We spent a few days in Morogoro, a vibrant “hidden gem” in eastern Tanzania, known for its lush scenery and proximity to the Uluguru Mountains. It is also an important transit hub due to its location at the intersection of key highways connecting Dar es Salaam to central and western Tanzania. It is a gateway to nearby national parks and game reserves, such as Mikumi and Udzungwa National Parks.
Morogoro’s history dates back to the 19th century, when it was founded by escaped slaves from Zanzibar. It became a part of German East Africa in 1885, where it was exploited for its resources, and later a British colony, where agricultural methods were applied, leading to social unrest by the 1950s. The city also has a significant history as a hub for the slave trade before its founding, and a musical legacy dating back to the 1940s, with renowned jazz bands originating from the area.
We found quiet parking in a lovely hotel, Dragonaires, located close to the city, with a nice bar and restaurant serving delicious meals. On weekends, they offer wood-fired pizza. For coffee, we could recommend the newly opened Voice Collective, a real coffee shop run by a lady from Latvia.
Voice Collective Coffeshop
Dragonaires Hotel
Parking location – Morogoro: 6.824001S 37.690035E (🚻,💦,🔌,🚿,🅿️50,000 TZS)