1. Visas & Entry Requirements
Most visitors require a visa to enter Tanzania. The easiest way is to apply online for an e-Visa.
- Cost: Generally $50 USD (standard) or $100 USD (for US citizens, multiple entry).
- Timing: Apply at least 3 weeks before travel.
- Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months past your travel dates and have at least one blank page.
⚠️ Important Update for Zanzibar (Late 2024/2025): If your itinerary includes Zanzibar, the government now requires Mandatory Inbound Travel Insurance ($44 USD per person), even if you already have personal travel insurance. This must be purchased directly through the official Zanzibar government portal before arrival.
2. Health & Vaccinations
Always consult your doctor or a travel clinic 4–6 weeks before departure.
- Yellow Fever: A certificate is required only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever (this often includes transit >12 hours in countries like Kenya or Ethiopia). If flying direct from Europe or the US, it is usually not required, but check current regulations.
- Malaria: Tanzania is a malaria zone. Prophylaxis (pills) is highly recommended.
- Hydration: We provide bottled water in our safari vehicles. Avoid drinking tap water at hotels; stick to bottled or filtered water for brushing your teeth.
3. Money & Tipping
Tanzania is a cash-based economy, though lodges accept cards (often with a surcharge).
- Currency: The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). However, USD is widely accepted for tourist services.
- Cash Tips: Bring USD bills printed after 2009 (older notes are often rejected by banks).
- Tipping Guide:
-Safari Guide: $15 – $20 per person, per day.
-Lodge Staff: $5 – $10 per guest, per day (often put in a communal tip box)
4. Packing: What to Wear?
Leave the bright colors at home.
- Colors: Wear Khaki, Beige, or Green. Dark blue and black can attract Tsetse flies, and bright red can startle animals.
- Layers: It is not always hot! Early morning game drives in the Ngorongoro Crater can be freezing. Bring a warm fleece or lightweight puffer jacket.
- Footwear: Comfortable trainers or light hiking boots are perfect. You don’t need heavy trekking boots unless you are climbing Kilimanjaro.
5. Cultural Etiquette
Tanzanians are incredibly friendly and polite.
- Greetings: A smile and a “Jambo” (Hello) go a long way.
- Photography: Always ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in local markets or Maasai villages.
- Zanzibar Dress Code: Stone Town is culturally conservative. When outside your beach resort, please cover your shoulders and knees (no swimwear in town).
