The United Republic of Tanzania was formed out of two sovereign states: Tanganyika and Zanizibar. On the 9th of December 1961, Tanganyika became an independent state and became a Republic in the following year. Zanzibar became an independent republic after the revolution of 12th January 1964. The two sovereingn republics formed the United Republic of Tanganyika and Zanzibar on 26th April but was then renamed The United Republic of Tanzania on 29th October 1964.

Tanzania is situated in Eastern Africa bordering the Indian Ocean between Kenya and Mozambique. A country vast and varied, it encompasses 945,087 square kilometers including the islands of Zanzibar, Pemba and Mafia. It boasts some of the finest wildlife sanctuaries in the world. Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Mount Kilimanjaro, Mikumi, Ruaha and the Selous.

The country has a population of approximately 38 million, taking in African, Asian, Arab and European cultures, Muslim, Christian and indigenous beliefs. There are more than 120 tribes and over 100 different dialects spoken in Tanzania, but all tribes speak Kiswahili. The main languages spoken are Kiswahili and English.

The city of Dar es Salaam (Haven of Peace), is the commercial capital and your point of arrival to Tanzania. Situated on the Indian Ocean, Dar es Salaam is the largest city in the country. It is vibrant, friendly, colourful, with sweeping white beaches, bustling streets, and markets which offer many exciting shopping opportunities.