×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Digital Nomad Exchange | Tanzania Index
Digital Nomad Exchange
Free MembershipSign In
Digital Nomad Exchange > Tanzania

Tanzania

  Coastal   Beaches  

Tanzania is a country located in East Africa known for its vast wilderness areas. It includes the plains of the Serengeti National Park, a safari mecca populated by the "big five" game (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino), and Kilimanjaro National Park, home to Africa’s highest mountain. Offshore lie the tropical islands of Zanzibar, with Arabic influences, and Mafia, with a marine park home to whale sharks and coral reefs. The nation has a diverse population that includes over 120 different ethnic groups. Tanzania's official languages are Swahili and English, and the currency is the Tanzanian shilling. The country's economy is heavily based on agriculture, which accounts for more than one-quarter of the GDP, provides 85% of exports, and employs approximately 80% of the workforce. Tanzania is also rich in natural resources and has a burgeoning tourism sector, which is growing due to the country's rich wildlife and historical sites. The government system is a unitary presidential republic, and it has been relatively stable since gaining independence from Britain in 1961. The capital city is Dodoma, where the country's president and administrative functions are based, although the largest city and former capital is Dar es Salaam, which is the main commercial port and center for trade. Tanzania is known for its cultural heritage, including traditional music and art, and is the birthplace of the famous Tingatinga painting style. The country faces challenges such as poverty, health issues, and education, but it is also known for its peaceful coexistence among diverse religious and ethnic groups.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Tanzania is generally low compared to many countries, with affordable local food and transportation costs, although imported goods and services can be more expensive.

Weather

Tanzania experiences a tropical climate with variations depending on altitude and geography. Coastal areas are typically hot and humid, while the highlands have a more temperate climate. The country has two rainy seasons; a short one from October to December and a long one from March to May. The dry season, from June to October, is the best time for wildlife viewing.

Educational System Tanzania

The educational system in Tanzania is structured to provide basic, secondary, and higher education. The system is overseen by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology. Education in Tanzania is compulsory for seven years, that is, for the duration of primary education. Children typically start school at the age of seven. Primary education is followed by secondary education, which is divided into ordinary level (O-level) for four years and advanced level (A-level) for two years. Students who complete O-level education may choose to enter the workforce, enroll in vocational training, or continue to A-level education, which can lead to university admission. The academic year in Tanzania usually runs from January to November. The quality of education can vary significantly, with urban schools often better resourced than rural ones. The government has been working to improve the educational system by increasing access to education and improving the quality of teaching. English is the language of instruction in secondary schools, while Swahili is used in primary schools. This can be a challenge for students transitioning from primary to secondary education. Parents moving to Tanzania from another country should be aware that there are also international schools available, which follow different curricula such as the British, American, or International Baccalaureate (IB) systems.

Healthcare in Tanzania

The healthcare system in Tanzania is a mix of public and private facilities. The public healthcare system is widely accessible but often under-resourced, with limited medical supplies, equipment, and personnel, especially in rural areas. Private healthcare provides higher quality services but at a significantly higher cost, making it less accessible to the general population. The quality of healthcare varies greatly between urban and rural areas, with urban centers like Dar es Salaam having better facilities. Expats and digital nomads can access public healthcare, but many opt for private health insurance to use private clinics and hospitals, which offer a higher standard of care. Public healthcare is often free or low-cost, but long wait times and shortages can be an issue. Private healthcare is expensive, and costs can vary widely depending on the treatment.

Connect with Our Partners
Connect with our trusted local partners in Tanzania and around the world through our Partner Connect tool. From moving companies to expat health insurance and more, our partners are here to help.
William Russell SJB Global The Relocator Universal Tax Professionals Traveling Mailbox GeoBlue iVisa Cigna Global Health  PassportCard Expat Health Insurance AGS Worldwide Movers

Living in Tanzania

Healthcare in Tanzania

The healthcare system in Tanzania is a mix of public and private facilities. The public healthcare system is widely accessible but often under-resourced, with limited medical supplies, equipment, and personnel, especially in rural areas. Private healthcare provides higher quality services but at a significantly higher cost, making it less accessible to the general population. The quality of healthcare varies greatly between urban and rural areas, with urban centers like Dar es Salaam having better facilities. Expats and digital nomads can access public healthcare, but many opt for private health insurance to use private clinics and hospitals, which offer a higher standard of care. Public healthcare is often free or low-cost, but long wait times and shortages can be an issue. Private healthcare is expensive, and costs can vary widely depending on the treatment.

Copyright 1997-2025 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides