Travel information

When is the best time to travel to Tanzania
Tanzania is a year-round destination with different highlights depending on the season. The main rainy season from March to May transforms the landscape into a green paradise, ideal for travellers who want to enjoy peace and nature in its full splendour. At this time, the national parks are less crowded and the wildlife presents itself in a lush, green environment.

Location and geography of Tanzania:
Tanzania, an East African country on the Indian Ocean, borders Kenya and Uganda to the north, Rwanda, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west and Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique to the south. With an area of around 945,000 square kilometres, Tanzania offers an impressive geographical diversity that makes it one of the most popular travel destinations in Africa.

Climate and temperatures in Tanzania
Tanzania offers a variety of climate zones that are characterised by its geographical location and topography:

• Coastal regions (e.g. Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar): These areas have a tropical climate with high humidity. Temperatures are warm to hot all year round, between 25°C and 30°C. There are two rainy seasons: the long rainy season from March to May and the short rainy season from October to December.
Central highlands (e.g. Dodoma): Here the climate is temperate to hot, depending on the altitude. It is warmer in the lower-lying areas and cooler at higher altitudes. The rainy seasons are similar to those on the coast, but less intense.Mountainous regions (e.g. Kilimanjaro, Usambara Mountains): These regions experience a cool to temperate climate, especially at higher altitudes where it can get quite chilly at night. There is more rainfall than in the lowlands, and the rainy seasons are comparable to those of the coastal region.Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater: These areas have a savannah climate with hot temperatures that can cool down considerably at night. The rainy seasons are well-defined: the long rainy season from March to May and the shorter rainy season from October to December. The dry season lasts from June to October.

Summary: The best time to visit Tanzania is the dry season from June to October, ideal for safaris and mountain tours. During the rainy seasons from March to May and October to December, the landscapes are lush and less touristy, which also has its charms.


Capital and population of Tanzania
Dodoma is the official capital of Tanzania, but Dar es Salaam remains the economic centre and the largest city. With around 51.45 million inhabitants, Tanzania is a multicultural country with over 120 ethnic groups living together in harmony. The population is predominantly young and the culture is characterised by a mixture of traditional African and Arabic influences.


Official languages in Tanzania
Swahili and English are the official languages. Swahili is the most widely spoken language and serves as the lingua franca (common lingua franca). English is mainly used in education, government and business


Travelling to Tanzania:
Tanzania is easily accessible via several international airports. Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), near the city of Arusha, is the most important airport for tourists wishing to visit northern safari destinations such as the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater and Mount Kilimanjaro. Direct flights from Europe, e.g. from Amsterdam or Zurich, take around 6.5 hours and offer a quick and convenient way of travelling.


Entry requirements for Tanzania
To enter Tanzania, German citizens (EU) and US citizens need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months and has two free pages for the visa. The tourist visa can be obtained online as an e-visa https://visa.immigration.go.tz/ or on arrival at the international airports. The online application is recommended to avoid long waiting times. The visa costs US$ 50 per person and is valid for 90 days. The visa amount should be ready in cash on arrival.


E visa for Tanzania
The Government of Tanzania has now introduced online services for pre-arrival e-visa applications. An e-visa for entry into Tanzania can be applied for online at https://visa.immigration.go.tz/. The cost is currently USD 50 per person and can be paid with credit cards and other payment services. To issue an e-visa, you will need a current photo/passport photo (JPG or PDF), which must be uploaded to the portal and must not exceed 300MB in size. Furthermore, a photocopy of your passport (JPG or PDF) that is valid for at least 6 months after the date of entry and a valid flight ticket (JPG or PDF) with your outbound and return flight details.
Please apply for the e-visa in good time, as the processing time varies and can take up to 7 days. We are happy to assist with the application for an e-visa
Visas can still be purchased on arrival in Tanzania (cash payment of US$50 per person), but the process has changed and there may be long queues and long delays of up to 2 hours or more for entry due to the high volume of guests. Please have the appropriate amount ready on arrival. The visa can also be applied for at the embassy in Berlin.


Time zone and time calculation for Tanzania
Tanzania is in East Africa Time (EAT), which is two hours ahead of Central European Time (CET). During Central European Summer Time (CEST), the time difference is one hour. Interestingly, Tanzania follows its own time calculation, in which 0 o'clock corresponds to sunrise, around 6 o'clock in the morning. This traditional time calculation can be an interesting topic of conversation during your safari.


