Tanzania Travel Guide: Complete Travel Information for Tanzania

Tanzania is one of Africa’s leading wildlife and adventure destinations, known for the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Mount Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar, the Great Migration, Indian Ocean beaches and diverse cultures from the Swahili coast to Maasai pastoral communities. It is ideal for safaris, gorilla-free primate experiences, trekking, diving, beach stays, birdwatching and overland travel.

The capital is Dodoma, while Dar es Salaam is the country’s largest city and major commercial gateway. The official currency is the Tanzanian shilling (TZS). Tanzania uses East Africa Time, UTC+3, and does not observe daylight saving time.

1. Entry Requirements & Documents

Passport and visa requirements

Most foreign visitors need a visa to enter Tanzania. Many nationalities can apply online for an eVisa before departure, while some may obtain a visa on arrival at selected entry points. Requirements depend on nationality, passport type, purpose of travel, intended stay and port of entry.

Travel with a passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended arrival date.
Check whether your nationality requires an eVisa, visa on arrival or a visa in advance.
Use the official eVisa system before travel where possible.
Carry a printed copy of the eVisa approval or visa confirmation.
Visitors may need to show return tickets, accommodation details and proof of sufficient funds.
Tourist visas do not permit paid work in Tanzania.

Apply only through the official government portal: Tanzania Electronic Visa Application System.

Yellow fever vaccination requirement

Tanzania may require proof of yellow fever vaccination for travellers arriving from, or transiting through, countries with yellow fever transmission risk. Requirements can depend on your travel history and transit duration.

Carry the original yellow fever certificate if your itinerary may trigger the requirement.
Check the current rules with your airline, travel clinic and Tanzanian immigration authority.
Keep vaccination documentation in hand luggage.

Zanzibar travel requirements

Zanzibar is part of the United Republic of Tanzania but may have additional visitor requirements, including mandatory inbound travel insurance arranged through the Zanzibar authorities. Check the current Zanzibar entry, insurance and health rules before booking flights or ferries.

Official Zanzibar information: Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar.

Useful travel documents

Passport and approved Tanzania eVisa or visa where required.
Yellow fever vaccination certificate if required by travel history.
Return or onward travel ticket.
Hotel booking or local host address.
Travel health-insurance certificate.
Safari, Kilimanjaro climb or Zanzibar insurance confirmation where relevant.
International driving permit if renting a vehicle.
Printed copies of passport, visa, insurance, permits and emergency contacts.

Customs and restricted items

Tanzania has strict laws on drugs, weapons, wildlife products, ivory, protected plants, cultural objects, drones and certain medicines. Carry prescription medicine in original packaging with a doctor’s letter.

Do not bring illegal drugs, weapons or prohibited substances.
Check drone rules before importing or operating a drone.
Do not buy or export ivory, wildlife products, shells, coral, animal parts or protected plants.
Do not remove cultural artefacts, fossils or archaeological objects.
Carry a doctor’s letter for controlled medication.

2. Health, Vaccinations & Insurance

Health preparation

Tanzania has private medical facilities in Dar es Salaam, Arusha and Zanzibar Town, but healthcare quality and emergency services vary significantly outside major towns. Safari regions, Mount Kilimanjaro routes and remote parks can be far from advanced medical care.

Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
Discuss hepatitis A, hepatitis B, tetanus, typhoid, rabies, meningitis and malaria prevention with a travel clinic.
Carry regular medication in original packaging with a doctor’s letter.
Pack oral rehydration salts, insect repellent, sunscreen, first-aid supplies and digestive medication.
Bring water-treatment options for remote travel where necessary.

Malaria and mosquito protection

Malaria risk exists in much of Tanzania, including many safari and coastal areas. Seek medical advice on malaria prevention before travel, use effective insect repellent and protect yourself from mosquito bites, especially from dusk to dawn.

Use effective insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin or an equivalent ingredient.
Wear long sleeves and trousers in the evening.
Use mosquito nets or screened accommodation where available.
Seek urgent medical advice for fever during or after travel.
Dengue and other mosquito-borne illnesses can also occur.

