Being a Digital Nomad in Tanzania

Overview

Today I want to share my experience of what it is like to be a digital nomad in Tanzania. I completed my bachelor's degree almost entirely online in Tanzania. This was great because it allowed me the opportunity to travel TZ while studying. Along the way I certainly had my fair share of challenges. The country's infrastructure is suitable for digital nomadism. Nice accommodations can be found from 15-20$ a night that offers enough space to do meetings and other work. As for the internet, because Tanzania is still a developing country with relatively low digital literacy Wifi is rarely available except for rich tourist destinations. To get around this I typically used a mobile hotspot. This hotspot has much lower speeds than internet in America and occasionally did not work. I recommend Tigo for its affordability. Rolling blackouts are common in Tanzania which is something to consider. Download speeds can also be very slow.

Legality issues

When it comes to legality digital nomads, they are very much in the grey when in Tanzania. As far as I know, there is no visa for digital nomads, and locals and government officials may not understand or accept the concept of working around the world from a computer. The reality is that if you are earning money while in Tanzania most people will want you to share their money with them one way or another…

If you can do your work in Dar go a neighborhood like Masaki, in the Uswahilini (Ghetto) you can find problems and nosey people. One time at the bar I frequented to do my school work some curious officials including an immigration officer, a police officer, and a local government official came to see what I was doing. Luckily I was not present at the bar when they arrived. This taught me something very important - You don’t need to tell people your business… Especially as a foreigner in Tanzania!

Best places to go

Places like Zanzibar, Arusha, and Moshi would be the best because there will be other foreigners and be less suspicious to see you using your computer regularly. These are also very beautiful and developed tourist destinations so make sure you have a lot of fun!

Best Visa

I would recommend entering Tanzania on a tourist visa, because realistically that is what you are. Even though you may be working online don’t be afraid to let it be known “I’m a Tourist”. A tourist Visa lasts 90 days and costs 50$ for most nationalities. If you’re an American like me you CAN NOT buy a single entry visa. Instead, you need to buy the one-year multiple entry visa for 100$. With this Visa you can enter the country for periods of 90 days for the year. I have saved time and money with this visa, I would highly recommend if you want to frequent Tz.