Travel Tips
When you go on holiday, you probably want to be well prepared and bring the
right clothes and belongings. But where should you start?
Every country is different and that is why we have listed the most important
travel tips for Tanzania for you below!
Climate
Tanzania, located near the equator, boasts a delightful tropical climate. Particularly in the northern parks, where temperatures typically range from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, the weather is quite pleasant. However, in certain areas like Karatu and the Ngorongoro Crater, temperatures may be cooler, with significant drops at night. Tanzania's 'winter' aligns with the European summer, lasting from June to September, which also marks the dry season. Temperatures gradually increase from September onwards. During the spring months, particularly in September and October, the jacaranda trees bloom vibrantly, enveloping Arusha in a captivating purple hue. From October to November, short rains may occur, with occasional passing showers continuing until March. The major rainy season usually commences by the end of March, lasting through May. Compared to the northern region, the Tanzanian coast and islands experience higher temperatures and humidity. Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru, have significantly lower temperatures, occasionally dropping below freezing.
Clothing
Travel as lightly as possible, prioritizing lightweight, easily washable cotton attire supplemented with a sweater for cooler evenings. Shield yourself from the sun by including a hat or cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen in your packing list. Many dining establishments expect casual attire. Along the Islamic coast and Zanzibar, women should dress modestly (partially covered), refraining from swimwear or very short shorts in public areas. Flip-flops or sandals are typical footwear choices in Tanzania, though if long walks are anticipated, consider packing hiking shoes or trainers. During game drives, avoid wearing colors like blue and black as they attract tsetse flies and other insects. Tsetse flies are particularly drawn to ankles and feet. If visiting a park where tsetse flies may be active (such as Tarangire National Park), it's advisable to tuck long pants into socks (preferably not blue or black). Neutral hues like light brown, olive green, and khaki are ideal for safari activities and highly recommended. A detailed packing lists will be provided along with your itinerary.
Electricity
Tanzania operates on a voltage of 220-240V. Power outages can occur frequently, so it's recommended to carry a flashlight. Many establishments have generators to maintain power during outages, though they may be switched off overnight. Bringing a universal adapter is advisable for using your electrical appliances. Additionally, all our safari vehicles are equipped with charging facilities for mobile phones and cameras.
Health
Before traveling to Tanzania, we recommend consulting your doctor or local travel health clinic for personalized advice tailored to your safari itinerary. Upon arrival in Tanzania, consider planning an extra day for rest to acclimate to the new environment and climate. Changes in food, high altitude, and sun exposure may lead to symptoms such as diarrhea, headaches, or loss of appetite. Be mindful of the intense African sun; wear a hat or cap, stay well-hydrated, and use extra salt if needed. Avoid consuming ice-cold beverages as they may strain your stomach and intestines. Stick to mineral water from sealed bottles, and refrain from drinking tap water. For those undertaking the ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru, we ensure regular medical check-ups, at least twice a day or more frequently if required. Our expedition guides are trained to address altitude sickness, and oxygen is always available during the climb.
International Flights
When reserving your international flight, ensure it aligns with the starting and ending points of your safari itinerary. We are pleased to assist in exploring suitable flight options and providing advice tailored to your trip and location. KLM is a convenient and direct airline from Europe, while other options include Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines. Beyond your international flight, Genes Adventures can also coordinate domestic flights and other ground arrangements between your arrival and departure.
Internet
Overall, internet connectivity in Tanzania is satisfactory. The majority of lodges and hotels provide Wi-Fi access, while internet cafes are available in larger towns.
Language
Swahili and English serve as the official languages of Tanzania. The majority of individuals employed in the tourism sector are proficient in English, with many also speaking an additional foreign language.
Luggage
While Genes Adventures does not impose luggage restrictions, it's important to note that airlines may have their own limitations. Please keep in mind to review the restrictions for any domestic flights, as they can differ from international ones. We advise you to pack light and please check the packing list received along with your itinerary.
