— Travel Guide —
The essentials, distilled. What to know before you arrive — so the journey itself feels effortless.
June – October — the dry season. Cooler air, easier wildlife sightings, and the great migration crossing the Mara River (Aug–Sep).
December – February — short dry season. Warm, clear, and the calving season in the southern Serengeti.
March – May — long rains. Quieter, greener, lower rates. Some camps close.
For Zanzibar: June–October and December–February offer the calmest seas and cleanest skies.
Most travellers need a tourist visa. Apply online at the official Tanzania eVisa portal at least 10 days before arrival — or obtain on arrival at major airports (subject to nationality).
Single-entry tourist visas are typically valid for 90 days. US citizens require a multiple-entry visa. Always check current requirements with your embassy.
Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from a country with risk of transmission. Routinely recommended: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus.
Antimalarial medication is strongly advised for safari areas. Consult a travel clinic 4–6 weeks before departure.
Tanzania is broadly safe for travellers. Use hotel safes, avoid displaying valuables, and stick to trusted drivers.
On safari, follow your guide's instructions at all times. In Zanzibar, dress modestly outside resort areas — particularly in Stone Town.
The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the local currency. US Dollars are widely accepted at lodges and parks (notes dated 2009 or later).
Cards work at most upscale lodges and Zanzibar resorts. Carry small USD bills for tips and rural purchases.
Swahili is the national language; English is widely spoken in tourism. A few words go far: Jambo (hello), Asante (thank you), Karibu (welcome).
Greetings matter — a calm hello before any request is courtesy. Modest dress is expected in villages and Stone Town. Always ask before photographing people.
Tipping is appreciated: $20–30 per day for safari guides, $10 per day for camp staff (pooled), 10% in restaurants.
