Tanzania Travel Guide

The Best Time To Visit Tanzania generally runs from June to March. This period offers pleasant weather with warm days and cool evenings, making it ideal for a safari adventure. Also, wildlife sightings can be more exciting and easier as you can spot them around the water sources. 

On The Other Hand, Tanzania Has Two Rainy Seasons:

• The long rains from April to May – And during this time, there are heavy afternoon downpours that may lead to the temporary closure of some safari camps.
• The short rains in November – It brings occasional brief showers.

After all, Tanzania is a year-round safari destination and your optimal time will depend on what you want to experience and where you want to go. Most safari areas have warm days and cool evenings throughout the year.

Moreover, understanding the difference between the safari high season and low season is important while planning your Safari To Tanzania.

Seasons	Related Months	Average Temperatures
Long Dry	June To October	21°C - 27°C / 70°F - 81°F
Short Dry	December to March	29°C / 81°F
Long Rains	April To May	22°C - 27°C / 72°F - 81°F
Short Rains	November	27°C - 30°C / 81°F - 86°F

Getting into and around Tanzania is relatively easy, and there are several transportation options available to explore the country.

Getting Into Tanzania

To Getting Into Tanzania, you have three main options for international airports:

The gateway to Tanzania's Northern safari circuit is Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) situated around 50km/31mi east of Arusha. The journey from the airport to Arusha takes approximately 1½ hours.

The other two major airports are Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), located 13km/8mi southwest of Dar es Salaam, which serves as the entry point for visitors to the southern parks and Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), located in Zanzibar Island just off the coastal line of Dar Es Salaam and serves as the entry point or exit point for visitors looking for both coastal and Safari experiences.

Once you arrive in Arusha,Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar, you can choose to travel between reserves by either flying or driving. Domestic flights from Arusha may depart from Kilimanjaro International Airport or the smaller Arusha Airport (ARK), located about 8km/5mi west of town.

Note– We at African Scenic Safaris, provide the transportation service from the airport to your accommodation and it is included in your Tanzania safari packages.

Airline	Departure City	Arrival City	Flight Duration	Price (USD)
Ethiopian Airlines	Addis Ababa	Dar es Salaam	4h 30m	$500
Emirates	Dubai	Dar es Salaam	6h 15m	$700
Qatar Airways	Doha	Kilimanjaro	8h 45m	$800
Turkish Airlines	Istanbul	Zanzibar	10h 20m	$900
Kenya Airways	Nairobi	Dar es Salaam	1h 45m	$400
Delta Air Lines	New York City	Dar es Salaam	16h 40m	$1,200
United Airlines	Chicago	Dar es Salaam	18h 20m	$1,300
Air France	Paris	Dar es Salaam	10h 30m	$900
British Airways	London	Dar es Salaam	9h 55m	$800
Air India	Mumbai	Dar es Salaam	6h 45m	$700
Turkish Airlines	Paris	Zanzibar	11h 50m	$1,000
Turkish Airlines	Manchester	Zanzibar	11h 40m	$1,000
Emirates	Chennai	Zanzibar	11h 5m	$1,100
Ethiopian Airlines	Washington, D.C.	Kilimanjaro	21h 10m	$1,100
Ethiopian Airlines	Marseille	Kilimanjaro	15h 40m	$1,100
Ethiopian Airlines	Birmingham	Kilimanjaro	13h 15m	$1,100
Ethiopian Airlines	Delhi	Kilimanjaro	8h 20m	$900

Getting Around Tanzania

There are various transportation options available to explore Tanzania’s diverse landscapes and attractions. For long-distance travel between cities, domestic flights are available, connecting major airports like Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Kilimanjaro International Airport. And, more available options are:

