Discovering Dodoma: Unveiling the Hidden Charms of Tanzania's Capital

 

Embark on a Journey Through Scenic Hills,

Culinary Delights, and Rich Culture in
Dodoma

Greetings, dear readers! Welcome back to our global escapades with Pennywise and Passport Foolish, where we traverse the world on a shoestring budget. Today, our compass points towards the land that made me Idodomeya, and within its embrace, we find ourselves captivated by the enchanting city of love and treasure.

While Dodoma might not be a typical tourist attraction, the hidden gems within its borders promise an adventure waiting to be uncovered. "East, West, Home is the best," and that's why a cup of tea from Sherry’s Café tastes a lot better than the hot coffee in Milan.

If you have a penchant for hiking, then Dodoma is your haven. Growing up in this beautiful city, hiking to Area D and conquering the mountaintop was our favorite pastime. While the prime minister's office now stands where our mountain once thrived, fear not! Zuzu, Magareza, and other hills still offer breathtaking hikes.

During the rainy season, don't miss out on the magic of Lake Bubu or Surangai, as the locals fondly call it, just an hour away from Dodoma. Its scenic beauty is Instagram-ready, providing a backdrop for countless memorable pictures.

 

And if you're feeling adventurous, drive an extra 30 minutes from Lake Bubu to reach the heart of Tanzania, near Kilimatinde, my birthplace. Here, you'll witness the awe-inspiring views of the Rift Valley and may even stumble upon the graves of German soldiers from World War I.

For a taste of traditional food and local life, visit the village of Maweni. Live like the locals, savor their cuisine, and immerse yourself in their rich history, all on a budget of $25 a day. The most enchanting experience awaits you under a night-born fire, surrounded by hundreds of stars. June to August might bring chilly nights, but it's the perfect time to embrace the cold and discover the warmth of Dodoma.

Dodoma is not just a feast for the eyes; it's a culinary delight too. Indulge in street foods like Chips Mayai, a Tanzanian potato frittata, and relish wild fruits like furu, ngweru, and ubuyu. The region is a wine lover's paradise, as most East African wines source their grapes from Dodoma. 

Take a 30-minute ride to Mpunguzi for miles of picturesque vineyards and the most delicious grapes. During harvest season, treat yourself to the local wine, available at ALKO Vintage Co. Ltd. For a complete experience, head to the Hut of Wine & Cheese or Collina Restaurant and Wine Bar to quench your thirst.

If you find yourself in Dodoma on a Saturday, make sure to attend Mnadani hosting a BBQ festival every week. This Nyama choma-style (East African BBQ) event boasts the tastiest meats in the country. Before bidding farewell, wind up your adventure with a cup of coffee from Sherry’s Café, offering a 5-star café vibe at local, budget-friendly prices.

While there are no direct international flights to Dodoma, the journey is part of the adventure. Fly into Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, or Zanzibar, and embark on a 6 to 8-hour road trip from Dar. Alternatively, take a bus for $20 to $30, a 10-hour scenic route, or opt for a one-hour flight from Dar to Dodoma for $100 to $130 one way.

With an open heart, thank you for visiting our humble city. Dodoma may not be on every tourist's bucket list, but its charm and offerings are well worth the visit. Until next time, Karibu Idodomeya  welcome to our extraordinary city!