Under $100: Dodoma, Tanzania

Dodoma is considered the capital city of Tanzania, but did you know the government spends next to no time there? Due to environmental factors, it was decided moving the government there from Dar es Salaam was too much trouble. That, however, doesn’t mean Dodoma isn’t worth exploring.

Begin your day with a pit stop at Rose’s Café. This quaint little restaurant is a favorite among tourists and expats due to high-quality food and great taste. You’ll find plenty of local fare for less than $10.

Once you’re full, head over to the Gaddafi Mosque. The former Libyan dictator funded the mosque, opened back in 2010, and it now stands as one of the largest in East Africa. The building is capable of holding 4,500 people and the inside is truly a work of art. Entrance is free.

Next, make your way over to the Parliament buildings. Bunge la Tanzania was restructured to withstand earthquakes after one nearly toppled it years ago. Now they’re a unique piece of architecture. It’s free to walk inside, but you might need permission ahead of time to get in.

For lunch, make your way over to Pizzeria Leone L’Africano. Eating Italian in the middle of East Africa might seem odd, but it’s some of the best food in town. You’ll enjoy a hearty meal here for only $10.

In the afternoon go ahead and take a ride outside of town to visit the Kondoa Rock Art Sites. The area is home to numerous ancient rock painting and carvings to explore for a small fee. The site also contains a small museum explaining the history of the art. Getting there and inside will cost you roughly $30.

Spend the rest of your afternoon walking around the city and mingling with locals, while enjoying the city’s architecture. You’ll find plenty of small shops along the way in which to buy trinkets for your friends.

When you’re ready for dinner seek out Aladdin’s Cave, a charming restaurant serving up delicious pizza, burgers and fantastic homemade ice cream. A meal here will you run you roughly $20.