Tanzania Geography: Location, Area, Borders & Climate

Tanzania is a country in East Africa, Africa, covering a total area of 945,087 km². It has a coastline of 1,424 km along the East Africa coast. Tanzania shares land borders with 8 countries.

📐 Geographic Statistics

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Continent
Africa
geographical continent
📍
Region
East Africa
sub-region
📐
Total Area
945,087 km²
land coverage
🏙️
Pop. Density
67/km²
people per km²
🌊
Coastline
1,424 km
total shore length
🕐
Timezone
UTC+3
UTC offset
🎂
Independence
1961
year established
🌡️
Climate
Tropical, varies by altitude
general type

Where is Tanzania Located?

Tanzania is situated in East Africa, within the broader continent of Africa. The country has a coastline of 1,424 km, providing access to maritime trade, fishing and coastal tourism. This geographic feature has been central to Tanzania's historical development and economic activity. The capital, Dodoma, serves as the country's administrative and economic centre. Within the East Africa region, Tanzania sits alongside countries including Kenya, Ethiopia, Burundi.

Size and Area of Tanzania

Tanzania covers a total area of 945,087 km², making it one of the smaller nations in the world. With a population of 63.7M across this territory, the population density works out at 67/km²: a moderate distribution of people across the country.

Climate of Tanzania

The climate of Tanzania is tropical, varies by altitude. The most favourable time to visit is June–October (dry season), January–February (calving), when conditions are most comfortable for travel and outdoor activities. Climate can vary considerably across different parts of the country; coastal areas, highlands and inland plains often experience quite different conditions. Travellers should research the specific region they plan to visit to plan appropriate clothing and activities.

🗺️ Countries Bordering Tanzania

Tanzania shares land borders with 8 countries: Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, DR Congo, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique. This large number of shared borders reflects Tanzania's central geographical position within East Africa.

Kenya
Kenya
Nairobi
Uganda
Uganda
Kampala
Rwanda
Rwanda
Kigali
Burundi
Burundi
Gitega
DR Congo
DR Congo
Kinshasa
Zambia
Zambia
Lusaka
Malawi
Malawi
Lilongwe
Mozambique
Mozambique
Maputo

Frequently Asked Questions about Tanzania's Geography

Where is Tanzania located?

Tanzania is located in East Africa, Africa. The capital city is Dodoma.

How large is Tanzania?

Tanzania has a total area of 945,087 km² with a population density of 67/km².

What countries border Tanzania?

Tanzania shares land borders with 8 countries: Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, DR Congo, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique.

Does Tanzania have a coastline?

Yes, Tanzania has a coastline of 1,424 km.

What is the climate of Tanzania?

The climate of Tanzania is Tropical, varies by altitude. The best time to visit is June–October (dry season), January–February (calving).

What timezone is Tanzania in?

Tanzania observes UTC+3 timezone.

What continent is Tanzania in?

Tanzania is in Africa, specifically in the East Africa region.

When did Tanzania become independent?

Tanzania gained independence in 1961.

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