Costa Coucoulis
Saadani is geographically the closest wildlife reserve to both Dar es Salaam
and Zanzibar and is unique in that it is Tanzania's only coastal wildlife
reserve thus offering the chance to see big game and birdlife interacting
with the coast.
Saadani Game Reserve was gazetted in 1964, covering an area of some 250 sq
km from the Wami river in the south to the Mligaji river in the north, with
the Moshi railway line as the western boundary. Once Saadani became a Game
Reserve new species of animal were introduced to compliment the existing
diversity. Wildebeest, zebra and eland joined the resident populations
including buffalo, elephant, giraffe, lion, and the extremely rare
Roosevelt's sable antelope.
In 2003 Saadani was upgraded to become Tanzania's latest National Park under
the direction of TANAPA. Boundaries have been expanded to include land north
of the Mligaji, which is an important area containing the only permanent
elephant population in the area as well as sable antelope, as well as North
Mkwaja, the Zaraninge forest, noted for its variety of indigenous vegetation
and animal and birdlife, and land south of the Wami river. The total
protected area now covers over 1000 sq km and the TANAPA headquarters are
based at Mkwaja ranch.
A Tent with a View Safari Lodge offers luxury beachfront accommodation and
will arrange transport from both Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar.
Saadani Safari Lodge is a luxury beachfront lodge located within the
boundaries of the national park and 2 km away from the historical Saadani
Village. A thriving relationship exists between the lodge and the village
and the village's citizens have benefited directly from many projects
supported by guests and ownership alike.
___________Getting There
Edit This
x
Beachfront banda
Massoud Kilanga
There are chartered flights from Bahar dar and Zanzibar or ATWV organise
daily private car transfers from Dar es Salaam.
[Add Global transport mode]
Saadani Safari Lodge By Air
Edit This
Saadani Safari Lodge offers Daily scheduled flights from Dar es Salaam and
Zanzibar.
Daily flights depart Dar es Salaam at approx. 9.30am (subject to change)
Daily flights depart Zanzibar at aprrox 11.15am (subject to change)
Direct flights from Arusha depart on Fridays and return on Sundays.
Please contact below to make bookings and to get more info.
type: By Air
World66 rating: [rate it]
tel: +255 22 277 3294
url: www.saadanilodge.com
address: The Original Saadani Experience, P.O.Box 105854, Dar es Salaam
email: info@saadanilodge.com
::::::::Selous game reserve Travel Guide
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The Selous is the largest Game Reserve in Africa, covering some 21,000
square miles. It was established in 1922 to honour Frederick Courteney
Selous, the famous bushman and elephant hunter.
Groves of tall borassus and doum palms border the many small lakes and
channels that flow from the confluence of the Rufiji and Great Ruaha Rivers.
Walking is permitted, accompanied by armed rangers, and there is no
experience more exciting than encountering truly wild animals at close
quarters on foot or from a small boat. Game drives in especially modified
four-wheel drive vehicles are a great way to explore the reserve.
The Selous boasts one of the world's largest populations of elephant, and
some of the last remaining Black Rhino. In addition to this, there are also
Wildebeest, Giraffe, Lichtenstein's Hartebeest, Sable Antelope, Greater
Kudu, Eland, Lion and Leopard to be seen. Hot volcanic springs and more than
350 birds and 2,000 plant species add to this sanctuary's varied
attractions.
There are a variety of safari camps situated within the Selous Game Reserve,
and all of these can be reached daily via scheduled aircraft from different
places including Zanzibar.
________Getting There
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To get to the Selous you can either come with an organised safari, fly from
Dar-es-Salaam - all camps have an airstrip so you can for light aircraft so
you can reach your lodge easily.
Daily scheduled flights with Coastal Aviation depart zanzibar 14.00 and Dar
es Salaam 14.30 arriving Selous 15.15.
The TAZARA train departs 3 times every week and costs just $10p.p. from Dar
es Salaam to Kisaki. Sable Mountain Lodge (www.selouslodge.com) offer free
25 min transfers from the train station to the lodge.
:::::::::Serengeti national park Travel Guide
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photo
Serengeti is the best known game park of Tanzania and probably also in the
world. The park measures almost 15,000 square km. In the park you find
almost all the animals you want to have in your photobook in a perfect
surrounding. On the Serengeti plains there are literally millions of hoofed
animals. They're constantly on the move in search of grassland and are
watched and preyed upon by a varied parade of predators.
