Tanzania Travel Guide
ABOUT TANZANIA
Tanzania is a top tourist destination in Africa, offering exciting wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unique cultural experiences. With over 35% of its land designated as conservation areas, visitors can enjoy numerous wildlife species and a variety of plants.
The Northern Circuit includes popular attractions such as Mount Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti National Park, and the Ngorongoro Crater, while the southern and western circuits feature destinations such as the Nyerere and Ruaha National Parks.
Zanzibar is a popular spot for relaxation, water sports, and cultural exploration. First-time visitors are encouraged to explore the Northern Circuit for a diverse experience within a short timeframe.
WHY TRAVEL TO TANZANIA?
- Tanzania has been named the top tourist destination in Africa several times, boasting numerous pristine national parks and reserves. Its high density and great diversity of wildlife, brilliant landscapes, and is a sancturary to over 500 species of birds make it a top choice for tourists.
- The Great Wildebeest Migration in Serengeti National Park offers visitors the chance to witness what has been called the greatest show on earth. The migration is a year-long search for water and green pastures.
- Mt. Kilimanjaro and Mt. Meru offers world-class hiking experiences, while Empakai and Olmoti craters are ideal destinations for hikers who want to explore Tanzania on foot for a few hours.
- The coastline of Tanzania, including the white sand beaches of Zanzibar, provides the perfect setting for visitors to relax alongside the Indian Ocean or engage in watersports like snorkelling, diving, and kite surfing.
- Fascinating and Authentic cultural experiences: Experiences offering the opportunity to immerse oneself in fascinating and authentic cultural experiences, such as spending quality time with the Maasai people and meeting the Hadzabe, the last hunters and gatherers society in Africa.
- Tanzania is home to the birth of mankind and rich history, with sites such as Olduvai Gorge in Ngorongoro where early humans were discovered, and Stone Town, a World Heritage site rich in historical sites and abundant spices.
- Primate Safari: Gombe and Mahale provide opportunities for primate safaris, allowing visitors to get closer to the magnificent creatures that share 99% DNA with humans—chimpanzees.
- Presence of Private Conservancies: Private conservancies around the Tarangire and Manyara regions offer visitors a more secluded game viewing experience and various activities during their trip, adding to Tanzania’s appeal as a tourist destination.
TANZANIA SAFARI PREPARATION & TIPS
Best Time to Visit Tanzania
The best time to visit Tanzania is during the dry season. The long dry season starts from mid-June until October, and the short dry season stretches from January to Early March. With clearer weather and less vegetation, the available water sources become a magnet to all wildlife.
The greatest time to track the Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti is between June and September when the wildebeests are scattered alongside The Grumeti River (Western Serengeti) and later continue to The Mara River in North Serengeti. January and February are calving season and considered one of the finest times to see the Great Migration and their newly born. November to December is the short-wet season; during this period of time, the migration is dispersed between central and southern Serengeti in search of green pasture and water.
The long-wet season lasts from April to May, and during this time, the scenery becomes evergreen as the high rainfall nourishes the land and ushers in the calving season among herbivores. The wet season is also a very good time for bird watching but a slightly more difficult time to spot wildlife, as sources of water are everywhere. Also, animals tend to hide from the rainfall during this time.
The wet season does translate into a saving for those visiting during this time, as many lodges offer lower rates.
Recommended Destinations to Visit in Tanzania
The most famous safari destinations are in Northern Tanzania (the Northern Circuit), which includes the renowned Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. The Serengeti is famous for the “Great Migration” and big cats, while Ngorongoro Crater remains the world’s largest caldera inhabited by more than 25,000 resident animals. Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are the ultimate safari destinations to view Africa’s most remarkable wildlife, including the “Big Five”. If you have enough time, we recommend including Tarangire National Park.
For second-time visitors, we recommend exploring the southern circuit, which includes the massive Nyerere, Ruaha, and Mikumi National Parks. These wildlife havens are home to many of Africa’s last remaining wild dogs, abundant elephants and lions, among other species.
