Tanzania


HOME Europe France Ukraine England Poland Austria Netherlands Portugal Spain Germany Azia Egypt Cyprus Turkey India Sri-Lanka China Japan Africa Tunisia Kenya Tanzania Zambia Botswana	United Republic of Tanzania - one of the most interesting and visited countries in Central Africa and the African continent as a whole. The island of Zanzibar and Kilimanjaro, safari in the national parks, diving and surfing attract many tourists every year from all over the world. Located on the east coast of Central Africa, Tanzania has a common border with countries such as Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda and the Congo, Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique. Thanks to this arrangement, visiting Uganda can be combined with excursions to neighboring countries. The currency of Tanzania, Tanzanian shilling exchange for U.S. dollars at the rate of about 1,300 Tanzanian shillings per dollar, so often it is convenient to pay in dollars, which have in the country is quite free circulation. Tourists who are used to traveling with credit cards, before a trip to Tanzania is still advisable to take some cash to pay off card because even in the large cities of the country can not in all cases. However, note that some banks charge for cash on the card a very high percentage (up to 8%). Official language in Tanzania, two - Swahili and English. But in practice, free to explain in English can mostly live in big cities and rural residents often do not speak Swahili, and on some of the many local dialects. The local people of Tanzania did not always have a positive attitude to attempts to photograph them, so do it without permission is not recommended, as well as Tanzanians go home without an experienced guide or conductor. If you plan to visit several African countries, one of the best choices can be round "East-African Union: Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania," the most famous sights of the three countries (Amboseli National Park, Serengeti and Lake Nakuru National Park and Ngorongoro Crater). Climate in Tanzania Climate Tanzania has distinct periods of temperature - cool from June to October and warm - from December to March, with intermediate sub-period between the month. On the coast, a tropical climate with high humidity and daytime temperatures of 25 to 29 grad.S. On the central hill daily temperature ranges from 20 to 27 degrees C, and may even drop to zero in June, July and August, and in the remaining months to rise to 30 grad.S. On the territory of most of the country marked by two of the rainy season - the "long rains� (masika) from mid-March to May, inclusive, and the "short rains� (mvuli) in November, December, and sometimes in January. Due to global climate change on the planet has recently been a significant shift in time the onset of a period, we recommend you pay attention to it at the timing of the planned visit to the country. Traditions of Tanzania Tanzania mainland population consists almost entirely of Africans. The vast majority of them are engaged in agriculture. After the establishment of state control over the economy, many non-Africans lost their jobs and had emigrated. Africans after the most significant part of the population were immigrants from Asia, mainly from India and Pakistan, but in the two decades after 1961 their number decreased from 88.7 thousand to 20 thousand from 23 thousand in 1961, Europeans today remains only one thousand . In Tanzania, there are about 120 ethnic and linguistic groups. About 94% of the rural population of mainland speak Bantu languages. The most numerous people - sukuma. It focuses on the north-west and is 13% of the population of mainland Tanzania close to them nyamvezi live in the western and central parts of the country; Makonde - on the coast, Haya - near the lake. Victoria, Chaga - on the slopes of Kilimanjaro and Meru, where they grow coffee Gogo live in the central regions and ha - in the west near the lake. Tanganyika. The other peoples of the mainland - mostly herders who speak Chari-Nile languages(Masai et al.) Several small ethnic groups, including Sandawe hadsa and speak the Khoisan languages. Most of the people of Zanzibar are descendants of African slaves brought in from the mainland by the Arabs, and the people of Shirazi, whose ancestors centuries ago came from Iran and mixed with the local population. Although different parts of the country Africans speak to each other in different local languages, ubiquitous language of interethnic communication - Swahili. This is one of the Bantu languages, enriched by borrowings from Arabic and, to a lesser extent from Hindi and English. Swahili is taught at primary and secondary schools. Since 1967, Swahili is the national language of Tanzania, but in government and business are still widely used in English. Teaching at the University of Dar es Salaam is in English. Attractions in Tanzania Serengeti