Travel health insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is essential for Tanzania. Select cover for emergency treatment, private hospital care, medical evacuation, repatriation, personal liability, safari activities, diving, Kilimanjaro trekking and other adventure activities.

Check whether high-altitude climbing and evacuation are covered for Kilimanjaro.
Confirm diving, snorkelling, kiteboarding and water-sport cover for Zanzibar.
Ensure safari and remote-area medical evacuation are included.
Carry the insurer’s 24-hour emergency assistance number offline.

Food, water and heat safety

Drink sealed bottled, boiled or reliably filtered water only.
Avoid tap water unless your accommodation confirms that it is treated.
Choose freshly cooked food at busy restaurants and lodges.
Wash or peel fruit and vegetables where possible.
Carry oral rehydration salts and stay hydrated during safaris, beach days and climbing.
Use caution with ice, raw salads and uncooked seafood in uncertain settings.

3. Safety & Travel Advisories

General safety

Tanzania is one of East Africa’s leading safari destinations, but visitors should take practical precautions. Key risks include petty theft, road accidents, scams, violent crime in some urban areas, limited emergency care, wildlife hazards and security concerns near certain borders.

Keep passports, cards, cash and devices secure in crowded areas, markets and transport hubs.
Use hotel safes where available and avoid displaying expensive valuables.
Use reputable taxi apps, hotel transfers, licensed guides and established safari operators.
Avoid walking alone after dark, especially in unfamiliar parts of Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar Town.
Use bank ATMs in secure locations and remain alert to card-skimming risk.
Be cautious of unsolicited assistance, unofficial guides and fake tourism offers.

Road safety

Road accidents are a significant risk. Roads can be busy, poorly lit or affected by weather, and rural routes may have limited fuel, mechanical support and emergency response.

Drive on the left side of the road.
Use seat belts and avoid driving at night outside major cities.
Use experienced safari drivers for parks and long-distance routes.
Choose suitable 4x4 vehicles for national parks, crater roads and remote areas.
Carry water, food, fuel, cash, a power bank and basic supplies on long drives.
Do not ride motorcycle taxis unless you are comfortable with safety conditions and helmet use.

Wildlife safety

Wildlife encounters are a major attraction but require strict adherence to ranger and guide instructions. Wild animals can be dangerous even in established parks and lodges.

Do not leave your vehicle in national parks unless your guide says it is safe.
Keep a safe distance from elephants, lions, hippos, buffalo, crocodiles and primates.
Do not feed, touch or approach wildlife.
Follow park rules on noise, waste, photography and vehicle movement.
Use licensed guides for safaris, walking tours, boat trips and mountain hikes.

Regional security

Security conditions can be more sensitive near the borders with Mozambique, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and some areas close to the border with Kenya. Check current official advice before planning travel outside established tourism routes.

Do not approach international borders without checking current security guidance.
Use registered operators for remote parks, islands and cross-country travel.
Avoid demonstrations, political gatherings and public unrest.
Do not photograph military sites, police, checkpoints or security personnel.

Official travel advice

4. Emergency & Important Numbers

Emergency numbers

Police emergency: 112
Police: 111
Ambulance: 115
Fire and rescue: 114
Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority: +255 22 286 9900
Tanzania Tourism Board: +255 22 266 4878
Julius Nyerere International Airport information: +255 22 284 2402

Call 112 for police emergencies, 115 for ambulance and 114 for fire and rescue. Emergency response and English-language support can vary, especially outside Dar es Salaam and major tourist centres.

Official police information: Tanzania Police Force.

Emergency planning checklist

Save 112, 115, 114, your insurer’s emergency number and embassy contacts.
Keep your hotel, lodge or camp location accessible offline.
Share safari, mountain and island travel plans with trusted contacts.
Carry water, cash, power bank, rain gear, insect repellent and essential medication.
Follow ranger, guide and lodge instructions in every national park.
Contact your insurer immediately after an accident, serious illness or evacuation need.