• Taxis– Taxis are a better option while Traveling In Tanzania. These are readily available in major cities like Dar es Salaam and Arusha. In cities, you can easily hail a taxi from the street, and they are a convenient way to get around within urban areas. Taxi fares may vary, so it's a good idea to negotiate the price before starting the ride or use meters if available. However, a minimal price of a taxi costs around 0.86 USD.
• Buses– Buses are the primary mode of intercity transportation in Tanzania. They are a cost-effective option for traveling between cities and towns. Buses range from large coaches with air-conditioning to smaller minivans, known as ‘dala-dalas’. Dala-dalas are often crowded, and their schedules can be less reliable, but they are a popular choice for budget travelers. And, a typical bus fare in Tanzania will cost you around 0.17 USD.
• Car Rent– If you are looking for a rental car then you need to be at least 18 years old and have an international driver’s license. If you’re seeking flexibility and independence during your Safaris In Tanzania, renting a car is a great option for you. Many international car rental companies operate in Tanzania, especially in larger cities and tourist hubs. We recommend having a valid driver's license if you want to self-drive. And, renting a car will cost you around $80 per person per day.

When planning to book Tanzania Safari Packages, you must understand the visa and passport requirements for a smooth and hassle-free journey. And, here are the key details you need to know:

Passport

All visitors to Tanzania must have a valid passport with a validity of at least six months beyond their intended departure date. Also, ensure that the passport has sufficient blank pages for visa stamps and other immigration requirements.

Visa

Most nationalities require a visa to enter Tanzania. There are two main options for obtaining a visa:

• Visa on Arrival: Tanzania offers visas on arrival for citizens of many countries. Upon arrival at the airport, you can obtain a tourist visa. For this, you need to complete the necessary forms, provide the required documents, and pay the visa fee in cash (USD is recommended). Tanzania Visa on arrival is typically valid for a single entry of up to 90 days.
• Advance Visa: Some nationalities are required to obtain a visa in advance from Tanzanian embassies or consulates in their home country. It is advisable to check the immigration.go.tz site for the latest visa requirements according to your specific nationality.

Yellow Fever Certificate

While the country is not officially listed as a Yellow Fever endemic country, immigration officials may still request to see Yellow Fever vaccination certificates or exemption certificates upon arrival. So, it’s advisable to carry a valid Yellow Fever certificate with you to comply with potential Tanzania Travel Requirements and facilitate a hassle-free entry process.

Note– Visa requirements can change, so it's recommended to verify the most up-to-date information from the Tanzanian embassy in your home country before traveling. Travelling with African Scenic Safaris can also provide assistance in obtaining the necessary visas for your Tanzania safari.

On average, Tanzania Safari Costs can start from US$250 per person per day. This cost usually includes accommodation, meals, park fees, game drives, and the services of a professional guide.

Luxury lodges and longer safaris tend to be more expensive, while budget-friendly options and shorter safaris can help reduce costs. However, the Cost Of Tanzania Safaris can vary depending on various factors such as the duration of the safari, accommodation choices, transportation, season of travel and additional activities. So, it’s advisable to consider your preferences and budget when planning a Safari Trip To Tanzania.

The currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). When going on a Tanzania Safari Tour, it is important to have local currency for various expenses. US Dollars are also widely accepted and often preferred for larger transactions, such as park fees, accommodations, and safari bookings. Here is some additional information about currency and exchange rates in Tanzania:

Currency Exchange

The Tanzania Shilling can be obtained through currency exchange services, banks, or ATMs in major cities and tourist areas. It’s advisable to exchange your currency into Tanzania Shilling upon arrival so that you’ll not face any trouble during your Safaris In Tanzania.

Credit Cards & ATMs

Credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in larger hotels, lodges, and some shops and restaurants in Tanzania. However, it is always wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments and remote areas where card payments may not be available.

ATMs are also accessible in major cities in Tanzania. So, you can withdraw cash in local currency during your travel to Tanzania.

Note– While on Tanzania safari, it is advisable to carry a reasonable amount of cash with you and keep it secure places.

Language and communication in Tanzania are diverse, reflecting the country's cultural richness. With over 129 ethnic groups, Tanzania boasts the greatest linguistic diversity in Africa.

Official Languages

The official languages of Tanzania are Swahili (Kiswahili) and English. Swahili is widely spoken across the country and serves as the lingua franca. It’s the medium of communication between different ethnic groups.

