Tanzania, located in eastern Africa on the Indian Ocean, is a country with an area of 947,300 sq km. It shares its longest borders with Kenya and Mozambique, and also borders Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Malawi, Rwanda, Uganda, and Zambia. This diverse nation offers a unique blend of African, Arab, European, and Indian cultural influences, making it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads alike.
Imagine waking up to the gentle lull of the Indian Ocean, spending your lunch break on a safari adventure, or sipping locally grown coffee as you click away on your laptop. This is the alluring daily rhythm for digital nomads who have chosen Tanzania as their remote work base. With its rich cultural tapestry, breathtaking landscapes, and burgeoning tech scene, Tanzania is increasingly catching the eye of location-independent professionals.
But, as with any destination, the experience comes with its unique set of advantages and challenges. Let's dive into what makes Tanzania a compelling choice for digital nomads and what you should consider before packing your bags and jet-setting to this East African gem.
Where Is Tanzania?
To the east, Tanzania is bordered by the Indian Ocean. Three of Africa’s largest lakes also border sections of the country: Lake Victoria in the north, Lake Tanganyika in the west, and Lake Nyasa in the southwest.
Tanzania is made up of three geographical regions: the islands and coastal plains in the east, a saucer-shaped plateau in the center and west, and the highlands in the northeast. Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest point in Africa standing at 5,895m, lies in these northeastern highlands. Another special geographical feature is the Great Rift Valley, which cuts through the center of the country.
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From Tropical to Temperate: Tanzania’s Climate
Tanzania’s climate varies from tropical in the coastal areas to temperate in the highlands. In the coastal plains and plateau regions, temperatures range from 25-31°C during the hottest months (November - February) and 15-20°C in the coldest months (May - August). Temperatures in the highlands range between 10-20°C.
Some areas in Tanzania have only one rainy season per year, while others have two. The southern, southwestern, central and western parts of the country have a single rainy season, which lasts from December to April. The northern region of the country, including Dar es Salaam and Arusha, has two annual rainy seasons. People living in this area of Tanzania distinguish between the short rains (Vuli) from October to December and the long rains (Masika) from March to May.
Culture and Demographics
There are about 55.5 million people living in Tanzania. In the five decades since its independence, Tanzania’s population has almost quintupled. The population is particularly concentrated in Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar City and their metro areas. Despite these urban centers, just under 70% of the people living in Tanzania still reside in rural areas.
Tanzania is one of the most diverse countries in Africa. On the mainland, around 99% of the population is ethnically African, coming from over 120 different tribes, almost all of them Bantu. On Zanzibar, the people are of Arab, African, or mixed Arab and African descent. On the mainland, the population is almost evenly split between Islam, Christianity (mostly Roman Catholicism), and indigenous religions. Over 99% of the population of Zanzibar is Muslim.
Life in Tanzania is characterized by a mix of African, Arab, European and Indian cultural influences. Kiswahili (Swahili) and English are both official languages. Kiswahili is the lingua franca of central and eastern Africa and the country’s unifying language. Most people living in Tanzania speak one of the 158 local languages as their first language. Arabic is widely spoken on Zanzibar. English is the primary language of business, government administration, and higher education.
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Pros of Living in Tanzania as a Digital Nomad
One of the most significant draws to Tanzania is undoubtedly its cost of living. Compared to Western standards, housing, food, and transportation are relatively affordable, allowing digital nomads to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.
For those seeking inspiration beyond the office walls, Tanzania's natural beauty is unmatched. From the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro to the serene beaches of Zanzibar, there's no shortage of weekend getaways to recharge your creative batteries. Digital nomad, Sarah Johnson, shares, "After a week of deadlines, there's nothing more rejuvenating than a quick trip to see the wildlife in Serengeti or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters off Mafia Island."
The Tanzanian people's warmth and hospitality also make settling in a breeze. English is widely spoken, especially in urban areas and tourist spots, easing communication. Plus, the local cuisine, with its mix of African, Arab, and Indian influences, is a delightful experience for food-loving nomads.
Expats in Tanzania appreciate the warm hospitality of the local people, the vibrant culture and the beautiful landscapes. They also enjoy the diverse range of activities available, from safaris to exploring the country's many national parks. The country's rich history and culture is also a draw for many expats, with its unique blend of African, Arab and Indian influences.
Cons of Living in Tanzania as a Digital Nomad
However, life in Tanzania isn't without its hurdles. Internet connectivity can be a significant concern, with speeds and reliability lagging behind more developed digital nomad hubs. While urban centers like Dar es Salaam and Arusha offer decent connectivity, more remote areas may pose challenges for those whose work demands constant, high-speed internet.
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Infrastructure can also be a mixed bag. Power outages are not uncommon, and while many establishments have generators, it's something to be prepared for. Additionally, the tropical climate brings with it a heavy rainy season, which can impact travel plans and even day-to-day activities.
Lastly, navigating the legalities of visas and work permits can be daunting. Tanzania's immigration policies for digital nomads are not as clear-cut as in some countries, which have specific visas for remote workers. It's essential to do thorough research and perhaps consult with legal experts to ensure compliance with local laws.
