Tanzania is a culturally eclectic and largely homogeneous society that is extremely rich in age-old cultures and traditions. The local population is well known for being friendly and polite to visitors, and there is a strong sense of national pride that reverberates throughout the country. With over 120 ethnic groups living in Tanzania and various religious beliefs, it may sometimes be confusing for visitors to know correct from bad manners. Culture Trip expands on some widely held local traditions and customs to help keep visitors on the right side of social etiquette.

Tanzanians only eat with their right hand and when partaking in a meal, especially of the more traditional variety, guests are expected to do the same. Cultural belief views the right hand as clean, and therefore appropriate for picking up food and greeting people. The left is considered dirty, and used solely for ablutions and bathroom activities. Visitors should therefore try and make a point of only greeting locals with their right hand, as to do otherwise is considered highly disrespectful.

Many Tanzanians are quite happy with visitors taking their snaps, and will often encourage you to do so as they show off their traditional garb and way of life. As a rule of thumb though, the subject in question should always be asked before you start getting snap happy. Not only is this just generally polite and ethical, but some ethnic groups in Tanzania believe that the flash of a camera steals a piece of their soul – making an unauthorised photograph a traumatic affair.