tanzania travel

Tanzania Travel Guide

Your ultimate tanzania travel guide, with tips, things to do, and best things to see in tanzania. great for first-time and returning travelers..

Tanzania is a traveler’s dream.

Known for its wilderness areas, this East African country is where you can find the Serengeti National Park, a safari mecca where the “big five” (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo and rhino) can be found and Kilimanjaro National Park, the home of Africa’s highest mountain.

If wilderness isn’t your thing, then go offshore and spend some time on the tropical islands of Zanzibar and Mafia Marine Park exploring various coral reefs and taking a dip with some whale sharks. 

This Tanzania travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

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• Kilimanjaro
• Things to do

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Table of Contents

Fast Facts about Tanzania

• Tanzanian power voltage is 220V 50Hz;  Plug C, E, F & L
• The Tanzania currency is the Tanzanian shilling is and is around 2100 TZS to 1 USD
• Levels of crime seem to increase in Tanzania. Avoid showing signs of wealth and keep valuables out of sight.
• When walking, walk towards the flow of traffic and keep your bags on the side away from the road to prevent them from being snatched by someone in a passing car.
• Several vaccinations are highly recommended including Yellow Fever, Typhoid, Hepatitis A, and hepatitis B.
• Tanzanian visas are available upon arrival, payable in US cash only.
• Beware of Chikungunya , a viral disease transmitted by the bite of infected mosquitoes. This outbreak continues to affect parts Africa. Symptoms can take up to 12 days to appear, but usually begin within 3-7 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Symptoms generally include fever and joint pain; other symptoms can include fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, and rash.
• The water is not potable ; drink only bottled water or bring a  SteriPen  to Purify your water

Things to See and Do in Tanzania

• Climb Mount Kilimanjaro  – I have to clarify a giant misconception about Mt. Kilimanjaro. It is not easy!
• Go on Safari – It’s the number one safari destination in the world, you cannot go to Tanzania without seeing the Serengeti. 
• Things to do in Tanzania  – Check out our tips for the very best things to do in Tanzania. 
• V isit the Beaches of Zanzibar

Tanzania Travel Guides

• Complete Guide to Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Discover The Best Beaches in Zanzibar

• 16 Amazing Things to do in Tanzania

Accommodation

Budget:  You can find a variety of hostels and budget hotels in the range of 12,000-70,000 TZS per night. (5 – 30 USD) Stay in dorms or private rooms and enjoy free Wi-Fi, hot showers, complimentary breakfast, and good locations to city centers or tourist destinations. 

Mid-Range:  For mid-range, expect to pay around 110,000-300,000 TZS per night. These hotels come with private rooms with TVs and free Wi-Fi, room service, complimentary breakfast, an outdoor pool, a gym, and a hotel restaurant and bar. 

High-End:  For five-star hotels, you will pay around 370,000-977,000 TZS per night. Take in the best with top-of-the-line hospitality, 24/7 room service, fine dining, refined rooms and suites with balconies and living rooms, a gym, massage services, butler service, and a pool.

Safaris can start at $200 USD per day per person and go up from there. Safaris are all inclusive.

To Climb Mount Kilimanjaro, guided treks can start at $1200 and go up from there if you negotiate directly in Moshi or Arusha like we did. But expect to pay more.

Beef, fish, rice, maize, and plantains are common foods in Tanzanian cuisine, though it can vary by region. Ugali (maize porridge) is a popular meal and is usually served with a meat, fish, or bean sauce. Mandazi (East African donuts) or Mahindi ya Kuchoma (grilled corn) are some treats you may find when out and about.

You can also look for a sit-down restaurant to sample more of the cuisine. For more inexpensive restaurants, you can find a meal for 6,450 TZS, though more expensive places will cost around 50,000 TZS.

The Best Ways to Get Around Tanzania

Getting to tanzania:.

Flights:  Tanzania has 29 airports, but the main airport to fly into is Julius Nyerere International Airport, located 7.5 miles from the center of Dar es Salaam. If you’re climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, then Kilimanjaro International Airport is a popular airport that takes direct flights from the US. You can check for the best flights to Tanzania on  Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Buses : Buses are a cheap way to get around, with a typical fare being about 400 TZS. Buses come in the form of minibuses or sedans. If you don’t like crowds, avoid peak hours, as buses can get jam packed with passengers. It is also best to avoid traveling at night.

Taxis:  Taxis are another way to get around. However, use  only  licensed taxis. They are not metered, so make sure to agree on a price before getting in. A shorter taxi ride will start at 2,000 TZS (5,000 TZS in Dar es Salaam). It helps to ask around about what is a fair price so you know if you are being overcharged or not.

Car Rental:  To rent a car, you need to be at least 21 years old and have a U.S. driver’s license. Prices average at 165,525 TZS per day for drivers 25 and older. Avoid driving at night and always look out for livestock on the roads. 

