Tanzania is the place to be for those who love travel and adventure. Before visiting Tanzania, or any other African country, there are a few things you should know to ensure a safe and stress-free journey. You’ll find the answers to all the questions you have from our Travel Tips, covering everything from pre-travel health advice to money, shopping and more.
Tanzania is the land of extremes. It is situated 600 feet (or 200 meters) above sea level and contains both the tallest mountain in Africa and the second deepest lake in the world. That’s right, Kilimanjaro, which is measured at 19,340 feet (or 5,895 meters), lives in this country.
The world’s second deepest lake is Lake Tanganyika, which measures 4,710 feet (or 1,436 meters). The gold medal goes to Lake Baikal in Russia which measures 5,387 feet (or 1,642 meters), creating a large gap between first and second place.
But just because these are the most famous parts of the country, doesn’t mean they are the only joys you can experience.
Whether on vacation or business, most foreign visitors to Tanzania are needed to obtain a visa.
Tanzania does allow some foreign people (mainly African and Asian) to travel visa-free for up to three months. However, they must still acquire entry permit approval unless they are from Kenya, Uganda, Burundi, or Rwanda.
Visa requirements: A visa upon entry is available for $50 USD for Australia, the United Kingdom, and Canada. A multiple-entry visa upon arrival is offered for $100 USD for citizens of the United States. For the most up-to-date information, all nationalities should contact their consulate.
It is necessary to have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of visa issue and/or date of arrival, as well as at least one blank visa page. Visitors with visas must show proof of round-trip transportation and adequate finances to cover their stay. When entering or leaving Zanzibar, or traveling across the mainland, be prepared to produce your passport and explain your visa status.
In Africa, there are about 2,000 different languages spoken. That's one-third of all languages said on the planet! This is due to millions of years of evolution and environmental influences that have occurred on the continent (Source). Tanzania has 26 official languages, but don't worry, English is one of them and is commonly spoken.
The concept of kin and family is critical to Tanzania’s culture. No matter the struggle or inconvenience, family matters and occasions are given the highest priority. The transport system in Tanzania has much to be desired, but that won’t stop a family member from arriving for a celebration.
Art and history are also extremely important in Tanzania’s culture. Storytelling through dance and speech creates the majority of entertainment. And because scientists from around the world sturdy human ancestry in Tanzania soil, the concept of history and nature are woven into one.
The official currency in Tanzania is the Tanzania Shilling.
Euro, British Pounds, US Dollars, South African Rand and other major currencies can be exchanged locally or in advance of departure. Additionally, exchange facilities are available at various bureau de changes and banks in major towns have ATMs. It's advisable to request bank notes in smaller denominations, as it can sometimes be hard to get change from large notes and smaller notes are handy for smaller purchases and gratuities.
Traveller's Cheques are not recommended as they're often difficult to exchange and incur high fees.
Seasons undoubtedly have an impact on what kind of experience you'll have and when you'll have it, so make sure you study up before time to guarantee you get the trip you want!
Safaris: The optimum months for game safaris are January-March for baby season and June-September for the conclusion of the wet season.
Kilimanjaro Treks: The climb can be done at any time of year, however the rainy season runs from March to May.
Birdwatching: The greatest months to go birdwatching are October through April.
Zanzibar and Dar Es Salaam are open all year!
It's important to remember that tap water in that area is unsafe to drink. It is only suggested that you use it to shower and wash your hands, which means you should not use it to brush your teeth. As a result, if you want to avoid any health problems, you should always use distilled or bottled water to brush your teeth, remain hydrated, and even cook.
Bottled water is reasonably priced and widely available in stores, resorts, motels, restaurants, and coffee shops. Additionally, if you choose to go on a safari or a tour, remember to bring at least 2 or 3 bottles of water to stay hydrated while out in the sun.
In Africa selected departures of our overland safaris are classified as ‘Family Friendly’ and these are noted under ‘Prices and Dates’ on the relevant tours. Family Friendly departures welcome children aged 6 – 17 years travelling with their parents on tour. Please note children will be occupying a seat on the overland truck, therefore they pay full price. Parents must be aware that travellers aged 18 years and older still frequent the trip and the tour is a participation overland tour.
Children aged eight and above travelling with a parent or guardian are also welcome on lodge safaris in Tanzania on a request basis and subject to the agreement of the other passengers. Please note that children aged 12+ pay adult price. We can tailor-make private safaris for families and those travelling with younger children.
In Tanzania, robberies are widespread. When Americans hail cabs at airports, bus stations, hotels, or streets, they become victims. Victims are detained until they disclose credit/debit card credentials and are then taken around town to empty their accounts at all available ATMs. Hours afterward, the victims are routinely discharged. Several people have been robbed on their way to the airport. Travelers should use designated or well-known means of transportation to reduce risk. They might also consider leaving their ATM cards at home and only bringing a small number of credit cards with them to Tanzania.
Before traveling to Tanzania, it’s recommended to ask for advice about the following vaccinations:
If you are staying for longer than two weeks, some doctors recommend getting vaccinated for Typhoid. And if you are interacting with animals directly, (such as petting or working on a farm) some doctors recommend to include rabies vaccinations.
Speak to your doctor about what vaccinations you have already received, as many people have protection against illnesses such as meningitis during their childhood.
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