Before you fly
Everything you need for a seamless adventure — from visas and vaccinations to packing and etiquette.
Most travellers (U.S., Europe, China, Middle East) require a tourist visa for Tanzania. Apply online via the Tanzania Immigration Services eVisa system — USD 69, processed in 7–10 days. East African Community nationals may be exempt. Passports must be valid for 6+ months beyond your stay and have 2 blank pages. Declare currency over USD 10,000. Drugs, weapons and certain wildlife products are restricted.
Yellow Fever certificate required if arriving from or transiting through endemic areas. Hepatitis A, Typhoid and Tetanus recommended. Malaria prophylaxis is essential in many regions. Drink bottled or purified water, use insect repellent, and consult a doctor 4–6 weeks before travel.
Jan–Mar (Wet): lush Serengeti calving, Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar beaches. Apr–May (Long Rains): fewer crowds, Kilimanjaro treks, Tarangire elephants. Jun–Oct (Dry): prime wildebeest migration, Ruaha safari, Lake Manyara birding. Nov–Dec (Short Rains): Selous, Mafia Island diving, Arusha cultural tours.
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS); USD and major credit cards are accepted in tourist areas. ATMs in cities — carry small denominations for tips. Standard tipping: USD 5–10 per day for guides and drivers.
Fly into Julius Nyerere International (Dar es Salaam) or Kilimanjaro International (Arusha). Use taxis, daladalas, or Nyumbu Trek transfers; domestic flights for long distances. Roads vary in quality — we strongly recommend guided transport.
Tanzania is generally safe for tourists. Exercise caution in crowds, secure valuables, and follow guide instructions around wildlife. Emergency numbers: Police 112, Ambulance 112, plus the Nyumbu Trek 24/7 support line shared on arrival.
Lightweight clothing, layers for highlands, modest attire for cultural visits. Binoculars, camera, high-SPF sunblock, insect repellent, reusable water bottle. Power is 230V, Type D/G outlets — bring adapters.
Greet with “Jambo” or “Habari.” Respect elders and dress modestly. Always ask permission before photographing people. Remove shoes in homes and mosques. Tip as appreciation, not obligation.
Swahili and English are official. Swahili is widely spoken; English is common in tourist areas. A translation app for Swahili basics is useful in remote regions.
Try ugali, nyama choma, and fresh seafood on the coast. International cuisine is widely available. Vegetarian, vegan and halal options on request. Drink bottled water and eat at reputable places.
Wi-Fi in most hotels and cities; limited in parks. Vodacom or Airtel local SIMs offer affordable data. In remote areas, expect intermittent coverage — satellite phones can be arranged on request.
Nyumbu Trek supports eco-tourism, conservation, and local communities. Minimise plastic, respect wildlife, and buy crafts directly from local makers wherever possible.