English is also commonly understood, especially in urban areas, tourist destinations, and among those involved in the tourism industry.

Local Languages

As Tanzania is home to numerous ethnic groups, each of them has their own languages. Though, Swahili is the main language, you may encounter various local dialects during your travels.

Communication In Rural Areas

In remote and rural areas, especially outside major tourist zones, you need to use Swahili while communicating with locals. Or you can need a local guide for effective communication. They can bridge the language barrier and enhance meaningful interactions with the locals.

Moreover, you should learn a few local phrases to develop deeper connections with local communities.

Popular Swahili Phrases	Meaning
Jambo/ Hujambo	Hello!
Habari gani?	How are you?
Nzuri	Fine
Asante	Thank You
Jina lako ni nini?	What’s your name
Nafurahi kukutana nawewe	Nice to meet you
Kwaheri	Good Bye
Tutaonana	See you later
Usiku mwema	Good night
Lala salama	Sleep well

Tanzania Cultural Tours

Tanzania is a country rich in traditions and cultural diversity. It offers unique opportunities for immersive cultural tours. One can explore the traditions of various ethnic groups like the Maasai, Hadzabe, Chagga, and more.

Engaging in cultural tours and witness traditional dances, rituals, and ceremonies, visit local villages, and interact with community members. Experience the vibrant Maasai culture by visiting their bomas (settlements), and learn about their nomadic lifestyle, and participating in their traditional activities.

Discover the ancient customs and agricultural practices of the Chagga people on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. These Tanzania Cultural Tours provide a deeper understanding of Tanzania's cultural heritage.

When packing for Tanzania, it's important to consider the country's tropical climate. Due to the varying weather conditions and rainfall patterns, you need some essential items to include in your Tanzania Safari Packing List.

• Firstly, a waterproof bag is recommended to protect your belongings from both rain and dust, particularly in drier regions.
• For footwear, pack lightweight, waterproof shoes for safaris and include a pair of flip-flops or sandals for comfort during sightseeing.
• Protecting yourself during your safari is important. So, it’s advisable to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and insect repellent as well. These essentials will shield you and prevent any type of harm.
• Layered clothing is essential, including lightweight tropical wear, long pants, long-sleeve tops, and warm clothes for cooler nights. Avoid dark-colored clothes as tsetse flies are attracted to them; opt for light, neutral colors instead.
• Lastly, binoculars are handy for game drives since off-roading is not allowed in national parks. Alternatively, consider a camera with a powerful zoom.

With these items, you'll be well-prepared to enjoy Tanzania's diverse climate and make the most of your Tanzania Safari Experiences.

The accommodation options in Tanzania vary from Budget, and mid-range to luxury. Here are some key facts you need to know while choosing Accommodations In Tanzania during your safari:

Accommodation style	Facilities	Cost in USD (Person/Day)
Budget	Free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, hot showers	$30 - $200
Mid-range	Private rooms with TVs, free Wi-Fi, outdoor pool, gym, hotel or restaurant bar	$200 - $500
Luxury	24/7 room services, gym, massage services, free dining, pool, and butler service	$500 - $1,000+

• During July, August and Christmas, and New Year, accommodation prices go up due to the high number of travellers as well as holiday surcharges.
• In the meantime, In April and May the prices of the accommodations are discounted from 30% onwards to account for low season travel.
• If you have a residence permit you will get so discounts at many lodges and hotels and in the national parks.

Our Recommended Luxury Hotels

While comfort is essential during a safari, you can discover our specially recommended Tanzania luxury hotels with lavish amenities. Instead of focusing solely on extravagant accommodations, prioritize lodges and camps that offer authentic safari experiences. Here, our crafted Best Tanzania Travel Guide recommends you the top luxury hotels in Tanzania:

Note– From cozy lodges to luxury tented camps, Tanzania's accommodations are designed to offer you a true home away from home.

Our Recommendation: To know more about Tanzania accommodation cost, you can check out our Tanzania Safari Cost page.