National Park Who does not remember the book by Bernhard Grzimek "Serengeti shall not die"? He wrote it in 1959, and caution were the areas that really escaped unscathed, not least thanks to the book. Savannah, on the shores of Lake Victoria in northern Tanzania in the same year was placed under the protection of the law on the protection of nature and today is the region with the largest number of species of wild animals on the continent. On the "endless plains" area of almost 15,000 km2 enough space for walking huge herds of zebras, giraffes and antelopes and abundant food for carnivorous animals. In 1981, UNESCO made the Serengeti World Heritage Site. Kilimanjaro National Park Three fused extinct volcano in northern Tanzania, the mountain massif of Kilimanjaro with the highest African peak Kibo (5895 m). In 1973, about 1,700 km2 of forested areas (iogoplodnik, tree fern) were declared a national park, and in 1987, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. One of the saddles array covered ice peaks is relatively flat tundra. As you approach the foot of the mountain vegetation becomes more and more diverse fauna is represented. Here you can see mountain goats, antelope, is among kshta, elephants, leopards, monkeys and other mammals. Zanzibar Zanzibar - the "island-reserve" once known as the "Spice Island" lies 40 km east of the mainland coast. One of the most charming places in the Indian Ocean and one of the oldest shopping centers in the world, the island was known at the time of the Sumerians and Assyrians. In the Middle Ages the island captured by the Arabs, and the Sultan of Oman's even posted here his residence. Arab influence can be seen on the island and now - in the architecture is clearly dominated by Arabic motifs, the vast majority of the population is Muslim and speak Arabic (most zanzibartsev rooted in nationalism "Bantu", but the influence of Arab blood in the local phenotype clearly visible to the naked eye) . More than half of the island is occupied by plantations of cloves, cinnamon and other spices, which brought the island its glory and make up the bulk of its exports. The rest area is covered with thickets of tropical crops and savanna, which gives numerous monuments Zanzibar recognizable look. Cities in Tanzania Dar es Salaam Dar es Salaam (or just a gift, as it is known locally) - the old capital of the country and one of the largest cities in the region. The city's name can be translated from Swahili as "peaceful haven", which is not surprising - the harbor, which gave rise to the city, allowed to hide from the storm, even large ships. Sultan of Zanzibar, and therefore decided to set up on the site of a small fishing village town, who later became the capital of the country. The sights of the city are the palace of the Sultan Majid (XIX c.), Clock Tower (1961), a monument in honor of the Askari died on the fields of the First World War (1972), St. Alban's Anglican Church (1926), a Lutheran Cathedral (1898-1904 gg.), the Greek Orthodox Church (mid XX century.), the Catholic Church of St. Peter (1962), the Catholic Cathedral (1897-1902 gg.), Darkhan-Jamaat mosque Khan (1930 ), mosques Ibaddi, Memon, a Sunni, Ahmad and others (a whole street of the city called Mosca Street - "Street mosque"). Also of interest are National Museum with a great archaeological and anthropological collections, Village Museum with these dwellings in all regions of Tanzania, an art gallery Nyumba-I-san with a large collection of products of traditional crafts, the Botanical Gardens in the city center, next to the National Museum and the University of Mlimali ("hills") to the north-west of the city center. Stone Town Mellifluous exotic word "Zanzibar" attracts the attention of tourists when choosing a vacation spot. But let's see what is hiding under that name. After Zanzibar archipelago and known, and the main island of the archipelago, also called Unguja, and the main town of the island. Sure, each of the three geographical units has its own attractions and charms, but the trip to Tanzania will certainly lead you to the town of Zanzibar - the capital of the island country. This ancient historical site on the island now included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The city has other names: the locals call the capital Shangaani - so called by the Bantu tribe of Mozambique, which was first settled in the area. In 1831, the Sultan of Zanzibar appreciated the importance of deep bay at village as a potential port, which will sail for slaves and spices Arab and European trading ships. It is based on the site Stone Town - Stone Town, in contrast to the villages of Zanzibar in the city were built only stone houses, but there was no plan to build. And every owner put his house as he was comfortable, trying to keep the building was as much room. As a result, the town became a maze of narrow, winding streets, which strayed a generation of