Uber:  Uber is available in Dar es Salaam.

When to go To Tanzania

For safaris and wildlife viewing, the best time to go to Tanzania is between July-September. It can easily be stretch from June to October. During these months, it’s the dry season, and temperatures hit highs of mid-80s. It’s also when the migration of wildlife occurs, starting from the north and moving across Tanzania.

June and July are the best months to see the wildebeest migration in Tanzania

The wet season hits its peak in April and May, so avoid going during these months. If you want to save some money on hotels, consider going in November or January-February.

Where to Stay in Tanzania

HYATT Regency, Dar es Salaam :  The Kilimanjaro is a landmark 5-star hotel in Dar es Salaam often regarded as one of the best hotels in Tanzania. Both business and leisure travellers can experience true European and African comfort at ease.

Arusha Crown Hotel:   When in Arusha, stay at this four-star hotel. Right next to the Arusha Clock Tower and the Arusha Declaration Museum, the hotel comes with air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TVs, free breakfast, a hot tub, and a hotel restaurant and bar.

New Mwanza Hotel:   When in Mwanza, stay at this hotel that has its own casino. Just a quick walk to the ferry terminal, amenities include 24-hour room service, massage services, a beauty salon, a shopping arcade, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, a 24-hour coffee shop, and an international restaurant.

The Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort  – Located in the beach area of Nungwi on Zanzibar, this Luxury property located on the beach with infinity pool and swimming pools, fitness center, and spa.

Check out our favorite booking platforms  Booking.com ,  Tripadvisor  and VRBO   for the best deals on accommodation.

What to Pack for Tanzania

Tanzania has a tropical climate. Temperatures in the highlands range between 50 and 68°F (10 and 20°C) during summer and winter months while the rest of the country has temperatures that rarely fall lower than 68°F (20°C).

The hottest period is between November and February while the coldest period occurs between May and August. 

Tanzania has two major rainfall regions.

One is December–April in the southern, south-west, central and western parts of the country, while the other occurs October–December and March-May in the north and northern coast.

• Waterproof bag  – the bag has two functions, protecting your stuff from the rain and also from the dust, especially if you’re traveling to drier regions.
• Footwear  – especially important if going you are heading on a safari! Pack a pair of lightweight, durable, waterproof and comfortable shoes and also a pair of flip-flops or sandals that you can change into after a long day of sightseeing.
• Protection from the elements –  pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and bug-spray to prevent getting bitten by a mosquito (that might have malaria!)
• Layers  – pack the basic tropical clothes and make sure to include long pants, long-sleeve tops and some warm clothes for those chilly nights.
• Avoid packing dark colored clothes  – tsetse flies are drawn to dark colors, like blue and black clothing, and their bite can give you African Sleeping Sickness. Stick to light, neutral colors but avoid packing white clothes as they will get dirty and dusty pretty quickly.
• Binoculars  – these are extremely handy for game drives. There is no off-roading permitted in the national parks so make sure you have an extra pair of binoculars or a camera with an epic zoom.

See our packing tips:  packing list for smart travel  &  How to Pack for a Safari

Tanzania Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Tanzania Travel Guide: Related Articles

To browse all our articles and guides about Tanzania click here.

African Animals – Incredible moments on Safari

Complete Guide to Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro – How Hard is It?

Explore Tanzania

Plan Your Trip to Tanzania: Best of Tanzania Tourism

Essential tanzania.

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Tanzania Is Great For

Hiking & camping

Eat & drink

High-octane

• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 History
• 4.2 Geography
• 4.3 Climate
• 4.5 Tourist information
• 5.1.1 E-Visa
• 5.1.2 Visa on arrival (VOA)
• 5.1.3 Land borders
• 5.2 By plane
• 5.3 By train
• 5.4.1 Bus lines
• 5.5 By boat
• 6.1 By bus and mini-bus
• 6.2 By taxi
• 6.3 By plane
• 7.1 Safari prices
• 7.2 Wildlife viewing
• 7.3 Islands
• 7.4 Mountains
• 10.2 Shopping
• 10.3 Air freight
• 16.2 Walking
• 16.3 Corruption
• 17.1 Illnesses and diseases
• 17.2 Insects and animals
• 17.3.1 Government hospitals
• 17.3.2 Mission hospitals
• 19.1 Telephone calls
• 19.2 Internet
• 19.3 Emergency

Tanzania is the largest country in East Africa . From the picture-perfect coasts of Zanzibar to the world-renowned wildlife of the Serengeti , from the snowy slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro to the coral houses of Mikindani , Tanzania is the heart and soul of East Africa. Tanzania has several national parks and game reserves, where you can see some of the finest African flora and fauna .

