Tanzania Travel Advice: Everything You Need To Know Before You Go to Tanzania with Photos, Videos, and Reviews


Tanzania Travel Advice: Everything You Need To Know Before You Go to Tanzania with Photos, Videos, and Reviews. Deks Safaris & Tours Africa is dedicated to offering an authentic Tanzania Travel Advice along with an exceptional safari experience. Our team at Deks Safaris & Tours Africa consists of experts who reside in Africa, share a passion for high-quality travel, and possess extensive firsthand knowledge of the recommended destinations.

In our commitment to providing a comprehensive Tanzania Travel Advice, our experts consistently conduct on-site inspections of new accommodations, experiences, and operations. This meticulous approach ensures that the products we recommend meet and exceed the expectations of our valued customers. Trust us to deliver the most up-to-date and relevant travel information, straight from those who have personally explored these destinations.

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Tanzania Travel Advice for Safari Planning

  1. Carefully strategize your time to make the most of your Tanzanian safari experience. Whether witnessing the wildebeest migration or savoring the best beach moments in Zanzibar, ensure that your itinerary aligns with your travel preferences.
  2. Secure your reservations well in advance, especially during high season, for popular safari destinations and campsites strategically positioned for wildebeest mobile hotspots. It’s not uncommon for bookings to be made up to a year ahead.
  3. Tanzania offers a diverse array of safari activities, and our Tanzania Travel Advice suggests considering options beyond the standard morning and afternoon safaris. While these are common, activities like game night tours, Adviced bush walks, and balloon safaris may be restricted to specific areas or campgrounds.
  4. During peak season (June-October), heavyweight national parks like Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire attract a significant number of visitors. For a more serene experience with excellent game viewing, consider visiting during the off-season or green season, typically from November to March.
  5. Prioritize privacy by opting for one of Tanzania’s private reserves. These reserves not only offer excellent accommodations and game viewing comparable to the main parks but also provide additional safari activities, as mentioned in point 3 of our Tanzania Travel Advice.

What to Consider in Tanzania Travel Advice?

Currency and Tipping Tips


In Tanzania, the official currency is the Tanzanian shilling; however, our Tanzania Travel Advice recommends using US dollars and cash for transactions. While credit cards and traveler’s checks are generally accepted, they often incur higher transaction fees. It’s important to note that ATMs are available in major cities but are not commonly found in national parks or animal sanctuaries.

Additionally, our Tanzania Travel Advice highlights that US one-dollar bills printed before 2006 are not accepted in Tanzania, so it’s advisable to use more recent denominations. When embarking on a Tanzania safari, it’s customary to advise hostel staff and drivers/Advices for excellent service. Before doing so, ensure that the service charge has not already been included in the bill. Tips are typically added to the operator’s set price, with the amount depending on factors such as group size, safari luxury, and your perception of the service quality.

For those exploring major Tanzanian cities, restaurants, and bars that don’t include a service charge usually receive a 10% tip. To gain further insights and step-by-step tips, consider reading our blog or consulting with a Deks Safaris & Tours Africa trekking expert for personalized advice on your Tanzanian travel experience.

What to Pack? – Tanzania Travel Advice


Preparing for your Tanzanian Safari: Our Tanzania Travel Advice recommends opting for light, casual clothing and neutral colors, with the addition of warm jackets for night safaris, as they are practical and safe throughout the year. For a comprehensive Advice on what to pack for your safari, refer to the detailed information in the Tanzania Travel Safari Advice.

When exploring Zanzibar, it’s essential to be mindful of cultural norms. In major cities, women are expected to dress modestly to show respect for Islamic beliefs. Our Tanzania Travel Advice advises choosing off-shoulder shirts, long skirts, and capri pants over off-the-shoulder shirts and shorts. For beach outings, beachwear and swimwear can easily be found on the beach and within the resort, ensuring you are appropriately attired for your Zanzibar experience.

Etiquette – Tanzania Travel Advice


Navigating Religious and Cultural Sensitivities Religious beliefs hold significant importance in Tanzania, with Christianity and Islam being predominant. The strength of these beliefs is particularly pronounced among Muslims residing along the coast and in Zanzibar. Our Tanzania Travel Advice underscores the importance of recognizing the conservative nature of these destinations, especially in areas like Stone Town, and advises visitors to act accordingly.

Known for their friendliness and harmony, Tanzanians are welcoming to visitors. However, our Tanzania Travel Advice emphasizes the need for sensitivity. It is wise to seek permission before filming people, respecting their privacy and cultural norms. This simple courtesy contributes to a more respectful and enjoyable experience as you explore the diverse and vibrant cultural landscape of Tanzania.

Flights and Tours in Tanzania

Major international airports


Navigating Airports and Safari Destinations Kilimanjaro International Airport, the second international airport in Tanzania, serves as the gateway to iconic destinations like Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara. However, for charter flights to these safari hotspots, our Tanzania Travel Advice recommends traveling to the nearby Arusha Airport. Due to the late arrival times of international flights at Kilimanjaro Airport, an overnight stay in Arusha is often necessary to seamlessly continue your Tanzanian adventure.

For those looking to explore the Indian Ocean coast, Zanzibar, Nierele (formerly Selous) National Park, and Luhur National Park, Dar es Salaam International Airport stands as Tanzania’s primary airport. Our Tanzania Travel Advice suggests Dar es Salaam International Airport as the ideal entry point for travelers venturing to these coastal and island destinations. Whether you’re embarking on a wildlife safari or seeking coastal delights, understanding the airport dynamics enhances your travel experience in Tanzania.