foreign traders and sailors. Well known from the 8th century, Stone Town was a major port, the shopping center and the center of the slave trade. Later began to perform the functions of Dar es Salaam and Mombasa. In the mid 19th century, the city became the capital of the Stone Ottoman Empire, still in the Anglican Cathedral, which was built on the site of a former slave market, you can see some cells in which the slaves at the time. Later, Stone Town was transportation center researchers, travelers and colonizers from Europe, in particular - Portugal. It is here preparing for his final expedition, David Livingstone. In his honor, in the Anglican cathedral set crucifix carved out of the tree under which they buried the heart of the famous explorer. Even today the city remains the economic, administrative and cultural center of the islands of Tanzania. Major sea port allows even approaching ocean ships, hence export of works on the island of clove oil and clove oil, coconut oil, copra. Stone Town is located in the residence of the first vice-president of Tanzania. Tourists tend to swim in Stone Town on the ferry, which runs regularly from Dar es Salaam to Stone Town. Another way to "the island capital" Tanzania - Kisauni Airport where arriving by plane from other large cities. In the old part of the city, most houses are 100-150 years longer, they laced balconies and carved doors and elegant porches often give similar to palaces. No wonder so enticing tourists walking (car is simply not drive!) Through the narrow winding streets of palaces, historical buildings, amazing coral stone houses, small shops, traditional Arab houses with turrets and ancient ruins. The architecture of the city is not only influenced by Arabic and Indian culture, but also - and later - European, as well as trends of different religions in a small (1.5 to 2 km) Stone Town over 50 mosques, six Hindu temples, two Catholic churches. Many buildings now fallen into disrepair, and some beautiful palaces, houses belonging to the sultans, and historical sites altogether destroyed, because due to the lack of funds is not properly maintained. But, nevertheless, in the city there are many old buildings and palaces that have survived to the present day, and they will no doubt be inspected by tourists. One of these places - the Arab fort, built in the years 1710-1715 on the site of the old Portuguese fortifications. Today you can not only see itself fort, a collection of furniture and clothing, preserved since the days of the sultans, and eat, and even sleep. And sometimes in the premises of the fort for concerts and performances. Perfectly preserved the famous Palace of Wonders - Beit El Adzhaib, built in 1883 for Sultan Said Bargasha marine engineer from Scotland. The palace was indeed filled with "incredible miracles": this is the first elevator in Zanzibar, and running water, and the "light Lenin!" During the shortest war British Zanzibar for 45 minutes fired Palace of Wonders, and the owner gave up, and the Beit el-Adzhaib empty. For a long time in the Palace of the locals wanted to have historical or cultural museum, but later decided to just turn it into a restaurant - in the evening in the square at the Palace of Wonders zanzibariytsy sing, roast meat and rest. Anglican Cathedral was built in the years 1873-1874 on the site where once traded slaves. It is interesting that at the time of its construction, the builders from the local community during the absence of the chief architect of the column installed at the entrance to the temple upside down! The eight columns are preserved in this way so far. In Stone Town many other ancient and fascinating buildings - the Cathedral of St. Joseph, Christ Church Cathedral, a Hindu temple, a mosque of the Aga Khan and Malindi - one of the three mosques in East Africa with a conical minaret. The history of the "Blue Mosque": in the mid-70s of the last century after the proclamation of the Democratic Republic of Tanzania, the government has decided to please the people of Zanzibar Stone Town "national pool" in the open air, which was built on the site of the destroyed Blue Mosque. Naturally, this caused resentment of the local population, most of whom professed the Muslim religion. Apparently negative emotions were effective, as the pool is constantly leaking, despite the fact that it tried to "patch" for 20 years. As a result, in 1995, was rebuilt on the old site a new Blue Mosque, and you can view the current tourists. In Stone Town is interesting to visit the National Museum, which will tell you the history of the islands, as well as the Palace Museum, where the situation remained the reign of the sultans. In the latter there is a room devoted to the daughter of Sultan Seida - Princess Salma, which in the 19th century to flee out of the palace with a German businessman. Tanga One of the major cities of Tanzania - Arabian port city of Tanga is situated