Regions [ edit ]

Cities [ edit ]

• -6.1835 35.746 1 Dodoma – the capital
• -3.366667 36.683333 2 Arusha
• -6.816111 39.280278 3 Dar es Salaam – largest city and cultural capital with a mix of African, colonial, and Indian Ocean influences
• -4.883333 29.633333 4 Kigoma – city on Lake Tanganyika and gateway to Gombe Stream National Park
• -8.9 33.45 5 Mbeya
• -6.824167 37.663333 6 Morogoro
• -3.334883 37.340381 7 Moshi
• -10.273611 40.182778 8 Mtwara
• -2.516667 32.9 9 Mwanza

Other destinations [ edit ]

• -3.25 36.833333 1 Arusha National Park – includes Mount Meru, a 4,562 m active stratovolcano
• -7.2 37.133333 2 Mikumi National Park
• -3.066667 37.359167 3 Mount Kilimanjaro – Africa's highest peak and the world's highest freestanding mountain, which you can climb with a guide
• -3.21 35.46 4 Ngorongoro Conservation Area – includes the Ngorongoro Crater and the Olduvai Gorge
• -7.531111 34.636944 5 Ruaha National Park
• -2.332778 34.566667 6 Serengeti National Park
• -6.164944 39.198789 7 Stone Town
• -4 36 8 Tarangire National Park
• -7.8 36.683333 9 Udzungwa Mountains National Park

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ].

Tanzania is probably one of the oldest known continuously inhabited areas on Earth; fossil remains of humans and pre-human hominids have been found dating back over two million years. More recently, Tanzania is believed to have been populated by hunter-gatherer communities, probably Cushitic and Khoisan speaking people. About 2,000 years ago, Bantu-speaking people began to arrive from western Africa in a series of migrations. Later, Nilotic pastoralists arrived, and continued to immigrate into the area through to the 18th century.

Travellers and merchants from the Persian Gulf and Western India have visited the East African coast since early in the first millennium CE. Islam was practised on the Swahili Coast as early as the eighth or ninth century CE. The Swahili Coast eventually grew to encompass several wealthy city-states, which included Zanzibar and Kilwa Kisiwani . Zanzibar in particular became the main centre of the Arab Slave Trade, the former slave market in its capital, Stone Town, has now been converted to a tourist attraction commemorating slavery, and with the Anglican cathedral having been built on the site of the former whipping post.

In the late 19th century, Imperial Germany conquered the regions that are now Tanzania (minus Zanzibar), Rwanda, and Burundi, and incorporated them into German East Africa . The post-World War I accords and the League of Nations charter designated the area a British Mandate, except for a small area in the northwest, which was ceded to Belgium and later became Rwanda and Burundi).

British rule came to an end in 1961 after a relatively peaceful (compared with neighbouring Kenya, for instance) transition to independence. In 1954, Julius Nyerere transformed an organization into the politically oriented Tanganyika African National Union (TANU). Nyerere became Minister of British-administered Tanganyika in 1960 and continued as Prime Minister when Tanganyika became independent in 1961. After the Zanzibar Revolution overthrew the Arab dynasty in neighboring Zanzibar , which had become independent in 1963, the island merged with mainland Tanganyika to form the nation of Tanzania on 26 April 1964.

In the 1970s, Tanzania repelled an Ugandan invasion waged by tyrant Idi Amin. The Tanzanian military fought back and ultimately overthrown Amin's government with Ugandan dissidents, but mass mobilization and war damages means Tanzanian economy took a turn for the worse. Tanzania also aligned with China, seeking Chinese aid. The Chinese were quick to comply, but with the condition that all projects be completed by imported Chinese labor. From the mid-1980s, the regime financed itself by borrowing from the International Monetary Fund and underwent some reforms. From the mid-1980s Tanzania's GDP per capita has grown and poverty has been reduced.

Geography [ edit ]

A large central plateau makes up most of the mainland, at between 900 m and 1800 m. The mountain ranges of the Eastern Arc and the Southern and Northern Highlands cut across the country to form part of the Great Rift Valley.

A land of geographical extremes, Tanzania houses the highest peak (Mount Kilimanjaro), the lowest point (the lake bed of Lake Tanganyika), and a portion of the largest lake (Lake Victoria, shared with Uganda and Kenya ) on the African continent.

Climate [ edit ]

Tanzania's weather varies from humid and hot in low lying areas, such as Dar es Salaam, to hot during the day and cool at night in Arusha. There are no discernible seasons, such as winter and summer -- only the dry and wet seasons. Tanzania has two rainy seasons: The short rains from late-October to late-December, a.k.a. the Mango Rains, and the long rains from March to May.

Many popular resorts and tourist attractions on Zanzibar and Mafia Island Marine Park close during the long rains season, and many trails in the national parks are impassable during this period. For that reason, in most cases tours are restricted to the main roads in the parks. Travellers should plan their trip accordingly.