Tanzania is a country with incredible experiences, and we can be your trusted guide to explore its wonders. From the vast plains of Serengeti National Park to the stunning beaches of the Zanzibar Archipelago, Tanzania bowls ample Things To Do And See In Tanzania.

While your visit to Tanzania, plan your safari adventure in Serengeti National Park. Witness the iconic Great Migration which is one of the top Things To Do In Tanzania and encounter diverse wildlife as well.

Join us for an exciting expedition to climb Mount Kilimanjaro and enjoy spectacular views from the summit. Relax on the pristine beaches of the Zanzibar Archipelago, exploring the historic Stone Town and indulging in water activities like snorkeling and diving.

Explore the remarkable Ngorongoro Crater, home to abundant wildlife and learn about Maasai culture. Venture into Tarangire National Park, known for its large elephant herds and picturesque landscapes.

Engage in cultural experiences, such as traditional dances and village visits during your Safari Tours In Tanzania. Also, discover the raw beauty of Ruaha National Park, with its rugged landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Apart from the northern circuit safari adventures, you can also immerse yourself in the natural wonders and hidden treasures of Tanzania’s southern circuit.

Note– In Tanzania, every step is an invitation to discover the extraordinary – from the iconic wildlife safaris to the majestic peaks and pristine beaches.

Tanzania is generally a safe destination, but it's important to remain vigilant due to petty thefts such as robberies and muggings. It is advisable to take taxis at night and, if walking, stick to well-lit and busy streets, preferably in a group. And, remember follow Tanzania Travel Tips for a more enjoyable experience.

Though, wildlife encounters on safaris are exciting, follow the instructions of trained guides and maintain a safe distance from the animals. So, It’s recommended to check our Tanzania Travel Safety section while traveling to Tanzania for safety and security concerns.

In addition to the above-mentioned information, our customized Tanzania Travel Guide also contains some additional information that can help in planning your best safari in Tanzania.

Opening Hours

Opening hours are generally as follows.

• Banks and Government Offices - 8 am to 3 pm Monday to Friday
• Restaurants - 7 am to 9 am, noon to 2.30 pm, and 6.30 pm to 9.30 pm; reduced hours during low season (24 hour options available)
• Shops - 8.30 am to 6 pm Monday to Friday, 9 am to 1 pm Saturday, often closed Friday afternoon for mosque services
• Supermarkets - 9 am to 6 pm Monday to Friday, 9 am to 4 pm Saturday, 10 am to 2 pm Sunday.

Tanzania Food & Drinks

• Food in Tanzania: Tanzanian Foods offers a delightful blend of flavors influenced by various cultures and traditions. Staple foods include ugali, a thick maize porridge, and nyama choma, grilled meat often served with a side of kachumbari, a fresh tomato and onion salad. Seafood lovers will enjoy the Swahili dish of pilau, fragrant rice cooked with spices and often served with prawns or fish. Don't miss out on sampling the street food delicacies like vitumbua (rice cakes) and chipsi mayai (a unique omelette with French fries).
• Drinks: To quench your thirst, try refreshing beverages like freshly squeezed fruit juices, coconut water, or tangawizi, a ginger drink. For a taste of local culture, indulge in the popular Tanzanian tea known as "chai" or the strong local coffee. Tanzania also offers a range of local beers like Kibo Gold, Serengeti Lager, and Tusker. Beige, a banana beer, is also popular. Fresh fruit juices, including pineapple, orange, tamarind, and sugar cane, are refreshing options in Tanzania.

Health Advice

Before traveling to any country, it is always advisable to stay up to date with vaccinations and possible health advisories. Here, in this Tanzania Travel Guide, we have mentioned some essential health tips that you need to know before you visit Tanzania-

• Get a complete check-up from your doctor and make sure you don’t have any chronic illness like high blood pressure.
• Do not forget to take a first-aid medical kit. Carry your medicines in their original container.
• If you are carrying any syringes or needles with you, carry the prescription from the physician.

Recommended Vaccinations: No matter which Tanzania Destinations you are traveling to, always follow WHO-recommended vaccinations.

