Know before you go

TANZANIA TRAVEL GUIDE

The practical detail that makes the difference between a good trip and an easy one.

Practical info

Six Things Worth Reading First

Compiled from a decade of guiding and a lot of questions at the airport.

Best Time to Visit

  • June to October: dry season, best game viewing and river crossings.
  • January to March: calving season on the southern Serengeti plains, warm and green.
  • April to May: long rains, lowest prices, lush landscapes, some camps closed.
  • November: short rains, brief afternoon showers and excellent birding.

What to Pack

  • Neutral colours for safari, avoid dark blue and black in tsetse areas.
  • Layers: mornings on the crater rim are cold, midday plains are hot.
  • Soft duffel bag if you have internal light-aircraft flights (15 kg limit).
  • Binoculars, a wide-brim hat, high-factor sunscreen and insect repellent.

Visa & Entry Requirements

  • Most nationalities can apply online for an e-visa before travel.
  • Passport must be valid for six months beyond your entry date with two blank pages.
  • Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from an endemic country.
  • Keep a printed copy of your visa approval and travel insurance.

Health & Safety

  • Malaria prophylaxis is recommended, speak with your travel clinic.
  • Drink filtered or bottled water only; all our vehicles carry a supply.
  • Comprehensive travel insurance including medical evacuation is mandatory.
  • Tanzania is welcoming and safe; use normal city precautions in Arusha and Dar.

Currency & Money

  • Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) locally; US dollars widely accepted for park fees and tips.
  • Bring USD notes printed after 2009, older notes are often refused.
  • Cards work in cities and lodges; carry cash for markets and rural areas.
  • Typical tipping: $20-25 per day for a safari guide, $10 per day for camp staff.

Getting Around

  • Kilimanjaro (JRO) is the best arrival airport for the northern circuit.
  • Light-aircraft hops connect Serengeti, Zanzibar and the southern parks.
  • Road transfers are scenic but slow, allow a full day Arusha to Serengeti.
  • All our itineraries include private vehicles and airport transfers.

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