Practical Information
Essential travel advice for a safe and memorable journey to Tanzania
When to Visit Tanzania?
Tanzania offers incredible wildlife viewing year-round, but timing your visit can enhance your experience based on what you want to see.
Best Time for Wildlife Viewing
- Dry Season (June - October): Peak safari season with excellent wildlife viewing. Animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot. Clear skies and minimal rainfall.
- Short Rains (November - December): Lush green landscapes, fewer tourists, and good wildlife viewing. Brief afternoon showers.
- Long Rains (March - May): Heavy rainfall, some lodges close. Lower prices but challenging road conditions.
Great Migration Timing
- December - March: Calving season in Southern Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area
- April - May: Migration moves through Western Serengeti
- June - July: Migration in Central and Northern Serengeti
- August - October: River crossings in Northern Serengeti and Masai Mara (Kenya)
- November: Migration returns south through Serengeti
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Best months: January - March and June - October for clear skies and stable weather conditions.
Zanzibar Beach
Year-round destination. Best weather: June - October and December - February with warm temperatures and minimal rainfall.
Tanzania Weather
Tanzania's climate varies by region and altitude, offering diverse weather patterns throughout the year.
Northern Circuit (Safari Areas)
- Temperature: 20-30°C (68-86°F) during day, 10-15°C (50-59°F) at night
- Dry Season (June-Oct): Sunny days, cool mornings, minimal rainfall
- Wet Season (Nov-May): Afternoon showers, higher humidity, lush vegetation
Mount Kilimanjaro
- Base (1,800m): 20-30°C (68-86°F)
- Summit (5,895m): -10 to -20°C (14 to -4°F) with wind chill
- Best Conditions: January-March and June-October
Zanzibar & Coast
- Temperature: 25-32°C (77-90°F) year-round
- Dry Season: June-October (minimal rain, perfect beach weather)
- Wet Season: March-May (long rains), November-December (short rains)
- Humidity: High year-round, especially during rainy seasons
Tip: Pack layers for safari areas (mornings are cool), and bring lightweight, breathable clothing for Zanzibar. Always carry a rain jacket during wet seasons.
Visa Tanzania
Most visitors to Tanzania require a visa. Here's everything you need to know about obtaining one.
Visa Requirements
- Required for: Most nationalities including US, UK, EU, Canadian, Australian citizens
- Not required for: Citizens of some African countries (check with Tanzanian embassy)
- Validity: Single entry (90 days) or multiple entry options available
How to Apply
Option 1: Online E-Visa (Recommended)
- Visit the official Tanzania e-Visa portal: eservices.immigration.go.tz
- Create an account and complete the online application
- Upload required documents (passport copy, photo, travel itinerary)
- Pay visa fee online (typically $50-100 USD depending on nationality)
- Receive approval via email (usually 3-5 business days)
- Print e-Visa and present at entry point
Option 2: Visa on Arrival
- Available at major airports (Kilimanjaro, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar)
- May involve longer wait times
- Cash payment required (USD preferred)
- Ensure you have passport photos ready
Required Documents
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Passport-sized photos (2 copies)
- Travel itinerary or booking confirmation
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if required)
- Return flight ticket
Important: Processing times vary. Apply at least 2-3 weeks before travel. Check current requirements with Tanzanian embassy or consulate in your country.
Tanzania Yellow Fever Requirements
Yellow fever vaccination requirements depend on your travel history and country of origin.
Who Needs a Yellow Fever Certificate?
Required if:
- Traveling from a yellow fever endemic country
- Transiting through a yellow fever endemic country for more than 12 hours
- Traveling from countries in Africa, South America, or Central America
Not Required if:
- Traveling directly from non-endemic countries (e.g., US, UK, EU, Australia, New Zealand)
- Only transiting through an airport in an endemic country without leaving the airport
Vaccination Details
- Validity: Certificate valid for life (as of 2016, WHO updated guidelines)
- Timing: Must be administered at least 10 days before travel
- Certificate: International Certificate of Vaccination (Yellow Card) required
- Where to Get: Travel clinics, health departments, or specialized vaccination centers
Important Notes
- Airline staff may check certificates before boarding
- Immigration officials at entry points will verify certificates
- Without valid certificate, you may be denied entry or required to get vaccinated at the airport (not recommended)
- Keep your certificate with your passport at all times
Recommendation: Even if not strictly required, we recommend getting vaccinated for your safety, especially if traveling to rural areas or other African countries.
Tanzania Travel Advice
Essential travel tips and safety advice for your Tanzania adventure.
Health & Safety
- Malaria: Tanzania is a malaria zone. Take antimalarial medication and use mosquito repellent
- Water: Drink only bottled or purified water. Avoid tap water and ice in drinks
- Food: Eat at reputable restaurants. Avoid street food and raw vegetables unless properly washed
- Sun Protection: High UV index. Use sunscreen (SPF 30+), hats, and sunglasses
- First Aid: Bring a basic first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic, and common medications
Money & Currency
- Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). USD widely accepted for tours and accommodations
- ATMs: Available in major cities and towns. Inform your bank before travel
- Credit Cards: Accepted at hotels and larger establishments. Cash preferred for tips and local purchases
- Tipping: Customary for guides, drivers, and porters. Budget $10-20 per day for tips
What to Pack
Safari Essentials
- Neutral-colored clothing (khaki, beige, olive)
- Long-sleeved shirts and pants
- Warm layers (fleece, jacket)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Binoculars
- Camera with extra batteries
General Items
- Passport and copies
- Travel insurance documents
- Vaccination certificates
- Prescription medications
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen and hat
Cultural Etiquette
- Respect local customs and traditions
- Ask permission before photographing people
- Dress modestly, especially in towns and villages
- Learn basic Swahili greetings (Jambo, Asante, Karibu)
- Bargain politely at markets
Communication
- Language: Swahili (official), English widely spoken in tourist areas
- Mobile: Local SIM cards available. Check with your provider for international plans
- Internet: WiFi available at hotels and lodges. Limited in remote areas
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is essential for your Tanzania adventure, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and adventure activities.