on the Indian Ocean, near the border with Kenya. Opposite coast of Tanga - Pemba island, from which the city of the same name separated Strait. In comparison with other major African cities, Tanga offers serenity and comfort. In addition to the port in the city is an important railway junction, which connects the coast of Tanzania, with the central part of the country: here are the train in Dar es Salaam - Tanzania's economic capital, as well as to the African Great Lakes (Tanganyika and Victoria). For these reasons, Tang was one of the important centers of trade and exports: the port of trafficked goods such as tea, coffee, cotton and others. Here are the food-processing, textile, wood, metal industries, but most locals still engaged in agriculture and fishing. Currently, the city's population has decreased slightly due to the difficult economic situation, and is about 200 thousand. The economy then a village began to develop in 1889, when the garrison houses the German East Africa, making the Tang capital of the German colony. Several years earlier, brought here agave (sisal), due to which it was to prosper and grow the local population. Subsequently, for transport to export station was built on the Usambara railway line, which ran up to the Kilimanjaro. This fact has also served as the economic development of the city. Battle for Tanggu November 4, 1914 went down in history of World War I, British and Indian troops wanted by all means take the starting point of the Northern Railway, but German troops remained in the city, reflecting the onset of their number exceeded eight times, and dropping Anglo-Indian descent to the sea. But by 1916, in East Africa, the British arrived many reinforcements, and 17 July, Tang was taken. Currently preserved German war graves from that time. Tang was granted city status in 1995, along with the municipalities of Mbeya and Mosha. The center of the port city, of course, is the harbor and its surroundings, there were built bars, shops and hotels, and only in the "high-rise" - building above eight floors. Yet Tang - the city, from where the quiet relaxing holiday. Located south of the Kenyan border, it is famous for the coastal zone, cozy parks, luxurious sandy beaches, surrounded by coconut palms and healing sulfur springs. And from the windows of the hotel, directly facing the ocean, you can enjoy stunning views of endless. Settled along the shores of the whole fishing communities: interesting to observe the life and customs of the local people. Online fishermen across not only fish, but sea stars, crabs, and other representatives of the underwater world. Catch women undress and prepare here on the coast, and specialize in fresh seafood to tourists. It is also the fish market, and you can rent a boat and hand-made by going to the ocean for fishing or just swim under sail. The architecture of the Tang, as in many other Tanzanian cities, there is a mixture of different cultures and traditions. There are ancient dilapidated walls of Arab houses and the ruins of the German colonial buildings. Walking the streets of Tanga secluded, be sure to turn in old German Park, where the building is preserved Arab construction, which is now a library. Also curious to see the memorials and monuments War. In the neighborhood you can see the church of St. George. At 17 kilometers south of Tanga on the site of the port is a small village surrounded by amazing Tongoni palms with forked tops. It is believed that the village was founded by Shirazi - immigrants from Persia. Until the 12th century Tongoni was a thriving commercial center, but violated the Portuguese economic ties have led to its demise. Now there are ruins dating back to the 15th century - the remains of mosques and tombs. Under the branches of the mighty baobab trees are crumbling columns and stone graves, braided vines, reminding of the past greatness. Hence the great views and natural attractions - mangroves. Near the town of Tanga is another must - caves Ambon. This is the most extensive limestone caves, formed about 150 million years ago. According to rumors, the length of stroke is about 200 kilometers, and from the underground system there are outlets in Kenya and in the region of Kilimanjaro. Speleological research in 1994 showed that the longest course is 900 meters long. Tanzanian government to block access to the caves for safety purposes, but some of them are open to inspection by tourists. The height of these moves is 10 meters, and there are holes in the ceiling, through which the sunlight falls. Through these holes the same vines that grow on the bottom to the surface. Ambon caves are home to several colonies of bats meshkokrylyh family. From this place involves a lot of stories that will tell the tourists guides from the local population. The local tribes still attached to the religious significance of the caves here and bring food and bottles of blood of animals.

