FAQ:
Tanzania offers a variety of excursions including wildlife safaris in national parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, cultural tours to visit local tribes like the Maasai, hiking adventures on Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru, beach getaways to Zanzibar and Pemba islands, snorkeling and diving in the Indian Ocean, and historical excursions to places such as the old trading city of Stone Town in Zanzibar.
The best time for a safari in Tanzania typically falls during the dry season, from late June to October. This period offers the best wildlife viewing opportunities as animals congregate around water sources. However, the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti is also a spectacular event, with peak migration occurring around July and August.
Many excursions in Tanzania are family-friendly and provide unique educational experiences for children. Tour operators offer family safari packages, beach holidays, and cultural experiences that are tailored to cater to the interests and safety of all ages. It is important to check with your tour provider regarding specific age requirements or recommendations for certain activities.
Yes, certain vaccinations are recommended when traveling to Tanzania. These typically include vaccines for yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and routine vaccinations such as MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, and polio. It's also recommended to take antimalarial medication. Please consult with a healthcare professional well in advance of your trip for personalized advice.
Most travelers will need a tourist visa to enter Tanzania for short-term excursions. Visas can be obtained upon arrival at major airports and border crossings, or in advance through Tanzanian diplomatic missions. An e-visa system is also available, allowing travelers to apply online prior to their visit.
Tanzania is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. However, it is important to follow standard safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, not displaying valuables, and listening to the guidance of your tour operators, especially on wildlife safaris. For the most updated travel advisories, check with your government's travel resources.
Packing for Tanzania depends on the type of excursion you're planning. For a safari, lightweight clothing in neutral colors, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and binoculars are essential. For beach destinations, swimwear, towels, and water-resistant sandals are key items. High-altitude hikes like Mount Kilimanjaro require warm clothing and sturdy hiking boots.
Yes, there are many opportunities for sustainable and ethical tourism in Tanzania. You can support this by choosing eco-friendly lodges, engaging with responsible tour operators who give back to local communities and conservation efforts, respecting wildlife and habitats, and by purchasing souvenirs from local artisans to support the local economy.
To interact with local communities, consider taking part in cultural tours that visit local villages and offer authentic cultural exchanges. It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, dress modestly, and ask permission before taking photos of people. Learning a few basic phrases in Swahili can also enhance your interaction.
The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the local currency, but US dollars are also widely accepted, especially for tourist-related activities. It's advisable to carry some cash in TZS for smaller purchases and tips. Major hotels, restaurants, and tour operators in urban areas and tourist destinations often accept credit cards, but it's less common in remote areas. Always have some cash on hand just in case.