Tanzania, a country renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and thriving wildlife, has become a rising hotspot for digital nomads. Whether you’re looking to work from the sandy beaches of Zanzibar or enjoy the bustling urban life of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania offers a unique combination of natural beauty and modern amenities. For digital nomads, this East African country offers not only an affordable cost of living but also the chance to explore some of the world’s most iconic wildlife and landscapes.
Table of Contents
- Why Tanzania is a Great Destination for Digital Nomads
- Top Cities for Digital Nomads in Tanzania
- Cost of Living in Tanzania
- Coworking Spaces in Tanzania
- Internet and Connectivity
- Getting Around in Tanzania
- Visa Options for Digital Nomads
- Things to Do in Tanzania
- Tips for Digital Nomads in Tanzania
- Conclusion
Why Tanzania is a Great Destination for Digital Nomads
- Affordable Living: Compared to many Western countries, Tanzania offers a relatively low cost of living, especially when it comes to accommodation and food.
- Natural Beauty: From Serengeti National Park to Mount Kilimanjaro, the natural landscapes in Tanzania are truly breathtaking.
- Cultural Heritage: Tanzania’s diverse cultural heritage makes it an exciting place for nomads to live and work while experiencing the local traditions.
- Growing Digital Community: Tanzania is starting to foster a growing digital ecosystem with coworking spaces, modern cafes, and events for entrepreneurs.
- Adventure Opportunities: Whether you’re into safaris, hiking, or enjoying the beaches, Tanzania provides an incredible opportunity for adventure in between your work hours.
Top Cities for Digital Nomads in Tanzania
- Dar es Salaam: The economic hub of Tanzania, offering a mix of business opportunities, coworking spaces, and beachfront relaxation.
- Zanzibar City: Known for its historic Stone Town, pristine beaches, and a more laid-back atmosphere ideal for remote workers.
- Arusha: The gateway to safaris, with a more relaxed vibe, great for those who want to be close to Tanzania’s wildlife parks.
- Moshi: Located near Mount Kilimanjaro, this town is perfect for those who want to combine remote work with the opportunity to climb Africa’s highest peak.
Cost of Living in Tanzania
Tanzania is an affordable country for digital nomads, especially when compared to Western countries. The cost of living is lower than in many parts of Africa, and you can live quite comfortably with a modest budget.
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation (1-bedroom apartment) | $200–$500 |
| Food and Dining | $150–$300 |
| Transportation | $30–$70 |
| Co-Working Space | $100–$250 |
| Entertainment and Leisure | $50–$150 |
Coworking Spaces in Tanzania
While Tanzania’s digital nomad scene is still growing, the key cities—particularly Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar—offer a number of great coworking spaces where you can find high-speed internet and a conducive working environment. Some of the most popular coworking spaces include:
| Co-Working Space | Location | Monthly Cost (USD) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Space | Dar es Salaam | $100–$200 | Stylish coworking space with high-speed internet and comfortable workstations. |
| Impact Hub Dar es Salaam | Dar es Salaam | $150–$250 | A global network of coworking spaces with a focus on social impact and innovation. |
| Zanzibar Coworking | Zanzibar City | $120–$220 | A relaxed but productive coworking space by the beach with great internet and community events. |
| Kijiji Co-Working | Arusha | $100–$200 | A cozy and friendly coworking space with an artistic vibe and fast internet. |
Internet and Connectivity
- Urban Areas: Major cities like Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar offer reliable internet, with speeds ranging from 10 to 20 Mbps, ideal for remote work. Most coworking spaces provide high-speed internet.
- Mobile Data: Tanzania has a good mobile data network. Major carriers like Vodacom and Tigo offer affordable plans, starting at $10 for 10GB of data. However, the coverage may vary in more remote areas.
- Public Wi-Fi: Many cafes, hotels, and restaurants in urban areas offer Wi-Fi, but it may not always be fast enough for heavy work. Relying on a coworking space or mobile hotspot is recommended for stability.
Getting Around in Tanzania
- Public Transport: Tanzania has a variety of transport options, including buses, taxis, and minibuses (known as “dala-dalas”), which are affordable and available in larger cities.
- Taxis and Rideshares: In major cities like Dar es Salaam, taxis and rideshare apps like Uber are available for easy travel.
- Bikes and Scooters: Zanzibar is becoming increasingly bike-friendly, with rentals available for tourists and residents alike.
- Car Rentals: Renting a car is possible, especially in larger cities or for trips to national parks, with prices ranging from $30 to $60 per day.
Visa Options for Digital Nomads
Tanzania offers a variety of visa options, making it relatively easy for digital nomads to live and work in the country.
- Tourist Visa: A single-entry tourist visa is available for up to 90 days, which can be extended for an additional 90 days.
- E-Visa: Tanzania offers an e-visa system, allowing travelers to apply online before arrival.
- Business Visa: If you plan to work as a freelancer or set up a business in Tanzania, you can apply for a business visa.
Pro Tip: It’s recommended to apply for an e-visa online before arriving for convenience.
Things to Do in Tanzania
- Go on a Safari: Tanzania is home to some of the best safaris in Africa, including trips to the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater.
- Climb Mount Kilimanjaro: If you’re adventurous, take the opportunity to climb Africa’s tallest peak while working remotely in Moshi.
- Visit Zanzibar: Explore the pristine beaches of Zanzibar, a perfect place to unwind after a week of remote work.
- Visit the Selous Game Reserve: For a more off-the-beaten-path safari experience, head to the Selous, one of the largest game reserves in Africa.
- Relax by Lake Tanganyika: Tanzania is home to the world’s second-largest freshwater lake, offering both relaxation and adventure in a scenic setting.
Tips for Digital Nomads in Tanzania
- Plan for Power Outages: Power cuts are not uncommon in Tanzania, especially during the rainy season. Keep a backup power bank or consider getting a generator if you’re in a remote area.
- Be Prepared for Heat: Tanzania’s climate can be hot, especially in coastal regions like Dar es Salaam, so dress accordingly and stay hydrated.
- Learn Swahili: While English is widely spoken, learning basic Swahili can help you connect better with locals.
- Take Advantage of Nature: Tanzania’s natural beauty is unmatched. Whether it’s the beaches of Zanzibar or the Serengeti, make time to explore after your workday.
- Stay Safe: Tanzania is relatively safe, but it’s important to exercise caution in busy areas, especially in larger cities like Dar es Salaam.
Conclusion
Tanzania offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and modern amenities for digital nomads. With its affordable cost of living, reliable internet, and endless opportunities for outdoor activities, it’s an ideal location for remote workers who want to experience Africa while still maintaining their work-life balance. Whether you’re working from a beachfront coworking space in Zanzibar or a bustling cafe in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania will provide a unique and memorable experience.
Ready to start your digital nomad journey in Tanzania? Book your flight and start planning your adventure today!