
Shortly
after independence, Tanganyika and Zanzibar merged to form the
nation of Tanzania in 1964. One-party rule came to an end in
1995 with the first democratic elections held in the country
since the 1970s. Zanzibar's semi-autonomous status and popular
opposition have led to two contentious elections since 1995,
which the ruling party won despite international observers' claims
of voting irregularities.Location: Eastern Africa,
bordering the Indian Ocean, between Kenya and Mozambique Climate: Varies from
tropical along coast to temperate in highlands Borders: Burundi 451
km, Democratic Republic of the Congo 459 km, Kenya 769 km, Malawi
475 km, Mozambique 756 km, Rwanda 217 km, Uganda 396 km, Zambia
338 km More... The
United Republic of Tanzania lies on the Indian Ocean bordered
by Kenya, Uganda, Burundi, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of
Congo, Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique. The capital city and also
a major port, Dar es Salaam is the natural starting point for
trips in Tanzania. It is near Mount Kilimanjaro, Dodoma and the
nearby island of Zanzibar. Many beautiful beaches are within
easy reach of Dar es Salaam, such as those at Kunduchi, Mjimwena
and Mbwa Maji. Kunduchi, 24km (15 miles) north of the city, is
a fishing village with nearby ruins of Persian tombs and mosques.
The beautiful island of Zanzibar is only 20 minutes#8217; flight
from Dar es Salaam. Mount Kilimanjaro, at 5895m (19,341ft), Africa#8217;s
highest mountain is a major attraction for mountaineers. The
ascent takes about three days. Tanzania#8217;s national parks
extend over some 33,660 sq km (13,000 sq miles). The Serengeti
National Park is a plain-dwellers#8217; stronghold of 14,763
sq km (5678 sq miles), claimed to be the finest in Africa. Here
are 35 species of plain-dwelling animals, including wildebeest
and zebra, and also an extensive selection of birdlife. The Selous
Game Reserve is larger than Switzerland and covers one-sixth
of Tanzania#8217;s land surface. Generally, the nightlife centres
are in the top tourist hotels and restaurants.