Gombe and Mahale National Parks are open to those interested in primates throughout the year, but the best time to visit is between July and October. For a more isolated experience, you can include Katavi National Park in your visit.
If you are interested in meeting local tribes, spending quality time with the Maasai people, the Hazabe Bushmen, and the Datoga tribe is very rewarding. We recommend adding some recreational activities, adventures, or cultural visits to your safari itinerary, as being active throughout your safari is essential for an authentic experience.
For the adventurous, Mt. Kilimanjaro and Mt. Meru offers year-round daily trekking opportunities for climbers.
Finally, Zanzibar is the perfect place to unwind after your safari. The pristine white sands, clear blue water, and beautiful sky provide an unforgettable beach holiday.
How Far ahead to Plan a Trip to Tanzania
We strongly recommend booking your Tanzania safari as early as possible, at least 3 months before your arrival date. Many of the best accommodations tend to get fully booked well in advance, so early planning is essential. Having ample time to plan your trip will also allow our experts to design the most suitable itinerary for your holiday while accommodating as many of your personal preferences as possible.
Travel documents Needed for Tanzania
It is essential for all travellers, regardless of their nationality, to have a passport with a validity of at least six months and with at least two blank pages. This is a crucial part of your travel preparations.
The fee for a single-entry tourist visa is US $50, except for Americans, who are required to pay US $100. American visas are multiple entry visas valid for a year, but visitors will need to leave the country after every 90 days. For the most up-to-date visa requirements, please get in touch with the Tanzanian embassy in your country before your trip.
Nationals of certain countries can obtain a Tanzania visa upon arrival. We recommend checking the visa requirements for your specific citizenship, as entry requirements vary by country.
To avoid long lines at the port of entry or airport, we suggest applying for the visa at least three months before your travel dates, either through the embassy or online.
Flights & Airports
Depending on your departure point, you will have options for direct flights or flights with layovers, typically in Nairobi, Dubai, or Addis Ababa. The major international airlines serving Tanzania include Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Delta, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, Condor, and Air France.
For a safari in the northern circuit, you should fly to or from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). If your safari is in southern Tanzania, Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar-es-Salaam (DAR) is the most convenient airport. For a beach extension, consider flying from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) in Stone Town, Zanzibar.
Moreover, several domestic flight companies, such as Precision Air, Air Tanzania, Coastal Air, Flightlink, and Auric Air, operate flights between major cities and can also fly you directly to your safari destination.
Travel Insurance(s)
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that includes coverage for trip cancellations, flight cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, or any other incidents that may affect your safari, as well as coverage for damaged property. It is also important to have international medical insurance. While some travel insurance policies also cover medical needs, having insurance that covers all aspects of your trip as well as medical expenses is essential.
Please note that all guests of Zohar African Safaris are covered for immediate emergency evacuation by Flying Doctors from any location. However, it’s important to understand that this insurance only covers the evacuation and transportation by Flying Doctors from the evacuation point to the hospital door. Therefore, it is essential to have international medical insurance to cover hospital bills. While the likelihood of needing this assistance is low, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Rest assured, our team will be available to assist you in any way we can.
Staying Health & Vaccinations
Many travellers have common concerns about their health and safety when traveling to Africa. Is it safe to travel to Africa? What are the major health risks in Africa? Yes, it is safe to travel to Africa and if you follow health protocols, there are no health risks.
The best choice of vaccines for your trip depends on many individual factors, including your precise travel plans. We advise you to consult a travel medicine clinic or personal doctor before travelling to Tanzania for any up-to-date information on the latest health precautions and vaccination recommendations. We recommend doing this at least 6 weeks before the intended departure day.
Routine vaccines for African travel include protection against chickenpox, measles, polio, influenza, measles, diphtheria, mumps and rubella, pertussis, and tetanus. Additionally, a “booster-shot” for Meningitis or Rabies is advisable.
