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Tanzania is a hugely rewarding destination—famous for safari, Mount Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar beaches and vibrant culture—but requires planning for visas, health, logistics and local customs to make your trip smooth and safe.
Visa / Entry Requirements
- Most nationalities need a visa. Tanzania offers e‑visas (apply at https://eservices.immigration.go.tz) and visas on arrival at major ports of entry, but pre‑approval speeds entry. Check your government’s travel site for current rules.
- Passport must be valid for at least 6 months and have blank pages.
- Proof of onward travel and sufficient funds may be requested.
- Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever; other vaccinations (e.g., hepatitis A/B, typhoid) recommended.
Best Time to Visit
- Wildlife safaris: June–October (dry season) is peak for game viewing and the Great Migration in northern parks; January–March can be excellent for calving season at the southern Serengeti.
- Zanzibar and beaches: July–October and December–March are driest and most pleasant.
- Low season (March–May long rains; November short rains) can mean fewer crowds and lower prices but more rain and some park roads may be muddy.
Safety Tips
- Tanzania is generally safe for tourists, but exercise normal precautions: avoid poorly lit areas at night, watch belongings in crowded places, and use hotel safes for passports and valuables.
- Petty theft and opportunistic crime occur in cities—use registered taxis/Uber where available.
- Political demonstrations can occur—avoid crowds and follow local news/embassy advice.
- Road safety: driving standards vary; nighttime driving outside cities is risky due to animals, pedestrians and unlit vehicles.
- If trekking Kilimanjaro or remote safaris, use reputable operators with rescue plans and insurance.
Local Customs & Culture
- Tanzania is culturally diverse: dress modestly in towns (especially in predominantly Muslim Zanzibar).
- Greet people politely (a handshake is common). Learn a few Swahili phrases (e.g., Jambo/Hello, Asante/Thank you) —they are appreciated.
- Photography: ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas and religious sites.
- Tipping: customary in tourism — guides and drivers expect tips; restaurants may add service charge but small cash tips are still common.
Currency & Money
- Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). Major hotels, lodges and tourist businesses accept USD (new, unmarked notes preferred) and some accept cards.
- ATMs: available in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mwanza and Zanzibar Stone Town but may be unreliable in remote areas—carry cash for parks/lodges.
- Credit cards: accepted in high-end hotels/lodges and some restaurants; expect cash-only at markets and rural services.
- Currency exchange: exchange at banks or reputable bureaus; keep small notes for tipping and purchases.
Transportation
- Domestic flights: quick and common between major hubs (Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Zanzibar, Kilimanjaro, Mwanza). Book early in high season.
- Road travel: long distances can be slow due to road quality. Scheduled coach services operate between cities; private transfers or 4x4 vehicles are typical for safari/park access.
- Public transport: dala‑dala minibuses are cheap but crowded and less comfortable; good for short urban trips if adventurous.
- Ferries: regular ferries link the mainland to Zanzibar—use reputable operators and check schedules.
- Car hire: 4x4 recommended for parks and rural travel; international license usually required.
Health & Practical Advice
- Malaria: risk in many areas—take antimalarial medication (consult your doctor), use insect repellent and sleep under nets when recommended.
- Water: avoid tap water—drink bottled or purified water.
- Travel insurance: essential—must cover medical evacuation for remote areas and mountain rescue for Kilimanjaro.
- Altitude: Kilimanjaro and some northern areas are high altitude—allow time to acclimatize and follow guides’ advice to avoid altitude sickness.
Must‑Know Tips & Local Insights
- Book safaris and Kilimanjaro climbs with reputable, licensed operators—compare inclusions (park fees, guide ratios, vehicle type, meals).
- Park fees: national park fees and conservation levies are significant—confirm what your tour includes.
- Respect park rules: keep distance from wildlife, no feeding, and stay inside vehicles unless instructed by guides.
- Bargaining: expected in markets and with some services—but be polite and fair.
- Electrical plugs: Type G (British) are common; carry an adapter and a power bank for remote days.
- Communication: buy a local SIM (Vodacom, Airtel) for data and calls; coverage is good in towns but patchy in remote parks.
Quick checklist before departure
- Passport valid 6+ months and visa/e‑visa arranged
- Yellow fever card (if applicable) and recommended vaccinations
- Travel insurance with medical evacuation
- USD in good condition + some local currency
- Confirm bookings for safaris, internal flights and park permits
- Malaria prophylaxis, insect repellent, sun protection and basic first‑aid kit
Have a specific plan (safari, trekking, beach) and I can provide tailored recommendations—itineraries, best operators, packing lists or permit details.