Tanzania Travel Information: This travel article offers you all the information you need to know about Tanzania – the capital of African Safari
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential for all the travelers worldwide, in Tanzania you can easily get a travel insurance through third-party companies that specialize in emergency evacuation during your tour. As Rowin Africa Safaris we don’t sell it, but we are more than happy to recommend reputable comprehensive travel insurance providers.
The travel insurance includes vital aspects like emergency helicopter rescue and medical evacuation expenses, it also acts as protective shield covering personal injury, repatriation expenses and various potential illnesses.
The benefit of having a Travel Insurance during safari to Tanzania is that you can travel with peace of mind knowing that safety is your top priority.
Packing List for Tanzania Safari
Packing for a Tanzania safari differs significantly from packing for other trips, presenting unique challenges based on your travel situation such as traveling solo, with family or as a couple.
There are weight restrictions in bush flights often limited to 15 kilograms (33 pounds) per person, inclusive of camera gear and carry-ons.
Additionally, choosing appropriate safari clothing crucial. Drawing from our years of experience leading tours in Tanzania and East Africa as well, here are our tips for your African Safari Packing List.
- Duffel or soft – sided bag – opt for a duffel or soft – sided bag which is more flexible and easier to fit into smaller spaces.
- TSA-Approved Clear Toiletry Case – keep your toiletries organized and accessible
- Clothing – pack 2 pair of breathable fabric pants in earth tones and 3 layering tanks or T-shirts
- Utility Jacket – A versatile jacket for various weather conditions
- Light Scarf – useful for sun protection and adding a stylish touch to your outfit
- Sports Bra – comfort is essential during safari activities
- Wide – Brim Hat with Chin Strap : protect yourself from sun and ensure you hat stays put in the breeze
- Close – Toe Shoes – opt for trail runners or fashion sneakers with good traction for walking safaris
- Waterproof Dry Bag – Keep your essentials dry during water-based activities
- Personal Care: Don’t forget to carry moisturizer, sunscreen, insect repellent with Deet, conditioner, lip balm and personal hygiene items.
- First Aid Kit – Be prepared for minor injuries or health issues during your safari
Remember that packing light and smart is key for a successful safari adventure
Tour Challenges
Just like any other endeavor, challenges are an inherent part of the journey. During your travels, you might encounter congestion upon arrival or even experience network outages in various safari areas.
It is essential to be aware of these challenges, understanding that some are within our controls as humans.
However, in the unfortunate event of natural disasters which we hope never occur, safety becomes the top priority. In such cases, taking immediate actions is crucial to ensure the well-being and security of everyone involved. Your safety is our outmost concern.
Extra Tour Cost
This does not directly come from the company but is more about your personal choices, as a traveler you might consider supporting local artisans by purchasing souvenirs, arranging additional city tours or tipping your team.
Recognizing and acknowledging others is one of the best practices in life, please feel comfortable discussing these options with your tour planner any time.
Your choices can have a positive impact and enhance your travel experience in Tanzania.
Country Information
Tanzania is located just south of the Equator spanning 945,087 square kilometers, according to the Tanzania Bureau of Statistic the country is home to an estimated population of 61 million people.
The northern, eastern and coastal regions of Tanzania are densely populated while the southern part is less densely inhabited.
Climate
Tanzania experiences a tropical climate with two main rainy seasons, a longer one from March to May and a shorter season from October to November.
The dry season extends from July through October characterized by clear skies and abundant sunshine making it an ideal time for beach vacations in the coastal regions.
The coastal regions are typically hot and humid.
Visa
Traveling to Tanzania is a straightforward process for visitors, obtaining a Tanzania visa can be done in three ways
- You can obtain the Tanzania Visa from a Tanzanian Embassy or High Commission in your home country, upon arrival at a designated port of entry or by applying online via the Tanzania Immigration website.
- Whether at the airport or border crossing
- The process applies to North American and European citizens. For more information on Visas, please contact the nearest Tanzanian Embassy or High Commission in your area.
Tanzania Airports
Tanzania has two international airports – one situated outside the commercial capital of Dar es Salaam (airport code: DAR) and Kilimanjaro International Airport (airport code: JRO) which serves Mount Kilimanjaro and the northern safari circuit of Tanzania
Zanzibar International Airport (airport code: ZNZ) serves the coast region of Tanzania – The Zanzibar Islands with charter flights and some international carriers offer direct flights to Zanzibar.
How to visit Tanzania?
When planning a safari visit to Northern Tanzania, the most convenient airport to arrive at is Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), many international flight companies such as KLM offer daily flights from Amsterdam, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways and Precision Air also provide flight services to Kilimanjaro International Airport.
For travelers headed to Zanzibar, southern and western Tanzania, it is best to fly into the capital city, Dar es Salaam. European carriers such as British Airways, KLM and Swissair operate flights to Dar es Salaam.
Additionally, there long – distance bus service connecting Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda.
Attractions in Tanzania
Tanzania offers a wealth of educational, historical and leisure experiences making it an incredible destination for adventures.
These adventures include thrilling safaris in Tanzania’s National Parks like Serengeti, Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, Mount Kilimanjaro and Tarangire where you can catch sight of remarkable wildlife including the Great Migration and the Big Five.
Also, Tanzania boasts a rich tapestry of historical sites, museums, breathtaking landscapes, majestic mountains, pristine beaches, serene lakes, winding rivers and vibrant cultural experiences.
When it comes to social life, Tanzania is home to over 120 distinct tribes each with its unique vernacular.
Despite the diversity of languages – Swahili was adopted as the national language in 1961, immediately following the country’s independence.
Swahili has since spread and is widely used in neighboring nations like Uganda, Kenya and Central Africa.
English serves as the second official language in Tanzania and you will find that Tanzanians are incredibly hospitable and friendly.
Political system
Tanzania stands put as a shining example of political stability, peace and tranquility on the African continent.
The country has a multi-party-political system and a democratic government, it is characterized by the peaceful resolution of political, religious and tribal conflicts through dialogue.
Tanzania’s commitment to religious and tribal tolerance is evident as every citizen is free to practice their faith as you choose, as long as it complies with the nation’s laws, fostering an environment where conflicts based on these factors are exceedingly rare.
Currency
The official currency in Tanzania is the Tanzania Shilling (Tshs), exchange rates may fluctuate and can change at any time.
Most tourist hotels, curio shops, currency exchange offices and banks accept major credit cards including Eurocard, American Express, MasterCard, Access and Visa.
Additionally, traveler’s cheques in both British Pounds and US Dollars are also widely accepted in the country.
Religions
Tanzania is a land of diverse religions with major influences from Christianity, island, Hinduism and African Traditional Religions.
On the east coast, in places like Dar es Salaam, Bagamoyo, Zanzibar and Tanga, Island and Hinduism are dominant religions.
The presence of Arabs and Eastern Indians has contributed to the spread of these two faiths in that region.
Meanwhile, the mainland is primarily Christian, a legacy of European colonist who introduced the Christian religion to the indigenous population.
Infrastructure & Accessibility
In Tanzania, major roads are well-paved and accessible year-round. However, side roads especially those around and within the National Parks can be muddy and rough. That is why a 4WD (Four – Wheel Drive) vehicle is essential for safaris.
Popular choices for 4WD vehicles include Toyota Land Cruisers, Land Rovers, and Toyota Hiace 4WD
Additionally, the railway is ultized in the eastern, southern central and western regions of the country
As for time, Tanzania operates in the GMT+3 time zone.
The electricity supply in Tanzania is 220-240 V AC, with a frequency of 50 Hz.