Tanzania Safari FAQs

To travel to Tanzania, you’ll need a passport valid for at least six months beyond your entry date. Most visitors—including citizens of the US, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia—require a tourist visa, which can be applied for online or at entry points. If you’re arriving from a Yellow Fever-endemic country like Tanzania, a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is also mandatory. Always confirm with your local Tanzanian Embassy for updated Tanzania visa requirements.

Tanzania is widely considered a safe country for travellers, especially those on guided safaris. Tanzanians are friendly and welcoming, but basic safety precautions apply. Keep valuables locked in your hotel safe, avoid displaying expensive jewellery, and don’t carry too much cash in cities. During your Tanzania safari, your guides will prioritize your safety both in the parks and urban areas.

Tap water is not recommended for drinking in Tanzania. Stick to bottled water, which is widely available across lodges, camps, and restaurants. Avoid ice cubes and raw salads when dining in local eateries. Upscale lodges usually clean produce well, but it's safer to peel fruits and eat fully cooked meals. For a worry-free Tanzania safari, keeping your stomach healthy is just as important as having your camera ready.

Food on a Tanzania safari is fresh, diverse, and international in flavor. Lodges offer everything from hearty breakfasts and buffet lunches to multi-course dinners with soups, pastas, meats, and desserts. In local towns, simple but delicious dishes like grilled meats (nyama choma), ugali, rice, and Indian curries are popular. You’ll also find a range of local beers like Safari, Serengeti, and Kilimanjaro, plus imported wines and beers.

Tanzania operates on East African Time (GMT+3) year-round. There is no daylight-saving time, so the time difference remains the same regardless of the season. This consistency makes scheduling flights, safari transfers, and activities easier throughout the year. Most Tanzania travel guides and operators plan itineraries using local time.

The international dialling code for Tanzania is +255. To call a local number from abroad, dial your country’s international exit code followed by +255 and the area code (e.g., 22 for Dar es Salaam, 27 for Arusha). When calling internationally from Tanzania, use 00 followed by the country code. Ensure your phone plan supports roaming, or buy a local SIM card for better rates during your Tanzania trip.

The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but US Dollars are widely accepted in the tourism industry. Extensive notes like 10,000, 5,000, and 1,000 TZS are commonly used. You can exchange major foreign currencies at banks or forex bureaus in big towns. Credit cards are accepted at some hotels and lodges, but may include surcharges. Always carry some cash, especially when visiting rural areas during your Tanzania safari tour.

Most Tanzania safari packages are all-inclusive, covering accommodation, meals, and game drives. However, for extras like tips, souvenirs, and drinks, budget around $50 to $100 per person per day. Carry US dollars in small denominations and change them at the airport or banks. Credit cards are accepted in major cities, but may not be reliable in remote safari camps or villages.

Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended for your Tanzania safari. It covers emergency medical care, trip cancellations, luggage loss, and delays. Some remote safari locations are far from medical facilities, so coverage for air evacuation is essential. Make sure your policy includes all aspects relevant to adventurous travel. Travel insurance gives you peace of mind and allows you to enjoy your safari fully.

For safaris, pack lightweight, neutral-colored clothing like khakis, olive, and beige. Avoid bright colors and camouflage prints. Bring a warm jacket for early morning game drives and evenings, as it can get chilly. Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. In towns, casual clothing is fine, but modest attire is appreciated, especially in Zanzibar, where Islamic customs are respected.