Recommended Entry Points:
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO): Approximately about 50 km (about a 60-minute drive) from Arusha city center, JRO is the most convenient international airport for travelers who wants to participate on a northern circuit safari.
Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ): This airport serves as a gateway to both the island of Zanzibar and mainland Tanzania for safari travel. It’s also a major hub with connections to many domestic destinations.
Arusha MunicipalAirport (ARK): Located on the outskirts of Arusha, ARK serves domestic flights, including some from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar and the Serengeti.
Alternative Options:
Dar Es Salaam (Julius Nyerere International Airport – DAR): If you're exploring southern Tanzania or want more flight options, DAR is a major hub with many domestic connections.
Nairobi, Kenya (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport – NBO): While often having more competitive international fares, travelers can book into NBO and get a connecting flight to JRO or ZNZ or take a bus ride to Arusha.
You can check out the detailed information on the airports and where to start your safari on our blog - https://www.thetripquest.com/post/where-to-start-your-safari-in-tanzania
Essential:
Yellow Fever: This vaccine is a must for most nationalities visiting Tanzania, taken at least 10 days before arrival. We strongly advise all travelers to get this shot.
Recommended:
Tetanus and Polio: Make sure your routine vaccinations are current.
Typhoid: Consider this vaccine, especially if you plan to visit rural areas.
Malaria Prophylaxis: Tanzania has malaria mosquitoes, so talk to your doctor about suitable medications (pills or injection).
Note: It's wise to visit a travel clinic or see your doctor 6-8 weeks before your trip for advice on vaccinations and health measures.
Visa Requirements:
Eligibility: Most travelers require a visa to enter Tanzania.
Application Methods:
Online e-Visa: Apply through the official Tanzanian immigration website: https://visa.immigration.go.tz/
Visa on Arrival: Available at major entry points, including JRO (Kilimanjaro), ZNZ (Zanzibar) and DAR airports.
Fees:
Standard Tourist Visa: USD 50 per person.
For U.S. Citizens: USD 100 per person (multiple entry).
Passport Validity:
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Tanzania and contains at least three blank pages.
A 20% deposit will already be taken to reserve your slot. The remaining balance of 80% can be paid by using one of the below methods:
Cash in USD before the tour start.
Pay by card before the tour starts with a 6% card processing fee. (Applicable throughout Tanzania)
Pay by bank transfer at least 4 weeks in advance with USD 30 surcharge.
Note 1: If Cash
USD currency printed prior to 2009 is not accepted in Tanzania and the balances is be cleared during the briefing session with manager only.
Note 2: If Bank Transfer
You will have to do this at least 30 days in advance as International Wire Transfers will take 10-14 working days to reach our account.
Note 3:
All Final payments should settled during the pre-safari briefing session with the tour manager.
Preferred Currency:
United States Dollars (USD): Widely accepted, especially for tourist-related transactions. Ensure you bring notes printed in 2009 or later, as older notes are not accepted.
Local Currency:
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS): Useful for small purchases, tips, and transactions in local markets for buying souvenirs.
Accessing Funds:
ATMs: Available in major cities like Dar Es Salaam, Arusha, Zanzibar and at JRO airports but they all dispense TZS. There are very few ATM's that dispense USD and limit will be maximum USD 250.
Credit Cards: Accepted in almost all the hotels and lodges, though a surcharge of ranging from 4-6% will apply.
Tipping is customary and highly valued in Tanzania. Any gratuities are greatly appreciated because they support the income of the guides and hotel staff apart from salary.
Guides: The usual amount is between US$ 20 and US$ 25 per day from the whole group. Since guides put in a lot of overtime, it is customary to tip them; They appreciate any contribution you can make, and it will increase their income.
Lodges/Camps: Tipping for lodge or camp employees is voluntary and usually takes place in a tip box at the front desk. For a party of two, it is customary to tip approximately US$ 10 per day while checking out.
Gratuities are optional, but they do show appreciation for exceptional African hospitality.
Seasonal Perspectives:
Dry Season: June through October offers milder temperatures and less precipitation, making it ideal for wildlife observation and beach vacations.
Short Rainfall: From November through the beginning of December, expect brief showers. It usually happens for a brief period of time in the evening.
Long Rains: From March to May, there are heavier rains, which create a lush environment. With fewer tourists and more deals, things will be more favorable.
Temperature Guide:
High Altitudes: Be prepared for chilly mornings and evenings, particularly in locations such as Ngorongoro Crater.
Lowland Areas: Savor the warmth, particularly when on midday safaris in regions such as the Serengeti Plains.
Packing Advice:
Layer Up: Wear layers that you can readily swap out throughout the day to be ready for shifting temperatures.
Safari Luggage Limit:
Although a private safari has no set luggage limit. However, for comfort and convenience on your Tanzania safari, we advise using compact, flexible suitcases or soft-sided duffel bags. These are perfect for safari land cruisers and simpler to manage in rough settings. Select a durable, water-resistant bag that can be locked. Avoid carrying things of great sentimental or monetary value. Keep valuables like electronics or documents in a separate daypack—a small backpack.
