Tanzania Travel Guide

Essential information to help you prepare for your Tanzanian adventure

Before You Travel

  • Purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellation
  • Register with your embassy upon arrival for safety updates
  • Keep digital and physical copies of important documents
  • Inform your bank and credit card companies of travel dates
  • Pack essential medications in carry-on luggage
  • Download offline maps and important contact information

Essential Information

Everything you need to know about traveling to Tanzania

Geography & Climate

Tanzania is located in East Africa, bordered by Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique. The country features diverse landscapes from the Serengeti plains to Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak at 5,895m.

  • Coastal areas: Hot and humid year-round (25-30°C)
  • Central plateau: Warm days, cool nights (20-25°C)
  • Highlands: Cooler temperatures (15-20°C)
  • Dry seasons: June-October, December-February
  • Short rains: November-December
  • Long rains: March-May

Entry Requirements

Most visitors can obtain a visa on arrival at major entry points or apply online in advance. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date.

  • Tourist visa fee: $50-$100 USD (varies by nationality)
  • Visa on arrival available at airports and border crossings
  • E-visa application available online
  • Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from endemic zones
  • Keep exact cash amount for visa fees
  • Multiple-entry visas available for extended stays

Health & Safety

Tanzania is generally safe for tourists, but taking precautions and staying informed is important. Consult your doctor 6-8 weeks before travel for recommended vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis.

  • Recommended vaccinations: Yellow fever, Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus
  • Malaria prophylaxis strongly recommended
  • Drink only bottled or filtered water
  • Use insect repellent with DEET
  • Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage essential
  • Keep copies of important documents secure

Currency & Money

The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the official currency. US Dollars are widely accepted for tourism services, and ATMs are available in major towns.

  • US Dollars (post-2006 series) widely accepted
  • ATMs available in Arusha, Moshi, Dar es Salaam, and Zanzibar
  • Credit cards accepted at hotels and lodges
  • Small US bills useful for tips and small purchases
  • Notify your bank of travel plans
  • Keep emergency cash in multiple locations

Language & Culture

Swahili (Kiswahili) is the national language, and English is widely spoken in tourism areas. Tanzanians are friendly and welcoming, with rich cultural traditions.

  • Basic Swahili phrases appreciated: Jambo (Hello), Asante (Thank you)
  • Dress modestly, especially in villages and Stone Town
  • Ask permission before photographing people
  • Remove shoes when entering homes
  • Use right hand for greetings and eating
  • Respect local customs and religious practices

Time & Connectivity

Tanzania uses East Africa Time (EAT), which is UTC+3. Mobile network coverage is good in cities and tourist areas, though connectivity can be limited in remote regions.

  • Time zone: UTC+3 (no daylight saving)
  • Mobile networks: Vodacom, Airtel, Tigo
  • SIM cards available at airports and shops
  • WiFi available at most hotels and lodges
  • Electrical outlets: 220-240V, UK-style (Type G)
  • Bring universal adapter and voltage converter

Practical Travel Tips

Insider advice for a smooth and enjoyable journey

Best Time to Visit

  • Wildlife safaris: June-October (dry season, best viewing)
  • Kilimanjaro climbing: January-February, June-October
  • Zanzibar beaches: Year-round, best June-October
  • Great Migration: June-July (northern Serengeti)
  • Calving season: January-February (southern Serengeti)
  • Avoid long rains (March-May) for trekking

Food & Dining

  • Try local dishes: Ugali, Nyama Choma, Pilau, Chapati
  • Fresh tropical fruits widely available
  • Vegetarian options available at most restaurants
  • Bottled water recommended; avoid ice in drinks
  • Street food can be enjoyed with caution
  • Lodges provide excellent international and local cuisine

Emergency Contacts

  • Police: 112 or 999
  • Ambulance: 114 or 112
  • Fire: 115
  • Dream Team Adventure emergency line (provided upon booking)
  • Save your embassy contact information
  • Keep travel insurance provider details accessible

Cultural Etiquette

  • Greet people warmly; handshakes are common
  • Haggling expected at markets, not in shops
  • Tipping appreciated (guides: $10-20/day, porters: $5-10/day)
  • Public displays of affection discouraged
  • Avoid discussing politics or religion
  • Learn a few Swahili phrases to show respect

Need More Information?

Our team is here to answer your questions and help you prepare for your Tanzanian adventure. Don't hesitate to reach out with any concerns or special requests.

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