Money
The official currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), which is available in coin denominations of 50, 100, 200, and 500 TZS, and banknotes of 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 TZS. Foreign currencies, particularly Euros and US Dollars, are widely accepted and can be exchanged for Tanzanian Shillings at banks and currency exchange offices. Please be aware that dollar bills older than 2006 are not accepted. While credit cards are accepted at many lodges, they often incur a service fee of up to 5%. If you're uncertain whether the accommodations in your itinerary accept credit cards, don't hesitate to inquire with us. Major towns provide ATM facilities and currency exchange offices. If you plan to use your debit or credit card, it's advisable to inform your bank of your travel plans in advance, as some banks may deactivate cards that haven't been pre-authorized for international use.
Phone Calls
Tanzania boasts extensive cell phone coverage, and acquiring a Tanzanian prepaid SIM card is convenient and widely available. Using local SIM cards significantly reduces the cost of calling within Tanzania. The international dialing code for Tanzania is +255.
Photography
Maintaining your camera and other equipment in a dust-free and cool environment is crucial for prolonging their lifespan. We provide the option to recharge your batteries in our safari vehicle, and many hotels/lodges also offer charging facilities. When capturing images of local people, kindly seek permission first. Avoid taking pictures of formal subjects such as police officers, military personnel, barracks, airports, or national flags. When in doubt, it's best to refrain, as it's not worth potential complications.
Safety
Tanzania is a secure, stable, and welcoming country. While in bustling urban areas, such as markets and bus stations, it's advisable to remain vigilant about your belongings. It's recommended to leave valuable jewelry at home, and in the evenings, opt for private taxis instead of walking on the streets. It is not dangerous in the national parks whilst being on safari. Simply follow the advice you receive from your private driver/guide. Never get out of the vehicle without the permission of the guide. Follow the rules that ar briefed upon arrival at your accommodation. Each property has its own rules. Do not go for a walk at night time on your own and always ask for assistance. During hikes, walks, and canoe safaris, strictly adhere to the rules explained during the briefing.
Time Zone
Tanzania operates on the GMT+3 time zone and please be aware that Tanzania does not change the clock to winter or summer time. Additionally, there is a concept known as Swahili time, which may cause confusion. If you encounter a time reference that sounds strange, we recommend you to ask if Swahili Time is used.
Tipping
Tipping practices vary across European countries but are a common custom in the East African tourist industry. Please consider the following guidelines: Driver Guides: $10 per guest sharing the safari vehicle per day (e.g., 2 persons x 4 days x $10 per day = $80) Hotels and lodges: Instead of tipping individual staff like waiters or porters, we encourage you to use the communal tip box usually located at reception or the bar. These tips are distributed among all hotel/lodge staff, including those behind the scenes such as cleaners, gardeners, and kitchen helpers. We recommend approximately $5-$7 per person per night. Kilimanjaro and Mt. Meru Climbs: Tipping for these climbs is slightly different due to the varying crew size based on your group and the duration of the climb. We will provide detailed guidelines with the proposal for your climbing itinerary.
Transport
Renting a car is not recommended due to the numerous murram roads and challenging driving conditions. The traffic in cities and larger towns, particularly, can be busy and chaotic. Opting for a local safari guide is advisable as they can provide valuable insights into the nature and culture of the country, and are well-versed in locating wild animals. In urban areas, it is advisable to use a (private) taxi, and it's recommended to agree on a price before commencing your journey.
Travel Insurance
We recommend obtaining travel and cancellation insurance that includes coverage for Africa during your time in Tanzania. If you intend to climb Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru, it's advisable to confirm with your insurance provider whether mountain climbing is covered or if you require an additional package for this activity. Similarly, if you plan to dive, we suggest checking whether additional insurance is necessary. When you travel with Genes Adventures, you will be automatically enrolled in the AMREF Flying Doctors Tourist Evacuation service (excluding day trips).
Visa Requirements
Every foreigner entering the country must possess a valid visa, unless exempted by a treaty between their country of origin and Tanzania. Please ensure your passport remains valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure from Tanzania and contains a minimum of two blank pages. Visas can be obtained upon arrival at the airport or applied for online through the Tanzania Electronic Visa Application System. Online applications typically take 1 to 3 weeks to process, with confirmation sent via email. Applying in advance can significantly expedite airport procedures. Tourist visas cost US $50 per person, except for US citizens who are charged US $100. It's recommended to verify current prices before departure.