Practical Travel Info

Everything you need to know before you go

Tanzania is one of Africa’s most extraordinary destinations: from the endless plains of the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater to the snows of Kilimanjaro and the spice-scented shores of Zanzibar. Whether you’re planning your first safari, a trek to the roof of Africa, or a beach holiday after the game drives, a little preparation goes a long way.

Here you’ll find clear, detailed guidance on the things that matter before you travel: visas and entry requirements, so you know exactly how to get your visa on arrival or e-Visa; health and vaccinations, including Tanzania’s yellow fever rules and malaria advice; weather and best time to visit, so you can choose the right season for wildlife, trekking, or the coast; and travel insurance, with advice on what to look for and how it works alongside the Flying Doctors evacuation cover we include on every safari.

We’ve also set out practical travel advice—safety on safari, in cities, and on the coast—plus how we handle payments and what it means that we’re a Travelife Partner committed to sustainable, responsible travel. Each section is written to answer the questions we hear most from guests and to give you confidence as you plan.

Use the menu beside this page to jump straight to any topic. Our team is always on hand to answer questions specific to your itinerary; think of this as your starting point for a smooth, informed journey to Tanzania.

Tanzania safari landscape – Serengeti and national parks

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve compiled the questions we hear most from guests planning a safari or beach holiday in Tanzania. If you don’t find your answer here, our team is always available to help.

Do I need a visa for Tanzania?

Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at major airports and borders, or apply for an e-Visa online in advance. Your passport must be valid for at least six months. See our Visa Tanzania section for full details.

When is the best time for safari?

The dry season (June–October) is ideal for wildlife viewing and the Great Migration. The calving season (January–March) in the southern Serengeti is spectacular. Tanzania is a year-round destination; we can advise the best dates for your priorities.

Is Tanzania safe for tourists?

Yes. Tanzania is one of Africa’s most stable and welcoming safari destinations. We follow local advice, use reputable lodges and guides, and include emergency evacuation cover (Flying Doctors) in our safaris. Standard precautions (e.g. not walking alone at night in cities, securing valuables) apply.

What is included in the safari price?

Typically: park fees, accommodation as per your chosen tier, private 4x4 vehicle, professional English-speaking guide, all meals on safari, and Flying Doctor emergency evacuation. International flights, visas, travel insurance, tips, and personal expenses are not included unless stated on your itinerary.

Can you accommodate dietary requirements?

Yes. Lodges and camps can cater for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs when we know in advance. Please tell us when you enquire or book.

Best Time to Visit Tanzania

Tanzania is a year-round destination. The “best” time depends on what you want to see: the Great Migration river crossings, calving season, fewer crowds, or lower rates. Here’s a detailed breakdown.

June – October (Dry season)

Peak season for wildlife. Grass is short, animals gather at waterholes, and the Great Migration often crosses the Mara River (Serengeti–Maasai Mara) between July and October. Mornings can be cool; days are warm and dry. This is the most popular period, so book early.

November – December (Short rains)

Landscapes turn green, migrant birds arrive, and visitor numbers drop. Rains are usually short afternoon showers. Good for photography and those who prefer fewer vehicles. The migration moves south toward the calving grounds.

January – March (Calving season)

One of the most dramatic wildlife events: thousands of wildebeest calves are born on the southern Serengeti and Ndutu plains. Predator action is at its peak. Warm days; some rain possible. Ideal for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.

April – May (Long rains)

Heaviest rainfall, lush scenery, and the lowest visitor numbers and often lower rates. Some roads can be muddy; a few lodges close. Best for budget-conscious travellers and those who don’t mind occasional rain. Kilimanjaro treks are still possible but wetter.

Tanzania Weather

Tanzania’s weather varies by region and altitude. Safari areas (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, etc.) are generally on the central plateau; the coast and Zanzibar are hot and humid. Kilimanjaro has its own climate zones from tropical to arctic.

Safari regions (Arusha, Serengeti, Ngorongoro)

Daytime temperatures typically range from about 20–28°C (68–82°F). Early morning game drives can be cold (10–15°C / 50–59°F), especially June–August—layers and a warm jacket are essential. Rainy seasons: short rains November–December, long rains March–May. Even in the dry season, brief showers can occur.