Currency and means of payment in Tanzania
The official currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but the US dollar is widely accepted, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. Make sure that you carry small dollar notes with you, as banknotes before the year 2000 are not accepted. The euro is also accepted in many places. Credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard are common in most hotels, lodges and larger shops and ATMs are available in most larger towns, it is advisable to carry enough cash for small expenses and tips, especially in rural areas.


Culture and rules of behaviour in Tanzania:
Tanzania is a multicultural country with a mixture of different ethnicities, religions and traditions. Respectful behaviour towards the local population is important. In rural areas and Muslim regions, especially in Zanzibar, care should be taken to wear appropriate clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Photographing people should only be done with their permission, especially in Maasai villages or during traditional ceremonies.


Our tip:
Learn a few words and phrases in Kiswahili - your personal tour guide will be happy to help you. You will be surprised at the positive reactions of the locals when you try to communicate in their language. A simple „Jambo“ (hello) better Hujambo or „Asante“ (thank you) can open doors and hearts and shows respect for the local culture.


Transport and roads in Tanzania:
There are various ways to get around in Tanzania. Domestic flights are available for longer distances, connecting the main cities and tourist areas. Road traffic is often chaotic and road conditions can be poor outside the cities. Car hire is available, but it is advisable to book a driver as traffic can be challenging. Public transport such as buses and „Dalla-Dalla“ (shared taxis) are cheap, but often overcrowded and unreliable.


Clothing and equipment for your trip to Tanzania


Clothing:

Despite the widespread poverty, the people of Tanzania attach great importance to clean and neat clothing. You should make sure you wear practical and appropriate clothing when travelling. In the highlands, such as around Arusha and the Ngorongoro Crater, as well as in the Serengeti, it can get very chilly at night and in the morning. Therefore, sturdy, warm layers are important to protect yourself from the low temperatures. During the day, light-coloured cotton clothing is ideal as it regulates the heat better.
We recommend avoiding blue and black clothing, as these colours can attract insects in certain regions. Neutral colours such as beige, brown or khaki are not only practical, but also inconspicuous and ideal for safari tours.

Equipment:
Don't forget to take important items of equipment with you. A safari hat or sun hat will protect you from the intense sun, while sunscreen will protect you from sunburn. Binoculars are useful for wildlife spotting, and photographic equipment will ensure you can capture those unforgettable moments. A good insect repellent is essential to protect yourself from mosquito bites.
Personal medical supplies: Remember to pack all the medication you need and take a small first-aid kit with you. Last but not least, don't forget swimwear for relaxing moments after the safari, especially if you are staying in one of the beautiful hotels or lodges by the pool or by a lake. Luggage regulations for your safari in Tanzania


Private safari:
On a private safari for two people, you have the option of transporting more than 20kg of luggage per person in the off-road vehicle. This allows you to take additional equipment and personal items that you may need for your safari. Please inform us in advance if you would like to bring any special equipment or additional luggage so that we can include this in the planning.


Round trips:
If your trip starts with a round trip from Arusha or Dar es Salaam, we offer the option of luggage storage on request. This is particularly useful if you only need part of your luggage while travelling and want to store the rest safely.


Flying safaris:
On flying safaris, the storage space in small aircraft is limited. It is therefore important to observe the baggage allowance of 15 kg per person. This limit includes both your hand luggage and your suitcase or rucksack. Excess baggage may be subject to a surcharge and may be deposited on arrival in the larger cities or at the starting point of your flying safari.


Tips for your luggage:
To ensure that your trip is as comfortable as possible, we recommend that you organise your luggage well and adhere to the weight restrictions. Use compact, soft travel bags that can be easily accommodated in the limited storage space of small aircraft.

Import ban on plastic bags and plastic packaging in Tanzania
Since 1 June 2019, a strict ban on the import and possession of plastic bags and plastic packaging has been in force in Tanzania. This ban includes all types of plastic bags, packaging and containers. Violations of this law can be punished with heavy fines or even prison sentences.