United Republic of Tanzania - one of the most interesting and visited countries in Central Africa and the African continent as a whole. The island of Zanzibar and Kilimanjaro, safari in the national parks, diving and surfing attract many tourists every year from all over the world.
Located on the east coast of Central Africa, Tanzania has a common border with countries such as Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda and the Congo, Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique. Thanks to this arrangement, visiting Uganda can be combined with excursions to neighboring countries.
The currency of Tanzania, Tanzanian shilling exchange for U.S. dollars at the rate of about 1,300 Tanzanian shillings per dollar, so often it is convenient to pay in dollars, which have in the country is quite free circulation.
Tourists who are used to traveling with credit cards, before a trip to Tanzania is still advisable to take some cash to pay off card because even in the large cities of the country can not in all cases. However, note that some banks charge for cash on the card a very high percentage (up to 8%).
Official language in Tanzania, two - Swahili and English. But in practice, free to explain in English can mostly live in big cities and rural residents often do not speak Swahili, and on some of the many local dialects.
The local people of Tanzania did not always have a positive attitude to attempts to photograph them, so do it without permission is not recommended, as well as Tanzanians go home without an experienced guide or conductor.

If you plan to visit several African countries, one of the best choices can be round "East-African Union: Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania," the most famous sights of the three countries (Amboseli National Park, Serengeti and Lake Nakuru National Park and Ngorongoro Crater).

Climate in Tanzania

Climate Tanzania has distinct periods of temperature - cool from June to October and warm - from December to March, with intermediate sub-period between the month. On the coast, a tropical climate with high humidity and daytime temperatures of 25 to 29 grad.S. On the central hill daily temperature ranges from 20 to 27 degrees C, and may even drop to zero in June, July and August, and in the remaining months to rise to 30 grad.S. On the territory of most of the country marked by two of the rainy season - the "long rains� (masika) from mid-March to May, inclusive, and the "short rains� (mvuli) in November, December, and sometimes in January. Due to global climate change on the planet has recently been a significant shift in time the onset of a period, we recommend you pay attention to it at the timing of the planned visit to the country.

Traditions of Tanzania

Tanzania mainland population consists almost entirely of Africans. The vast majority of them are engaged in agriculture. After the establishment of state control over the economy, many non-Africans lost their jobs and had emigrated. Africans after the most significant part of the population were immigrants from Asia, mainly from India and Pakistan, but in the two decades after 1961 their number decreased from 88.7 thousand to 20 thousand from 23 thousand in 1961, Europeans today remains only one thousand .

In Tanzania, there are about 120 ethnic and linguistic groups. About 94% of the rural population of mainland speak Bantu languages. The most numerous people - sukuma. It focuses on the north-west and is 13% of the population of mainland Tanzania close to them nyamvezi live in the western and central parts of the country; Makonde - on the coast, Haya - near the lake. Victoria, Chaga - on the slopes of Kilimanjaro and Meru, where they grow coffee Gogo live in the central regions and ha - in the west near the lake. Tanganyika.

The other peoples of the mainland - mostly herders who speak Chari-Nile languages(Masai et al.) Several small ethnic groups, including Sandawe hadsa and speak the Khoisan languages. Most of the people of Zanzibar are descendants of African slaves brought in from the mainland by the Arabs, and the people of Shirazi, whose ancestors centuries ago came from Iran and mixed with the local population.

Although different parts of the country Africans speak to each other in different local languages, ubiquitous language of interethnic communication - Swahili. This is one of the Bantu languages, enriched by borrowings from Arabic and, to a lesser extent from Hindi and English. Swahili is taught at primary and secondary schools. Since 1967, Swahili is the national language of Tanzania, but in government and business are still widely used in English. Teaching at the University of Dar es Salaam is in English.