Coast & Zanzibar

Hot and humid year-round, with temperatures often 28–32°C (82–90°F). The coolest, driest period is June–October; the wettest is April–May. December–March is popular for beach holidays despite some humidity and occasional short rains.

Mount Kilimanjaro

From rainforest at the base to sub-zero temperatures at the summit. Trekkers need layered clothing, a good sleeping bag, and proper gear. January–March and June–October are the main climbing windows; weather can change quickly at altitude.

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for all guests. Safari and trekking involve remote areas where medical care and evacuation can be costly. Our safaris include Flying Doctors emergency evacuation from the bush to a hospital; this does not replace full travel insurance.

Medical cover: Ensure high limits for medical treatment and emergency evacuation (including from national parks and Kilimanjaro).
Trip cancellation and interruption: Protects you if you must cancel or cut short your trip due to illness, family emergency, or other covered reasons.
Baggage and belongings: Covers loss, theft, or damage to luggage and valuables (e.g. cameras).
Adventure activities: Confirm that safari, trekking, and any optional activities (e.g. balloon flights, diving in Zanzibar) are covered.

Declare any pre-existing medical conditions and check policy exclusions. Bring your policy details and emergency contact numbers with you. We can recommend insurers that specialise in adventure and safari travel if needed.

Tanzania Travel Advice

Practical tips to help you prepare and stay safe during your trip.

Health & hygiene

Drink bottled or purified water; avoid ice from tap water. Use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and trousers at dusk to reduce mosquito bites. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for safari and coast—consult your doctor or travel clinic. Wash hands regularly; hand sanitiser is useful on game drives.

Safety on safari

Stay inside the vehicle unless your guide says it’s safe to step out. Do not approach or feed wildlife. Listen to your guide at all times. Keep a safe distance from elephants, buffalo, and other potentially dangerous animals. Night drives and walking safaris are only with armed rangers where permitted.

Cities & towns

Use common sense: don’t flash valuables, use registered taxis or pre-arranged transfers, and avoid walking alone in unlit areas at night. Lock valuables in the hotel safe. We arrange vetted drivers and lodges for your entire itinerary.

Money & communications

US dollars (post-2006, undamaged) are widely accepted; local currency is Tanzanian shilling. ATMs exist in cities and towns but may be limited in remote areas. Mobile coverage varies—Wi‑Fi is available at most lodges but can be slow. We recommend informing your bank of your travel dates to avoid card blocks.

Tanzania Yellow Fever Requirements

Tanzania may require a yellow fever vaccination certificate depending on your travel history, not just your nationality.

Required: If you are arriving from a country where yellow fever is present (as defined by the World Health Organization), or if you have transited for more than 12 hours through an airport in such a country, you must present a valid International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card) showing vaccination at least 10 days before arrival.
Recommended: Even when not strictly required, many travel clinics recommend yellow fever vaccination for travel to Tanzania because of the presence of the virus in some areas. It also avoids issues if your itinerary changes or you transit through an endemic country.
Certificate: The certificate is valid for life (as per WHO from July 2016). You must carry the original; photocopies are not accepted at borders.

Requirements can change. Check the latest with your embassy, the Tanzanian immigration authority, or a travel clinic at least 4–6 weeks before departure. Vaccination must be administered at an approved centre and recorded on the official yellow card.

Visa Tanzania

Most visitors need a visa to enter Tanzania. The process is straightforward: you can obtain a visa on arrival or apply for an e-Visa in advance.

Visa on arrival

Available at major airports (Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro International Airport near Arusha, and Zanzibar International Airport) and at designated land borders. You’ll need a valid passport (at least six months validity), completed form, passport photos, and the fee in US dollars. Queues can be long; we recommend e-Visa if you prefer to avoid waiting.

E-Visa (online)

Apply through the official Tanzanian e-Visa portal. You upload your passport details and photo, pay online, and receive the visa by email. Allow several days (or more in peak periods). Present the printed e-Visa and your passport on arrival. This is often faster than visa on arrival at busy times.