The government of Tanzania may require proof of yellow fever vaccination upon arrival if you are travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever.
Malaria
Malaria is widespread throughout Kenya with the exception of high-altitude areas. As Malaria medications vary from country to country, make sure your physician knows you will be travelling to Kenya. We recommend taking malaria pills a few days prior to your trip and a few days after you are back home.
HIV/AIDS is no more a problem in Tanzania than anywhere else in the world. Provided you are not taking undue risks, you have nothing to worry.
In case of needing any medical attention, Tanzania has qualified nurses and doctors. Most camping sites, lodges, and hotels have on-site physicians and if your condition is serious, we are in constant contact with the Flying Doctors Service that can evacuate you to a nearby medical facility.
Currency
The currency is the Tanzanian shilling (TZS); the note denominations are 1,000, 2,000, 5,000 and 10,000 shillings, while the coins are 500, 200, 100 & 50 denominations.
The most common and easiest currencies to exchange are US Dollars and Euros. The exchange rate is approximately US $1 = Tsh 2,685 €1 = Tsh 2,889. Currency conversion rates change daily, and big denominations tend to have better exchange rates so for the best exchange rates, we recommend using 50 or 100 USD Bills.
You can easily obtain local currency from banks, the airport bureau of change, bureaus of change around town, or authorised hotels. Bureaus of change typically offer better rates than banks. Additionally, ATM machines are conveniently located in all airports and around town, accepting both MasterCard and Visa for withdrawals.
The Tanzanian shilling is universally accepted, making it unnecessary to carry large amounts of foreign currency. However, US dollars or Euros are widely accepted in hotels, large supermarkets, and shops, so it’s advisable to have some on hand for additional purchases during your trip.
Major credit cards (Visa and MasterCard) are accepted at most (Westernized) outlets in Tanzania, such as large banks, supermarkets, and establishments. Local trade is done in physical cash. Please note that paying through credit card may attract a 3.5%—5% credit card surcharge.
Bank hours are between 0830 and 1600, while on Saturday, they operate half a day between 0830 and 1200.
Food
Tanzanian food varies significantly depending on the region and the availability of local ingredients. On the mainland, most hotels serve Tanzanian dishes consisting of meat stews, fried chicken, chicken curry, rice, chips, boiled or mashed potatoes, pasta with minced meat, chapati bread, ugali (maize porridge), pilau (fried rice with beef and spices), and seasonal vegetable curry.
Major Tanzanian towns have a significant population of immigrants, mostly from the Indian subcontinent, and restaurants usually serve many common Indian dishes, like biryani, spicy curries, and chapati bread.
Along the coast, the Indian Ocean provides a variety of seafood, and the Swahili style of food is flavoured with spices and coconut milk. It features fragrant rice, grilled fish, and prawn curries. But what truly refreshes the palate are the abundant tropical fruits like coconuts, paw-paws, mangoes, pineapples, and bananas and their delicious fresh juices.
With prior notice, arrangements can be made for halal/kosher meals or any dietary restrictions, although complex requests may be challenging to accommodate locally.
Our Safari Guides & Tipping
Zohar exclusively collaborates with safari guide-drivers with over 5 years of experience. Many of these guides have previously worked on National Geographic documentaries or at high-end luxury lodges, earning them recognition as some of the finest safari guides in East Africa. Our guides possess outstanding communication skills, a friendly and approachable demeanour, and adhere to high professional standards. They are adept in various safety procedures and can promptly address any challenges that may arise while navigating the rugged bush terrain.
It’s important to emphasise that the tour guide significantly influences your safari experience by ensuring it is enjoyable and secure and offering valuable insights.
In East Africa, it is customary for safari guides to receive part of their compensation through tips and appreciation from the clients. As a general guideline, it’s customary to offer a gift of around $18 to $25 per client per day to your safari guide. For our cultural and activities guides, a gratuity of $10 to $15 per client per activity is typical.
