Plan Your Trip
Travel Information
Everything you need to know before your Tanzania adventure — visas, health, climate, packing, and more.
Visas & Entry Requirements
Most nationalities require a visa to enter Tanzania. The process is straightforward and can be completed online before you travel.
e-Visa (recommended)
Apply online at the Tanzania Immigration portal (immigration.go.tz) at least 2 weeks before travel. Cost is USD 50 for most nationalities. You'll receive an approval letter to print and present on arrival.
Visa on Arrival
Available at Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam), Kilimanjaro International Airport, and Zanzibar International Airport. Bring USD 50 in cash. Queues can be long — the e-Visa is faster.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay and have at least 2 blank pages. Citizens of East African Community countries (Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi) may enter with a national ID.
Zanzibar
Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous region of Tanzania. No separate visa is required — your Tanzania visa covers Zanzibar. However, you must carry your passport when travelling between the mainland and Zanzibar.
Visa requirements change. Always verify the latest requirements with the Tanzania Immigration Department or your nearest Tanzanian embassy before travel.
Health & Safety
Tanzania is generally safe for travellers. A few health precautions will keep you comfortable and protected throughout your trip.
Recommended Vaccinations
Malaria Prevention
Malaria is present in Tanzania, including Zanzibar. Consult your doctor about antimalarial medication at least 4–6 weeks before travel. Use DEET-based insect repellent, wear long sleeves at dusk, and sleep under a mosquito net.
Food & Water Safety
Drink bottled or purified water only. Avoid ice in drinks unless you are confident it was made from purified water. Eat at reputable restaurants and lodges. Fruit you peel yourself is generally safe.
Altitude on Kilimanjaro
Kilimanjaro reaches 5,895 m (19,341 ft). Altitude sickness is a real risk. Acclimatise properly, choose a longer route (7–8 days), stay hydrated, and ascend slowly. Our guides are trained in altitude sickness recognition and response.
Climate & Best Time to Visit
Tanzania has two main seasons — dry and wet — and the best time to visit depends on what you want to do.
Long Dry Season
June – October
The best time for wildlife viewing. Vegetation is sparse, animals gather at water sources, and the Great Migration river crossings happen in the Serengeti. Clear skies and cool nights. Book well in advance.
Short Dry Season
January – February
Warm and mostly dry. Excellent for Kilimanjaro climbs and Zanzibar beach holidays. The wildebeest calving season in the southern Serengeti is spectacular. Fewer crowds than June–October.
Long Rains
March – May
Heavy afternoon rains, lush green landscapes, and dramatically reduced prices. Some remote roads become impassable. Excellent for birdwatching. Not ideal for Kilimanjaro climbs.
Short Rains
November – December
Short, unpredictable showers — usually in the afternoon. Still very good for safaris and Zanzibar. Prices are lower than peak season. A great time for budget-conscious travellers.
What to Pack
Pack light and smart. Tanzania's varied terrain means you'll need layers for cool highland mornings and light clothing for the coast.
Safari Essentials
- Neutral-coloured clothing (khaki, olive, beige) — avoid bright colours and white
- Lightweight long-sleeved shirts and trousers for evenings
- Warm fleece or jacket for early morning game drives
- Wide-brimmed hat and UV-protection sunglasses
- Sturdy closed-toe walking shoes or boots
- Binoculars (8×42 or 10×42 recommended)
Kilimanjaro Climbing
- Moisture-wicking base layers (2–3 sets)
- Insulating mid-layer (fleece or down jacket)
- Waterproof outer shell jacket and trousers
- Warm hat, balaclava, and gloves (summit night is below freezing)
- Trekking poles (rentable in Moshi)
- Broken-in, waterproof hiking boots with ankle support
- Gaiters for snow and scree on summit day
Zanzibar Beach
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Swimwear and a sarong (cover up when leaving the beach)
- High-SPF reef-safe sunscreen
- Insect repellent (DEET 30%+)
- Sandals and one pair of smart casual shoes
- Modest clothing for visiting Stone Town (cover shoulders and knees)
Health & Documents
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if required)
- Antimalarial medication (prescribed by your doctor)
- Personal first-aid kit with blister plasters, rehydration sachets, and antihistamines
- Passport (valid 6+ months) and printed e-Visa approval
- Travel insurance documents (including emergency evacuation cover)
- Copies of all documents stored separately and in the cloud
Money & Costs
Tanzania uses the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but US Dollars are widely accepted for tourist services, park fees, and tips.
Currency
The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). USD is accepted at most lodges, tour operators, and national parks. Euros and GBP can be exchanged at banks and forex bureaux in Arusha, Dar es Salaam, and Zanzibar.
ATMs & Cards
ATMs are available in major towns (Arusha, Moshi, Dar es Salaam, Stone Town). Visa and Mastercard are accepted at most hotels and upmarket restaurants. Carry cash for markets, small guesthouses, and rural areas.
Tipping
Tipping is customary and greatly appreciated. Suggested amounts: safari guide USD 15–20/day, porter (Kilimanjaro) USD 10–15/day, cook USD 8–10/day, driver USD 10–15/day. Tips are best given in USD cash.
Budget Guide
Budget travellers can get by on USD 50–80/day. Mid-range safaris and lodges cost USD 150–300/day. Luxury camps and private concessions range from USD 400–1,000+/day. Kilimanjaro climbs typically cost USD 1,500–3,500 all-inclusive.
Culture & Etiquette
Tanzania is a warm, welcoming country with a rich blend of African, Arab, and Indian cultures. A little cultural awareness goes a long way.
Greetings
Greetings are important in Tanzanian culture. "Jambo" (hello) and "Asante" (thank you) will earn you smiles everywhere. Handshakes are common; use your right hand. Elders are greeted with particular respect.
Dress Code
Dress modestly, especially in Zanzibar and other Muslim-majority areas. Cover shoulders and knees when visiting mosques, markets, and Stone Town. On safari, neutral colours are practical and respectful of wildlife.
Photography
Always ask permission before photographing people. Some communities, particularly Maasai, may request a small fee. Never photograph military installations, government buildings, or airports.
Religion
Tanzania is roughly 35% Christian, 35% Muslim, and 30% indigenous beliefs. Religious tolerance is a point of national pride. During Ramadan, eat and drink discreetly in public in Muslim areas.
Bargaining
Bargaining is expected in markets and with street vendors, but not in shops with fixed prices or with tour operators. Be friendly and fair — a good deal should leave both parties happy.
Environmental Responsibility
Tanzania's wildlife and ecosystems are precious. Never litter, stay on designated tracks, do not feed animals, and choose operators (like us) who follow responsible tourism practices.
Ready to Start Planning?
Our team is on hand to answer any questions and help you design the perfect Tanzania itinerary.