5. Embassies & Consulates

Consular assistance

Dar es Salaam hosts embassies and high commissions from many countries. Some countries also maintain consular services in Zanzibar or Arusha. Contact your responsible mission if you lose your passport, are arrested, become seriously ill, experience a major accident or need emergency travel documents.

Useful embassy and consular links

United States Embassy contact

U.S. Embassy Dar es Salaam: +255 22 229 4000.
Address: 686 Old Bagamoyo Road, Msasani, Dar es Salaam.

Verify current office hours, emergency contact details and appointment procedures directly through the relevant embassy website before travel.

6. Background on Tanzania & Society

Country overview

Tanzania is an East African country bordered by Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique and the Indian Ocean. It includes mainland Tanzania and the Zanzibar archipelago.

Tanzania’s geography ranges from the Serengeti plains and the Ngorongoro highlands to Mount Kilimanjaro, Lake Tanganyika, Lake Victoria, tropical coastlines and the islands of Zanzibar, Pemba and Mafia. Tourism, agriculture, mining, trade and conservation are important parts of the economy.

Language, religion and culture

Official languages: Swahili and English.
Local languages: More than 100 local languages are spoken across Tanzania.
Religion: Christianity, Islam and traditional beliefs are all present.
Zanzibar: Predominantly Muslim with more conservative social norms than some mainland tourism areas.
Culture: Tanzania includes Swahili coastal culture, Maasai and other pastoral traditions, Great Lakes communities and diverse local customs.

Etiquette and respectful behaviour

Dress modestly in rural areas, religious sites and especially on Zanzibar.
Use the right hand when giving or receiving food, money or gifts.
Ask permission before photographing people, homes, markets or religious places.
Respect local customs during Ramadan and in Muslim-majority communities.
Follow safari guide and national-park rules at all times.
Avoid casual discussion of sensitive political, religious or ethnic issues.

7. Climate, Weather & Clothing

Climate

Tanzania has varied tropical and subtropical climates influenced by altitude, coast and seasonal rains. Safari areas, mountains, cities and Zanzibar can have very different weather patterns.

Typical seasons

Long dry season: Usually June to October, popular for safaris and trekking.
Short rains: Often November to December.
Long rains: Usually March to May, with muddy roads and lush landscapes.
Short dry season: Often January to February, useful for some safari and beach trips.
Zanzibar: Tropical and humid, with weather patterns influenced by the Indian Ocean.

Best time to visit

June to October: Often best for wildlife viewing, drier roads and Kilimanjaro trekking.
January to March: Good for calving season in parts of the Serengeti and beach travel.
June to October: Strong season for Zanzibar beaches and diving, depending on coast and wind conditions.
March to May: Lower visitor numbers but rain can affect safaris, roads and mountain hikes.

Clothing recommendations

Wear lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime.
Bring long sleeves and trousers for mosquitoes and bush walks.
Pack waterproof layers for rainy seasons and mountain travel.
Wear sturdy boots for Kilimanjaro, crater hikes and safari walks.
Bring warm layers for early-morning game drives and highland nights.
Use modest clothing in Zanzibar towns, villages and religious locations.

Weather hazards

Heavy rain can make safari tracks and rural roads difficult or impassable.
Flooding can disrupt travel during long-rain periods.
Heat and dehydration are common risks in safari and coastal areas.
Mount Kilimanjaro has extreme altitude and weather risks.
Sea conditions can affect ferries, diving and island travel.

8. Language & Communication

Languages

Official languages: Swahili and English.
English: Widely used in tourism, lodges, hotels, government and business.
Swahili: Main everyday language across Tanzania and very useful for visitors.

Useful Swahili phrases

Hello: Jambo / Habari
Thank you: Asante
Please: Tafadhali
Yes: Ndiyo
No: Hapana
Excuse me: Samahani
How much is this? Bei gani?
Where is the station? Stesheni iko wapi?
Do you speak English? Unasema Kiingereza?
Help: Nisaidie
Welcome: Karibu

Internet, SIM cards and mobile data

Mobile coverage is generally good in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Zanzibar Town and major tourism routes, but can be weak or absent in remote national parks, mountains and rural areas. Local SIM cards are useful for maps, communication and transport arrangements.

