Tanzania: The 5 most beautiful cities

In Tanzania you don't have to choose between a safari through the remote expanses of the African steppe and the hustle and bustle of the big city, here you can easily experience both. We have summarized which cities offer you the most in this article.

Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam is the largest in the country and a melting pot of many cultures and a colorful metropolis full of contrasts. Here 4 million inhabitants live together. Due to its location on the Indian Ocean, the city also has one of the most beautiful beaches in Tanzania and you can quickly take a refreshing dip in the sea from the vibrant city center.

Dar es Salaam has a historic port, which is an important transhipment point for many goods in Tanzania. At the National Museum you can also learn a lot about the former colonial rule by Germany and Great Britain and the architectural ensemble is also worth a visit.

If you want to try some local specialties, be sure to visit the city's market. Here you can fortify yourself and then continue the sightseeing tour along the coast, because here the Cathedral of St. Joseph, the White Fathers' House, the botanical garden and the Old State House (Ikulu) are waiting for your visit. By the way, the ferry to Zanzibar also departs from here.

Moshi

In the background, Kilimanjaro towers over the rather tranquil town of around 200,000 inhabitants. Moshi can be easily reached via Kilimanjaro International Airport, which is located about 40 km outside the city. Moshi offers typical hotels and restaurants as well as some interesting cultural tourism activities that easily fit into any itinerary. Especially to relax before or after the strenuous trekking on Kilimanjaro, the city is perfect to get some more rest and experience the culture of Tanzania.

Arusha

From many points of the city you have a view of the volcano Mount Meru, which is the second highest peak in Tanzania after Kilimanjaro and is located in Arusha National Park. For most tourists, Arusha is the starting point for an ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro or an excursion to the Serengeti and Ngorongo National Parks and therefore a hub of tourism, which also explains the enormous density of travel agencies in the city center. A visit to the surrounding coffee plantations is also worthwhile. The city has less to offer in terms of sightseeing, but if you find yourself there, be sure to visit the local market.

Zanzibar City

Zanzibar Town is where the life of Unguja Island, known to most only as Zanzibar, takes place. The old town Stone Town consists of many historic colonial buildings. The town got its name as Stone Town because many of the old structures were built from coral stone, which has also been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000. Many of the coral stone buildings have been extensively restored in recent years and Stone Town is now one of the most important tourist attractions in Zanzibar. In the small alleys, you feel a few centuries back.

Dodoma: The political capital

Dodoma is located in the heartland of Tanzania and is the official political capital and seat of government of the country. By comparison, it is much smaller and less developed than Tanzania's commercial center, Dar es Salaam. Historically, Dodoma was a stopover on the overland caravan route that led from the Swahili coast inland to Lake Tanganyika. In the early 20th century, the town became an important point on the Central Line railway, which transported agricultural produce for export to the port in Dar es Salaam.

Today, tourists can visit the Museum of Earth Sciences and many historical buildings such as the Parliament building and the largest mosque in Tanzania, the Gaddafi Mosque admire. The Nyerere Square is the perfect place to spend your lunch break with its many bars and restaurants.

You want to experience the most beautiful cities of Tanzania by yourself?

We hope you enjoyed our listing of the most beautiful cities in Tanzania! Curious to learn more about the beauty of Tanzania and discover the country? Then check out our Tanzania trip Culinary highlights, authentic encounters with the local culture and the beautiful natural scenery are definitely something for you!

If you're in the mood for even more travel inspiration, subscribe to us on Instagram and Pinterest.