Expats in Tanzania often find the local culture to be quite different from their own, which can be challenging to adjust to. Language barriers can be a challenge, as English is not widely spoken in Tanzania. Additionally, the local customs and traditions can be difficult to understand and navigate. Expats may also find the pace of life in Tanzania to be slower than what they are used to, which can be difficult to adjust to.
You are charged higher prices than the locals and if you don't speak language that makes it more difficult. The people are very friendly but you must be aware that you can't trust anyone out here, while they are smiling they are robbing you too. They see all foreigners as people to make money from. If you are a single women out here it is looked down on, they think there is something wrong with you not having a man.
Health and Safety in Tanzania
Before you begin your life in Tanzania, you will want to make sure you take the proper medical precautions. The risk of catching a serious infectious disease is quite high. These diseases include hepatitis A, typhoid fever, yellow fever, malaria, dengue fever, and rabies. The HIV/AIDS rate in the country is also quite high at 4.7% of the population.
In addition to checking that all your routine vaccinations are up to date, you should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A and typhoid fever. Other vaccines to consider are Hepatitis B, yellow fever, and rabies (if you will be in contact with animals). Talk with your doctor about the best anti-malarial medicine option for you and whether you need to start taking it before your departure.
Once you start living in Tanzania, be sure not to drink the tap water, as it is full of bacteria and parasites. Many expats get water filtration systems installed in their homes to minimize the risk of contracting waterborne diseases. Malaria-carrying mosquitoes are another big problem. In addition to taking anti-malarial medicine, getting your home regularly sprayed against mosquitoes, sleeping under mosquito netting, and using insect repellant are other precautionary measures you can take. Remember that May through July is considered high malaria season in Tanzania.
Medical Facilities Not Up to Scratch?
The quality of local medical facilities in Tanzania is often well below the standard of those in Western countries. Most expats visit an expat health clinic in their city of residence when they are in need of medical care. For more serious cases, you will be transferred to Nairobi or Johannesburg. To get you started after your arrival, it’s a good idea to bring along a few months’ worth of any prescription medications you require.
Health Insurance
There are two public health insurance schemes in Tanzania. The first is the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), which is mandatory for all public sector employees and voluntary for private sector employees. The contribution is 3% from the employer and 3% from the employee. Signing up for the Social Health Insurance Benefit (SHIB) is voluntary for members of the National Social Security Fund (NSSF). Despite requiring no extra contributions, only about 10% of NSSF members participate in SHIB, due to its relatively small network of healthcare facilities and limited range of coverage.
You will have to discuss with your employer whether or not you will receive any public health insurance coverage during your stay in Tanzania. Either way, it is strongly advisable to sign up for a comprehensive private health insurance plan either on your own with an international insurance company or through your company. Make sure that you know exactly what your plan covers and that full medical evacuation insurance is included in your plan.
Rising Crime Rates in the Commercial Capital
Although generally considered safer than many other African countries, crime rates in Tanzania are unfortunately on the rise, especially in Dar es Salaam. Expats should rent a house or apartment in a gated compound with 24-hour security guards and an alarm system, as robberies are common. Pickpocketing and theft is a frequent problem on public transportation and in city centers. The number of violent crimes and homicides has also been increasing.
Use your common sense whenever you are out and about. Do not walk around at night. Make sure you know how to get immediate help in any situation. Have your embassy or consulate’s contact information with you at all times, as well as your doctor’s contact information, and know where the nearest hospital or medical facility is. Women should dress modestly, especially on Zanzibar, to avoid harassment.
Tanzanians are a friendly people and will usually be willing to help, but you should also be careful not to let yourself be taken advantage of. It is not unusual for locals, even the police, to ask for money and bribes. They know that expats generally have more money than they do and are not afraid to ask for some. Many expats and tourists fall victim to frauds and scams.
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House Hunting: What You Need to Know
Expats generally rent an apartment or house during their stay in Tanzania. As the government owns all the land, buying property isn’t an option, although the government can lease it out for a period of up to 99 years. Good housing options which are up to Western standards can be found in the major urban centers such as Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Zanzibar. When negotiating your contract, it is very important to find out if your accommodation is included, as expat housing can be exorbitantly expensive, especially in Dar es Salaam.
It is usually a good idea to wait until you can visit a house or apartment personally before you sign a rental contract. You can either find housing on a previous visit before your actual move or initially live in temporary housing and search for a home after you have arrived in Tanzania.
There are several ways to go about finding an apartment or house in Tanzania. You can check online ads or the ads at shopping centers or in local newspapers. Expat forums and talking to other expats you meet once you have arrived is also a good option. Alternatively, you could have a real estate agent drive you around and show you different possibilities. How secure is the compound? Once you’ve found a place that fulfills all your criteria, it’s time to settle on a rental price. Remember, bargaining is part of Tanzanian culture, so it can’t hurt to try to lower the price for your accommodations. Many landlords will require a year’s rent up front, but this is also negotiable. See if you can pay your rent in three or six-month installments instead. And finally, make sure there is a written contract, whether it is drawn up by you or your landlord.