Navigating Arusha Airport and Safari Adventures


Situated around 30 kilometers (18.5 miles) from Kilimanjaro International Airport, Arusha Airport serves as the gateway to the safari runway in northern Tanzania. For those seeking seamless travel experiences and the opportunity to book exceptional tours in Africa, consider exploring the offerings on Deks Safaris & Tours. Our Tanzania Travel Advice encourages you to visit our flight page for comprehensive information and answers to frequently asked questions, ensuring you are well-prepared for your African adventure.

Road Transfers and Tanzania Travel Advice


Exploring Safari Transportation Options Game tours in Tanzania, as highlighted in our Tanzania Travel Advice, typically occur within enclosed SUVs equipped with large windows and retractable roofs. These specially designed vehicles offer optimal visibility for observing wildlife while ensuring the safety and comfort of visitors. Meanwhile, those venturing to destinations like Mahale can partake in the unique experience of boat transfers across Lake Tanganyika.

In the vast expanses between Tanzania’s airstrips, campsites, and lodges, closed vehicles are a common mode of transportation, especially considering the extensive road network. As detailed in our Tanzania Travel Advice, sealed SUVs are prevalent for long-distance travel, featuring three rows of seats and a retractable sunroof. This sunroof provides an elevated vantage point for watching wildlife or capturing memorable photos during the journey.

Passport and Navigating Visa Requirements


As emphasized in our Tanzania Travel Advice, almost all visitors to Tanzania are required to obtain a visa. It is crucial to initiate contact with the relevant issuing authority well in advance, ideally a few months before your intended travel dates. This proactive approach ensures that you can thoroughly review Tanzania’s entry requirements and efficiently arrange the necessary permits and visas for a seamless journey.

For customers entering Tanzania through Kilimanjaro International Airport, our Tanzania Travel Advice strongly recommends applying for a visa online via the Tanzania Immigration Bureau before arriving in the country. This process, involving the issuance of an e-Visa, typically takes 2-3 weeks. Taking this step in advance contributes to a smoother entry process and allows you to focus on enjoying your Tanzanian adventure.

In alignment with Tanzania’s entry regulations, visitors are required to possess a passport that remains valid for at least 6 months from the date of their initial trip. This essential information, provided in our Tanzania Travel Advice, serves as a key reminder to ensure that your travel documentation is in order and compliant with the country’s passport validity requirements.

Unveiling the Historical Tapestry


As outlined in our Tanzania Travel Advice, the history of Tanzania intricately weaves into the broader narrative of humanity. Remarkable fossil discoveries in the Olduvai Gorge, a prominent archaeological site, indicate human habitation in Tanzania over two million years ago. The nation’s historical timeline unfolds with the Iron Age migration from West Africa, followed by the presence of European and Arab slave traders, missionaries, and artisans. Notably, Zanzibar emerged as a pivotal hub for the East African slave trade in the mid-19th century. Colonized first by the Germans and later by the British, Tanzania achieved peaceful independence in 1961, evolving into the modern nation we know today with the inclusion of Zanzibar in 1964.

Abundant in mineral resources and natural gas, Tanzania’s economic landscape, detailed in our Tanzania Travel Advice, is predominantly shaped by agriculture. Engaging 75% of the workforce and contributing half of the country’s GDP, agriculture plays a central role. Noteworthy exports include gold, coffee, tea, and cotton. However, the tourism industry stands out as a pivotal economic driver, steadily growing in importance year by year. Serving as the primary source of foreign currency, Tanzania’s thriving tourism sector enhances the nation’s global standing and allure as a diverse and captivating destination.

Embracing Diversity and Harmony


Highlighting the rich tapestry of Tanzania’s cultural landscape, our Tanzania Travel Advice acknowledges the presence of 120 ethnic groups, which collectively contribute to the nation’s African population. Additionally, a substantial number of Asians, Arabs, and Europeans further enrich this diverse cultural mosaic. Despite this intricate blend of identities, Tanzania has consistently championed the cultivation of a harmonious national culture. Rooted in a nuanced yet robust social norm emphasizing courtesy and respect, the Tanzanian cultural ethos is a testament to the country’s commitment to unity. The official languages, English and Swahili, serve as linguistic threads that weave this cultural diversity into a cohesive tapestry.

Exploring the Diverse Landscapes and Wildlife


Situated within the embrace of the Great Rift Valley, Tanzania’s expansive central plateau is enveloped by the majesty of five significant African lakes to the west, towering mountains to the north—home to Africa’s highest peak, Kilimanjaro—and the Indian Ocean stretching along its eastern border. Our Tanzania Travel Advice invites you to marvel at this diverse geographical spectacle, where grasslands, extensive forests, and savannas dominate the majority of the country. Additionally, in the distant mountains, sizable rainforests further contribute to Tanzania’s captivating natural beauty.

Renowned as a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, Tanzania, as highlighted in our Tanzania Travel Advice, boasts being home to 20% of Africa’s large mammals. This makes it one of the most sought-after gaming destinations on the continent. With more than 25% of its land dedicated to protection, Tanzania hosts some of the world’s largest animal sanctuaries. While the north of Tanzania is a popular choice for many visitors due to its accessible and well-known sanctuaries, our Advice encourages exploring the less-traveled regions of southern and central Tanzania. These areas reveal vast savannah reserves and rarely visited rainforests, offering a unique opportunity for truly remote safaris and a deeper connection with nature.

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