These guidelines are designed to help you navigate the cultural norms and show your appreciation for the exceptional service our guides provide.
TANZANIA SAFARI PACKING LIST
General Packing List
- We highly recommend you to pack as light as possible. Always remember to leave space for souvenirs and gifts.
- You should ensure that you have all the travel documents including passports (and a few photo copies), printed flight ticket, visa, address book including emergency contact, printed trip itinerary, travel insurance and money on your person.
- A small pouch or a bag that hangs around the neck is recommended.
- Strong and comfortable shoes preferably waterproof
- Cotton and breathable socks.
- Sandals or flip-flops
Baggage Restrictions
- A maximum of 15kg of luggage per person is allowed for light aircraft flights within the country, excluding hand luggage and camera equipment. Additional luggage is charged according to the flight company. International carriers have their own rules, and it is advised to check these.
- Please make sure your valuables such as electronic equipment and money / documents / medication (if applicable) are packed in your hand luggage.
- It is highly recommended that you lock your luggage, and the government takes a strict stance on the transport of ivory / precious stones / tropical woods and food or drinks. When you purchase these items, please make sure you purchase them from certified vendors, able to produce a receipt upon request.
- Finally, narcotics and prescription drugs are highly forbidden in Tanzania unless you can produce a medical clearance or dispensation.
Luggage:
- Waterproof Soft-sided bag of up to 20kg
- Waterproof Backpack or small bag that you can hang around the neck
Dressing:
- Casual and loose-fitting clothing like short/long sleeved shirts (camouflage clothes are recommended)
- Lightweight breathable pants
- Long-sleeved fleece or sweater for evenings and/or early mornings.
- Night dresses/pajamas
- Sun hats and scarf for the dust
- When visiting a village, women should avoid short pants and sleeveless blouses/shirts and short skirts that do not cover the knees out of respect for the local customs and traditions.
Toiletries:
- Small towel
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Soap (bar or gel soap), conditioner and shampoo with less fragrance
- Body Lotion
- Facial tissue and normal wet tissues
- Comb and small mirror
- Antibacterial gel, hand- wipes and Kleenex
First Aid Kit
- Painkillers e.g. aspirin or Panadol (or others prescribed by your physician)
- Insect repellent and mosquito repellents.
- Crème for itches and rashes (i.e. Benadryl itch relief stick)
- Cold and allergy medicine
- Bandage, gauze and tapes
- Malaria pills
- Stomach Ache medicines
- Diarrhoea medicine
- Prescription antibiotics effective against a wide range of bacteria
- Antihistamines
- Ibuprofen
- Prescription Medications
- Multivitamins
Electronics:
- Camera, extra batteries and charger, memory cards, mini-tripod
- Flashlight and headlight
- UK plug adapter and transformer / voltage converter, if applicable
- Personal music device
Other:
- Maps, guidebooks
- Binoculars
- Money
- Sunglasses, sunscreen and lip balm
- Candies and snacks
- Travel pillow
SAFARI FAQ
- Is it safe to travel to Tanzania?
Tanzania is one of the safest countries in the world to travel to. The Tanzanian government emphasises the importance of peace daily, which is our highest priority. We will provide a detailed briefing on all safety measures while you are with us. Our safari jeeps have multiple spare tyres and a first-aid kit to address any problems, sudden sickness, or injuries. In case of severe illness or injury, the “Flying Doctors” service is available for emergency evacuation.
- What are the major health risks in Tanzania?
If you are cautious and adhere to common health protocols, there is no increased health risk in Africa.
- What happens if I get seriously sick on safari?
Most camping sites, lodges, and hotels have on-site physicians, and if your condition is serious, we are in constant contact with the Flying Doctors Service. We can evacuate you to a nearby medical facility.
- What type of travel insurance is recommended?