Important information for travellers:

• Avoid plastic bags: To avoid inconvenience and problems when entering the country, we strongly recommend avoiding plastic bags in your luggage. This includes both your own plastic bags and those from „duty-free-shops“.
Alternative bags: Instead, use paper or cloth bags for your groceries and to store travelling essentials. These environmentally friendly alternatives will help prevent potential difficulties at immigration.Reusable bags: As a rule, resealable zip-lock plastic bags (such as Ziploc bags), which are used for cosmetics and liquids in hand luggage, are not affected by this ban. These can be used on the aircraft or for personal hygiene items.

Please ensure that you comply with this ban to make your entry into Tanzania as smooth as possible. For further information or if you are unsure about authorised packaging, please do not hesitate to contact us.


Park entry fees in Tanzania
Experiencing the last animal and plant paradises in Tanzania's national parks and nature reserves is not cheap. The entrance fees for adults (heavily discounted prices apply for children aged 5 to 16) range from US$30 to US$118 for a 24-hour visit to the various parks.
Tanzania's expensive national parks include the Serengeti, Kilimanjaro, Mahale Mountains and the most exclusive and unspoilt Gombe Stream National Park (350 guests per year). The more affordable national parks include Kitulo, Katavi, Rubondo Island, Mkomazi, Mikumi and Saadani. A visit to the Ngorongoro Crater costs US$ 200 per day for vehicles registered in Tanzania.
The fees are regularly adjusted as the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) updates the prices to cover administrative costs and for conservation. The entrance fees support the protection and conservation of these unique natural wonders and help to ensure that future generations can also enjoy these marvellous landscapes.

Price level and accommodation in Tanzania and Zanzibar
Experiencing the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Tanzania is a unique adventure, but one that comes at a significant cost. Prices for accommodation and additional services can vary considerably depending on the region, type of accommodation and season.


What are the costs of accommodation in Tanzania
Accommodation in Tanzania's national parks is generally expensive. The cost of accommodation ranges from around US$300 to US$600 per night per person for lodges and camps with average facilities. These prices reflect the challenges and expenses of operating in remote areas. Prices tend to be highest in particularly frequented parks such as the Serengeti or the Ngorongoro Crater. For luxury accommodation offering exclusive amenities and first-class service, prices can range from US$600 to US$1,500 per person per night. These luxury lodges often offer additional services such as private guides, gourmet meals and exceptional views. Budget-friendly options are also available, but even basic camps and lodges are relatively expensive, especially due to the remote location and logistics costs.


What other costs may be incurred in Tanzania?
In addition to the accommodation costs, the park entrance fees must also be taken into account. These can vary greatly: from 30 to 60 US$ per day for smaller parks to 150 to 200 US$ per day for larger, better-known parks such as the Ngorongoro Crater. These fees support the protection and conservation of flora and fauna. Further costs are incurred for transfers between the various parks and lodges as well as for guided safaris and other activities such as balloon trips or boat safaris. These additional costs should definitely be taken into account when planning the budget for your trip.


Exit and departure tax for Zanzibar


Exit tax:

• Tax: When leaving Zanzibar, travellers must pay an exit tax. This tax is usually US$48 per person. Payment is made at the airport on departure and it is advisable to have the fee ready in cash, as not all payment centres accept credit cards.
• Payment: The departure tax is paid directly at Zanzibar International Airport (Abeid Amani Karume International Airport). There are special counters or kiosks at the airport where this fee can be paid.

Exit procedure:

• Check-in: Make sure you are at the airport in good time to complete the check-in process and security checks without stress. International flights often require early arrival, at least 2 to 3 hours before departure.
Documents: Have all necessary travel documents such as your passport, visa (if required) and flight ticket ready. These documents will be checked when you leave the country.Security checks: Be prepared for security checks, which may take additional time. Your hand baggage will be screened and you may have to show certain liquids or electronic devices separately.

Additional tips:

• Preparing for your trip: Check the exact requirements and fees before travelling as regulations may change. Make sure you allow enough time to pay the departure tax and complete the formalities at the airport.
Keep receipts: Keep all receipts (souvenirs) and for the exit tax paid in case there are any queries from customs when you enter your home country.

Environmental and infrastructure tax on Zanzibar
This tourism tax is levied per overnight stay and varies depending on the hotel category. From 1 July 2023, an infrastructure tax (environmental tax) in Zanzibar of up to US$ 5 per person/night must be paid on site at the hotel upon departure. This tourism tax is charged per person per night and varies depending on the hotel category.

