Official political capital of Tanzania, Dodoma hosts the seat of the country's government. This city is considerably smaller and less developed than Dar Es Salaam, the economic capital. Surrounded by a rich agricultural zone and picturesque landscapes, Dodoma boasts numerous attractions that draw tourists spending time in the region.

Vine plantations and the wine industry occupy a prominent place in the city's tourism appeal. Dodoma is also renowned as a historical stopover where slaves and slave traders would rest before continuing their journeys to Dar es Salaam or other coastal areas.

A brief history of Dodoma

The city of Dodoma was founded in 1907 during the German colonial era. Its creation coincided with the opening of the Central Line railway.

In 1964, Tanzania gained its independence and Dodoma was designated official capital in 1973. The master plan for the new capital was established in 1986 by James Rossant, an American architect. The UN supported the implementation of the works. In February 1996, the National Assembly was transferred to Dodoma, though other official structures remain in Dar es Salaam.

Today

Dodoma is one of the administrative regions of the country. Located at the heart of the territory, it houses nearly all ministries as well as certain government authorities.

A cosmopolitan city, Dodoma is home to numerous places of worship. Christian churches and temples are predominant. Representations include the Catholic Church, the Anglican Communion, the Baptist World Alliance and the Assemblies of God. There are also Muslim mosques.

As for education, two universities are present in the metropolis: Dodoma University and St Johns University of Tanzania, both opened in 2007.

Must-see sites in Tanzania's capital

The Ismaili Mosque

The Jamatkhana or Ismaili Mosque stands directly across from the Anglican church. This impressive structure was built in 1954. It is used exclusively by the city's Ismaili Muslim community. When visiting the site, you'll be captivated by its neoclassical architecture with a British touch.

Lion Rock

This rocky hill is located approximately 45 minutes from the city, in the north-east section. It offers a beautiful view of the capital and provides a pleasant spot for a picnic with family, your partner, or friends. This natural attraction bears some resemblance to the famous animated film "The Lion King".

Kondoa Rock

Fond of rock art? The paintings at Kondoa Irangi will offer you an enjoyable visit during a stay in Dodoma. Head out on an excursion 9 km east along the main road to Babati. These cultural treasures are found in a series of rock shelters carved into a hillside overlooking the steppe. Some of them are over 50,000 years old. These frescoes depict animals, reclining humans and hunting scenes.

Activities to enjoy

Among the leisure activities available in Dodoma, a swim in Lake Hombolo is not to be missed. You can spend the day there and enjoy a peaceful, verdant setting.

A visit to the Cetawico wine caves is a highlight of your adventure. Dodoma is a wine-producing region. You'll be invited to taste the region's light wines.

While staying in the city, venture into the central market to mingle with locals and perhaps purchase typical products. You'll find, among other things, African masks, wooden chests and chairs, tapestries, folk musical instruments, bronze statuettes, glass paste beads, wooden sculptures and typical African fabrics.

For your lunches and dinners, savour local dishes in the city's restaurants. Order ugali accompanied by vegetables and meat stew. Enjoy Nyama Choma, which is based on beef and chicken grilled over charcoal. Exceptional dishes such as bananas or cassava seasoned with cinnamon and clove are also worth trying. Don't forget to taste seafood, including grilled lobster and squid or fish in coconut sauce.

From Dodoma, set out to discover some of Tanzania's finest tourist sites, notably the national parks. You can reach Arusha National Park, known for its rich wildlife, or Serengeti National Park, famous for its annual wildebeest migrations.

Practical information

When to visit Dodoma?

Dodoma experiences a desert climate. Throughout the year, the average temperature reaches 23°C. Average rainfall is approximately 486 mm per year. The best months to visit the region are April through November.

Where is Dodoma located?

Dodoma sits at the centre of Tanzania, approximately 450 km west of Dar es Salaam. It is positioned on a semi-arid plateau at an average altitude of 1,120 metres. This central location played a key role in its selection as the country's political capital.

Dodoma is connected to Dar es Salaam by highway via the Morogoro region. By train, the Central Line railway provides the link. For air travel, small aircraft serve the city's airport, with fairly limited traffic.