PASSPORT AND VISAS
As a new traveller, here’s some important information to keep in mind:
Make sure you have a return ticket and ensure your passport remains valid for at least 6 months after your intended stay.
Most Commonwealth countries do not require visas for entry. However, travellers from other countries, including the European Union, Britain, Australia, and USA, should be aware that they may need a visa.
If you do need a visa to enter Tanzania, you should apply for an e-visa 3-4 weeks before your trip. You can find more details and apply at https://visa.immigration.go.tz/.
These guidelines will help ensure a smooth entry into Tanzania for your travel adventure.
HEALTH
When planning to visit East Africa, it is best to consult with your healthcare provider at least 6 weeks before your trip. When it comes to vaccinations, while there are no mandatory shots for entering Tanzania, it’s recommended that you get certain vaccines and consider malaria tablets.
You should also check the latest recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/tanzania) or National Travel Health Network and Centre (https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/country/220/tanzania) for more information.
If you’re traveling from or between countries where Yellow Fever is a common concern, you will need a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate. It’s strongly advised to get information from the Yellow Fever health authority in your home country well in advance of your travel dates. People aged 60 years or older should not be given the vaccine for travel to these areas with low potential for exposure due to a higher risk of life-threatening side effects and instead carry a doctor’s letter to highlight the same.
Travellers’ Insurance and Evacuation
All travellers must have travel insurance or enough financial resources to cover potential costs in case of a medical emergency, trip disruption, or early termination of their journey.
SUGGESTED PACKING LIST
We suggest wearing long trousers and bringing a long-sleeved shirt or even a light sweater for game drives, as temperatures can get cool. Layering is a good approach! In the evenings, it’s a good idea to cover up to protect yourself from mosquitoes and bugs. Depending on the duration of your trip, you may want to adjust the quantity and types of clothing to suit your needs. Below is a list of items we recommend you bring:
Clothing:
| Toiletries:
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Electronics:
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Currency:
The official currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but US dollars are commonly accepted and widely used, including at most hotels, lodges, and camps. Many establishments also accept major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard. We recommend carrying a mix of cash (preferably in USD and Tanzanian Shillings) as a backup. Having small denominations can be useful for settling bills or giving tips to porters and service staff.
Get in touch with us for a convenient currency exchange service.
Tipping:
Tipping is incredibly subjective. There are times you might not leave anything, other times you might want to leave your full wallet! On average, previous clients have indicated to us they add around 10% of the total trip cost as tip money to distribute as they see fit. It may be different for you. This is completely your call.
A few things to consider: Guides are usually tipped separately from any other staff you may encounter (for example, at the camps). Where possible, tip directly to the staff as opposed to putting into a tip box. This ensures that each staff gets their tips directly.
SAFARI ETIQUETTE
Listen to your guide as they work knowing the rules and regulations and work within those for the safety and comfort for all.
Please do not litter. Carry any litter, including biodegradables, back to camp/lodge/hotel and dispose appropriately.
Stay in the vehicle at all times.
Do not disturb wildlife, either with the vehicle or on foot. Remember, wildlife has right of way. They are also unpredictable and can be dangerous.
Keep sounds low and encourage silence especially when wildlife is nearby.
Never feed any wildlife as our foods would cause them harm.
Avoid flash photography.
Respect all customs, communities, and religions.
