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Plan with Confidence
Practical Information

Plan with Confidence

Everything you need to know before you fly — visas, vaccinations, what to pack, money, and the small details that make a big difference.

The Essentials, in Plain Language

We've gathered the most useful information for travellers heading to Tanzania. If anything is unclear or you'd like advice for your specific case, just send us a note.

Visas & Entry

Most visitors need a visa to enter Tanzania. You can apply online via the Tanzania e-Visa system before travel, or get one on arrival at major entry points.

  • Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from entry date
  • Two blank pages required for stamps
  • Tourist visa is typically valid for 90 days
  • East Africa multi-entry visa available for Kenya / Uganda / Rwanda combos
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Health & Vaccinations

Tanzania is a tropical country — a few precautions go a long way. Speak to a travel-health clinic 6–8 weeks before departure for advice tailored to you.

  • Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from a yellow-fever country
  • Anti-malaria prophylaxis strongly recommended for all safari areas
  • Routine vaccinations (Hep A/B, Typhoid, Tetanus) are commonly suggested
  • Tap water is not safe to drink — bottled water is provided throughout the trip
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Money & Payments

The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but US Dollars are widely accepted for tourist services. Carry small denominations for tips and curio shopping.

  • USD notes must be 2009 series or newer, in good condition
  • Major hotels and lodges accept Visa & Mastercard (small surcharge applies)
  • ATMs are available in Arusha, Moshi, Dar es Salaam and Stone Town
  • Tipping is appreciated — guidance provided in your trip pack

When to Travel

Tanzania has two main seasons. The dry season is best for wildlife viewing; the green season is quieter, beautifully lush, and excellent for birding.

  • Jun – Oct: dry season, Great Migration in northern Serengeti (Aug – Oct)
  • Jan – Feb: short dry, calving season in southern Serengeti
  • Mar – May: long rains, lower prices, fewer travellers
  • Kilimanjaro climbs: Jan–Mar and Jun–Oct are most reliable

What to Pack

Pack light, in soft duffel bags (rigid suitcases don't fit safari vehicles or bush flights well). Layers are key — game drives are cold at dawn and warm by midday.

  • Neutral colours: khaki, olive, beige (avoid bright white & dark blue)
  • Light fleece, windproof jacket, sun hat, polarised sunglasses
  • Closed-toe walking shoes & sandals
  • Binoculars, camera with zoom, headlamp, refillable water bottle

Safari packing advice & full checklist →

Safety & Insurance

Tanzania is a welcoming country and safari areas are very safe. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance for every trip — a small expense for major peace of mind.

  • Insurance must cover medical evacuation (a must for Kilimanjaro climbs)
  • Cover trip cancellation, baggage and high-altitude activity if relevant
  • Follow your guide's instructions on game drives & in camps
  • Avoid walking around towns at night — use a taxi or hotel transfer

Power & Connectivity

Most lodges and camps have power, but supply can be limited in remote bush camps. Bring a power bank and you'll be set.

  • Voltage: 230V, 50Hz — UK-style 3-pin (Type G) sockets
  • Universal travel adaptor recommended
  • Wi-Fi available in most lodges and city hotels (variable speed)
  • Local SIM cards (Vodacom, Airtel) are inexpensive and widely available

Culture & Etiquette

Tanzanians are famously warm and hospitable. A few small gestures go a long way — and they make the trip more rewarding for you, too.

  • Greet people before asking questions — "Jambo" / "Habari" works wonders
  • Always ask permission before photographing people
  • Dress modestly in towns and on Zanzibar (a Muslim-majority island)
  • Bargaining is normal at curio markets — keep it friendly

Still have questions?

Our team replies personally to every enquiry — usually within a working day. Tell us about your trip and we'll send tailored advice.

Send an Enquiry →

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