Attractions in Tanzania

Serengeti National Park

Who does not remember the book by Bernhard Grzimek "Serengeti shall not die"? He wrote it in 1959, and caution were the areas that really escaped unscathed, not least thanks to the book. Savannah, on the shores of Lake Victoria in northern Tanzania in the same year was placed under the protection of the law on the protection of nature and today is the region with the largest number of species of wild animals on the continent. On the "endless plains" area of almost 15,000 km2 enough space for walking huge herds of zebras, giraffes and antelopes and abundant food for carnivorous animals. In 1981, UNESCO made the Serengeti World Heritage Site.

Kilimanjaro National Park

Three fused extinct volcano in northern Tanzania, the mountain massif of Kilimanjaro with the highest African peak Kibo (5895 m). In 1973, about 1,700 km2 of forested areas (iogoplodnik, tree fern) were declared a national park, and in 1987, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. One of the saddles array covered ice peaks is relatively flat tundra. As you approach the foot of the mountain vegetation becomes more and more diverse fauna is represented. Here you can see mountain goats, antelope, is among kshta, elephants, leopards, monkeys and other mammals.

Zanzibar

Zanzibar - the "island-reserve" once known as the "Spice Island" lies 40 km east of the mainland coast. One of the most charming places in the Indian Ocean and one of the oldest shopping centers in the world, the island was known at the time of the Sumerians and Assyrians. In the Middle Ages the island captured by the Arabs, and the Sultan of Oman's even posted here his residence. Arab influence can be seen on the island and now - in the architecture is clearly dominated by Arabic motifs, the vast majority of the population is Muslim and speak Arabic (most zanzibartsev rooted in nationalism "Bantu", but the influence of Arab blood in the local phenotype clearly visible to the naked eye) . More than half of the island is occupied by plantations of cloves, cinnamon and other spices, which brought the island its glory and make up the bulk of its exports. The rest area is covered with thickets of tropical crops and savanna, which gives numerous monuments Zanzibar recognizable look.

Cities in Tanzania

Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam (or just a gift, as it is known locally) - the old capital of the country and one of the largest cities in the region. The city's name can be translated from Swahili as "peaceful haven", which is not surprising - the harbor, which gave rise to the city, allowed to hide from the storm, even large ships. Sultan of Zanzibar, and therefore decided to set up on the site of a small fishing village town, who later became the capital of the country.
The sights of the city are the palace of the Sultan Majid (XIX c.), Clock Tower (1961), a monument in honor of the Askari died on the fields of the First World War (1972), St. Alban's Anglican Church (1926), a Lutheran Cathedral (1898-1904 gg.), the Greek Orthodox Church (mid XX century.), the Catholic Church of St. Peter (1962), the Catholic Cathedral (1897-1902 gg.), Darkhan-Jamaat mosque Khan (1930 ), mosques Ibaddi, Memon, a Sunni, Ahmad and others (a whole street of the city called Mosca Street - "Street mosque"). Also of interest are National Museum with a great archaeological and anthropological collections, Village Museum with these dwellings in all regions of Tanzania, an art gallery Nyumba-I-san with a large collection of products of traditional crafts, the Botanical Gardens in the city center, next to the National Museum and the University of Mlimali ("hills") to the north-west of the city center.

Stone Town

Mellifluous exotic word "Zanzibar" attracts the attention of tourists when choosing a vacation spot. But let's see what is hiding under that name. After Zanzibar archipelago and known, and the main island of the archipelago, also called Unguja, and the main town of the island. Sure, each of the three geographical units has its own attractions and charms, but the trip to Tanzania will certainly lead you to the town of Zanzibar - the capital of the island country. This ancient historical site on the island now included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The city has other names: the locals call the capital Shangaani - so called by the Bantu tribe of Mozambique, which was first settled in the area. In 1831, the Sultan of Zanzibar appreciated the importance of deep bay at village as a potential port, which will sail for slaves and spices Arab and European trading ships. It is based on the site Stone Town - Stone Town, in contrast to the villages of Zanzibar in the city were built only stone houses, but there was no plan to build. And every owner put his house as he was comfortable, trying to keep the building was as much room. As a result, the town became a maze of narrow, winding streets, which strayed a generation of foreign traders and sailors. Well known from the 8th century, Stone Town was a major port, the shopping center and the center of the slave trade. Later began to perform the functions of Dar es Salaam and Mombasa. In the mid 19th century, the city became the capital of the Stone Ottoman Empire, still in the Anglican Cathedral, which was built on the site of a former slave market, you can see some cells in which the slaves at the time.
Later, Stone Town was transportation center researchers, travelers and colonizers from Europe, in particular - Portugal. It is here preparing for his final expedition, David Livingstone. In his honor, in the Anglican cathedral set crucifix carved out of the tree under which they buried the heart of the famous explorer.