Major providers include Vodacom Tanzania, Airtel Tanzania, Tigo and Halotel.
Buy a local SIM from an official outlet and carry your passport for registration.
Download offline maps before entering national parks or remote regions.
Carry a power bank for safaris, trekking and long road trips.
Do not rely on mobile coverage for emergencies in remote areas.

9. Voltage & Plug Types

Electricity in Tanzania

Voltage: 230 V.
Frequency: 50 Hz.
Plug types: Type D and Type G are common, with Type C sometimes found.

Adapter and converter advice

A universal travel adapter is recommended because outlet types vary. Travellers from the United Kingdom may be able to use Type G sockets directly. Travellers from Germany, Austria, Switzerland, the United States, Canada and Australia should bring an appropriate adapter.

Most phones, cameras and laptops support 100–240 V. Check device labels before travel. Power cuts can occur, especially outside major towns, so bring a power bank, spare cables and backup lighting.

10. Money & Finances

Currency

Tanzania’s official currency is the Tanzanian shilling (TZS). Cash is essential, especially outside larger towns, in national parks, local markets, rural villages and smaller lodges.

Check current exchange rates: XE Currency Converter for TZS.

Payments and cash

Cards are accepted in many larger hotels, lodges, restaurants and tourist businesses.
Visa is generally more widely accepted than Mastercard in some locations; American Express acceptance is limited.
Cash is essential for tips, markets, local transport and rural travel.
US dollars may be accepted for some tourism services, but notes should be clean and recent.
ATMs are available in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Zanzibar Town and larger towns but may be limited in remote regions.
Use ATMs attached to banks, hotels or secure shopping areas.

Price level

Tanzania is generally affordable for local food, transport and basic accommodation, but gorilla-free wildlife safaris, Kilimanjaro climbs, private guides, domestic flights, diving and premium lodges can be expensive.

Tipping culture

Tipping is common and appreciated in tourism.
In restaurants, around 5–10% may be appropriate if service is not included.
Tip safari guides, drivers, lodge staff, porters and mountain crews for good service.
Ask your operator for clear tipping guidelines for Kilimanjaro climbs and multi-day safaris.
Carry small cash notes for tips and local purchases.

11. Transport & Arrival

Main airports

Julius Nyerere International Airport, Dar es Salaam (DAR): Main international gateway for the largest city and coast.
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO): Main gateway for Arusha, Kilimanjaro and northern safari circuit.
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, Zanzibar (ZNZ): Main gateway for Zanzibar.
Mwanza Airport (MWZ): Gateway for Lake Victoria and western Serengeti routes.
Dodoma Airport (DOD): Serves the capital region.

Official aviation information: Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority.

Transport within Tanzania

Tanzania is mainly explored by road and domestic flights. Safari vehicles, private drivers, local buses, shared minibuses and ferries are common. Long road distances, weather and park conditions mean travel times can be much longer than expected.

Private safari vehicles: Best for Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire and other parks.
Domestic flights: Useful for safari circuits, Zanzibar and remote parks.
Intercity buses: Connect major towns but can be slow and crowded.
Daladalas: Shared minibuses for local transport.
Taxis and ride-hailing: Useful in Dar es Salaam, Arusha and Zanzibar Town.
Ferries: Important for Zanzibar and other coastal or island connections.

Zanzibar ferry travel

Ferries connect Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar. Use established operators, check weather conditions, carry identification, arrive early and keep valuables secure. Sea conditions can cause delays or cancellations.

Ride-hailing and maps

App-based transport is generally more transparent than negotiating with street taxis in larger cities. Confirm the driver, vehicle and pickup point before travelling.

Kilimanjaro logistics

Mount Kilimanjaro climbs must be arranged through registered operators and licensed guides. Climbing routes, permits, porters, rescue procedures, altitude acclimatisation and insurance requirements should be arranged before arrival.

