Geography
The United Republic of Tanzania lies on the Indian Ocean and is bordered by Kenya and Uganda to the North, Burundi, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo to the west, and by Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique to the south. The Tanzania mainland is divided into several clearly defined regions - the coastal plains, which have lush tropical vegetation, the Maasai steppe in the north, 200 - 1000 meters (700 - 3500 feet) above sea level, and a high plateau in the south towards Zambia and Lake Nyasa. Savannah and bush cover for the remaining land area. Volcanic highlands can be seen in the Northeast and southwest of the country. Over 53,000 square Km of inland water, mostly lakes formed in the Great rift valley. The United Republic of Tanzania included the Islands of Zanzibar and Pemba, about 45 Km (23 miles) off the coast to the Northeast of the Country.

Capital City Commercial capital: Dar es Salaam
Administrative Capital: Dodoma

Climate
The climate is tropical and coastal area are usually hot and humid but regulated by sea breezes. There are two season of rain in Tanzania: the long rain usually occur from late March until June and short rains fall in heavy downpours, often accompanied by violent storms. The short rains tend to be much less severe. The hottest time of the year is December to March and the coolest months are June, July and August. In high altitude areas such as Kilimanjaro or the Ngorongoro Highlands temperatures can fall below freezing.

International Airports
Dar es Salaam International is 15km southwest of the city ( time downtown 25 minutes). Airport facilities include duty- free shop, car hire, post office, banking and bureau de change, a bar and restaurant.
Zanzibar International Airport is approximately 7 km from the center of Stone Town ( time downtown15 minutes). Facilities include restaurant and bureau de change.
Kilimanjaro International Airport lies 40km from Arusha (time downtown 1 hour). Facilities include shops, post office, bar and restaurant. There are shuttle bus services to both Arusha and Moshi.

Health
As requirements and regulations are subject to change at short notice, visitors are requested to contact their nearest Tanzanian Diplomatic Mission or Travel Health Advisor well in advance of their intended date of departure.