Living in Tanzania: the ultimate expat guide
Everything you need to know for a successful life in Tanzania.
Wishing to settle in the land of the Kilimanjaro? Located in East Africa, Tanzania may be your next expat destination. The country welcomes a large expat community enjoying a pleasant environment whether alone or in family.
The country's stable economy can provide interesting job opportunities to foreign professionals looking for work. Once settled, expats will also enjoy the vibrant Tanzanian culture.
Demography
Tanzania has a population of over 45,000,000 people, with a highly uneven distribution. The majority of inhabitants live on the northern border of the country's eastern coast; the remainder of the country being quite sparsely populated. The majority of the population is rural, at around 70%, however, this figure has been declining over time. The largest city and commercial capital is Dar es Salaam. The country's capital is Dodoma which is located more towards the centre of Tanzania.
Economy
As of 2018, the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Tanzania was estimated to be $56.7 billion (nominal), and GDP per capita (PPP) was $3,457. In the past decade, this figure has been climbing at a rate of 3.5% per year. This is higher than any other member of the East African Community (EAC).
Unfortunately, despite this recent economic growth, the majority of the population have seen no real benefit. Tanzania's 2013 Global Hunger Index was worse than any other country - bar Burundi - in the EAC. Approximately 68% of the country's citizens live below the poverty line of $1.26 a day. Children in rural areas suffer particularly high rates of malnutrition and chronic hunger.
The country's largest trading partners in exports are typically South Africa, Switzerland, and China. For imports, its largest trading partners are the UAE, Switzerland and China.
Politics
Tanzania is what is called a one-party dominant state, with the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party currently in power. This was the only legally permitted party in the country until 1992, after which the constitution was amended. The main opposition party is called Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (this is Swahili for 'Party for Democracy and Progress'). Another opposition political party is based in Zanzibar, called the Civil United Front (CUF).
As a country, Tanzania has some conservative human rights views with the legislature to enforce this. Sex acts between men are illegal and carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. There is no such ban on such relations between women. According to the 2007 Pew Global Attitudes Project, Tanzania rated seventh-highest of non-acceptance out of 45 countries surveyed - it was found that 95% of Tanzanian residents believe that homosexuality is a way of life that society should not accept. One does also not have the right to change their legal gender.
Climate
Tanzania has two rainy seasons: the short rains are typically between the months of October and December, whilst the long rainy period lasts from March to June. The coastal areas of Tanzania are mostly affected by these fluctuations, whilst the central plateau is more dry and arid throughout the year.
The best time to travel to the mainland is in the dryer period from June to October. The best wildlife viewing is during these months. If you are hoping to see the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti, then June and July is the best time to go. If you are planning a trip to Zanzibar however, December and January is also a popular time of year with pleasant weather during this holiday period.
Useful links:
Britannica article on Tanzania
Tanzania Tourism official site - fact sheet
Information on parks, attractions, beaches and more
Generalities
Get an overview of living in Tanzania with general information to discover the destination.
Tanzania's history - A trip through the ages
Wherever you go in the world, it is important to learn the history of the places, as this provides a critical context for your understanding of the ...
Formalities
Find out more on visas, passports and entry requirements to travel to Tanzania.
Mariage in Tanzania
There are various options for wedding ceremonies in Tanzania, from locally traditional weddings to more Western-style ceremonies in churches. Before ...
Visas
All you need to know on work visas, work permits, working holiday visas and residence permits to live and work in Tanzania.
General visa requirements for Tanzania
If you are planning a trip to either mainland Tanzania or Zanzibar, it is important to familiarize ...
Business visa for Tanzania
If you are intending on doing any sort of business within Tanzania, during which you will ...
Permanent residency in Tanzania
If you are planning on moving to Tanzania long-term, regardless of what the reason is for, if you ...
Work
Dive into the Tanzania labour market, legal framework and tips on how to find a job in Tanzania.
Finding work in Tanzania
If you are relocating to Tanzania, you are likely going to be looking for a job sooner or later! ...