:::::::Swahili Coast Travel Guide
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For centuries the Swahili Coast of Tanzania has watched as the winds blow
traders, warriors, conquerors, slaves, refugees, explorers and now tourists
past her shores. Palacial remnants of Persian and Omani kingdoms still
remain. Ancient mosques dating beyond the 12th century can testify to the
far reaching roots of Islam. Over 800 km of Tanzania’s white sands border
the Indian Ocean offering picture postcard views of deserted beaches fringed
by coconut groves.
Pictures from previous generations depict elephants roaming the beaches in
Tanzania’s only coastal wildlife reserve. Marine parks offer some of the
best diving in the world and the deep channels offer unparalleled deep sea
fishing. Yet despite the mulititude of attractions, the Swahili Coast
remains one of the least visited areas of Tanzania.
The proposed upgrading of Saadani National Park in 2003 from game reserve to
Tanzania’s latest national park is a breath of fresh air for a long
neglected sleeping beauty. As Tanzania’s only coastal wildlife reserve this
is a unique natural environment offering the option of game viewing and
beach all in one destination.
Tanga Travel Guide
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Tanga Caves
Tanga Caves
Hilda Osinga
On the Indian Ocean this area has excellent sailing facilities. It’s a nice
fairly uncrowded coastal town (pop. 188 000) that we found relaxing because
there’s nothing to do but enjoy the beach. If you’re in need of rest plan to
stay three days. 115 mi/185 km north of Dar es Salaam.
From Dar-es-Salaam travellers wishing to take a trip to Mombasa, Kenya - can
make a stop-over in Tanga for serenity and peace. Tanga has old-time history
involved and life is laid-back (relaxed). Shop around Ngamiani Street, or
the Main Streets (Market Street or Independence Street)
On Market Street, Don't forget to visit my dearest friend's Food Palace for
best chicken & barbeque dishes. Scrumptuous Breakfast dishes and exotic
juices makes a wonderful starting point. Fast FoodOctopus Exotica, despite
the hokey name, serves some of the best Indian themed sea food in all of
Tanzania.
Healtho, the drink of today's generation. Never to be found anywhere else
besides this town. Anjari Bottler's historical drink that is being
appreciated world-wide. A must to drink...never miss it!
Places to see around Tanga are Amboni Caves, Sulphar Baths, Raskazoni beach
and the daily market in town centre.
___________Things to do
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Tanga Yacht Club has fantastic reasonably priced food and a well-stocked
bar. It also has a small beach. Temporary and day membership is possible for
visitors. View www.tangayachtclub.com for more information.
::::::::.Udzungwa National Park Travel Guide
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Saintpaulia in Udzungwa
Saintpaulia in Udzungwa
Ingvar
Udzungwa National Park, unlike most other national parks in Tanzania, is a
high forest area and a place for walking. It is situated along the major
fault line delimiting the eastern side of the Southern Highlands. The
predominantly westerly winds here have to rise to higher and cooler levels
with frequent rains as the result. The vegetation is therefore different
from the usual woodlands; it consists of high and dense forest. It is very
unusual in Africa to have continuous forest as here, from as low altitudes
as about 200 m a.s.l. up to more than 2,000 m. with a gradual change of tree
species composition.
The Udzungwa forest is part of the so called Eastern Arc, which extends from
the Southern Highlands through the Uluguru and Usambara mountains (see
Lushoto) nothwards to Pare. The forests in the Eastern Arc are known for
their very high biodiversity. The Usambara violet (Saintpaulia) has one of
its most southwesterly occurrences in Udzungwa. Three monkeys, Sanje crested
mangabey, the Matundu galago and the Iringa red colobus, are found only in
Udzungwa. Visitors in the park are likely to see at least the red colobus.
Walking is permitted along prepared trails. A guide is compulsory and
obtained at the park gate near Mang’ula. Fees are paid at the same place.
The short Prince Bernhard trail is 1 km of easy walking to a waterfall. A
longer trail leads up to Sanje Falls where there are three consecutive
waterfalls. Below the upper two swiming is possible – and higly
recommendable – in the stream, except after heavy rains when water level can
be high. There are also longer trails including camping. Note that slopes
are steep and that the trails can be slippery and exhausting.
