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ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW

Tanzania Travel Guide

Planning your adventure to Tanzania? We’ve got you covered. From health and safety to culture, transport, and what to pack—this essential guide will help you arrive informed and ready.

1. Entry Requirements

Visa:

  • Most travelers need a visa.
  • Apply online via the Tanzania eVisa portal.
  • Visas on arrival are available at major airports (check if your nationality qualifies).

Passport:

  • Must be valid for at least 6 months from entry date.
  • At least one blank page is required.

Yellow Fever Certificate:

  • Required if you’re arriving from a country with yellow fever risk.
  • Not needed if flying in from most Western countries.

2. Health & Vaccinations

Routine Vaccines:

  • MMR, DTP, Polio, Varicella, Flu, COVID-19

Recommended Vaccines:

  • Hepatitis A & B
  • Typhoid
  • Yellow Fever (especially near endemic areas)
  • Rabies (for rural travel or wildlife exposure)
  • Cholera (for rural or low-sanitation areas)

Malaria:

  • High-risk area—take antimalarial medication.
  • Use mosquito repellent, wear long sleeves, sleep under nets.

3. General Health Tips

  • Drink only bottled or filtered water.
  • Avoid ice and raw foods unless from a trusted source.
  • Carry sunscreen and prepare for strong UV rays.
  • Pack a basic first aid kit and any personal medication.

4. Money & Costs

  • Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
  • Credit Cards: Accepted at major hotels/lodges, but cash is essential in rural areas.
  • ATMs: Found in cities—sometimes unreliable.
  • Costs: Options range from budget-friendly to luxury safaris.

5. Transportation

  • Domestic Flights: Ideal for reaching safari parks or Zanzibar.
  • Buses/Dala-Dalas: Cheap and local but often crowded.
  • Taxis: Negotiate fare in advance (no meters).
  • Car Rental: 4×4 vehicles recommended for safaris; drive on the left.
  • Train: Scenic routes like Dar es Salaam to Mbeya offer a slower, nostalgic option.

6. Best Time to Visit

  • June to October (Dry Season): Best for wildlife and safaris.
  • November–December: Short rains—still great for travel.
  • March–May: Long rains—lush and fewer crowds, but muddy roads.

7. Must-Visit Destinations

  • Serengeti National Park: The Great Migration.
  • Ngorongoro Crater: Big Five in a volcanic caldera.
  • Mount Kilimanjaro: Trek to Africa’s highest summit.
  • Zanzibar: Beaches, spice farms & cultural heritage.
  • Tarangire & Lake Manyara: Iconic baobabs, tree-climbing lions.
  • Nyerere (Selous) & Ruaha: Remote and wild safari experiences.

8. Culture & Etiquette

  • Tanzanians are warm, respectful, and welcoming.
  • Dress modestly, especially in villages and on Zanzibar.
  • Use greetings: “Jambo” (Hello), “Shikamoo” (Respectful greeting).
  • Tipping is appreciated: ~10% at restaurants, guides/porters as per service.

9. Language

  • Swahili is the national language.
  • English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Useful Phrases:

  • Hello – Jambo
  • Thank you – Asante
  • How much? – Bei gani?

10. Internet & Connectivity

  • Local SIM cards (Vodacom, Airtel, Tigo) are affordable and easy to get.
  • Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and lodges, though speeds may vary.

11. Safety

  • Tanzania is safe for tourists—just stay alert.
  • Avoid walking alone at night in cities.
  • Keep valuables out of sight.
  • Be cautious with street food and water.
  • Watch for common scams in tourist-heavy areas.

12. What to Pack

  • Passport, visa, and Yellow Fever card (if needed)
  • Antimalarial tablets and basic meds
  • Sunscreen & insect repellent (with DEET)
  • Light, breathable clothing + warm layers for high altitudes/safari nights
  • Binoculars, camera, and travel adapter (Tanzania uses Type D & G, 230V)