Even today the city remains the economic, administrative and cultural center of the islands of Tanzania. Major sea port allows even approaching ocean ships, hence export of works on the island of clove oil and clove oil, coconut oil, copra. Stone Town is located in the residence of the first vice-president of Tanzania.
Tourists tend to swim in Stone Town on the ferry, which runs regularly from Dar es Salaam to Stone Town. Another way to "the island capital" Tanzania - Kisauni Airport where arriving by plane from other large cities.
In the old part of the city, most houses are 100-150 years longer, they laced balconies and carved doors and elegant porches often give similar to palaces. No wonder so enticing tourists walking (car is simply not drive!) Through the narrow winding streets of palaces, historical buildings, amazing coral stone houses, small shops, traditional Arab houses with turrets and ancient ruins.
The architecture of the city is not only influenced by Arabic and Indian culture, but also - and later - European, as well as trends of different religions in a small (1.5 to 2 km) Stone Town over 50 mosques, six Hindu temples, two Catholic churches.

Many buildings now fallen into disrepair, and some beautiful palaces, houses belonging to the sultans, and historical sites altogether destroyed, because due to the lack of funds is not properly maintained. But, nevertheless, in the city there are many old buildings and palaces that have survived to the present day, and they will no doubt be inspected by tourists.
One of these places - the Arab fort, built in the years 1710-1715 on the site of the old Portuguese fortifications. Today you can not only see itself fort, a collection of furniture and clothing, preserved since the days of the sultans, and eat, and even sleep. And sometimes in the premises of the fort for concerts and performances.
Perfectly preserved the famous Palace of Wonders - Beit El Adzhaib, built in 1883 for Sultan Said Bargasha marine engineer from Scotland. The palace was indeed filled with "incredible miracles": this is the first elevator in Zanzibar, and running water, and the "light Lenin!"
During the shortest war British Zanzibar for 45 minutes fired Palace of Wonders, and the owner gave up, and the Beit el-Adzhaib empty. For a long time in the Palace of the locals wanted to have historical or cultural museum, but later decided to just turn it into a restaurant - in the evening in the square at the Palace of Wonders zanzibariytsy sing, roast meat and rest.

Anglican Cathedral was built in the years 1873-1874 on the site where once traded slaves. It is interesting that at the time of its construction, the builders from the local community during the absence of the chief architect of the column installed at the entrance to the temple upside down! The eight columns are preserved in this way so far.
In Stone Town many other ancient and fascinating buildings - the Cathedral of St. Joseph, Christ Church Cathedral, a Hindu temple, a mosque of the Aga Khan and Malindi - one of the three mosques in East Africa with a conical minaret. The history of the "Blue Mosque": in the mid-70s of the last century after the proclamation of the Democratic Republic of Tanzania, the government has decided to please the people of Zanzibar Stone Town "national pool" in the open air, which was built on the site of the destroyed Blue Mosque. Naturally, this caused resentment of the local population, most of whom professed the Muslim religion. Apparently negative emotions were effective, as the pool is constantly leaking, despite the fact that it tried to "patch" for 20 years. As a result, in 1995, was rebuilt on the old site a new Blue Mosque, and you can view the current tourists.
In Stone Town is interesting to visit the National Museum, which will tell you the history of the islands, as well as the Palace Museum, where the situation remained the reign of the sultans. In the latter there is a room devoted to the daughter of Sultan Seida - Princess Salma, which in the 19th century to flee out of the palace with a German businessman.