During the dry season, temperatures can easily soar to above 35°C in Dar es Salaam. You should seek shelter from the sun during the midday heat and use copious amounts of sunblock, SPF 30+.

Best times to visit are:

• June to August: This is the tail-end of the long rainy season and the weather is at its best at this time of year -- bearable during the day and cool in the evening. However, this is not necessarily the best time of year for safaris, as water is plentiful in the parks and animals are not forced to congregate in a few locations to rehydrate, as they do in the middle of the dry season right after Christmas.
• January to February: This is the best time to visit the Serengeti. It is usually at this time that huge herds of Wildebeest, Zebra and Buffalo migrate to better grazing areas. At this period you could observe some of the 1.5 million Wildebeest that inhabit the Serengeti undertake their epic journey. This is most likely the hottest time of year in Tanzania, when even the locals complain about the heat. You've been warned!

People [ edit ]

Tanzanians form more than 120 ethnic groups. Besides the native Africans, there is also a significant Indian community who are descended from colonial-era immigrants.

Tourist information [ edit ]

• Tanzania Tourism website

Get in [ edit ]

Visa [ edit ].

No visa is required for stays of less than 3 months for citizens of Namibia , Romania , Rwanda , Hong Kong , Macau , Malaysia and all commonwealth member states ( except Australia , United Kingdom , Canada , Bangladesh , New Zealand , Nigeria , India .) A Tourist Visa on arrival costs US$50 or US$100 for a three-month single entry and a multiple entry visa (valid 3 to 12 months), respectively. Bring crisp USD cash for this. You will receive a stamp in your passport and a payment receipt. Holders of a U.S. passport can only obtain the multiple-entry visa. If on a tourist visa, visa duration can be extended for a month without any extra charge at the Tanzania immigration office in Dar es Salaam.

Tanzania has extra requirements for anyone who is not visiting for tourism purposes. Any sort of business visit requires a specific business visa which costs US$250 and can also be applied for through the electronic visa system.

E-Visa [ edit ]

The visa can be applied for online through the government electronic visa application system . Please note that online visa holders can enter Tanzania only at specific ports of entry as defined in the official guidelines . As of October 2021, these include

• Julius Nyerere International Airport (JNIA);
• Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA);
• Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (AAKIA);
• Namanga border (Kenya)
• Tunduma border (Zambia)

Most travelers planning to enter Tanzania by land (e.g. from Uganda or Zambia) will therefore have to apply for a visa on arrival.

Visa on arrival (VOA) [ edit ]

Visa on arrival can be obtained upon landing in Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, Mwanza, and other ports of entry such as land borders. At land borders, the visa fee is to be paid in cash. It is a good idea to have the exact amount of US$ at hand! At airports, the wait for visas on arrival can be especially long if your flight arrives at the same time as other international flights. Visas are valid for the duration from the date of issuance.

Land borders [ edit ]

When crossing by ground at the Namanga border crossing (e.g. travelling from Nairobi, Kenya to Arusha, Tanzania), you will need to cross the border on foot. Scammers in the no man's land between the border control offices of Kenya and Tanzania will try several scams, including offering outrageously poor currency exchange rates and pretending to be officials selling Tanzania visa stamps. Those attempting to sell the Tanzania visa stamps will act official and ask to see your passport, then they will place an item (a small Tanzanian bank note) in your passport, close the passport, and request the visa-on-arrival fee. Only do business with the immigration offices and adjacent banks, located in established government buildings. Do not stop or interact with people in the no-man's land in between.

By plane [ edit ]

There are two major airports; one in Dar es Salaam, Julius Nyerere International Airport ( DAR  IATA ) (formerly known as Mwalimu Julius K. Nyerere International Airport and Dar es Salaam International Airport), and one in Kilimanjaro, Kilimanjaro International Airport ( JRO  IATA ) , which is halfway between Arusha and Moshi .

Tanzania is served internationally from

• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines ( Amsterdam ), +255 22 213 9790 (Dar) & +255 27 223 8355 (Arusha). Daily flights with stopover in Kilimanjaro.
• Swiss International Air Lines ( Zurich ), +255 22 211 8870. 5 flights a week (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday) with a stopover in Nairobi .
• Turkish Airlines ( Istanbul ). Daily flights.

