Travel Tips

Tanzania is a dream destination for travelers seeking breathtaking wildlife, stunning landscapes, rich culture, and pristine beaches. From the vast plains of the Serengeti to the turquoise waters of Zanzibar, Tanzania offers diverse experiences that cater to adventure seekers, luxury travelers, and cultural enthusiasts alike.

This comprehensive guide provides deep details on everything tourists need to know when planning a trip to Tanzania.

1. Entry Requirements & Visa Information

Visa Types & Application Process

Most travelers require a visa to enter Tanzania, which can be obtained in three ways:

1. Visa on Arrival – Available at major entry points (airports and border crossings). Costs $50 USD for most nationalities ($100 USD for U.S. citizens). Payment is in cash (USD).
2. E-Visa (Recommended) – Apply online at https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa. Processing time is usually 10 business days.
3. Tanzanian Embassy or Consulate – If you prefer a physical visa before arrival.

Passport Requirements

• Must be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date.
• Should have at least two blank pages for stamps.

Yellow Fever Vaccination

• Required if arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever (e.g., Kenya, Uganda).
• You may be asked to present a Yellow Fever Certificate at immigration.

2. Best Time to Visit Tanzania

Tanzania offers year-round travel opportunities, but the best time depends on what you want to experience.

Best Time for Safaris: June to October
Best Time for Zanzibar: December to March

3. Destinations & Attractions

Tanzania has diverse travel experiences. Here’s a breakdown:

A) Safari Destinations

1. Serengeti National Park – World-famous for the Great Migration, home to the Big Five.
2. Ngorongoro Crater – A UNESCO site with one of the densest wildlife populations in Africa.
3. Tarangire National Park – Famous for its elephants and baobab trees.
4. Lake Manyara National Park – Home to tree-climbing lions and flamingos.
5. Ruaha National Park – The largest park in Tanzania, off-the-beaten-path safari experience.
6. Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere NP) – Great for boat safaris and walking safaris.

B) Adventure & Hiking

1. Mount Kilimanjaro – Africa’s tallest peak (5,895m). Best routes: Lemosho & Machame.
2. Mount Meru – Less crowded alternative to Kilimanjaro.
3. Udzungwa Mountains – Great for hiking and waterfalls.

C) Beach & Island Destinations

1. Zanzibar – White sand beaches, Stone Town, spice farms, snorkeling.
2. Pemba Island – A secluded paradise for diving.
3. Mafia Island – Best for whale shark swimming (Oct-March).

D) Cultural Experiences

1. Maasai Villages – Experience Maasai traditions and dance.
2. Hadza & Datoga Tribes – Visit hunter-gatherers near Lake Eyasi.
3. Bagamoyo – Historical town with rich Swahili and colonial history.

4. Travel Costs & Budgeting

Tanzania can be affordable or luxurious, depending on your travel style.

Average Costs (Per Day, Per Person)

Tips to Save Money:

• Travel during the low season (March-May).
• Use shared safari tours instead of private ones.
• Stay in lodges outside national parks for lower accommodation costs.

5. Transport & Getting Around

Flights & Domestic Travel

• Main Airports: Julius Nyerere (Dar es Salaam), Kilimanjaro (JRO), Zanzibar (ZNZ).
• Local Flights: Coastal Aviation, Auric Air, Precision Air for fast inter-city travel.

Road Transport

• Buses: Safe & cheap, good for long-distance travel (e.g., Dar to Arusha).
• Car Rental: Available, but best with a driver due to rough roads.
• Bajaji & Bodaboda (Motorbike Taxis): Best for short distances in cities.

6. Safety & Health Tips

Is Tanzania Safe?

Yes, but take precautions:
✔ Avoid walking alone at night in cities.
✔ Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps like Bolt.
✔ Keep valuables secure in a money belt or locked bag.
✔ Be cautious of scams (especially in tourist areas).

Health Precautions

✔ Malaria – Take antimalarial medication, use mosquito repellent.
✔ Food Safety – Eat in clean restaurants to avoid food poisoning.
✔ Travel Insurance – Highly recommended for health emergencies.

7. Currency & Payments

✔ Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
✔ Exchange Rate: ~$1 USD = 2,500 TZS (varies)
✔ ATMs Available in Cities (Visa & Mastercard work best).
✔ Mobile Payments: M-Pesa, Tigo Pesa, Airtel Money widely used.
✔ Tipping: Common in safaris, restaurants, and hotels.

8. Cultural Etiquette & Local Customs

✔ Greetings Matter: Say “Jambo” (hello) or “Habari” (how are you?).
✔ Dress Modestly: Especially in Zanzibar & Muslim areas.
✔ Photography: Always ask permission before taking pictures of locals.
✔ Bargaining: Expected in markets, but be polite.

9. Packing List for Tanzania

✔ Safari & Adventure:

• Light clothing in neutral colors (avoid blue – attracts tsetse flies).
• Binoculars & camera with zoom lens.
• Power bank & universal adapter.

✔ Zanzibar & Beach:

• Swimwear, sandals, sunscreen.
• Snorkeling gear (if preferred).

✔ Kilimanjaro & Hiking:

• Layered clothing for cold temperatures.
• Waterproof hiking boots.

Final Thoughts

Tanzania is one of the best travel destinations in Africa. Whether you’re here for safaris, trekking, or beaches, planning ahead ensures an amazing experience.

Want a local guide or a custom itinerary? Let us know!