Banking and Currency

• Currency:

  • Tanzanian Shilling (Tsh/TZS)

• Banking:

  • Cards are widely accepted but ATMs limited

  • Tips and Gratuities can be paid for in major international currencies, though the US$, GB Pounds and Euros are most commonly used (and appreciated!).

  • If local currency is required, then we suggest you obtain this upon arrival at the airport, either from an ATM or a Bureau de Change.

Travel, Transport and Getting Around

• Access into Tanzania is generally through Dar es Salaam's Julius Nyerere International Airport, Arusha's Kilimanjaro International Airport, and domestic flights into Stone Town, Zanzibar.

• Self-drive in Tanzania is generally not a common practice.

• We provide transfers from airports to accommodation and then the safari operators coordinate all travel on your tour per your itinerary.

• UK, EU, and US citizens travelling to Tanzania require a valid passport with at least six months validity remaining beyond their intended stay. Additionally, they need to obtain a tourist visa, which can be procured online prior to travel or upon arrival at major entry points. It's recommended to apply in advance for online visas to avoid potential delays. Visa fees vary based on nationality and duration of stay. We strongly advise you check these requirements with the relevant Embassy, Consulate or visa issuing authority.

Health & Safety

• Tanzania is generally a safe country for tourists, but there are a few health and safety points to keep in mind:

  • Malaria is a risk in some parts of Tanzania, particularly the lower areas and in the wet season. It is important to take precautions against malaria, such as taking antimalarial medication, using insect repellent, and wearing long sleeves and light trousers.

  • Sun exposure: Tanzania is a sunny country, so it is important to protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.

  • Dehydration: Tanzania can be a hot and dry country, so it is important to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

  • Always consult your doctor and provide them with specific information on where you are travelling to, and in what season.

  • Crime: Crime is relatively low in Tanzania, but it is still important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft.

Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice

•  Tanzanian cuisine reflects its diverse cultural influences, offering a blend of Indian, Arab, and European flavours. Staple foods include ugali (maize porridge), nyamachoma (grilled meat), pilau (spiced rice), and chapati. Traditional dishes like mshikaki (marinated meat skewers) and samosas are popular street foods. Don't miss trying the Swahili cuisine with its rich seafood dishes. 

• Beers and New World wines are generally available in lodges and hotels.

• Note that Zanzibar, and some cities, are predominantly Muslim, so while these areas are welcoming to tourists, some restrictions on alcohol availability may apply during Ramadan.

When is the best time to visit Tanzania? Climate and Weather:

•  The best time to visit Tanzania is during the dry season, from June to October, when wildlife viewing in national parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro is optimal. 

• While the November to May months are wetter, these make for an altogether different game-viewing experience.

• Zanzibar, although wetter in the local summer months (November to May), enjoys plenty of sun hours all year round (April & May are the wettest months).

Clothing and Dress Recommendations

• Much of Tanzania is very high above sea level (Arusha sits at 1,400m and some areas you travel in are much higher), so temperatures can change considerably in a day, and as you travel through the country.

• Cool, comfortable, light and breathable clothing is recommended. Due to the sun, we advise you to take cool long-sleeved shirts and trousers, to protect your skin and sun exposure. These also help against mosquitos, in lower altitude areas.

• Nights, early morning and evenings can be cool, particularly in the higher altitude areas, so a cotton sweater and/or a fleece are highly recommended, especially in winter.

• Rainfall is to be expected outside of dry season, so we advise to pack a light waterproof jacket.

• Sturdy good walking shoes are an essential wherever you go in Tanzania!

• While beachgoing is part of the visitor culture in Zanzibar, note that the islands are predominantly Muslim, therefore topless sunbathing is prohibited, and when moving from sea or beach to your hotel, some form of cover is recommended.

Language, Local Customs and Communications

• Tanzania, a land of diverse cultures and traditions, offers a captivating blend of customs and languages. Swahili, the official language, is a unifying force among the 120+ ethnic groups, each contributing their unique heritage. The Maasai, known for their vibrant attire and distinctive customs, are among the most iconic. In Zanzibar, the cultural tapestry is further enriched by Arab, Persian, and Indian influences, evident in the architecture, cuisine, and arts.

• Many cities particularly Zanzibar have large Muslim populations, therefore Friday is a day of religious observance. During Ramadan, there can be restrictions on the serving and availability of alcohol outside of Western hotels.

• Similarly, modest dress is recommended in cities and the Zanzibar Archipelago (when off the beach).

Import ban on all plastics

• It is prohibited to import, export, produce, sell, store, supply and use plastic bags in Tanzania. The local authorities declared that "they do not intend to affect the stay of tourists. It's just a way to protect the environment and keep the country clean and attractive; visitors will have to accept the restrictions deriving from it. » This is applied to all types of plastic bags, whatever their size.

• Only Ziploc-type plastic bags, which are used to carry your toiletries with the condition that they are not left in the country, will be tolerated.

• Plastic or plastic containers for medical services, hygiene, and waste management will not be banned.

• It is recommended that travellers avoid transporting or packing plastic bags in their suitcases or hand luggage before travelling to their destination.

  
  

Electricity and Plug Standards

• Mobile signals are generally good in cities and towns, though often non-existent in the more remote parts. It always pays off to have a map or printed directions of your journey, in case of a drop in mobile signal. The more remote lodges may not have a mobile signal - in which case, enjoy the detox while you can!

• Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and lodges.

• Plug Type: Type D and Type G

*A travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances. 

Disclaimer

While every effort is taken to provide accurate and up-to-date information, and in particular in relation to health and visa/passport information, we urge you to seek independent advice from the proper medical or government authorities.