• Diphtheria
• Tetanus
• Measles
• Mumps
• Rubella
• Polio
• Hepatitis B

Apart from WHO, CDC also advises the following vaccination to all travelers before traveling to Tanzania.

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Rabies
• Typhoid
• Boosters for tetanus and measles

Drinking Water In Tanzania

While your Safaris In Tanzania, it’s highly advisable to avoid consuming any form of contaminated water to minimize the risk of illness. However, maintaining proper hydration is essential. Make sure to drink plenty of safe and purified water to stay hydrated, healthy. Always prefer bottled water and don’t drink tap water even while travelling in the streets of Tanzania.

Gift And Shopping

Tanzania offers a variety of options for purchasing gifts and souvenirs. Popular items include Maasai tartan blankets, Tanzanite jewellery, beadwork, wood carvings, and hand-printed batik fabrics. These can be found in small shops, shopping malls, and craft shops.

For more affordable options, indigenous markets like Kariakoo Market in Dar es Salaam and Arusha Central Market in Arusha are excellent choices. These markets provide a vibrant shopping experience for tourists seeking local produce, spices, textiles, and handicrafts.

Telephone And Mobile Networks For Travellers

TTCL is the landline number in Tanzania. It has seven digits preceded by three digits area code which is mandatory.

TTCL- The fast-fading Tanzania Telecom offices in the major post offices.

• Mobile Networks: Mobile networks are widely available in Tanzania including all major towns and rural areas. Still, sometimes you can face some network issues. Mobile Networks in Tanzania are 6 digits preceded by 07 or 06. The pre-paid packages in Tanzania start from $ 1.50.
• SIM Card & Internet facilities: Upon arrival at Tanzanian international airports, obtaining a SIM card is the easiest and recommended option. Five network providers operate in the country– Vodacom (widest coverage), Airtel (good coverage in Serengeti and Ngorongoro), Tigo, Zantel (best for Zanzibar), and Halotel. Wi-Fi availability varies depending on the region in Tanzania. However, most major hotels and lodges across the country provide Wi-Fi or internet access for their guests.
• Phone Codes In Tanzania Destinations: The official code in Tanzania is +255. Dial 000 followed by the country code or local area code.

Travelling Tanzania With Disabilities

Tanzanians are getting used to and willing to assist disabled people as much as they can. While the country is still developing its infrastructure for disabled travelers, there are accommodations that provide services for disabled visitors. Many lodges also have wheelchair facilities and elevators.

Parks and lodges are on ground level. Still, we suggest you contact your safari operators before booking your Tanzania Safari Tours.

Rules On Photography

Before taking photos of any people always ask permission and respect their willingness. In many places, locals may ask you for money before taking any photographs of them.

Taking photographs of Gov. Offices such as banks, and post offices is prohibited. Do not take any photo which is connected with military or Government Officials.

Traveling With Your Children

Tanzania is definitely one of the few destinations where you can experience the best Tanzania Family Safaris. Your children will have a lot to discover and learn from its wildlife and wilderness.

But before traveling to Tanzania with your family here are some tips that you need to know -

• Tanzania is known for having some of the best unfenced National Parks. So, when you are on a game drive or nature walks in such parks monitor your children’s movements.
• Never allow your children to walk alone out of the campsites, lodges or hotels, particularly in the evening.
• Although there will be guide with you all the time, still it’s suggested to follow the above tips.
• Keep in mind that a lot of Safari Activities In Tanzania have age restrictions. For taking part in such activities children must be aged above 12.

At African Scenic Safaris, we are dedicated to delivering exceptional safari experiences and offering unbiased advice to our guests. Our team of Tanzania Safari Experts resides in Tanzania and possesses extensive firsthand knowledge of the destinations we recommend. With our deep understanding of the region, we provide up-to-date and relevant Tanzania Travel Guide providing detailed information.

Our experts regularly visit new lodges, experiences, and activities to ensure that they meet the high expectations of our clients. We believe that nothing compares to firsthand experience, and we work to provide our clients with the most accurate and reliable information to make their Safaris In Tanzania truly extraordinary. So, don't wait any longer; let the adventure begin!