Home / Tanzania / Dodoma
Flag of Tanzania Capital of Tanzania

Dodoma

Dodoma is the capital city of Tanzania, a centrally located administrative hub that became the official capital in 1996. As the third largest city in Tanzania, it continues to grow as the country's political and economic centre.

Quick facts

Population
765,179 (city)
Currency
Tanzanian shilling (TZS)
Language
English, Swahili
Timezone
EAT (UTC+3)
Local time now
00:19:37

Hotels in Dodoma

Dodoma offers a range of accommodation options for visitors to Tanzania's capital city. Hotels such as Hotel Kitemba, Pahi Hotel, Best Western, Cana Lodge, and 8th Avenue Hotel provide lodging choices for travellers exploring the region. See all hotels →

Hotel Kitemba(new)
153 m from centre
Pahi Hotel
182 m from centre
Best Western
239 m from centre

Airports in Dodoma

Dodoma is served by Dodoma Airport for air travel connections. Msalato International Airport is currently under construction and will enhance the city's aviation infrastructure when completed. See all airports →

Car Hire in Dodoma

Car hire in Dodoma offers visitors and residents a convenient way to explore Tanzania's capital city. With facilities like IRDP Staff Car Parking-Dodoma available, you'll find practical options for vehicle rental and parking during your stay. See all car hire →

IRDP STAFF CAR PARKING-DODOMA
6.4 km from centre

Things to Do in Dodoma

Dodoma offers visitors a range of cultural and historical attractions to explore. From the Mashuja Monument to the Museum for Geoscience, the city provides insight into Tanzania's heritage and natural history. See all things to do →

mashuja monument
478 m from centre
Old Train
632 m from centre
Museum for Geoscience
822 m from centre
Kigamboni Mtaa
2.0 km from centre
CCM
6.1 km from centre
BI.MSIGWA HOSTEL
6.2 km from centre

Restaurants in Dodoma

Dodoma offers a variety of dining establishments for visitors and residents alike. From Hajusha and Zahir Restaurant to Baobab, Nureen, and Chef Asili, the city's restaurant scene provides options for different tastes and preferences. See all restaurants →

Hajusha
114 m from centre
Zahir Restaurant
191 m from centre
Baobab
218 m from centre

Swimming Pools in Dodoma

Dodoma offers swimming pool facilities for residents and visitors looking to enjoy water-based recreation. CBSL Swimming Pool is among the options available in the city for swimming and leisure activities. See all swimming pools →

CBSL SWIMMING POOL
5.6 km from centre

Spas in Dodoma

We're still gathering spas listings for Dodoma — check back soon.

Nightlife in Dodoma

We're still gathering nightlife listings for Dodoma — check back soon.

Bars in Dodoma

Dodoma offers a selection of bars and social venues for visitors and locals alike. Options include establishments such as Club nk, Pork joint bar, Avocado hotel, and Bobpaak juice, each providing different atmospheres for dining and entertainment. See all bars →

Avocado hotel
155 m from centre
Bobpaak juice
196 m from centre
Club nk
285 m from centre

Cafes in Dodoma

Dodoma offers a selection of local cafes and dining spots where you can enjoy refreshments and meals. Popular options include Sabasaba cafe, La Paz Cafe, Nice & Easy Cafe, Sunja, and Mamalishe restaurant, each providing their own atmosphere for visitors and residents alike. See all cafes →

Sabasaba cafe
113 m from centre
La Paz Cafe
fish_and_chips;local;pizza · 115 m from centre
Nice & Easy Cafe
152 m from centre

Shopping in Dodoma

Dodoma offers a variety of shopping options for visitors and residents alike. From established stores like IVYTREND STORE and Shoppers Plaza to local markets along Miganga North Road, you'll find a selection of goods and products throughout the city. See all shopping →

IVYTREND STORE
268 m from centre
Shoppers Plaza
1.9 km from centre
Kidachi to miganga North
4.1 km from centre

Nature & Wildlife in Dodoma

Dodoma offers opportunities to experience nature and wildlife in Tanzania's capital region. From Independence Square to the surrounding areas near key transport hubs like Arusha Express Station and ABC-bus terminal, visitors can explore the natural environment of this East African city. See all nature & wildlife →

Independence Square
436 m from centre
DUWASA Roundabout
679 m from centre
Arusha Express Station
1.2 km from centre
ABC-bus terminal
2.0 km from centre
Saluma Multtech Co. Ltd
2.0 km from centre
Azam Park
2.5 km from centre

Climate snapshot

Dodoma experiences a tropical highland climate with seasonal variations typical of central Tanzania. The city has distinct wet and dry seasons, with cooler temperatures due to its elevated location compared to coastal regions.

Interesting Facts About Dodoma — Weird & Wonderful

  • Dodoma became Tanzania's official capital in 1996, replacing Dar es Salaam, as part of a government plan to centralise the capital within the country for social and economic reasons.
  • In July 2024, Dodoma officially surpassed Arusha to become the third largest city in Tanzania by both infrastructure and population measures.
  • The city's population is projected to reach 1,000,000 by the end of 2026, showing rapid growth since the 2022 census count of 765,179.
  • The capital was deliberately moved to Dodoma's central location to better serve the nation's administrative needs across all regions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dodoma

What is the population of Dodoma?

As of 2022, Dodoma had a population of 765,179. The city is projected to reach 1,000,000 residents by the end of 2026.

When did Dodoma become Tanzania's capital?

Dodoma became the official capital of Tanzania in 1996, replacing Dar es Salaam. The government announced the move in 1974 to centralise the capital within the country.

Is Dodoma the largest city in Tanzania?

No, Dodoma is the third largest city in Tanzania as of July 2024. It surpassed Arusha in both infrastructure and population measures.

What timezone is Dodoma in?

Dodoma operates on Africa/Dar es Salaam timezone.

What is Dodoma's administrative region?

Dodoma is the administrative capital of both Dodoma Municipal Council and the entire Dodoma Region.

Map of Dodoma

View larger map · © OpenStreetMap contributors