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Top 18 Tanzania Travel Tips | Packing, Health, Safety

Tanzania travel offers a one-in-a-lifetime experience. From beautiful coasts to engaging safari tours, there is so much you can do. However, there are a few things that can make your experience more exciting. In this article, we explore top Tanzania travel tips to make sure you have the best time while in the country.

What You Need to Know About Tanzania

Tanzania is a captivating country located in Eastern Africa. As the largest country in the region, it boasts diverse landscapes, ranging from lush forests to vast savannahs. Positioned 200 meters (656 feet) above sea level, Tanzania is home to Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, which towers at 5,895 meters (19,340 feet). The majestic mountain is a must-see for trekkers and adventurers alike.

Tanzania also features two of Africa’s most famous lakes: Lake Tanganyika and Lake Victoria. Lake Tanganyika, the second deepest lake in the world, plunges to a depth of 1,436 meters (4,710 feet) and spans across four countries. It’s known for its unique biodiversity, including rare species of fish. Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa by surface area, straddles the borders of Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya, and is a vital resource for millions of people in the region.

In 1964, Tanzania was formed after the unification of Tanganyika and the islands of Zanzibar, marking the birth of the United Republic of Tanzania. Often referred to as the “Cradle of Mankind,” the country holds significant archaeological importance as it is home to some of the oldest human fossils ever discovered.

The official languages are English and Kiswahili (Swahili), but you will also hear a variety of local dialects. Due to the influence of historical trade routes, there are also linguistic influences from Asian and Persian communities.

Top Tanzania Travel Tips

A trip to Tanzania will expose you to some of the most amazing experiences in the world. To make your journey more worthwhile, we have compiled the top Tanzania travel tips:

Why visit Tanzania 

There are so many reasons why you should visit Tanzania. The country is surrounded by wildlife, archaeological discoveries, beaches, and a culture still untainted by globalization. A trip to Tanzania gives you a unique opportunity to explore the untouched world. From the Great Migration, bushmen tribes to a cultural fusion at the coast., Tanzania has so much to offer. 

When should you travel to Tanzania?

Although you can travel to Tanzania all year round, different seasons offer a different experience. The country has two seasons, with the rainy one starting from October until January, and then again from March to June. Between these two rainy seasons, is the dry season and this is the best time to visit Tanzania.

The dry season, which lasts from February to September is full of amazing experiences that you can engage in. You can climb mountains, go on safaris with easy roads, watch wildlife around waterholes, visit the local bushmen tribes, and more. 

The rainy season is not that bad either. You can see large movements of animals in the colorful and luscious grassland. It is also a great time to take the best photos and experience Tanzania at the cheapest rates of the year. 

How to Get a Tanzania Visit Visa

In addition to your passport, you will also need to acquire a tourist visa, and get a return ticket to travel to Tanzania. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months before your arrival date although visa can be obtained at the time of your travel. You can obtain the visa online or you may also choose to obtain it at the Tanzanian embassy or consulate in your home country. It Is good practice to apply for the passport in advance to avoid delays, rejections, or raised prices.

How long should your Tanzania trip last

A trip to Tanzania will depend on the experience you are going for. A very brief 3 days trip can introduce you to Tanzania, but an ideal safari takes at least 10 days. This will be enough time for the most popular safari in Africa, then the Northern safari circuit that covers Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Serengeti. A longer stay also allows you to visit cultural hubs and lakes.

Do you need any vaccinations?

As you prepare for your Tanzania trip, seek advice from your healthcare provide about the following vaccinations:

  • Yellow Fever
  • Tuberculosis
  • Tetanus
  • Diphtheria 
  • Hepatitis A
  • Hepatitis B
  • Polio
  • Meningitis

Some vaccinations such as typhoid may be necessary if you are planning to stay in Tanzania for longer than two weeks or rabies vaccinations if you will be interacting with the animals directly, such as working on the farm or petting. 

Pack Light and carry only essentials

When preparing for your Tanzania safari, it’s important to pack light and bring only the essentials. Many travelers tend to overpack, but the less baggage you have, the more enjoyable your trip will be. Focus on the items you’ll truly need for the day—such as mosquito spray, sunscreen, and any necessary travel documents like your passport and visa (which should be kept safe to avoid issues when leaving the country).

Since you’ll be busy with activities like hiking, swimming, and lounging, you won’t need extra clothing. You can always purchase more items locally or wash clothes at your hotel. Packing lighter also saves space in your bag for gifts and souvenirs, and can even reduce your travel costs. Consider buying disposable toiletries like travel-sized toothpaste and shampoo once you arrive, helping you streamline your packing and lighten your load.

Do not bring plastic bags.

Tanzania banned single-use plastic bags in 2019 to protect the country’s rich environmental resources. If you arrive at the airport with shopping bags, zip-lock plastic bags, or even garbage bags, they will not be allowed into the country. Double-check your luggage to make sure you have not carried any plastic bags with you. 