Tanga

One of the major cities of Tanzania - Arabian port city of Tanga is situated on the Indian Ocean, near the border with Kenya. Opposite coast of Tanga - Pemba island, from which the city of the same name separated Strait. In comparison with other major African cities, Tanga offers serenity and comfort. In addition to the port in the city is an important railway junction, which connects the coast of Tanzania, with the central part of the country: here are the train in Dar es Salaam - Tanzania's economic capital, as well as to the African Great Lakes (Tanganyika and Victoria). For these reasons, Tang was one of the important centers of trade and exports: the port of trafficked goods such as tea, coffee, cotton and others. Here are the food-processing, textile, wood, metal industries, but most locals still engaged in agriculture and fishing. Currently, the city's population has decreased slightly due to the difficult economic situation, and is about 200 thousand.

The economy then a village began to develop in 1889, when the garrison houses the German East Africa, making the Tang capital of the German colony. Several years earlier, brought here agave (sisal), due to which it was to prosper and grow the local population. Subsequently, for transport to export station was built on the Usambara railway line, which ran up to the Kilimanjaro. This fact has also served as the economic development of the city.

Battle for Tanggu November 4, 1914 went down in history of World War I, British and Indian troops wanted by all means take the starting point of the Northern Railway, but German troops remained in the city, reflecting the onset of their number exceeded eight times, and dropping Anglo-Indian descent to the sea. But by 1916, in East Africa, the British arrived many reinforcements, and 17 July, Tang was taken. Currently preserved German war graves from that time.

Tang was granted city status in 1995, along with the municipalities of Mbeya and Mosha. The center of the port city, of course, is the harbor and its surroundings, there were built bars, shops and hotels, and only in the "high-rise" - building above eight floors. Yet Tang - the city, from where the quiet relaxing holiday. Located south of the Kenyan border, it is famous for the coastal zone, cozy parks, luxurious sandy beaches, surrounded by coconut palms and healing sulfur springs. And from the windows of the hotel, directly facing the ocean, you can enjoy stunning views of endless.
Settled along the shores of the whole fishing communities: interesting to observe the life and customs of the local people. Online fishermen across not only fish, but sea stars, crabs, and other representatives of the underwater world. Catch women undress and prepare here on the coast, and specialize in fresh seafood to tourists. It is also the fish market, and you can rent a boat and hand-made by going to the ocean for fishing or just swim under sail.
The architecture of the Tang, as in many other Tanzanian cities, there is a mixture of different cultures and traditions. There are ancient dilapidated walls of Arab houses and the ruins of the German colonial buildings. Walking the streets of Tanga secluded, be sure to turn in old German Park, where the building is preserved Arab construction, which is now a library. Also curious to see the memorials and monuments War. In the neighborhood you can see the church of St. George.

At 17 kilometers south of Tanga on the site of the port is a small village surrounded by amazing Tongoni palms with forked tops. It is believed that the village was founded by Shirazi - immigrants from Persia. Until the 12th century Tongoni was a thriving commercial center, but violated the Portuguese economic ties have led to its demise. Now there are ruins dating back to the 15th century - the remains of mosques and tombs. Under the branches of the mighty baobab trees are crumbling columns and stone graves, braided vines, reminding of the past greatness. Hence the great views and natural attractions - mangroves.
Near the town of Tanga is another must - caves Ambon. This is the most extensive limestone caves, formed about 150 million years ago. According to rumors, the length of stroke is about 200 kilometers, and from the underground system there are outlets in Kenya and in the region of Kilimanjaro. Speleological research in 1994 showed that the longest course is 900 meters long.
Tanzanian government to block access to the caves for safety purposes, but some of them are open to inspection by tourists. The height of these moves is 10 meters, and there are holes in the ceiling, through which the sunlight falls. Through these holes the same vines that grow on the bottom to the surface. Ambon caves are home to several colonies of bats meshkokrylyh family.
From this place involves a lot of stories that will tell the tourists guides from the local population. The local tribes still attached to the religious significance of the caves here and bring food and bottles of blood of animals.