Tanzania Travel advice and tips

Below are the most important things every traveler should know before visiting Tanzania.

Visa Requirements

Tourist Visas

Most visitors need a tourist visa to enter Tanzania. You can obtain it in three ways:

• Online (eVisa) – Recommended, easy, and faster.

• Visa on Arrival – Available, but queues can be long.

• Embassy/Consulate – If you prefer advance processing.

Visa Validity

A standard tourist visa is valid for 90 days. Travelers from East African Community countries have different terms, usually visa-free.

Health & Vaccinations

When discussing Tanzania travel advice and tips, health preparation is one of the biggest priorities.

Recommended Vaccinations

• Yellow Fever (required only if traveling from a Yellow Fever–risk country)

• Hepatitis A & B

• Typhoid

• Tetanus

• Rabies (optional but useful for long stays or rural travel)

Malaria Prevention

Tanzania is a malaria zone. Consider:

• Taking antimalarial medication

• Using mosquito repellent

• Sleeping under mosquito nets

• Wearing long sleeves during evening hours

Travel Insurance

Always purchase travel insurance that covers:

• Medical emergencies

• Trip cancellations

• Lost belongings

• High-altitude trekking (if climbing Kilimanjaro)

Best Time to Visit Tanzania

Dry Season (June – October)

• Best for safaris

• Cool temperatures

• Low humidity

• Peak travel season

Short Dry Season (December – February)

• Great time for Zanzibar

• Wildebeest calving season in Serengeti (February)

Wet Seasons

• March–May (long rains)

• November (short rains)
  Travel is still possible during these periods, although some roads can be muddy.

When planning, consider your goals—safari, beach, mountain trekking, or cultural travel.

Money, Currency, and Payments

Tanzania Shilling (TZS)

The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling. USD is widely accepted in:

• Hotels

• Safari lodges

• National parks

• Some restaurants and shops

Payment Tips

• ATMs are widely available in major cities.

• Bring clean, new USD bills (issued 2009 or newer).

• Credit cards are accepted in tourist areas—but with a surcharge.

Bargaining

Bargaining is common in markets but not in supermarkets or restaurants. Be polite and respectful when negotiating.

Safety Tips

Tanzania is generally safe for visitors, but taking precautions is essential.

General Safety

• Avoid walking alone at night.

• Keep valuables out of sight.

• Use hotel safes for passports and extra money.

• Only use licensed taxis or ride-hailing services.

Safari Safety

• Always follow your guide’s instructions.

• Do not approach wildlife.

• Avoid loud noises during game drives.

• Do not leave the vehicle unless allowed.

Kilimanjaro Safety

• Choose a reputable trekking company.

• Take enough time for acclimatization.

• Drink plenty of water.

Local Culture & Etiquette

Understanding local customs is an important part of Tanzania travel advice and tips.

Respecting Culture

• Tanzania is a friendly and peaceful country.

• Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and Zanzibar’s Stone Town.

• Greetings are important: always say “Habari?” or “Mambo?” before starting a conversation.

• Avoid public displays of affection, especially in conservative regions.

Tipping

Tipping is common and appreciated. Typical amounts:

• Porters: $1–$2 per bag

• Safari guides: $10–$20 per day per person

• Restaurant staff: 5–10%

• Trekking crew: According to company guidelines

Transportation

Domestic Flights

Fast and convenient for long-distance travel. Major airlines serve:

• Arusha

• Dar es Salaam

• Zanzibar

• Mwanza

• Kigoma

• Dodoma

Buses

Affordable but vary in quality. Choose reputable companies for safety.

Trains & Ferries

Trains operate between Dar es Salaam and Dodoma, with connections further west.
Ferries run between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar daily.

Taxis

Only use licensed taxis or popular apps available in major cities.

Packing Tips

When preparing your packing list, think about the activities you plan to do.

General Packing

• Lightweight clothing

• Modest clothing for towns and villages

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Hat and sunglasses

• Sunscreen

• Insect repellent

• Refillable water bottle

• Camera and binoculars

Safari Packing

• Neutral colors (khaki, beige, brown)

• Light jacket for morning drives

• Warm layer for evenings

Zanzibar Packing

• Swimwear

• Light cotton clothing

• Sandals

• Light cover-up for beaches near local villages

Kilimanjaro Packing

• Down jacket

• Thermal wear

• Waterproof layers

• Trekking boots

• Headlamp

• Gloves and beanies

Communication & Internet

• Local SIM cards (Vodacom, Airtel, Tigo) offer good coverage.

• 4G is widely available in major cities.

• Wi-Fi is available in hotels, cafés, and some safari lodges.

Buying a SIM card on arrival is cheap and convenient.

Food & Water Safety

Food

Tanzania offers delicious dishes such as:

• Ugali

• Nyama choma (grilled meat)

• Chapati

• Coconut rice

• Fresh seafood in Zanzibar

Choose clean restaurants or reputable street vendors.

Water

• Drink bottled or filtered water only.

• Avoid ice cubes unless from purified water.

• Brush teeth with clean water when possible.

Essential Swahili Phrases

Learning a few words makes travel smoother and shows respect.

• Jambo / Mambo – Hello

• Asante – Thank you

• Karibu – Welcome / You’re welcome

• Tafadhali – Please

• Pole pole – Slowly (very useful on Kilimanjaro!)

• Ndiyo / Hapana – Yes / No

Environmental Responsibility

Tanzania is home to fragile ecosystems.

• Do not litter in parks or beaches.

• Follow Leave No Trace principles.

• Avoid touching coral reefs.

• Do not feed wildlife.

• Support eco-friendly lodges and community-based tours.