Tanzania Travel Advice
Planning a trip to Tanzania? Here’s essential travel advice to help you make the most of your adventure while staying safe and informed.
1. Entry Requirements
Visa: Most travelers require a visa to enter Tanzania, which can be obtained online (eVisa) or on arrival at major airports and border crossings.
Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of entry.
Vaccination: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if you’re traveling from or transiting through a country with a risk of yellow fever.
2. Health & Safety
Vaccinations: It’s recommended to be vaccinated against hepatitis A, typhoid, and routine vaccines such as measles and tetanus.
Malaria: Tanzania is a malaria-risk area, so take preventive measures such as anti-malarial medication and using insect repellent.
Water & Food: Drink bottled or filtered water, and eat well-cooked food to avoid stomach issues.
Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, evacuations, and trip cancellations.
3. Best Time to Visit
Peak Season (June – October): Ideal for safaris, as wildlife viewing is at its best with dry conditions.
Wet Season (March – May): Lush landscapes and fewer crowds, but some areas may be inaccessible due to heavy rains.
Zanzibar: Best visited from June to October and December to February for beach holidays.
4. Money & Currency
Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS); US dollars are widely accepted in hotels and tourist areas.
ATMs & Payments: Available in major cities; however, cash is recommended for remote areas.
Tipping: It’s customary to tip guides, drivers, and hotel staff for good service (10-15% is standard).
5. Cultural Etiquette
Dress Modestly: Especially in rural and coastal areas like Zanzibar, where conservative clothing is appreciated.
Greetings: A handshake and polite greeting in Swahili (“Jambo” or “Habari”) go a long way.
Respect for Wildlife: Follow park regulations and respect animals by keeping a safe distance during safaris.
6. Transportation & Getting Around
Domestic Flights: Convenient for covering long distances, such as from Arusha to Zanzibar.
Public Transport: Buses and dala-dalas (minibuses) are available but can be crowded and unreliable.
Private Transfers: Recommended for comfort and safety, especially for safari trips and airport transfers.
7. Safety Tips
Avoid walking alone at night in urban areas.
Keep valuables secure and be cautious in crowded places.
Use reputable tour operators for safaris and excursions.
8. Must-Visit Attractions
Serengeti National Park: World-famous for the Great Migration.
Ngorongoro Crater: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with abundant wildlife.
Mount Kilimanjaro: Africa’s highest peak for trekking enthusiasts.
Zanzibar: Pristine beaches, Stone Town, and spice tours.
Prepare well, respect local customs, and enjoy Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes and warm hospitality. Karibu Tanzania! (Welcome to Tanzania!)