Top 6 Cities in Tanzania and their Unique Appeal

Top 6 Cities in Tanzania and their Unique Appeal Tanzania is more than a safari destination. It’s a network of fascinating cities each with unique stories. While many visitors come to see the wildebeest migration or climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the cities are goldmines for adventure-style, culture-based exploits beyond normal. Many travelers know Arusha and Dar es Salaam better than other cities. This guide lists 7 captivating cities across the country. And yes, number 6 will truly surprise you.

1. Dar es Salaam:

There’s much going on in this city—mainly businesses, entertainment, etc. It’s the busiest capital and the largest cosmopolitan city of the nation, with a mix of cultures. It’s in its heyday with cutting-edge infrastructure being built there.

The city is home to the National Museum and Village Museum, both harboring wonderful cultural and historical heritage about Tanzania. The other must-visit figure is the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, the national stadium. Visit it during the so-called ‘Kariakoo Derby featuring two giant teams, Simba and Yanga, and witness how the multitude celebrate their rivalry (utani wa jadi).

Off the coast is Mbudya Island, which offers a snorkeling experience. We bet you aren’t ready to miss out on fresh seafood sold in the Kivukoni Fish Market. Head out for a walk in the busy Kariakoo Market—but be careful with your valuables.

Dar es Salaam is also a starting point for safaris to destinations like Selous Game Reserve, Ruaha National Park, and Mikumi National Park. The Julius Kambarage International Airport receives thousands of regional and international flights. The other entry port is the Dar es Salaam Port, where businesspeople ship their merchandise to and from various parts of the world. And yes, there’s a beach—Coco Beach, where you can sunbathe, swim, and do a lot of beach and water sports.

2. Arusha

If you have ever been to the Serengeti or Kilimanjaro, you probably know this city. It’s located in the north of the country and, of course, is the gateway to many northern destinations like Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Kilimanjaro, Lake Manyara, Tarangire, Mount Meru, etc.

Arusha has a cool climate favorable for tourists from Europe and other regions. As a result, it boasts a mix of cultures, from the Maasai nomads to international visitors. Its streets are teeming with Maasai markets selling Maasai beads, sandals, and other items, and coffee plantations on the slopes of Mount Meru.

While in this town, don’t miss visiting the Cultural Heritage Center, where you can buy souvenirs and precious gems like Tanzanite. Also, stop by the Clock Tower—the halfway point between Cairo and Cape Town. Or take a day trip to Arusha National Park for a game drive or a canoe trip on the Small Momella.

The city, also known as the safari capital, is characterized by nature and adventure. Arusha city is characterized by different tourist attractions such as Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Mount Kilimanjaro.

Arusha is home to the Kilimanjaro International Airport, which receives a number of international flights. Also, the Arusha Airport offers scheduled flights to the Serengeti, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and other destinations.

Arusha has its unique cultural appeal. Firstly, the Maasai—these nomadic pastoralists have unique dances (the Adumu dance), dressing styles, and lifestyles. Secondly, the Hadzabe bushmen on the shores of Lake Eyasi. And lastly, the Waarusha, Wameru, and other tribes.

3. Mwanza

Often overlooked, Mwanza is also a gateway to safari destinations like Saanane Island National Park, Rubondo Island National Park, Burigi-Chato National Park, and Ukerewe.

The Rubondo Island is home to hippos, crocodiles, bushbucks, giraffes, elephants, monkeys, and the endangered chimps. But it doesn’t sell chimpanzee trekking permits because habituation is not yet complete. Saanane Island is an ideal place to be.

The city also comprises giant granite rock formations; as a result, it’s called the Rock City. You can enjoy lakeside sunsets on its freshwater beaches or take a sunset boat ride to any of the nearest islands.

Culture thrives in Mwanza, thanks to the Sukuma tribe, the largest tribe in the country. You can visit the Sukuma Museum in Bujora. The Bismarck Rock is the signature rock of Mwanza.

4. Dodoma

Dodoma is at the heart of Tanzania. Although it’s the country’s capital, it doesn’t beat the likes of Dar es Salaam and Arusha. It has unique cultural charms of the Gogo and Rangi people. This city is also quiet as compared to major cities.

While in this city, don’t miss out visiting the Bunge (Parliament), Nyerere Square, the Gaddafi Mosque, and Jamhuri Stadium.  Its signature crops are the grapes, which are grown in large plantations in Mpunguzi. Lion Rock hiking and Kondoa Rock painting are unique appeal of Dodoma.

5. Mbeya

Mbeya is nestled in the southern highlands of Tanzania. It borders two nations: Malawi and Zambia. It’s our surprise city today. You’re probably surprised. We knew you would. We visited Mbeya with our visitor and noticed that it’s an underrated city, probably because it’s located in the far southwestern corner of the country.

Why we think it’s a big deal:

• The city lies on highlands, making its city tour an adventure.
• The Matema Beach on Lake Nyasa is a tranquil place to unwind after a busy day.
• The Ngozi Crater Lake is another adventure-style place to be. And there are plenty of mythical stories about this lake.
• Kitulo National Park, the Garden of God, lies within Mbeya. You can discover a myriad of flowers and rare primates like the kipunji.
• The city teems with diverse cultures, including Nyakyusa and Safwa.
• The Mbeya and Loleza Peaks offer challenging hikes for climbers.

Mbeya’s temperate climate and casual environment also make it the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

6. Tanga

“Tanga Raha!” goes a Swahili slang meaning “Pleasure in Tanga.” This and other phrases represent Tanga’s unique charm. – a place for pleasure. The city is on the northeastern coast of Tanzania. It has a rich Swahili-Arabic heritage, coral stone ruins, and uninhabited islands of historical importance.

Here, you can visit the Amboni Caves, Tongoni Ruins, or the peaceful shores of Pangani. It has vibrant cultures of the Sambaa, Zigua, and others.

Tanzania offers more than a Kilimanjaro hike or a Zanzibar beach holiday. Its cities tell different stories – stories that stem from ancient trade routes to modern diverse cultures and natural beauty. From the well-known to the wonderfully unexpected, which city will you visit first?