• 1 star hotels and others: 1 USD per night
• 2 - 3 star hotels: 4 USD per night
• 4 - 5 star hotels: 5 USD per night

Is Tanzania a safe travel destination?
Although Tanzania is one of the poorest countries in the world, it is considered one of the safest countries in Africa to travel to. Tanzania has been politically and socially stable for many years. Tanzania is a multi-ethnic country with balanced ethnic groups. Tanzania has a long tradition of tourism and is perfectly prepared for its guests. Nevertheless, as in any country, travellers should exercise caution. Pickpocketing can occur in large cities such as Dar es Salaam or tourist centres. We recommend keeping valuables safe and not travelling alone at night. In rural areas and on safaris, security is good, but you should always follow the instructions and advice of your guide. Current travel warnings and safety advice can be found at www.auswaertiges-amt.de or telephone number 030 1817 2000.


Shopping and souvenirs in Tanzania
Handicrafts on wood and tin are popular, as are the colourful traditional robes “kangas“ and the colourful works of art „tinga tinga paintings“ from Tanzania, which are characterised by their unique style. They combine African folk art with Western influences and often depict animals, plants and everyday scenes in bright colours and playful shapes. These paintings are not just decorative souvenirs, but also an expression of Africa's vibrant culture and creativity. Our recommendation as a souvenir of this fascinating journey is a tanzanite. This rare and coveted bright blue gemstone is only mined in one mine worldwide in Tanzania near Arusha. Pay attention to the purity of the tanzanite, the higher the blue violet content, the more valuable, it is best to buy a AAA rating. It is estimated that the deposits will be exhausted in 30 years at the latest. It is essential to buy in state-run or licensed shops and boutiques. Here, too, we are of course available with our many years of experience to provide advice and assistance.


Photography and videos in Tanzania
Photography and filming in Tanzania are subject to certain rules that have been issued to protect privacy and security in the country. It is important to observe these regulations to avoid legal problems or misunderstandings.


Rules and regulations:

• Public facilities: Taking photographs of police or government officials and military installations is strictly prohibited. Violations of this rule can be punished with heavy fines or even prison sentences. Photographs of banks, railway stations, airports and government buildings are also officially prohibited.
Private individuals: Before taking photos or videos of people, especially the local population, you should always obtain their permission. Many people in Tanzania are happy about your interest, but expect you to respect their privacy. In some cases, a small monetary donation of around 1,000 Tanzanian Shillings (TZS) ≙ 0.35 € or 0.37 US$ may be requested for photography or filming. However, it is always polite to discuss this in advance and to respect the wishes of the people depicted.National parks: National parks and protected areas often have specific rules about photographing wildlife. As a rule, you are allowed to take photos as long as you do not cause any disturbance to the animals and follow the rules of your safari guide.

Additional information:

• Get permission: Before taking photos or filming, you should always get permission from the people concerned and, if necessary, ask about local customs. This shows respect and can also help to build a positive relationship with the local people.
Discretion: When taking photos in public spaces, be careful not to include sensitive or confidential areas. Avoid taking photos of military or security-related facilities.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your trip through Tanzania without any legal problems and at the same time maintain respect for the local population and their cultural norms


Health and vaccinations
Before travelling to Tanzania, travellers should ensure that they have the recommended standard vaccinations, including tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles. In addition, immunisation against hepatitis A and B, typhoid and rabies is recommended. There is a risk of malaria in some regions, so malaria prophylaxis is advisable.


Yellow fever vaccination for Tanzania
A yellow fever vaccination is NOT required if you are travelling directly from Europe to Tanzania. However, the Tanzanian government requires proof of vaccination if you are travelling from a yellow fever endemic area. If you have been in a high-risk country during a stopover of more than twelve hours, proof of vaccination is also required.
A list of high-risk countries can be found on the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/yellow-fever/africa/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/yellowfever/maps/africa.html


Other health advice for Tanzania


Health precautions: When travelling to Tanzania, it is important to be aware of health risks and precautions to make your trip safe and enjoyable.

