Rabia Mayet | rabiamayet@radioislam.co.za

05 April 2025

4-minute read

Heena Ismail grew up in the beautiful country of Tanzania and completed her university studies in Nairobi in Kenya. She lives with her parents and 4 siblings in Tanzania, working at the Shifa Hospital that her family oversees. Regarding her birthplace, Heena says there’s “nothing that beats Tanzania.”

South African tourists, like those for most other countries, can obtain a free visa on arrival in Tanzania. To skip the queues, Heena suggests applying for an e-visa online, which typically allows one to stay for 90 days.

Tanzania has a large Muslim population and the best cities to explore for a blend of modern and traditional Tanzania are Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar. The Bakwata Islamic Foundation is a well-established organization that has a beautifully built marble masjid in Dar es Salaam and another famous masjid in the city is the Malindi Mosque. In Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, one can explore the House of Wonders and the Old Fort.

Mt Kilimanjaro, one of Africa’s “most iconic landmarks,” stands 5895m high and can be accessed via many routes for mountain climbers, each providing a unique climbing experience for different levels of fitness. Unlike the Himalayas’, climbing Kilimanjaro does not require any technical skills and is suitable for anyone with a good level of fitness. “Reaching the peak is an unforgettable experience,” says Heena.

Tanzania is also home to some of the worlds most treasured national parks and the world’s largest game reserve: the Selous Game Reserve, which houses a diverse range of wildlife like rhinos, hippos, elephants, girraffe, and many other species. The Serengeti is world renowned for the annual migration of wildebeest, gazelles and zebras, and is a must for wildlife enthusiasts wanting to get up close with big game like lions, elephants and cheetahs.

Lake Tanganika, located in the Western region of Tanzania, is the second deepest lake in the world, and offers activities like snorkelling, scuba diving and fishing. It is also home to unique marine life not found in any other natural lake.

While there is no winter in Tanzania, the rainy period runs from March to May ,and the hottest weather is experienced from November to February.  Between June and August is the ideal time to visit the Serengeti as the migration occurs then, but for water-lovers, the sea is rough and choppy during this period.

Some of the most beautiful beaches in Zanzibar include Nungwi and Kendwa, both of which boast white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Another nearby island, Pemba, offers a more secluded beach experience while Ras Mbsiba beach on the mainland is a hidden gem. Scuba diving, kitesurfing, sailing and jet-skiing are some of the more common water-sports on offer, with fantastic opportunities to view marine life through diving and snorkelling excursions.

Similar to the taxi mini-buses used in South Africa, cheap local public transport in Tanzania includes the Dala-Dala. However, Uber or Bolt is also very affordable, and car rental is an option for those doing a lot of travelling within the country. The Tazara Railway is a bi-national rail line connecting Dar es Salaam with Zambia, and the recently built high-speed trains that run throughout the country are also easy to access and a good way of see most of Tanzania. Ferry companies travel between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar, or alternatively, a short flight can be taken from the mainland to one of the islands.

Traditional dishes in Tanzania are influenced by its large Muslim population with an abundance of halal cuisine being available. Foods like Ugali, a maize based dish served with meat or vegetables; Sukuma, a popular food made with beans; Zanzibari pilau, a rice dish served with meat or fish; and mandazi, a type of fried donut typically eaten at breakfast, are some of the more common foods served in Tanzania.

The Tanzanian shilling is the currency used but poverty is the greatest challenge in the country, with many people having limited access to food and water. From farming to fishing, building, and manufacturing, Tanzania offers many opportunities for investments.

Listen to the full interview on The Early Breakfast Program.