Middle East and Asia by

• Emirates ( Dubai ), +255 22 211 6100. Daily flights.
• Qatar Airways [dead link] ( Doha ), +255 22 284 2675, 1019, Julius Nyerere International Airport, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Daily flights.
• Etihad airways.
• Fast Jet, a low-cost airline.
• South African Airways ( Johannesburg ), +255 22 211 7044. Twice daily flights.
• Ethiopian Airlines ( Addis Ababa ), +255 22 211 7063. Daily flights (except for Monday) with a stopover in Kilimanjaro.
• Kenya Airways (Nairobi) , +255 22 211 9376 (Dar) & +255 24 223 8355 (Zanzibar). Three daily flights with some stopping in Kilimanjaro.
• Air Seychelles.
• Comores Aviation.
• Carriers originating from Malawi , Mozambique also maintain regular flights to Dar es Salaam.

And domestically by

• Air Tanzania , +255 22 211 8411, [email protected] .
• Precision Air , +255 22 212 1718, Along Nyerere/Pugu Road, P.O Box 70770, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, [email protected] or [email protected] also flights to/from Kenya.
• Coastal Aviation , +255 699 999 999, P. O. Box 3052, 107 Slipway, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, [email protected] .
• ZanAir , +255 24 223 3670, P.O.Box 2113, Zanzibar, Tanzania, [email protected] .
• Regional Air provides almost daily service to all major cities, including Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mwanza , Mbeya , Zanzibar, and most national parks.

Domestic flights are often late but generally reliable.

By train [ edit ]

The Tanzania - Zambia train service, known as TAZARA , operates trains twice a week between New Kapiri Mposhi , Zambia, and Dar es Salaam, leaving from Dar es Salaam on Tuesdays and Fridays.

A domestic Tanzania railways network links Tanzania's major cities, including Kigoma , Mwanza , Dodoma , Tabora , and Dar es Salaam. The domestic train service is usually reliable, and ticket prices are affordable. Ticket prices differ, however, according to 'class', typically first, second, and third. First and second classes offer cabins with two and six beds, respectively. Third class is open seating. Hot meals and beverages are usually available from the dining car. It is not uncommon for the train kitchen to purchase fresh produce at many of the stopping points along the way. You can also buy fruit and snacks directly from local vendors who frequent the many train stations on each of Tanzania's many train routes.

By bus [ edit ]

The bus is a great way to get into Tanzania. Fly to a place like Nairobi, then you can catch a bus down to Arusha -- a great base for Mount Meru and Ngorongoro Crater. Also, you should not forget the south central part of Tanzania, away from tourist hawkers. Roads in Tanzania aren't in good condition; there are no highways, and there are very few multiple lane segments along main roads. Buses slow down or stop in most villages because of traffic, police, and speed calming tools. For your reference, the trip from Dar es Salaam to Iringa takes at least 6 hours in a private vehicle. It's mostly a two-lane road, rebuilt by the Chinese, so it's in good condition for the most part.

Westbound and northbound buses leaving from Dar ply the same road (A7) until you get to Chalinze, which is about halfway, less than two hours, between Dar and Morogoro.

If you are going to Arusha, the bus will veer north on the A17. Other notable destinations along this route are Saandani National Park, Pangani, Tanga, Lushoto, Kilimanjaro, and Moshi. From Arusha, you can also take a bus to Mwanza and Kigoma, but once you've past the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the roads are in extremely poor condition, and you are in for a bumpy ride.

If you continue on past Chalinze you'll pass by Morogoro (also the turn off for Dodoma), the entry point into the Selous Game Reserve, Mikumi National Park, the old main gate to Udzungwa Mountains Parks, and Iringa, which is the turn off for Ruaha National Park.

Iringa is the place to explore the southern circuit, with a new campsite at the Msosa gate to the Uduzungwas (the Iringa side of the park) and the gateway to Ruaha (possibly Tanzania's best park). It is a great place to stay for a few days.

After Iringa, you'll either go west, to Mbeya, or south, to Songea. Head to Mbeya if you want to either visit Lake Tanganyika, enter into Malawi, or head north to Kigoma. North of Mbeya, the roads aren't sealed, so it will be a long and very unpleasant trip. If you want to see Lake Nyasa (a.k.a. Lake Malawi), take the bus to Songea. Although you are within a stone's throw of Mozambique, there are no official entry points into Mozambique.

Finally, if you're headed south of Dar, then you'll take the B2. This is the main route to the Selous and the Rufiji River. Along the way, you can also stop in Kilwa, Lindi, and, finally, Mtwara. The road isn't sealed the whole way, so, again, bring on a cushion.

Outside of the roads connecting Nairobi, Arusha, and Dar es Salaam, roads between other cities and villages are in very poor condition, although they are slowly being improved. For instance, traveling from Arusha to Dodoma is slow. It can be faster to return to Chalinze and then board a bus to Dodoma. This is pretty much the case for any travel between cities that are not located along the road to Dar.

The border town of Namanga is a hectic outpost that epitomizes much of Africa. The bus even waits here for you to cross the border. You can even get off on the Kenyan side, walk across the border, and get on the bus again on the Tanzanian side.