• Avoiding schistosomiasis risks: Swimming in Lake Victoria should be avoided as this lake carries an increased risk of schistosomiasis infection. Schistosomiasis is a parasitic infection that is transmitted through contact with infected water and can lead to serious health problems. There is also a risk near the shores of Lake Tanganyika, so caution is advised there too. If you are interested in water activities, choose safe, supervised places that are suitable for swimming.
Hygiene and food: Pay attention to strict hygiene, especially when choosing food and water. Drink only bottled or well-boiled water and avoid raw or undercooked food to prevent gastrointestinal illness.
• Sun protection: The sun in Tanzania can be very strong. Therefore, use sun cream with a high sun protection factor, wear a hat and sunglasses, and avoid direct sunlight during the hottest hours of the day.
Use of water: You should only use the water provided in your accommodation to brush your teeth. Most hotels and lodges ensure that this water is safe and suitable for consumption. Avoid using tap water straight from the tap as it may not be treated or clean and may pose health risks such as gastrointestinal illnesses. Make sure you also use the recommended sources when using water for washing fruit or cooking.Save water: In Tanzania, water is a valuable resource, especially in rural areas and during the dry seasons and in the national parks. Therefore, be environmentally conscious and make sure you use water sparingly. Use water only as needed, close taps when not in use and avoid wasteful use, such as prolonged showers and running water.

Travel protection and emergency assistance: international health insurance and AMREF Flying Doctors
Comprehensive international health insurance with repatriation transport is highly recommended when travelling to Tanzania to protect against unforeseen medical emergencies. For guests of Ndoto Safari, we offer a special additional service: all travellers benefit from free membership of the AMREF Flying Doctors, which enables medical evacuation to Nairobi or another suitable medical facility in an emergency.


AMREF Flying Doctors Service:
This service is available around the clock and ensures that help is available quickly in the event of a medical emergency. Membership provides you with additional peace of mind by organising immediate and efficient medical evacuation should this be necessary. This is particularly valuable as medical facilities are not always immediately available in remote regions.


Important details about AMREF Flying Doctors membership:

• Round-the-clock service: The service is available at all times, which means you don't have to worry about getting rapid medical assistance even in the most remote parts of Tanzania
• Medical evacuation: In an emergency, an evacuation will be organised to Nairobi or another suitable medical facility that specialises in treating your ailments.
• Additional security: This membership complements your travel medical insurance and provides an additional layer of security during your trip.

Despite this important additional benefit, we strongly recommend that you also take out comprehensive international health insurance that also covers repatriation in the event of illness. This ensures that you are well covered both during your trip and if you need to return home.


Further information on AMREF:
For detailed information about AMREF Flying Doctors and the services available, you can visit the menu item AMREF Flying Doctors Service on our website. Alternatively, you can find additional information directly on the AMREF Flying Doctors website at amref.org. There you will also find information on the specific benefits and scope of membership.
With your membership fee (included in the travel price) you not only ensure your own safety. Your support also enables the emergency service to transport Africans in need.


Tipping and tokens of appreciation in Tanzania
We are often asked by our guests how much tipping is appropriate and customary for the services provided. We would like to give you a feeling about the amount of the respective tip.

In Tanzania it is not customary to tip, but this source of income is important for the local population and increases the added value in the developing country. However, you should never feel obliged to tip, but should judge the performance and quality of the service.

We pay our employees above-average wages, which you will immediately notice in their personal commitment, and we also regularly train our guides to be environmentally friendly and to treat nature and living creatures with respect. We prioritise sustainability in order to preserve these natural paradises for future generations.

In local and rural hotels, guesthouses and restaurants, personal tips are not customary or are already included as a „service charge“ in the bill. There are often tip boxes in the respective accommodation and restaurants, which all employees participate in. In larger cities and tourist regions, employees usually expect a small tip (US$1) or rounding up the bill.

Most important are the people who ensure the smooth running, comfort and safety of your safari. We recommend a price for your personal guide (driver guide) per day and per person between 10,- to 25,- US$, which can be adjusted according to personal possibilities and feelings. For our local guides, for example on a walking safari with the Hadza „Bushmen“ at Lake Eyasi and the local fishermen at Lake Victoria as well as the certified guides at Kilimanjaro between US$ 25,- to US$ 50,- per day.

Please bear in mind that a gratuity is an expression and sign of appreciation of the respect shown to you and the service provided. You can be assured that gratuities to the local community will always be put to good use.


More questions and answers about Tanzania
This comprehensive travel information is designed to help you plan and enjoy your trip to Tanzania. If you have any further questions or need specific information, please do not hesitate to contact us or have a look at our FAQs. We are at your disposal to make your trip as enjoyable and memorable as possible.