Climate
The climate is tropical on the coast, the Islands and in the Selous. It is temperate in the other parks. October to March is the hottest period and from June to September the coolest. There is light rainfall in November and the rainy season is from March to May. Ocean temperature is between 24°C and 28°C.
Visas
Visas are required for all, except citizens of the commonwealth, Scandinavian countries and the Republic of Ireland. Before departure, you can obtain a visa from the Tanzanian Embassy. You can also get your visa at our major entry points such as Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar International Airports, Namanga, Tunduma, Holili, Taveta, Sirari and Horohoro.
Health
Yellow fever vaccination is recommended on the mainland and is compulsory in Zanzibar. Visitors are advised to take anti-malaria tablets for beach holidays. Contact your doctor before departure. Personal insurance is advised. "Flying doctor" facilities are also available.
Clothing
For safaris in the north during the day light clothing and canvas hats are recommended. At night casual wear with a light cardigan or a pull over (for altitudes between 1500m in Arusha and 2400m in Ngorongoro) will be sufficient. Sturdy shoes are recommended. On the coast summer wear is recommended. For Kilimanjaro or other treks, check with a mountain specialist before departure.
Cuisine
There is a wide variety of food. You'll find international cuisine in the hotels, restaurants and lodges. On the coast you’ll find plenty of seafood with local dishes such as biryanis and meat or fish curries. Specialties include spiced tea or coffee and "halua", a sweet desert with almonds. Drink safe bottled mineral water.
Behavior
The protection of nature is everyone's concern. On safari, do not collect or buy bones, skins, horns teeth, feathers or shells. And on the coast do not bring back coral, shells or starfish which play an important role in the fragile ecosystem. Do no litter where others are expected to visit. The protection of cultures is also everyone's concern. The guides know the local habits and customs. It is always advisable to ask someone's permission before taking his/her photograph.
Shopping
Locally made products are available at good prices. On the mainland, you can find batiks, Tinga Tinga paintings, objects in ebony (cutlery, bracelets, sculptures, and furniture), basket ware (baskets, hats, and rugs), beaded Maasai necklaces, precious jewels (gold, diamonds, tanzanite and other stones). In Zanzibar, you can find textiles (wrap-around - kikoi for men and khanga for women), carved chests, perfumes, natural lotions and spices. The tourist areas and hotels sell a wide range of souvenirs and jewellery.
Security
Tanzania generally is a safe country, but do not invite temptations. Keep your eye on your belongings. Don't walk at night in the town or cities, take a taxi, don't walk with cameras or large amount of cash and beware of pickpockets. Use hotel safety deposits boxes to safeguard valuables and obtain a receipt. Leave your jewelry at home.
On Safari
Distances in Tanzania are vast and travel by road can be wearing. Plan to spend more time in Parks. You will see more and won't return home exhausted. Bring with you binoculars and keep your distance from animals and be quiet to avoid distressing the wildlife and follow instructions of rangers or driver/ guides. Don't leave your vehicle in the park, except in designated places. Keep to recognized tracks to avoid damaging vegetation.
Travel With Children
Tanzanians love children and are especially helpful to mothers. However canned baby foods, powdered milk and disposable nappies may not be available outside major towns.
Photography
Films and batteries are available to buy here or you can bring your own. Protect it from dust and keep your equipment and film cool. It is courteous to ask permission before photographing local people. If you intend to take a lot of wild life pictures keep your equipment ready you might get a surprise and quick action.
Insurance
Take your travel insurance to cover loss of baggage or valuables, personal, accident and medical expenses.
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