From Dar by bus it is also possible to travel to Malawi, Uganda, and Rwanda.

Useful information on the Dar es Salaam bus stand ("Ubungo") and some specific bus lines can be found in the Dar es Salaam article.

Be sure to go to the proper ticket sales desk to buy tickets, especially in larger cities.  Also, show up at the proper ticket sales desk well before the bus is scheduled to the depart, to ensure that you are directed to the correct bus and check in your luggage with the actual bus driver.  In Arusha's bus terminal, there is scam where people will attempt to impersonate the bus ticket sales people and the bus drives.

Bus lines [ edit ]

See specific cities for more information about the bus lines that serve them.

• Tahmeed Buses connect Mombasa with Tanga and Nairobi through Arusha and Dar in Tanzania.
• Royal Coach travels to Arusha, and is one of the nicest buses available.
• Dar Express services many cities, including Nairobi , Kenya.
• Sumry , Sutco , and Upendo connect the beautiful southern part of Tanzania, Iringa and Mbeya to Dar and further southwest.
• Taqwa Coach Company have buses to and from Dar to Malawi, Zambia and Kenya.
• Kilimanjaro buses, travels Arusha - Moshi to Dar es salaam .
• Abood buses, travels Dar es salaam to Morogoro

By boat [ edit ]

Azam Marine and Fast Ferries connect Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar. It's about 90 minutes sailing.

Get around [ edit ]

By bus and mini-bus [ edit ].

The bus is the most common way to travel around in Tanzania. Most buses have a simple design, and the roads are poor, although 1st class air-con buses are available on the Dar-Moshi-Arusha route (Dar Express - ticket office on Libya Street downtown or office no. 45 at Ubungo). Nearly all buses go in and out of Dar es Salaam. The main bus station in Dar (where all buses go), Ubungo, is 8 km west of the city center. A number of the better "intercity buses" provide you with complimentary drinks and biscuits.

In Dar, minibuses called Dala-Dalas can be taken cheaply to most places within the city. The fare is written on the front next to the door - it's usually TSh 250 for adults (2011) except for longer distances. The route of the bus is also stenciled on the front and sides of the bus, e.g. 'Posta-Mwenge' and there's a colour coding system. Posta (outside the central post office on Azikiwe/Maktaba Street) is the main downtown daladala hub. Others are Kariakoo, Mwenge, Buguruni, and Ubungo. Hop on the daladala, take a seat if there is one, and pay the conductor ('konda') when he shakes his pile of coins at you in a meaningful way. The konda shouts the names of the stops - if you don't know where you are, or don't know the name of your destination stop, it'll be hard to know where to get off. If possible, it's worth asking someone at your destination, since the stops sometimes have no signs at all - people 'just know' that certain street corners are the daladala stop and the names are not obvious (e.g. 'Sudani' on the Masaki-Posta line - near the Sudanese ambassador's residence on Toure Drive). When you hear or see your stop and want to get off, shout 'Shusha!' (let me off), the konda will knock on the chassis twice, and the driver will immediately swerve to the side and stop. The daladalas don't run very late; on the east side of town the latest ones are the Msasani and Mwenge routes.

There are also three-wheeled tuktuks/baby taxis/CNGs/bajajis that zoom around. They are cheaper than a taxi, and can get past traffic jams. It's probably not the safest option. You can negotiate the fare in advance, but sometimes the driver doesn't know your destination (there's no Dar es Salaam 'knowledge') and won't know how much to charge. Drivers generally quote pretty fair prices (maybe with a reasonable 'skin tax' for white people) at the destination and if they're trying to rip you off you can usually tell by the leer. It may be handy to know 'right' and 'left' in Swahili: kulia (right), kushoto (left), moja kwa moja (straight), simama (stop), asante kaka (thanks brother).

• Modern Coast

By taxi [ edit ]

Private taxis are also a convenient choice, but be sure to negotiate the price before you use them. Fellow travellers might be able to offer advice about a reasonable fare. Some places (e.g. Dar es Salaam Airport) have a strong taxi cartel and post fixed prices.

Little ride hailing app works in Tanzania.

If you can afford it, flying around Tanzania is faster and safer. See Tanzania#By_plane section above. Even the busiest roads are in poor condition, and bus drivers are not known for their patience or great driving skills. Road accidents claim more lives in Tanzania than any other cause of death.

By car [ edit ]

Warning: It's not advised to drive in Tanzania, or throughout most of Africa, unless you have already experienced the driving conditions in developing countries. Nonetheless, here is some useful information for those thinking to undertake the challenge.