Cost and validity

Fees vary by nationality and visa type (e.g. single entry, multiple entry). Check the latest fees on the official immigration website. Tourist visas are typically valid for 90 days from issue; length of stay allowed is usually up to 90 days per entry. Zanzibar is part of Tanzania—one visa covers mainland and Zanzibar.

Passport requirements

Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry and have at least two blank pages for stamps. Ensure your name and details match exactly on your flight and visa documents.

Visa rules can change. Always verify current requirements for your nationality with the Tanzanian embassy or official immigration source before travel.

Flying Doctors Services

Africa’s first and largest air ambulance service, the Flying Doctors (AMREF Health Africa) provide emergency medical evacuation from remote safari areas to hospitals in Tanzania or Nairobi. When you travel with us on safari, we include Flying Doctors cover as part of your itinerary—so if you fall seriously ill or have an accident in the bush, you can be flown to appropriate care.

What’s covered

Emergency evacuation by air from the safari area to a designated hospital (e.g. in Arusha, Dar es Salaam, or Nairobi).
Cover is typically for the duration of your safari with us; exact terms depend on your booking.

What it doesn’t replace

Flying Doctors is emergency evacuation only. It does not cover general medical treatment, hospital bills, repatriation to your home country, or trip cancellation. That’s why we strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance (see Travel Insurance) in addition to the evacuation cover we provide.

Sustainable Travel

We are committed to responsible tourism that supports conservation, communities, and the long-term health of Tanzania’s wildlife and habitats. When you travel with us, you contribute to that commitment.

Wildlife & conservation

We follow strict guidelines in national parks and reserves: no off-road driving where prohibited, no approaching animals too closely, and no feeding or disturbing wildlife. We support parks through park fees and work with lodges and partners who prioritise conservation. We do not offer or promote activities that exploit animals (e.g. walking with lions, captive petting).

Community & culture

Where possible we use local guides and suppliers, recommend community-based projects and cultural visits that are respectful and fairly compensated, and encourage guests to learn about local customs. We believe tourism should benefit the people who live alongside wildlife and protected areas.

Environment

We favour lodges and camps that minimise waste, use solar or sustainable energy where feasible, and reduce single-use plastics. We advise guests on low-impact behaviour: refill bottles, respect water and energy use, and leave no trace. Small steps add up when we all take part.

Travelife Partner Status

Travelife is an internationally recognised sustainability certification for the travel industry. As a Travelife Partner, we are committed to managing our operations in a way that respects the environment, supports local communities, and upholds human and labour rights.

This means we work to reduce our environmental footprint, choose suppliers who share our values, and communicate honestly with you about sustainability. Our partnership is part of our promise to offer experiences that are not only memorable but also responsible. When you book with us, you’re travelling with a company that is held to clear standards beyond our own policies.

For more information on Travelife and what certification entails, you can visit the Travelife website. If you have questions about our sustainability practices, we’re happy to answer them.

Easy Payments

We want booking your safari or beach holiday to be simple and secure. We offer flexible payment options and clear terms.

How to pay

We accept bank transfers and major credit/debit cards where available. You will receive clear payment instructions with your quote or booking confirmation. A deposit is typically required to secure your itinerary; the balance is due by an agreed date before travel. All amounts are in US dollars unless otherwise stated.

Security

We do not store your full card details. Any card payments are processed through secure, compliant channels. For bank transfers we provide our official bank details; always confirm you are sending funds to the correct account and be cautious of any last-minute changes to payment details (we will never change bank details by email without prior verification).

Payment schedule

Typical schedule: a deposit (e.g. 20–30%) to confirm, with the balance due 60–90 days before departure. For last-minute bookings we may request full payment. Exact terms will be on your booking form. If you need a different schedule, ask us—we’ll do our best to accommodate where possible.

Cancellation and refunds

Cancellation terms depend on your booking and how close to departure you cancel. We will explain these when you book. We strongly recommend travel insurance that includes cancellation cover so you are protected if you cannot travel.

Practical Travel Information