Dodoma is one of the top tourist locations in Tanzania and East Africa. The city was custom built as the political capital of the country, and is located 500 km away from the coast. Here is a list of some of the best attractions and beautiful places that visitors must see in Dodoma.
- The Bunge
The Bunge is the name of the Parliament buildings. This African styled site is one of the best attractions of the city as it can be visited during sessions, which is a unique experience for tourists.
- Nyerere Square
Nyerere Square is one of the top attractions of Dodoma as it is a historic landmark. It used to be a local market but was then built into a town square, with a statue of Julius Kambarage Nyerere, the founder of Tanzania. Tourists can explore the park and learn about the history of the country, and the life and achievements of Julius Nyerere.
- Catholic Cathedral
Dodoma is home to some beautiful churches and cathedrals that one can visit. The enormous Catholic Cathedral is known for its Roman style mosaics that show images of saints. Visitors can also take a trip to the domed Anglican church, or the modernist Lutheran cathedral. The churches are free to visit, and can help tourists feel a sense of peace and reverence, while also enjoying the beauty of the architecture.
- Dodoma Skate Park
Dodoma Skate Park was built to provide a safe, healthy, and nurturing environment for local youth to engage in exciting sports and healthy activities. This family friendly location is a great place to visit as it is home to over 200 skate-boarders, and is a great spot for having fun.
- Gaddafi Mosque
With space for up to 4500 worshippers, Gaddafi Mosque is one of the largest mosques of East Africa. The pink mosque is located right at the centre of the city, and attracts lots of visitors because of its impressive, beautiful design. One can also visit the unique Jamatkhana Ismaili mosque which has a neoclassical British design!
- Simba Hill
Tourists can visit Simba Hill, also known as Mlimwa, or Lion Rock, for a rocky and exciting hike. After a great trekking experience, travellers can enjoy a stunning and breathtaking aerial view of the city.
- Isanga Vineyards
In the 1960s, a 4-5 acre vineyard was planted in Isanga Prison as the first such plantation in the Kondoa region of Dodoma district. Visitors can find fresh fruits such as mangoes, bananas, and plums here, and observe as grapes are used to make red, white, and rosé wine.
- Kondoa Irangi
Within the Dodoma district, tourists can take a trip to Kondoa Irangi, a series of caves carved into a hillside. The Kondoa Irangi rock paintings are said to be over 50000 years old. The 150-450 decorated rocks show ancient Kolo rock paintings. At this famous location, tourists can enjoy various experiences such as interacting with local storytellers, visiting a traditional home, or taking a walking or cycling tour of the village!
- Gogo Villages
From Dodoma, tourists can take a day trip to enjoy a cultural tour in a village inhabited by the Gogo, a lively Bantu ethnolinguistic group. At Zepisa or Chamwino, tourists can interact with the indigenous locals, learn about their agricultural lifestyle, and join them in their dancing and drum music. Tourists can also eat and celebrate their local food!