Tanzania is one of the most diverse places I’ve ever been to on this planet. The Indian Ocean in the east, Lake Victoria in the west, Kilimanjaro Mountain in the north, a range of world famous national parks across the entire country and the colorful people to complete the picture. After having completed at least 20 trips to East Africa over the past 8 years, every time there is something new I discover.

Work ethic and business relations

I would describe Tanzanians as super friendly, approachable and on their way to having a modern business environment. Whilst during my first trips to Africa, I noticed a range of opportunities to provide assistance (e.g. Risk Management, Business Continuity and Information Security process implementations), and I now see a lot of ISO standards and other best practices being commonly applied. Certain skills like mediation, negotiation, and decision-making, I would actually describe as far more advanced than in most other global regions. I certainly have learned at least as much as what I have contributed to Tanzania!

The right taste of Tanzania

When in Tanzania, I would highly suggest saving room for authentic Tanzanian food.

With a fixed menu the Tea House restaurant gives you the opportunity to taste the most delicious traditional foods and drinks full of flavor and spice while enjoying an amazing aura and fantastic view.

It is a little bit more expensive than the others, but this restaurant is not only about the food or drinks; it is the location that makes it unique. An old African house transformed into a hotel with the restaurant on the top floor, where you can enjoy the gorgeous view over the stone town and the Indian Ocean, especially into the sunset hours. While serving, the staff shares interesting stories about the Tanzanian culture and tradition, which gives you the feeling of the history of the town is being brought alive. To make the experience even more booming and magical, musicians from Dhow Country Music Academy play during the dinner, unquestionably bringing a sparkle to the rest of the evening. It is good to know that there are only twelve tables in the restaurant, therefore, dinner is by reservation only.

Some of the highlights I’ve experienced when staying in Dar es Salaam, include: Staying at the Slipway Hotel a very relaxed place with views of the bay. The hotel has a great relaxed vibe, nice ocean view rooms, a range of local handicraft stalls, and a number of waterfront bars and restaurants. My favorite sunset restaurant in the hotel area is Thai Kani. Enjoy their fabulous cocktails and grilled tuna satay!

Serena Dar es Salaam is also an excellent hotel if you want to be more close to the hustle and bustle. The nearby rooftop bar ‘High Spirit’ is fun for sundowners. On Friday night I recommend the live African band at Trinity in Oyster Bay.

If you want to head out to the bush, be sure to head out to Saadani National Park where the game park meets the ocean. Stay at Kisampa (3.5 hours north of Dar es Salaam) for a night under the starlit sky and the next night book in at Simply Saadani lodge. A magical experience!

It is true that Tanzania is a country of amazing beauty & unique wonders, and that is why it is a regular destination for many travelers. Also, it is one of the highly chosen volunteering destinations. The country has a fascinating number of wildlife convergence and lots of thrilling activities to do, which is a known fact amongst many.