A typical expat home or apartment in Dar es Salaam, is often located in a safe and secure neighborhood, such as Masaki, Oyster Bay, or Mikocheni. These homes are usually spacious, with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, and are often furnished with modern amenities. They may have air conditioning, reliable electricity, and access to clean water. Many expat homes also feature a garden or outdoor space, as well as a swimming pool or access to a shared pool in a residential complex. Security is a priority, so these homes are often situated within gated communities or have their own security measures, such as high walls, electric fences, and security guards.
Hiring Household Help
One thing that many expats in Africa come to appreciate is the ease of hiring one or more local Tanzanians to help with the running of their household. Most expat families have a housekeeper and/or nanny and a cook, in addition to one or more security guards. Even if it may seem strange to you and you don’t think you need anyone to help out with the household, it is almost seen as a social obligation for expats in Tanzania to employ household help, as it is inexpensive (by expat standards) and you are providing much-needed jobs for the local population.
International Schools: Get On the Ball
There are a number of excellent international schools in Tanzania. The most popular schools are often overbooked, so it’s important to apply for a spot as soon as possible. When applying, you will require your child’s birth certificate and a copy of their school records.
The International School of Tanganyika (IST) is a top international school in Dar es Salaam, offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) program for students aged 3 to 19. The school has two campuses, one for elementary students and another for secondary students. IST is known for its diverse student body, experienced faculty, and strong emphasis on community service.
Haven of Peace Academy (HOPAC) is another well-regarded international school in Dar es Salaam, providing a Christian-based education for students from kindergarten to grade 12. HOPAC follows the Cambridge International Curriculum and offers a wide range of extracurricular activities.
The Aga Khan Mzizima Secondary School is a bilingual school in Dar es Salaam, offering both the Tanzanian National Curriculum and the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE). The school is known for its strong academic performance and commitment to developing well-rounded students.
École Française de Dar es Salaam is a French international school that offers a bilingual education in French and English. The school follows the French National Curriculum and caters to students from preschool to high school. The school is known for its strong emphasis on language learning and cultural exchange.
The British International School of Dar es Salaam offers a British-style education for students aged 2 to 16. The school follows the English National Curriculum and offers the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) and International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE). The school is known for its small class sizes and personalized approach to learning.
The Dar es Salaam International Academy (DIA) is an international school that offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program for students aged 2 to 18. DIA is known for its diverse student body, experienced faculty, and commitment to academic excellence.
If you are coming to Tanzania with under school-age children, there are several childcare options available. Many of the international schools offer classes for children of three years and older. In addition, as mentioned in the previous section, most expat families hire a nanny to help look after the kids.
This person will sometimes also help with the cooking, laundry, and other household tasks, depending on what you decide and what other household help you hire. Having a nanny is also helpful for older children, as school often only lasts until early afternoon, although many schools offer after-school activities.
Cost of Living
If you are thinking about moving to Dar es Salaam, cost of living in probably a key consideration.
The average cost of housing in Dar es Salaam, can vary greatly depending on the location, size, and type of property. In general, the cost of housing in the city ranges from affordable to moderately expensive. For instance, renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center may cost around $300 to $500 per month, while a similar apartment outside the city center may cost around $150 to $300 per month.
The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,000-$1,500 USD per month. This includes rent, food, transportation, and other expenses.
Packing Essentials
When moving to Dar es Salaam, you should pack lightweight and breathable clothing, as the climate is hot and humid. Include a mix of short-sleeved shirts, long-sleeved shirts, shorts, and long pants to accommodate various activities and dress codes.
Pack comfortable and sturdy footwear, such as sandals, walking shoes, and closed-toe shoes for more formal occasions. Bring a reusable water bottle, as tap water is not safe to drink in Tanzania. Pack a basic first aid kit, including band-aids, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, and any prescription medications you may need.
Bring a power adapter and voltage converter, as Tanzania uses a different electrical system than many other countries. Pack important documents, such as your passport, visa, travel insurance, and any necessary vaccination records. Bring toiletries, such as toothpaste, toothbrush, shampoo, conditioner, soap, and any other personal care items you may need.
Staying Connected
Expats in Dar es Salaam often join clubs and activities such as the International Women's Club, the Dar es Salaam Yacht Club, and the Dar es Salaam International School. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as art exhibitions, music festivals, and sports matches.
Challenges and Rewards
Despite these challenges, many digital nomads find the trade-offs well worth it. The opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich tapestry of Tanzanian culture, the proximity to nature's wonders, and the lower provide a unique and fulfilling experience. As with any international move, it's crucial to weigh these pros and cons carefully to ensure that Tanzania is the right fit for your digital nomad lifestyle.
Life for expats and digital nomads in Dar es Salaam is generally quite pleasant. The city is known for its vibrant culture, friendly locals, and stunning beaches. Expats and digital nomads can find a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury apartments to budget-friendly hostels. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The city also offers a variety of activities, from exploring the local markets to taking part in outdoor activities such as hiking and snorkeling.
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