Which Currencies Work in Tanzania

The country’s national currency is the Tanzanian shilling, which is written as Tsh or TZS.Notes come in the denominations of 1000, 2000, 5000 and 10,000 while coins include 50, 100, 200 and 500. However, most large and popular areas in the country accept US Dollars and Euro although you can always exchange these currencies in most towns without an issue.

Check Airports Along Your Route

Tanzania has multiple airports that make tourist experiences in the country more convenient. Instead of just flying straight to the commercial capital, Dar es Salaam, and then heading to your destination, check whether there is a nearby airport. This may save you a day of travel and get you immersed into the world of safari immediately. Some of the airports are just immediately after Arusha, offering connections to Serengeti that save tons of time. 

Buy a local Tanzanian SIM card.

A local Tanzanian SIM card is vital for your communication while in the country. It helps you avoid being charged extra when you use your phone abroad. Local SIM card offers a cheaper way to access a signal and Wi-Fi to stay connected with the outside world. The main options available include Airtel, Yas (former Tigo), and Vodacom.

Use the railway

When you’re not driving through the Northern Circuit, the Tanzania train system offers an excellent and affordable way to explore the country. The Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) is a great alternative to private car hires, offering budget-friendly fares while giving you the opportunity to soak in Tanzania’s landscapes during your journey. The train ride provides a scenic view of the country’s diverse terrain, from lush landscapes to open savannahs, allowing you to experience Tanzania in a relaxed and immersive way.

Most tourists book the less expensive trains as they also allow you to immerse into the local culture as you interact directly with native Tanzanians. 

Get a Professional Guide

A professional guide can greatly enhance your safari experience. They help spot rare wildlife, share valuable insights, and ensure an organized itinerary. Many tour packages include a guide, but if not, you can hire one at a local tourist information center. With their expertise, you’ll have a more enjoyable and enriching adventure.

Take time for greetings.

Once you get to Tanzania, you will be amazed by the wonderful sense of community that the Tanzania people hold. Greetings are an important part of any conversation, never omitted and never rushed. Even handshakes are never rushed and someone may continue holding hands throughout the conversation. This could be as something as casual as Mambo vipi (how are things) or something formal like Habari za asubuhi (good morning). 

Dress respectfully

Tanzania is generally a conservative society, with the coast being predominantly Muslim Swahili. As a general guideline, people in the coastal areas are comfortable with looser-fitting clothes covering the knees and shoulders. You may also want to avoid public displays of affection. 

Always Travel in Groups at Night

Tanzania is generally a safe country and very friendly to tourists. It makes one of the best destinations for anyone looking to go for a vacation or holiday. However, you may need to be careful during your visit to avoid anyone taking advantage of your stay or having a negative experience. Traveling at night in groups can help you not to fall victim to mugging and also build your confidence in knowing that you are safe. 

Remember to tip 

Tipping in Tanzania is common and is seen as a way of appreciating the other person. Most places will have a tip expectation of about 10-12% for basic interactions. This includes when someone takes a picture of you, a water serving you at a café, or driving you around the country. However, the expectation gets higher up to 20% in a 5-star hotel or fine dining. As a guide, you will mostly be expected to tip for every interaction, so having lose change with you can be a lifesaver. 

Book Your Next Tanzania Safari with Bobbytours

Are you planning a safari adventure to Tanzania? Book your trip with a reputable tour company in the country. At Bobbtours, we provide personalized safari tours to experience Tanzania to the fullest. Book your next trip with us and let us take care of everything while you enjoy your safari adventure. 

Tanzania Travel Tips FAQs

Is Tanzania safe?

Yes, Tanzania is generally safe for tourists and you will have a secure adventure while in the country. However, you may need to take extra care, such as walking in groups if going out at night.

What is the Tanzania currency?

The Tanzania currency is known as the shilling (Tsh.). Although some currencies like the dollar, sterling pound, and euro are accepted in high-end hotels, changing currency on your entry to Tanzania is quick and easy. 

Do I need to take any vaccinations before visiting Tanzania?

Before traveling to Tanzania, you should seek medical advice from your health provider to make sure you receive appropriate vaccinations. The recommended vaccinations include polio, Hepatitis A and B, diphtheria, Tetunus, and Typhoid. 

Can I drink tap water in Tanzania?

No, tap water in Tanzania is generally not safe to drink. We recommend that you always drink bottled water and use tap water only for showering and cleaning your clothes. 

Are the wildlife areas in Tanzania safe?

Although the wildlife areas in Tanzania are safe, remember they are still wild animals. While they are accustomed to the presence of people, you need to follow your guide’s guidelines to make sure you are safe throughout your safari.

Which accommodation options do I have when traveling to Tanzania?

Tanzania offers a wide range of accommodation options. From luxurious hotels to tented camps, tourists have many options to choose from depending on their itinerary and budget.

How long does a safari in Tanzania last?

The duration of a safari adventure will depend on the itinerary and how much you want to experience. This can be as short as 1 days or as long as more than 14 days. 

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