Drive on the left side of the road

• Tanzanians drive on the left (like in the UK, India, Australia, Japan, and other countries), as opposed to driving on the right, like in North America and most European countries. Experienced drivers from "right-hand drive" countries will need about half a day of driving around before adjusting to the change. Although the gear shift, windshield wipers and turn signal activators are reversed, luckily, the pedals are not. Just follow the traffic. However, even with some practice, you should always be vigilant, as you could easily find yourself disoriented, which could put you at risk of a head-on collision or hitting a pedestrian, if you are used to driving on the opposite side of the road.

Choice of vehicle

• If you're hiring a car when you get here, your best option is a 4x4 sport utility vehicle with good road clearance, especially if you plan on going on safari in any of the national parks. Look for the Land Cruiser, Hilux Surf (4Runner), and Range Rover vehicles. Avoid mini-SUVs, such as the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CRV, because they can't always negotiate the poor road conditions in most of Tanzania's national parks. Another issue is 4-wheel drive options. Vehicles with always-on 4x4 are not the best choice for off-road driving. These vehicles were designed for driving in the snow on paved roads or through small mud holes. What you encounter in national parks in Tanzania is quite different and demands a proper 4-wheel drive vehicle capable of traversing large mud holes and sandy roads. Even then, you may still get stuck.
• Nelles Maps of Tanzania, Rwanda & Burundi is the best map. They've taken the time to locate the smallest of villages along the routes, which is great for navigating places where landmarks are scarce.
• There are markers and white concrete pillions along the main roads. They identify the next major city or town along the route and how many kilometers remain.

Driving in the city

• This only applies to Dar es Salaam, since all other cities and towns are relatively small and easy to get around in. The city center is extremely congested from 9AM-6PM, Monday to Friday. There are few traffic lights, and the streets are very narrow. It's a dog-eat-dog kind of place, so offensive driving skills are a must, as no one will let you pass if you just sit and wait at stops signs. Streets are crowded with parked and moving cars, SUVs, lorries, scooters, and very muscular men pulling insanely overloaded carts. People can spend hours stuck in traffic jams, especially around Kariakoo Market.
• There are a few roundabouts in downtown, which the locals call "keeplefties" because they thought that the sign advising drivers to "Keep Left" when entering the roundabouts named this fascinating Mzungu invention. Mzungu is the Swahili word for "white" foreigners. It is not derogatory, and it's more along the lines of calling a white person a Caucasian.
• When parking on the street in Dar, find a spot to park, then lock your doors and leave. When you return, a parking attendant wearing a yellow fluorescent vest will approach you for payment. The fee is Tsh 300 for two hours. The attendant should either hand you a ticket, or the ticked will already be on your windshield. Do not leave without paying if there is a ticket on your windshield. The attendant will most likely be forced to make up for the missing money, as he probably earns, at best, Tsh 3000 a day.
• Carjacking is uncommon but opening doors or jumping through open windows to steal valuables is not. Keep your windows closed and the doors locked. When vehicles are stopped at traffic lights or parked on unattended locations, thieves have been known to steal mirrors, paneling, spare tires, and anything that is not either engraved with the license plate number or bolted into the vehicle's body. Choose your parking spots carefully and don't leave valuables in plain sight. You can either offer the parking attendant a small tip to watch your vehicle, Tsh 500-1000, or find a secured parking lot, especially if you are leaving your vehicle overnight.
• The two main roads are the Dar es Salaam to Mbeya road (A7/A17), which takes you to the Southern Highlands through the towns of Morogoro , Iringa , and Mikumi National Park , and near the Selous and Ruhaha National Parks. The other road is the Dar to Arusha and the Serengeti road (B1), which takes you to the Northern Circuit by the towns of Tanga and Moshi , and Mount Kilimanjaro , Saadani, Tanrangire, Ngorongoro and Serengeti National Parks.

Dangers and annoyances

• Tanzanians drive very fast and won't hesitate to overtake in a blind curve. Also, most commercial vehicles are poorly maintained and overloaded, and you'll see many of them broken-down along the main highways. never assume their brakes are working or that the drivers have fully thought through the dangerous maneuver they are undertaking.
• Most roads in Tanzania are poorly maintained and littered with potholes and dangerous grooves formed by overloaded transport vehicles. All main roads cut through towns and villages, and often traffic calming tools (a.k.a. speed or road humps) ensure vehicles reduce their speed when passing through. Unfortunately, few are clearly marked while most are hard to see until you are right upon them, and if you are coming too fast, you could be thrown off the road. Slow down when entering any town, or you might not be able to avoid these and other hazards. This defensive driving attitude is also prudent because animals and children often bolt out into the street.
• If you are involved in an accident with a pedestrian, drive to the nearest police station to advise them. do not exit your vehicle and attempt to resolve the situation, even if you are sure it was not your fault. Tanzanians are some of the nicest people you will ever meet in Africa, but they have been known to take matters into their own hands. This is largely due to their mistrust of the police and the belief that anyone with money, e.g. rich foreigners, can buy their way out of a problem.
• If you encounter a convoy of government vehicles, move out of the way. They have priority, although this is debatable, and will not hesitate to run you off the road if you don't give way. You could also be fined by the police for your failure to give way.