Domestic Flight Luggage Limit:
Most local airlines let up to 15 kg (33 lbs) (70 cm X 35 cm X 20 cm) per person, including hand luggage, if your safari includes domestic flights inside Tanzania. Limited cargo space makes soft bags very preferred. Exceeding the limit allows for extra baggage (up to 15kg) for a fee; fees and limits differ somewhat between airlines.
Pack wisely for your Tanzania safari by selecting lightweight, breathable clothing for hot days and thick layers for cool evenings. Choose colours like green, olive, or khaki to blend in with the surroundings and ward off insects. Avoid white, black, or blue, which can attract unwanted attention from wildlife or bugs. Lodge evenings are informal, so formal attire is not required. Additionally, a lightweight waterproof jacket is essential in any season. For the best preparation, always check the local weather before your trip.
Choose your footwear carefully so you don't overpack for your Tanzania safari. Comfortable sports sandals and a pair of lightweight hiking shoes are ideal if your safari doesn't require lengthy walks. In the evenings, sandals are perfect for strolling around camp or unwinding at the lodge. Flip-flops are helpful for casual wear or showers for added comfort.
Although the safari Land Cruiser comes with a basic first aid kit, we strongly advise bringing your own for a comfortable and secure Tanzanian Safari. Having your own kit guarantees that you have everything you need. The following is a recommended list of necessary items to bring:
Sun Screen
Antihistamine cream/tablets
Nurofen or equivalent painkiller
Eye-drops for lubrication
Anti-diarrhoea treatment
Medication for personal allergies/asthma etc.
Insect repellent containing Deet
Rehydration sachets(ORS)/vitamin tablets
You can stay connected during your safari in Tanzania, most lodges and tented camps offer free wifi in common areas (such as the lounge or reception). But consider purchasing a local SIM card with data for more reliable connectivity during your journey, the signal strength can fluctuate and is frequently weak during the safari game drives. You can buy SIM cards in the airport or shops in Arusha or Moshi, the best operators we recommend are Vodacom and Airtel.
You can keep your gadgets charged throughout your Tanzanian safari, Every one of our safari cars has power and charging ports for clients to use. But please bring universal travel adapters. This is important because the majority of lodging options during your Tanzanian safari and our cars both use UK-style three-pin sockets (Type G). A minor but crucial detail for a seamless and staying connected during Tanzania travel.
We use 4x4 Toyota Landcruisers. Each vehicle has a pop-up roof, which is specially designed for the best wildlife viewing and offers great, unhindered views and photography opportunities throughout your Tanzanian safari. Our vehicles go through extensive servicing and maintenance prior to, during, and following every safari because your comfort and safety are our top priorities. Please be advised that these vehicles' air conditioning is not as strong/does not operate as that of a normal passenger car because of their unique design for outdoor game drives.
You can check out the photos of our vehicles and details in this blog - https://www.thetripquest.com/post/information-on-safari-land-cruiser
The roads in the wilderness areas are rough and unpaved when you go on a safari. Rare breakdowns can happen due to the difficult terrain and the heavy wear and tear on vehicles. We want you to know that we're ready for anything like this. In order to minimize any disruption to your Tanzanian safari experience, we will promptly send a rescue vehicle if your safari vehicle breaks down and cannot be promptly fixed on the spot. Because safari driving is so demanding, we are always prepared to handle the possibility of breakdowns even though we take every precaution to avoid them through careful maintenance.
You can enhance your Tanzania Safari with an exhilarating walking experience! Although game drives are the mainstay of your adventure, you can also take part in guided walking safaris in some Tanzanian locations, such as the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and other national parks (please note that walking safaris are generally not permitted within Serengeti National Park). These walking safaris are conducted by experienced national park authorities and are always accompanied by armed rangers for your safety.
You can check out our Tanzania Safari Addons for more details - https://www.thetripquest.com/tanzania-safari-addons
It is possible to have a nighttime game drive while on safari in Tanzania. Lake Manyara and Tarangire National Parks now allow night game drives, providing a rare chance to see nocturnal creatures and night hunting. Please be aware that Serengeti National Park does not permit nighttime game drives. This activity is only offered by specific authorized lodges and camps, so you can only participate if you are staying inside the national parks. You must reserve your lodging for your Tanzania Safari stay at one of these particular in-park properties in order to take part.
More details about night game drives in various locations can be found in our Tanzania Safari Addons section here - https://www.thetripquest.com/tanzania-safari-addons/
During your Tanzanian safari, you can visit a number of Masai Villages that are close to the main roads. Meeting Maasai people, taking a village tour, and learning about their rich culture are usually included in these visits. The cost is US$ 25 per person.
We want to be clear and honest: over time, some visitors have felt that the experience has become less genuine. Although you will have the opportunity to buy exquisite Maasai jewellery and crafts, there is no pressure to buy. We appreciate your understanding of the nature of the experience during your Tanzanian safari, and you are welcome to visit the available options.
There is detailed information about the Masai Village Visit in our Tanzania Safari Addons section here - https://www.thetripquest.com/tanzania-safari-addons/masai-village