Why Travel Insurance is Important
- Medical emergencies in remote locations can be expensive
- Evacuation services (especially for Kilimanjaro climbers)
- Protection against trip cancellations or interruptions
- Coverage for lost or stolen luggage and equipment
- Adventure activity coverage (safari, climbing, diving)
What to Look For
Essential Coverage:
- Medical Coverage: Minimum $100,000 USD for emergency medical expenses
- Emergency Evacuation: Coverage for air ambulance and medical evacuation
- Adventure Activities: Coverage for safari, Kilimanjaro climbing, diving, etc.
- Trip Cancellation: Protection if you need to cancel before departure
- Baggage: Coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage
- 24/7 Emergency Assistance: Access to help line while traveling
Special Considerations
- Kilimanjaro Climbers: Ensure policy covers high-altitude trekking (up to 6,000m)
- Pre-existing Conditions: Declare any medical conditions when purchasing
- Age Limits: Check age restrictions, especially for seniors
- Geographic Coverage: Verify Tanzania and any transit countries are covered
Important: Read policy terms carefully. Some policies exclude certain activities or have altitude restrictions. Purchase insurance as soon as you book your trip to maximize coverage.
Flying Doctors Services
Sabrahm Safaris partners with AMREF Flying Doctors to provide emergency medical evacuation services for our clients.
What is AMREF Flying Doctors?
AMREF Flying Doctors is East Africa's leading air ambulance service, providing emergency medical evacuation from remote locations to appropriate medical facilities.
Services Included
- 24/7 emergency medical evacuation by air
- Transfer from remote locations to hospitals in Arusha, Dar es Salaam, or Nairobi
- Medical team on board for critical cases
- Coordination with local medical facilities
- Repatriation services if needed
Coverage Details
Coverage Area: Tanzania, Kenya, and surrounding regions
Duration: Valid for the duration of your safari/tour
Activation: Available 24/7 through our emergency contact numbers
How It Works
- In case of medical emergency, contact your guide or our 24/7 emergency line
- Our team coordinates with AMREF Flying Doctors
- Medical assessment determines if evacuation is needed
- Air ambulance dispatched to nearest airstrip or location
- Patient transferred to appropriate medical facility
Peace of Mind: This service is included in all our safari packages, providing you with security and peace of mind during your adventure.
Responsible Travel
At Sabrahm Safaris, we are committed to sustainable and responsible tourism that benefits local communities and preserves Tanzania's natural heritage.
Our Commitment
- Supporting local communities through employment and fair wages
- Partnering with eco-friendly lodges and camps
- Minimizing environmental impact through responsible practices
- Supporting wildlife conservation efforts
- Promoting cultural respect and understanding
How You Can Help
Wildlife Protection
- Maintain safe distance from animals
- Never feed wildlife
- Follow guide instructions
- Don't disturb natural behaviors
Environmental Care
- Use reusable water bottles
- Dispose of waste properly
- Conserve water and energy
- Stay on designated paths
Support Local
- Buy from local artisans
- Eat at local restaurants
- Respect local customs
- Tip guides and staff fairly
Cultural Respect
- Ask before photographing people
- Dress appropriately
- Learn basic Swahili
- Respect sacred sites
Conservation Partnerships
We support various conservation organizations and community projects that protect Tanzania's wildlife and support local communities.
Our Guarantees
Sabrahm Safaris stands behind our services with comprehensive guarantees for your peace of mind.
Quality Guarantee
We guarantee professional, experienced guides, well-maintained vehicles, and quality accommodations as described in your itinerary.
Safety Guarantee
Your safety is our priority. All our vehicles are regularly maintained, guides are trained in first aid, and we provide 24/7 emergency support.
Transparency Guarantee
No hidden fees. All costs are clearly outlined in your quote. What you see is what you pay, with full transparency.
Satisfaction Guarantee
We're committed to your satisfaction. If something isn't right, we'll work to make it right. Your feedback helps us improve.
What This Means for You
- Confidence in booking with a reputable operator
- Peace of mind knowing we stand behind our services
- Transparent pricing with no surprises
- Dedicated support throughout your journey
Easy Payments
We offer flexible and secure payment options to make booking your Tanzania adventure as easy as possible.
Payment Methods
Bank Transfer
Direct bank transfer to our account. Details provided upon booking confirmation.
Credit/Debit Cards
Secure online payment via credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express).
PayPal
Convenient PayPal payments for international clients.
Wire Transfer
International wire transfers accepted. Bank details provided upon request.
Payment Schedule
- Deposit: 30% required to confirm your booking
- Balance: Due 30 days before departure
- Last-minute bookings: Full payment may be required immediately
Currency
We accept payments in USD, EUR, and GBP. Prices are quoted in USD unless otherwise specified.
Security
- All online payments are processed through secure, encrypted systems
- We never store your full credit card details
- Payment information is handled according to international security standards
Flexible Options: For large groups or custom itineraries, we can arrange flexible payment plans. Contact us to discuss options.
Ready to Plan Your Tanzania Adventure?
Have questions or need personalized advice? Our team is here to help.