The Tanzanian labour market
If you are planning on relocating to Tanzania, it is a good idea to read up on relevant information ...
Jobs in Tanzania
Discover professional opportunities in Tanzania and boost your career.
Accommodation
Explore real estate or temporary rentals in Tanzania. Find out more about renting or buying a house or a flat, real estate agents, leases and rental agreements.
Bank
Navigate the banking system in Tanzania: how to choose a bank and open a bank account.
Transport
From public transports to renting or buying a car, explore the best options to getting around in Tanzania.
Getting around Tanzania
There are many ways in which you can get around the country. Deciding on what mode of transport you will use to travel will depend on the distance ...
Removal
Moving to Tanzania? Find useful information and tips to organize your move.
Communications
Internet and phone providers, plans, and everything you need to stay connected in Tanzania.
Phones and Internet in Tanzania
Whether you are traveling to Tanzania for a day, month, or decade, in this day and age you are going to want to be able to communicate with those in ...
Leisure
Sports, leisure, culture and other activities expats can enjoy in their spare time in Tanzania.
Everyday life
Eager to discover what life in Tanzania looks like? Here's a taste.
Articles from the magazine
An artistic adventure: Expat life in Tanzania
After leaving England to travel the world, Ali Dunnell settled on Tanzania as her latest adventure. When she isn't teaching English and Art, she is producing artwork for her blog and spending time with her three children. She gives https://www.expat.com some insight into life in the country famed for its awe-inspiring natural beauty and indigenous animals.
The "hakuna matata" life of an expat entrepreneur in Tanzania
Virginie, a French expat, has an uncommon story. In 2020, she decided to follow her heart to Tanzania, which opened the doors for her to a world of opportunities. Having a rich career in many fields, Virginie is now happy to run her own business and enjoys the "hakuna matata" lifestyle.
Author Melanie Cheng discusses the impact of a bicultural upbringing on identity
Join us as we explore the journey of Melanie Cheng, a writer profoundly influenced by her upbringing in Hong Kong and Australia. Her unique bicultural background has deeply shaped her perspective and voice as a storyteller. Today, Melanie shares insights into how navigating two distinct cultures has enriched her writing, offering a nuanced exploration of identity, belonging, and the complex interplay of language and tradition in her work.
How different countries approach midday breaks
Lunch breaks are more than just lunch. They can also be a cultural phenomenon, especially when you consider how different a lunch experience in a different country can be. Today, we are looking into what lunch breaks are like across the world and which countries take them most seriously.
Understanding inheritance law and taxes
The cross-border inheritance of assets presents a complex legal and financial terrain for expats with families in other countries. No two nations share identical inheritance laws, and the specifics of bilateral tax treaties vary as well. So, how can you navigate this minefield without losing access to your inherited assets, complicating the donation of your assets to your children, or facing excessive taxes? Here are some tips.
Expat women: Why setting boundaries is important
Launched in October 2017, the #Metoo movement has empowered women to speak out. Globally, women from all walks of life, both well-known and private, have come forward to expose violence against women. Central to these discussions is the concept of consent, which at first glance appears straightforward—voluntarily agreeing to engage in an activity. Yet, its application, particularly regarding women, often faces scrutiny. Common misunderstandings persist, such as interpreting a "no" as a "yes," or considering a coerced "yes" as consent. This raises a critical question: How do you, as a woman, establish personal boundaries while living abroad?
How to manage international teams and overcome cultural barriers
Taking on a management role abroad is an intriguing career move, yet many underestimate the significance of understanding cultural nuances in the workplace for a successful international leadership role. What key aspects should you consider beyond the usual cultural stereotypes?
Why pursue a Master's degree overseas?
More people are opting to study abroad, regardless of their intentions to pursue an international career. Although the opportunity to study in another country is currently accessible, starting a career there can present challenges due to restrictions in several key destinations. Earning a master's degree abroad can be an effective strategy for achieving long-term integration into the local job market. Here is a detailed analysis.