We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance and trip cancellation insurance for your upcoming travel plans. This insurance will provide you with protection in the event of an emergency. Additionally, we offer medical evacuation insurance for medical emergencies, but it’s important to note that this insurance only covers the evacuation and transportation by flying doctors from the point of evacuation to the hospital door. Therefore, it’s essential to have international medical insurance to cover the hospital bills.
- How many days do I need for safari?
At least 6-7 days to visit the famous Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, with the possibility of tracking the migration. You will need about 8-12 days if you include more destinations and activities.
- What parks do you recommend visiting?
If you have 6 or more days for a safari, we recommend visiting Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park. Manyara National Park is also very rewarding if you are interested in activities. If this is your second time in Tanzania, we recommend visiting Nyerere and Ruaha National Parks.
- How many days do you recommend meeting local tribes, doing activities and visiting the parks?
You would need 8 to 12 days.
- What can I expect after booking?
Get ready for a stress-free tour! Once you have booked, we will send you a service voucher, our travel information, and a packing list. We will also provide a detailed safari package with your itinerary, daily tour details, and information about your accommodations. A few weeks before arrival, we will send some helpful final safari tips a few weeks before you arrive.
- Can I make changes after I book?
Yes, we are here to assist you. If you need to modify your itinerary and the number of people, update your contact information, or change the start time or date, please get in touch with us at bookings@zoharafricansafaris.com . For cancellations, please review the relevant cancellation policy before making a booking. Please remember that while we will make every effort to accommodate changes, last-minute changes may be more challenging to arrange.
- What happens if I cancel my trip?
Please read our booking terms and conditions, which include our cancellation policy.
- What kind of camera do you recommend I bring?
A long fixed-lens camera is recommended for clear, crisp and stunning pictures in the bush. Small cameras are okay for normal pictures, such as a view of the city or market. All of these technologies can be bought in Africa, but due to import fees, the price may be two times higher than in the US or UK.
- What do we do if our flight is delayed?
Please inform us immediately of any changes, whether earlier or at the last minute. If we are not informed promptly, you must arrange your airport transportation. Shuttles and taxis are available at the airport.
- Will a Zohar guide or representative meet me at the airport?
Yes. Please send us your flight details at least 2-3 weeks before your arrival date. You will meet our representative holding a Zohar sign with your name in the public area outside customs.
- What do I do if my luggage arrives late or gets lost?
If your luggage arrives late or gets lost, you will need to fill out a lost luggage form obtained from the airport and give it to the Zohar representative, who will follow up and bring the luggage to you at the hotel later when it arrives.
- Is the water safe to drink?
Bottled or filtered water is always safe to drink, so we highly recommend it. Do not drink from the tap because the water may be of lesser quality or with an unbalanced pH. Bottled water can be purchased within the lodge where you are accommodated, restaurants, or shops around you. We provide safe mineral water throughout the safari.
- Which currency is accepted?
The local currency is widely accepted, but US dollars and Euros are also commonly accepted at hotels, some supermarkets, and shops. You can exchange your money for the local currency at banks, the Airport Bureau of Exchange, or various exchange bureaus around town. ATMs are conveniently available at all airports and throughout the city.
- What is the current exchange rate?
US $1 = Tsh 2,685 €1 = Tsh 2,889. Currency conversion rates keep changing every day. Different denominations return different rates in RWF. US $50 and 100 bills always get the best exchange rates
- Can I use cash, credit cards, or checks?
Most of the accommodations and shops accept cash only. You can use major credit cards in some big shops and hotels. Traveler’s cheques are not accepted. If you bring cash, it will be a lot easier to make purchases.
- How much money do I need to come with?
The amount of money you need depends on your personal expenses. Your safari package includes lodging, transportation, food, and other items as indicated in your “Price Inclusions”.
- What differentiates a tented camp from a lodge on safari?
A tented camp is made of canvas and is mobile, while a lodge is made of concrete walls and floors and has a permanent location. Tented camps are situated close to game areas, while most lodges are far from game areas and isolated.
