Whenever you are preparing for a trip to a foreign country, a lot of questions pop in your head. You find yourself wondering about the culture, the people, the places to visit, and most importantly, the essential information you need to know before embarking on your journey. So, if you’re planning a trip to Tanzania, here’s some useful information to ensure you have an unforgettable experience. This East African gem has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and get ready to discover the beauty of Tanzania.

Visa & Entry Requirements

All visitors travelling to Tanzania must have a valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity beyond the intended departure date. Along with a valid passport, visitors will also require a visa.  The ordinary visa (Tourist Visa) is $50 however, US Citizens will need to apply for the Multiple Entry Visa which costs $100. 

You can either arrange your visa online prior to your arrival or you can get your visa upon arrival.  You should consider the following when getting your visa on arrival:

• Visitors will have to queue to get a Government Control Number in order to make the payment for the visa
• Queue to pay for your visa
• Queue at Immigration to issue your visa

It can be time consuming getting your visa on arrival, especially during high seasons. You can choose to get your visa online but it is advised to do that a month before you travel to ensure you will get your visa on time.  Get your online visa here: https://visa.immigration.go.tz/. 

You should also note that you will be asked to present a valid return ticket whilst at Immigration. In some cases you may be asked to prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself whilst in Tanzania. Visitors would also be required to fill out a declaration form which will be available upon arrival.

Vaccines

Tanzania doesn’t officially require any specific vaccines for entry, except for proof of yellow fever vaccination if you are arriving from or have transited through a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission. However, it’s important to consider the health and safety recommendations for travellers, and vaccines are often recommended to protect yourself from various diseases that are prevalent in the region.

Recommended Vaccinations for Tanzania:

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Thypoid
• Polio
• Rabies
• Meningitis
• Tetanus-diphtheria

Malaria

Malaria is a prevalent concern in Tanzania, especially in many parts of the country. Travellers to Tanzania, especially those visiting areas at risk for malaria, should take preventive measures to avoid contracting the disease.  Consult a healthcare professional before your trip to determine the most suitable antimalarial medication based on your health history, travel itinerary, and potential side effects. 

Yellow Fever Vaccination

Yellow fever vaccination is required only if you are arriving from or have transited for more than 12 hours in the airport through a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission.  

It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before your trip to get advice based on your healthy history, travel plans and the most current recommendations. 

Tipping

Tipping is not a rule however, it is a big part of the tourism culture in Tanzania and it is expected as an appreciation of good service. Most travellers choose to tip at the end of their trip based on their satisfactory service they received. 

Tipping Guideline Per Group Per Day:

Safari Guide: $20 – $25 

Climbing Guide: $20 – $25 

Cook: $10 – $15 

Porters: $10

Currency

The official currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling, abbreviated as TZS. However, US dollars are also accepted in Tanzania. US dollars is the preferred currency when paying for tour activities, tipping guides and hotels. Tanzanian Shillings can also be accepted if it is the only currency you have. In small businesses they mostly accept only the local currency.  US Dollar notes must not be older than 2006. 

Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, exchange bureaus, and hotels. It’s recommended to exchange money at official and reputable exchange locations to ensure you receive fair rates. 

Credit cards are widely accepted but it is recommended to have some cash in hand as some places might not offer this service. 

Before your trip, you can also check with your bank about using international ATMs in Tanzania. ATMs are commonly available in urban areas and tourist destinations and they usually dispense Tanzanian Shillings. Just be aware that some ATMs might have withdrawal limits or fees. 

Airports

Tanzania has several international airports where travellers can arrive when visiting the country.  

Major international airports of Tanzania:

Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO):

– Location: Arusha

– This airport serves as a gateway for travellers visiting Mount Kilimanjaro, the northern safari circuit, and the surrounding areas.

– It’s situated relatively close to Arusha, a popular starting point for safaris and treks. 

Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ):

– Location: Zanzibar

– This airport serves the island of Zanzibar, a popular tourist destination known for its beaches, historical sites, and culture.

Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR):

– Location: Dar es Salaam

– This is the main international airport in Tanzania and serves as a gateway to the country.

– It’s located in the largest city, Dar es Salaam, which is a major economic and commercial hub.

Arusha Airport (ARK):

– Location: Arusha

– Arusha Airport is a domestic airport located in Arusha City. Tourists travelling to Zanzibar or other regions of Tanzania can use this airport. 

These are some of the primary international airports in Tanzania. Depending on your travel plans and the regions you intend to explore, you might arrive at one of these airports.

Local Laws and Customs

Tanzanian people are very friendly and welcoming. However, visitors to Tanzania should always be respectful of the local culture. The use of foul language, aggressive behaviour, and drunkenness are all forms of bad behaviour that will cause offence therefore, should be avoided. Local traditions and religions should be respected at all times. Women should avoid wearing revealing clothes and are advised to not wear shorts or sleeveless tops in non-touristic areas. There are laws for the protection of wildlife in Tanzania. Fines for those caught with illegal wildlife products can be hefty and it’s illegal to take wildlife products out of the country. It is strongly advised to avoid buying these products if you come across any.