Choose a reputable, ethical operator with strong safety practices.
Allow sufficient acclimatisation days; do not choose a route solely because it is shortest.
Confirm rescue, oxygen, medical screening and evacuation protocols.
Ensure your insurance covers the maximum altitude and emergency evacuation.

12. Accommodation & Practical Information

Accommodation types

Luxury safari lodges: Available in Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Nyerere and other parks.
Mid-range lodges: Common along northern and southern safari circuits.
Hotels: Available in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Moshi, Mwanza and Zanzibar Town.
Beach resorts: Common across Zanzibar, Pemba, Mafia and the mainland coast.
Guesthouses and hostels: Available in cities, backpacker routes and selected beach destinations.
Mountain lodges: Available around Kilimanjaro and highland regions.

Recommended areas to stay

Dar es Salaam – Masaki and Oyster Bay: Hotels, restaurants, embassies and coastal access.
Arusha: Main base for northern safari circuit and Kilimanjaro logistics.
Moshi: Kilimanjaro climbing base with hotels, cafés and tour operators.
Stone Town, Zanzibar: History, markets, restaurants and cultural sites.
Nungwi and Kendwa, Zanzibar: Beach resorts, swimming and nightlife.
Paje and Jambiani, Zanzibar: Kitesurfing, beach stays and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Karatu: Practical base for Ngorongoro and Lake Manyara safaris.

Opening hours and shopping

Restaurants, cafés and shops in Dar es Salaam, Arusha and Zanzibar Town often stay open into the evening.
Markets are usually busiest in the morning and late afternoon.
Government offices and banks close on public holidays.
Zanzibar follows more conservative Muslim customs, especially during Ramadan.
Stock up on cash, water, insect repellent, medications and snacks before entering remote safari areas.

Shopping and markets

Kariakoo Market, Dar es Salaam: Major market for food, clothing and everyday goods.
Slipway, Dar es Salaam: Crafts, restaurants and waterfront shopping.
Maasai Market, Arusha: Beadwork, carvings, textiles and safari souvenirs.
Stone Town markets: Spices, textiles, crafts and local food.
Darajani Market, Zanzibar: Produce, spices, seafood and everyday market life.
Curio shops: Tanzanite, carvings and crafts; buy gemstones only from reputable sellers with documentation.

13. Food, Drink & Cuisine

Tanzanian food culture

Tanzanian cuisine reflects Swahili, Indian, Arab, African Great Lakes and regional agricultural traditions. Rice, maize, cassava, plantains, beans, fish, spices, coconut and grilled meat are important ingredients.

Typical Tanzanian dishes

Ugali: Maize-meal staple served with vegetables, meat, fish or beans.
Nyama choma: Grilled meat, especially goat or beef.
Pilau: Spiced rice dish with meat, vegetables or fish.
Chipsi mayai: French fries cooked with egg, a popular street-food dish.
Ndizi nyama: Plantain and meat stew.
Mishkaki: Grilled meat skewers.
Wali wa nazi: Coconut rice, common on the Swahili coast and Zanzibar.
Zanzibar seafood curries: Fish, octopus and prawns cooked with coconut and spices.

Drinks and sweets

Tanzanian coffee from Kilimanjaro, Arusha and southern growing regions.
Spiced tea, especially on the coast and Zanzibar.
Fresh sugarcane juice, coconut water and tropical fruit juices.
Local beer and spirits in licensed venues.
Zanzibar spice tea and sweet pastries.

Food hygiene and dietary needs

Food hygiene varies by location. Established lodges, hotels and busy restaurants generally offer safer options. Vegetarian, vegan and halal food can be found, especially in Zanzibar and major cities, but travellers should clarify ingredients and food preparation.

Drink sealed bottled, boiled or filtered water only.
Choose freshly cooked meals served hot.
Ask about fish, peanuts, dairy, meat stock and spice levels if you have allergies.
Carry snacks if you have strict dietary needs on safari or remote journeys.
Use caution with raw salads, ice and seafood in uncertain settings.

