Question 1

Do I need a visa for Tanzania?

Accepted Answer

Most nationalities can obtain a Tanzania tourist visa on arrival ($50, cash) or online via ETA ($50). The online ETA is recommended as it speeds up arrival. Your passport must be valid for 6+ months from your entry date and have at least 2 blank pages. If you are arriving from a yellow fever country (or have visited one within the past 6 days), you will need a yellow fever certificate.

Question 2

What vaccinations do I need for Tanzania?

Accepted Answer

Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from a yellow fever country and recommended for all travelers. Typhoid and Hepatitis A are recommended for most visitors. Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended — consult your doctor 4-6 weeks before travel. Ensure your routine vaccinations (tetanus, measles, etc.) are up to date. Consult a travel health clinic for personalized advice based on your health history and specific itinerary.

Question 3

How much cash should I bring on safari?

Accepted Answer

Most major expenses (safari, accommodation, meals) are prepaid through your operator. You will need cash for: tips ($15-25 per person per day for your guide is customary, $5-10 per day for cook/camp staff), souvenirs and curios ($50-500 depending on interests), personal purchases, and any optional activities. We recommend $200-400 in small-denomination USD bills. Avoid worn or torn USD bills — they may be refused. Tanzanian shillings are also useful for small purchases.

Question 4

What should I wear on safari?

Accepted Answer

The golden rule: neutral colors (khaki, tan, brown, olive) that blend with the environment. Avoid white, bright colors, and dark colors that absorb heat. Layers are essential — mornings can be 10-15°C, afternoons 25-30°C. A lightweight fleece for early morning game drives and a rain jacket for afternoon storms are both essential regardless of season. Comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes are required. A wide-brimmed hat and quality sunglasses are essential sun protection.

Question 5

Can I use my phone on safari?

Accepted Answer

Mobile phone coverage is available in larger towns and most lodge areas, but not in game park interiors. Your guide will brief you on when and where you can charge devices. We recommend bringing a power bank for game drives. Many lodges and camps have charging facilities in rooms or a central charging area. WiFi is available at most lodges but can be slow and unreliable in remote areas. Your guide will always have a radio for emergency communication.

Question 6

Is Tanzania safe for tourists?

Accepted Answer

Tanzania is generally very safe for tourists. Safari camps and lodges take security seriously, and violent crime against tourists is rare. The main precautions are: keep valuables secure, be aware of your surroundings in cities, follow your guide's instructions on wildlife safety (maintaining distance, staying in the vehicle during game drives), and respect local customs and dress codes outside beach resort areas. Your guide is your primary security on safari — always inform them of your plans.

Question 7

What is the tipping etiquette on safari?

Accepted Answer

Tipping is customary and an important part of safari staff income. Our recommended guide tip is $15-25 per person per day for excellent service. Cook and camp staff typically receive $5-10 per person per day combined. Tip in USD or Tanzanian shillings directly to the individual. Your guide can facilitate tipping for camp staff. Tips should reflect the quality of service received and your satisfaction level — they are not obligatory but are genuinely appreciated by staff.

Tanzania Safari Checklist

Your Complete Tanzania Safari Checklist

What to Do and When

8–12 weeks before

6–8 weeks before

4–6 weeks before

2–4 weeks before

1 week before

Clothing

Gear & Equipment

Health Preparations

Travel Documents

Safari Planning FAQ

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7-Day Safari

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