- What is the local food?
The most common local foods are potatoes, chicken, rice, pasta, corn meal (ugali), beans, various green vegetables, grilled beef, eggs, banana stews and seasonal fruits. All special dietary requests must be communicated upon booking.
- Can I use my phone / iPhone while on safari?
Yes. You should unlock (if locked) your phone or iPhone before you leave for your safari and buy a SIM card for about $1 as soon as you arrive. The local SIM card will enable you to communicate locally and internationally (make calls, send text messages, read emails, etc.). The lodges and hotels also have Wi-Fi in the main areas and some in the rooms.
- What electronic devices do you propose I should bring?
Phone, camera, binoculars and tablet. Please remove them from their packaging as customs officers might consider them “imports” if you don’t, incurring an additional fee.
- What kind of binoculars do you recommend I bring?
For exceptional views take an Alpen 10 x 42, for very good views, take an Alpen 8 x 42. Our guides normally carry their personal binoculars (1-2), so if you are travelling individually or with 2 people, you can use the guide’s binoculars.
- What kind of electrical sockets are used in Tanzania?
When travelling to Tanzania, please note that most electrical outlets are the same as those used in the UK (type D and G). You should bring square plug power adapters and a converter (220V) for any electrical appliances you use. We strongly recommend investing in a high-quality universal adapter. Furthermore, many hotels and lodges will have adapters available for your use.
- Can I take my medication with me without problems?
Yes. Over the counter medication (e.g. paracetamol, ibuprofen, cough or allergy medication), is freely permitted entry, provided it is clear the quantities do not exceed normal adult usage. Prescription medication is dependent on the class and nature of the medication, but provided the quantity is small and is proven to be for personal use, this should not give rise to any questions. Some prescription medicine such as morphine-based substances will ideally require a physician’s prescription. The rule of thumb is: “if you need a doctor’s note in Europe or the Americas”, you need one here. Although chances of being searched for this are minimal.
- Is our guide professional and speaks good English?
Yes. Zohar guides have 5+ years of experience in the field. They are highly knowledgeable about the flora and fauna, diverse culture of Africa and geography. They are certified in first-aid and receive first-aid training annually. They also receive different training based on their respective fields three times a year to ensure they attend to clients in the best way possible.
- Will our guide be with us throughout the safari?
Definitely yes, our guide is committed to be available to you whenever you need him, both day and night while on safari or around town.
- How much should I tip a guide?
Most of our guests tip around $18 -$25 per person per day but you can tip more or less depending on how happy you are with your guide or the budget you have set for your trip.
- How many people are in a safari jeep?
We have two kinds of Toyota Land Cruisers, one with five and the other with seven window seats. Each seat has a large, clear window that can be opened. Additionally, all vehicles have roofs that can be opened, allowing passengers to stand and enjoy an unobstructed view in every direction.
- I love getting near to animals, but I’m scared of wild animals potentially hurting me?
Our guides are professionally trained to know how close you can get to the diverse species of wild animals that live in the African bush. You are advised not to get outside the jeep while in the bush. If it happens that you get outside the jeep, you will need to ask for the guide’s permission and stay as close as possible. Silence and as few movements as possible are highly needed when wild animals are close so as not to scare the animals away. Wild animals can get inches from the jeep. At that moment, you are advised to close your window and remain silent while watching them through the open roof of your jeep. AT ALL TIMES: please follow the instructions of your guide. He knows the animals and can judge the threats better than you as these are still wild animals capable of hurting you.
- With wild animals, is it safe for my (young) children?
We do not recommend taking very young children, but generally, as long as they follow the exact instructions, they will be safe within the jeep. Not all accommodations will have suitable facilities for children under the age of 1 -3.
- Can I feed the animals in the national park?
Feeding the animals inside the park is strictly prohibited. Feeding them may destroy the natural habitat and ecosystem.