Tanzania
and Zanzibar combine extraordinary wildlife, rich cultural heritage
and centuries of Indian Ocean history. Discover the surprising facts,
hidden stories and unique insights that reveal the deeper character
of this remarkable East African destination.
• Zanzibar is known as the “Spice Island” for its centuries-old clove, cinnamon and nutmeg trade.
• Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, sits just outside Moshi and can be climbed without technical gear.
• The Maasai people traditionally greet each other by tapping heads.
• Tanzania is home to the world’s only known population of tree-climbing lions.
• On Zanzibar, doors carved with brass spikes were historically used to deter elephants.
• The Old Fort in Stone Town is one of East Africa’s earliest examples of fortified architecture.
• Tanzania is home to the unique tanzanite gemstone, found nowhere else on Earth.
• The Great Migration, one of the world’s greatest wildlife spectacles, takes place largely in Tanzania’s Serengeti.
• Zanzibar was among the first regions in East Africa to introduce formal education under Omani rule.
• In Zanzibar, modest dress is expected in towns and villages due to strong cultural and religious customs.
• Greetings are important — a handshake and a few friendly words are appreciated.
• Avoid public displays of affection, especially in rural or traditional areas.
• Taking photos of government or military sites is restricted.
• Removing shoes before entering someone’s home is considered polite.
• Julius Nyerere, Tanzania’s first president, shaped the nation’s independence and unity.
• Freddie Mercury, born Farrokh Bulsara in Stone Town, became an iconic global musician.
• Jane Goodall conducted groundbreaking chimpanzee research in Gombe Stream National Park.
• Ali Hassan Mwinyi helped modernise Zanzibar and Tanzania during his presidency.
• Tanzania is home to three of Africa’s major lakes: Victoria, Tanganyika and Nyasa (Malawi).
• Zanzibar’s Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• The Serengeti hosts millions of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles each year.
• Mafia Island is one of the world’s quietest marine paradises.
• Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera.
• Tanzania is home to more than 120 ethnic groups, each with unique languages and traditions.
• Swahili (“Kiswahili”) is spoken widely and reflects a blend of African, Arabic and Indian influences.
• The coastal lifestyle is laid-back, centred around fishing, markets and family gatherings.
• Storytelling, dance and drumming play a key role in cultural expression.
• “Pole pole” (slowly, slowly) reflects the easy-going local attitude.
• Zanzibar cuisine blends African, Indian and Middle Eastern flavours.
• Kanga fabrics are worn daily, each pattern often carrying a symbolic message.
• Traditional dhow boats still sail the coast as they have for centuries.
• Zanzibar was once the centre of the Indian Ocean spice and trade routes.
• The archipelago saw centuries of Arab, Persian, African and European influence.
• Bagamoyo was one of East Africa’s most important 19th-century ports.
• The Omani sultanate shaped much of Zanzibar’s architecture and traditions.
• The House of Wonders in Stone Town is one of East Africa’s most iconic historic buildings.
• Jozani Forest is home to the rare red colobus monkey found only in Zanzibar.
• Mnemba Atoll is one of the best snorkelling and diving areas in the Indian Ocean.
• The Serengeti’s endless plains offer some of the best sunsets in Africa.
• Zanzibar is the “Spice Island.”
• Tanzanite exists only in Tanzania.
• Stone Town is UNESCO-listed.
• Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest peak.
• The Great Migration passes through Tanzania.
• Zanzibar has unique carved wooden doors.
• Maasai traditions remain strong.
• Ngorongoro is the world’s largest intact caldera.
• Tree-climbing lions live in Lake Manyara.
• “Pole pole” means “go slowly.”
• Dhows still sail East African waters.
• Tanzania has over 120 ethnic groups.