Tanzania stands out as one of Africa’s top tourist destinations, drawing crowds due to its remarkable wildlife and commitment to nature conservation. For decades, travelers have been flocking to this enchanting East African haven, eager to immerse themselves in authentic African experiences.

Are you contemplating a journey to Tanzania? What better way to ready yourself than by uncovering the surprising facets that await?

Curiosity drove me to seek that rare encounter as well. Thus, in 2022, I embarked on a month-long adventure, spanning three weeks, exploring various cities. As I journeyed through Arusha, Zanzibar, and Dar es Salaam, I encountered numerous astonishing sights.

While these discoveries were essential and awe-inspiring, I couldn’t help but wish I had been privy to them before purchasing my plane ticket.

1. Greetings and smiles on the street of Tanzania.

In many parts of the world, genuine friendliness can be rare, but Tanzania is an exception. Here, greeting strangers on the street isn’t just a habit—it’s a way of life.

The Swahili word “mambo” echoed everywhere, a simple yet warm invitation to connect. A friendly smile was hard to resist, and every time I stepped outside, I felt ready for engaging conversations. When I replied in English, most chats ended quickly, but when I used even a little Swahili, it was like opening the door to an endless dialogue.

Many were curious about my nationality and eager to hear about my experiences in their country. Some exchanges were filled with more laughter and smiles than words, proving that friendliness goes beyond language.

While Cameroon, my home country, is known for its warmth, Tanzania felt even more welcoming. People readily offered help, though a few tried to take advantage of my limited Swahili. My similar skin tone made it harder for locals to immediately recognize me as a foreigner, but as long as I had time, conversations flowed naturally.

2. What language do people in Tanzania

Despite being classified as a bilingual nation where English and Swahili are widely used, my initial shock upon arriving in Tanzania was discovering that only a minority of people spoke fluent English.

Contrary to expectations, the majority of Tanzanians were proficient solely in Swahili. This revelation left me taken aback on numerous occasions, as I struggled to ask questions and receive clear responses. In instances where vendors couldn’t comprehend my English inquiries, kind-hearted Tanzanian passersby, who had a grasp of English, often stepped in to translate.

Although I had heard the advice to learn some Swahili before my journey, I didn’t heed it seriously. For those like me, who tend to trust everything on Wikipedia, this experience is a reminder to reassess that mindset.

I found effective communication was primarily possible with my Airbnb or hotel hosts, although some of them also grappled with English proficiency.

Despite Tanzania’s colonial history under British rule, it became evident that fluent English speakers were concentrated mainly in tourist areas.

Tour guides, equipped with English skills, could facilitate smooth communication, yet their services often come with a hefty price tag for those seeking to explore with them.

An alternative could be making friends with local Tanzanians who can speak English. That was, it would be friendship assistance.

3. Some women cracked stones to build houses

IIn a neighborhood near the famous Coco Beach in Dar es Salaam, I stumbled upon a sight that left me completely astonished. A group of women, likely between 40 and 56 years old, were engaged in an incredibly demanding task.

Seated on the ground beneath the relentless sun, they tirelessly hammered away at large stones, breaking them into smaller, uniform fragments. Their heavy hammers struck with a rhythmic precision, as if guided by an invisible measuring system. What amazed me even more was that each broken piece seemed nearly identical in shape.

These carefully crushed stones were then gathered and packed into large, portable plastic bags. I soon learned that they were used for building fortifying walls, which perhaps explained the distinctive architecture of the surrounding homes.

With the high cost of goods and rising living expenses, one might assume that these women were making a decent income. However, the sheer physical strain of their work—typically considered a man’s job—made their dedication all the more remarkable.

The surprise on my face was unmistakable as I watched them in action. Seeing a woman engaged in such grueling labor was something I hadn’t expected. Yet, as I walked past, my initial shock gave way to deep admiration for their resilience and unwavering determination.

4. The internet speed

Another surprising aspect is the scarcity of Wi-Fi in many Airbnb accommodations. Even among the few listings that advertise internet access, the speed is often limited to basic browsing, making it challenging for those who rely on a stable connection.

For digital nomads like myself, Tanzania might not be the most suitable destination for a long-term stay—at least not in budget-friendly accommodations—if maintaining consistent video calls is a priority.

In some areas, internet connectivity can be both expensive and slow, posing a significant challenge for those with remote work demands.

Indeed, expensive hotels or flats will offer the possibility of a guaranteed, stable Wi-Fi connection. If you are a backpacker seeking under 20usd accommodations, it is unrealistic to expect consistent high-speed internet.

5. Nature – trees in the city

The Tanzanian government deserves commendation for its dedicated efforts in reforestation and forest preservation. Their commitment to environmental conservation is evident across the country, from the lush greenery in rural areas to the tree-lined streets in bustling cities.

One of the most striking features of Tanzania’s landscape is the presence of towering, majestic trees, which provide much-needed shade, enhance air quality, and contribute to the overall beauty of urban and suburban areas. Even in major cities like Dar es Salaam and Arusha, these trees stand as a testament to successful conservation policies.

Beyond aesthetics, these green initiatives play a crucial role in combating deforestation, mitigating climate change, and preserving biodiversity. The government’s proactive stance on reforestation has also led to various tree-planting programs, involving local communities, schools, and environmental organizations, ensuring that future generations continue to enjoy Tanzania’s rich natural heritage.

Many streets were lined with towering ancient trees, their massive trunks and sprawling branches creating a natural canopy overhead. These majestic giants not only enhanced the beauty of the thoroughfares but also provided welcoming shade for vendors and pedestrians like myself, who enjoy leisurely strolls. Beneath their lush green canopies, the streets exuded a sense of warmth and tranquility, offering a peaceful retreat from the intense midday sun.

As evening approached, these trees introduced a refreshing coolness to the air, making twilight walks an even more invigorating experience. Their sheer grandeur and enduring presence added an almost enchanting quality to Tanzania’s urban landscape, making each street feel like a harmonious blend of nature and city life.

6. Cutest coins

Currency serves as a distinctive emblem of each nation, with the shapes and intricacies of coins often capturing my fascination. As an avid collector of coins and banknotes during my travels, I’ve found these keepsakes to be precious souvenirs. Among the various Tanzanian coins, some stood out for their remarkable beauty.

Yet, surprisingly, their practical use proved to be quite challenging.

This struck me as odd, especially since not all coins shared the same level of careful craftsmanship. I couldn’t help but wonder why such meticulous effort was invested in only a select few, leaving me even more intrigued.

More things will surprise you based on where you go; please share your experiences in the comment section if you have been there before.

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