E-Visa Application:
Tanzania e-visa portal
On-Arrival Via:
Available at major airports and borders. Bring USD in cash for payment.
Eligibility check:
Some nationalities must apply in advance, so check your eligibility before traveling.
Valid Passport Visa Travel Insurance
At least 6 months before expiration.
Visa
Obtain a visa that meets the requirements of your trip.
Travel Insurance
Covering medical emergencies and trip cancellations.
Flight Tickets
Confirmed round-trip or onward tickets.
Proof of Accommodation
Confirmed hotel or lodge booking.
Vaccination Certificate
Yellow Fever vaccination certificate (if coming from an endemic country).
01
Local Laws and Customs
- Respect traditions: Tanzanian culture is conservative, especially in rural areas and Zanzibar. Dress modestly and avoid public displays of affection.
- Photography: Always ask permission before taking photos of people, particularly Maasai or local tribes. Avoid photographing government buildings or military sites.
- Language: Swahili is the official language. Learning basic greetings (like Jambo or Asante) shows respect and is appreciated.
- Religion: Tanzania has a significant Muslim population, especially in Zanzibar. Be mindful of prayer times, Ramadan, and dress codes near religious sites.
- Plastic ban: Tanzania has banned plastic bags. Bring reusable cloth bags for shopping.
02
Money and Payments
- Currency: The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the local currency. US Dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas but ensure bills are dated 2009 or later.
- Cash is king: While cards are accepted at upscale hotels, most places (markets, local restaurants) only accept cash.
- ATMs: Available in major cities and airports, but not in remote safari areas.
- Tipping: Tipping is customary and appreciated $10–$20 per day for safari guides, and small change for hotel staff and porters.
03
Transportation and Road Safety
- Chartered flights: Ideal for reaching national parks like Selous or Mikumi quickly, especially from Zanzibar.
- Self-driving: Not recommended for tourists due to challenging road conditions and unclear signage.
- Transfers and tours: Use reputable companies that offer licensed drivers and insured vehicles, especially for safaris.
- Public transport: Dala-dalas (shared minibuses) are cheap but crowded and unpredictable. Better for adventurous travelers than comfort seekers.
- Road safety: Seat belts are a must. Avoid night travel due to poor visibility and road hazards.
04
Clothing and Footwear
- Safari wear: Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing (beige, khaki, olive) to blend into the bush. Avoid black or dark blue (attracts tsetse flies).
- Evening wear: Layers for cooler mornings and evenings, especially in highland areas like Ngorongoro or Arusha.
- Sun protection: Wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a light scarf or buff.
- Zanzibar beachwear: Swimsuits are fine on the beach but cover up when walking around villages or towns.
- Footwear: Closed-toe hiking or safari boots for game drives and light hiking; sandals or flip-flops for the beach.
05
Gear and Accessories
- Daypack: Small backpack for daily excursions, safaris, or hikes.
- Binoculars: Essential for spotting wildlife on game drives.
- Power bank: Electricity can be unreliable in remote areas. Bring a solar charger or power bank.
- Universal plug adapter: Tanzania uses Type D and G power sockets (British-style).
- Reusable water bottle: Reduces plastic waste and is ideal for refilling with filtered water.
06
Health and Personal Care
- Vaccinations: Yellow fever (required if arriving from certain countries), Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, and Tetanus. Check with your travel clinic.
- Malaria prevention: Bring antimalarial medication, insect repellent with DEET or picaridin, and sleep under mosquito nets where provided.
- First aid kit: Include basics like plasters, antiseptic cream, pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medicine, and electrolyte sachets.
- Sunscreen and lip balm: SPF 30 or higher Tanzania’s sun is strong year-round.
- Prescription meds: Carry them in original packaging with a doctor’s note, if needed.
- Toiletries: Include biodegradable soap, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes especially for safari days with limited facilities.