:::::Zanzibar Travel Guide
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Shehe Bungalows at Jambiani village Zanzibar
Shehe Bungalows at Jambiani village Zanzibar
Zanzibar is called the "The Island of Sensations" and deserves this name. It
has a fascinating history. But don’t expect it to be locked in the past.
Stone Town still retains some of the charm it had in the days when it was a
flourishing seaport (it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site).The city offers a
blend of Portuguese East Indian Persian and Omani Arab architecture.
Highlights in Stone Town include the sultan’s palace the old Arab fort and
the old slave quarters.
The island has some great beaches. The best are found near Matemwe and
Nungwi, there are great snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities. Other
interesting activities include touring the spice and coconut plantations.
On the east coast be sure to visit the Persian Kidichi Baths.
Another excursion can be made to Mangapwani. This is a large underground
cave where slaves were kept. Other sights include the ruined fort at
Marahubi and the sailboats in the harbor.
_______Museums
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The slave museum of Zanzibar, where the slave trade was done for the east
african region. Here stands a church as of now, but the prisons etc. still
showcase a horrifying past.
_________Matemwe Travel Guide
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photo_3
Hilda Osinga
Good place to spend some time on the beach.
In addition to this Saadani is the closest wildlife reserve to both Dar es
Salaam and Zanzibar. Whilst game is not as numerous as in Selous or
Serengeti, game drives are surprisingly productive – but what makes Saadani
special is the variety of safari options available combined with the ever
present Indian Ocean. This is truly where the bush meets the beach.
The newly opened A Tent with a View Safari Lodge, located on the shoreline
close to the heart of Saadani NP, has managed to mould the perfect harmony
of beach and bush experience. Offering a boat safari on the Wami river, game
drives to different areas of the park including an early morning specialised
elephant watching safari, and a variety of walks from the lodge, time at the
lodge seems to miraculously disappear.
It is impossible to identify the exact factor which brings together all
elements essential to creating an unforgettable experience. Often called the
‘it’ factor everyone may have different views on what ‘it’ exactly is – one
woman’s Peter Beardsley is another’s Brad Pitt. However the sense of peace
which envelops the environment at ATWV Safari Lodge must surely come close
to offering all things to all men. The luxury tented bandas perched on
stilts overlooking the sea are nestled in a coconut plantation, and each is
individually sytled on a Saadani theme making imaginative use of natural
resources. Large balconies equipped with hammocks give an elevated view of
vervet monkeys and baboons playing on the beach or a myriad of birdlife
roaming the shoreline. Dhows sail past your peripheral view as they have for
centuries. The ever present and gentle breeze blowing along the coast is
surely playing a role in lulling the visitor into a state of total
relaxation. So here lies the dilemma – should I just laze around, perhaps
swim in the clear waters and be pampered by the attentive but unpretentious
staff at the lodge, or should I be out on safari?
The obvious answer is to combine both and make the best of both worlds. With
early morning, late afternoon and even full day safari options you are left
with the flexibility to plan how you spend your time. Available
complementary to guests are several guided nature walks from the lodge, a
canoe is available for birdwatching safaris on the nearby Mafui river and
there is even the option of guided night walks around the lodge environs. If
you have never seen an elephant shrew I can assue you it is every bit as
bizarre as it sounds.
A few days spent in Saadani N.P. leaves the visitor completely refreshed.
This is a truly unique environment and the wistful glances back as you leave
the coconut palms behind on the way to the airstrip are a sure sign that
this is a place that has found ‘it’. The lack of any other tourists in the
park means unrestricted game viewing and combined with the deserted beach
Saadani offers a feeling of priviledge that you can experience such a
delicate balance of nature all to yourself. Perhaps soon the winds of change
will start to blow along the shores of Tanzania and the current trickle of
tourists may develop into a flood.
:::::::::Stone Town Travel Guide
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Kayaking around stonetown
Kayaking around stonetown
Hollis
Stone Town is the most interesting place on Zanzibar. It features once-grand
palaces and public buildings dating back to the sultanate period of the
early nineteenth century, now -- sadly -- rather run-down and ill-repaired.
Its narrow lanes are lined with curio shops and tourist handicrafts,
although magnificent carved wooden doorways dotted everywhere indicate that
the old crafts are still understood and practiced. Stone Town has that
characteristic feel to it that probably made you want to visit Zanzibar in
the first place. |