14. Time Zone & Public Holidays

Time zone

Time zone: East Africa Time, UTC+3.
Daylight saving time: Tanzania does not observe daylight saving time.
Difference from Central Europe: Usually two hours ahead of Germany, Austria and Switzerland in winter, and one hour ahead during Central European Summer Time.
Difference from the United Kingdom: Usually three hours ahead in winter and two hours ahead during British Summer Time.

Important public holidays

New Year’s Day: 1 January.
Zanzibar Revolution Day: 12 January.
Union Day: 26 April.
Workers’ Day: 1 May.
Saba Saba Day: 7 July.
Nyerere Day: 14 October.
Independence and Republic Day: 9 December.
Christmas Day: 25 December.
Boxing Day: 26 December.
Good Friday and Easter Monday: Dates change annually.
Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha: Dates change annually according to the Islamic calendar.

Banks, public offices and some businesses close on public holidays. Zanzibar follows local Islamic observances closely, and Ramadan can affect opening hours, dining and nightlife.

15. Attractions & Highlights

Northern safari circuit

Serengeti National Park: Great Migration, big cats, savannah wildlife and vast plains.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area: Volcanic crater with high wildlife density and Maasai cultural landscapes.
Tarangire National Park: Elephants, baobabs and dry-season wildlife viewing.
Lake Manyara National Park: Flamingos, forest, lake scenery and tree-climbing lions.
Arusha National Park: Mount Meru views, giraffes, lakes and accessible day safaris.
Mount Kilimanjaro National Park: Africa’s highest mountain and major trekking destination.

Southern and western Tanzania

Nyerere National Park: Large wilderness area with boat safaris, wildlife and Rufiji River.
Ruaha National Park: Remote safari destination with elephants, predators and baobab landscapes.
Mikumi National Park: Accessible safari park near Dar es Salaam.
Mahale Mountains National Park: Chimpanzee trekking on Lake Tanganyika.
Katavi National Park: Remote wilderness, hippos, buffalo and seasonal floodplains.
Gombe Stream National Park: Chimpanzee research and trekking associated with Jane Goodall.

Zanzibar, coast and islands

Stone Town: UNESCO-listed historic town with Swahili, Arab, Indian and European heritage.
Spice farms: Cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla and tropical agriculture.
Nungwi and Kendwa: Northern Zanzibar beaches, swimming and sunset views.
Paje and Jambiani: East-coast beaches, kitesurfing and reef scenery.
Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park: Red colobus monkeys and mangrove forest.
Mafia Island Marine Park: Diving, whale sharks and marine conservation.
Pemba Island: Quiet beaches, diving and spice-island landscapes.

Official wildlife and tourism information: Tanzania National Parks and Tanzania Tourism.

16. Nightlife & Events

Nightlife

Dar es Salaam has Tanzania’s most active nightlife, with restaurants, beach clubs, live music, bars and hotel venues. Zanzibar has a more relaxed evening scene focused on restaurants, beach bars, music and resorts; cultural sensitivity is particularly important outside tourist areas.

Dar es Salaam – Masaki and Oyster Bay: Restaurants, bars, beach clubs and international nightlife.
Dar es Salaam – Slipway: Waterfront dining, crafts and evening atmosphere.
Stone Town: Rooftop restaurants, cafés, music and heritage atmosphere.
Nungwi and Kendwa: Beach bars, resort entertainment and social nightlife.
Arusha: Safari-traveller cafés, restaurants and hotel lounges.

Festivals and cultural events

Sauti za Busara: Major African music festival in Zanzibar.
Zanzibar International Film Festival: Film, music and arts event in Stone Town.
Bagamoyo Festival of Arts and Culture: Music, theatre, dance and cultural programming.
Karibu Kilifair: Tourism and travel fair in northern Tanzania.
Independence Day: National celebrations on 9 December.
Ramadan and Eid celebrations: Food, cultural activities and observances, especially in Zanzibar.

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