Though Dar es Salaam is arguably the business and financial capital of Tanzania, Dodoma is the official political capital of the country, having taken the title from Dar in the 1970s when Dar was seen as too “geographically peripheral.” Today, though Tanzania’s parliament meets in Dodoma, many ministers and government officers still spend much of their time in Dar es Salaam.
Though not necessarily a highlight of most itineraries, Dodoma is gaining popularity for its growing wine industry. In fact, it’s one of the few places in all of East Africa where wine is made. Still, located in the middle of Tanzania’s center, near the eastern part of the southern highland area, Dodoma cannot be reached by flight, making access somewhat difficult.
If you’re set on visiting, both Dodoma Hotel and the Kilimanjaro Villa Guesthouse are recommended accommodations.