In Tanzania, you can determine vehicle registration by the license plate colours. Yellow plates, starting with "T" and followed by three numbers, are privately owned vehicles. Official Tanzanian government plates are also yellow, but they display only letters and usually start with "S" (the fewer the letters, the higher up in the food chain the owner is). Green plates are diplomatic; Red are international development agencies; Blue are UN and similar organizations; White are taxis, buses and commercial (safari) vehicles, and Black are the military and the police. This coding does not apply in Zanzibar and Pemba.

Passing etiquette

• Drivers following you will activate their right turn signal light to indicate they wish to pass you. If the road is clear, activate your left turn signal; if not, activate your right turn signal. Look for this when attempting to pass.

What to bring

• A large jerry can (20 litres) with emergency fuel. (Don’t enter a national park without a full tank of gas.)
• A shovel, a machete ("panga" in Swahili), and tow rope.
• Good road maps
• First-aid kit
• Drinking water, at least 5 litres, and non-perishable emergency food supplies.

Car hire - rent a car for private use.

Car hire in Tanzania is affordable and there are many reliable 4WD jeeps like Landcruisers and Landrovers available for hire. 4WD cars are comfortable and can withstand all weather road conditions in Tanzania. When you want to travel comfortably anywhere in Tanzania, being rural areas or National parks, choose private travel in a Landcruiser or Landrover.

There are several local tour operators (like [1] ) which have fleet of cars for hire in major airports like Dar es Salaam Julius Nyerere Airport, Kilimanjaro International Airport, major cities and all towns which are peripheral to tourist destinations like Moshi, Mwanza, Arusha, and Karatu around Ngorongoro.

See [ edit ]

Safaris in Tanzania can be put into two categories, the Northern Circuit (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Manyara and Tarangire) and the Southern Circuit (Selous, Mikumi and Ruaha). This is an oversimplification though and does not include other interesting, but harder to reach, parks such as Katavi and Gombe, to name just two. For tourists, the first two groupings are more accessible, as a variety of packages are offered by several tour companies.

Safari prices [ edit ]

The cost of a safari can range from the basics (fly-tents, self-catering and guides with vehicles) to smaller parks like Manyara and Tarangire, to luxury lodges and tented camps in the Serengeti which can cost anywhere from US$250 to US$1,500 per person per night. You can use your own vehicle, provided it's a 4x4 with adequate clearance. There is a benefit to hiring a guide and a vehicle as safari vehicles are equipped with open rooftops which provide a much better vantage point for animal viewing. Also, many park will require that you hire a certified guide before you enter the park, even if you're using your own vehicle. Guides can cost around US$35 a day plus tip. Guides are good to have since they know the park and can help you locate some of the more sought after animals such as lions, leopards, rhinos, cheetahs and hyenas.

Some of the more popular safari companies are Warrior Trails, Ranger tours & Leopard tours. Other popular companies rated by the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators include Ajabu Adventures, Bush2Beach Safaris, Bushmen Expeditions, Fay Safaris and Tanzania Tour Company. Serena and Sopa are popular lodging spots and have facilities throughout the Northern Circuit. However, don't discount using smaller tours and lesser known lodging facilities which are just as good if not better than the larger tours and lodges.

For better prices and some of the most beautiful parks avoiding the traffic jams of safari vehicles, head for the southern circuit, particularly Ruaha National Park where the range of wildlife is much greater and the scenery spectacular. Iringa is a great place to base yourself to explore this area and sort out your safari trips.

For any of the following tours, by looking online, you can find reputable companies that are reasonably priced and make the trip enjoyable and stress-free.

Wildlife viewing [ edit ]

• Serengeti National Park , made famous by numerous Discovery Channel specials, hosts a wide range of wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, leopards, hippopotamuses, elephants, zebra, buffalo, water buck, crocodiles, gazelle, warthogs, and wildebeest. One major attraction is the wildebeest migration, which occurs continuously between the Serengeti and Masai Mara (Kenya). A guide with a 4-wheel drive vehicle is required. If the migration is your main purpose for visiting the Serengeti, you should advise your tour company as this may require travel much further afield and could be more costly.
• Ngorongoro Conservation Area also hosts an abundance of wildlife, particularly in the Ngorongoro crater. Formed by the same volcanic activity that generated Kilimanjaro and the Great Rift Valley, Ngorongoro consists of the highlands around the crater (rich in elephants) and the crater itself (similar animals to Serengeti, but at higher densities and with a small population of black rhino).
• Ruaha National Park and Selous Game Reserve are far less popular but very enjoyable. You will find much greater variety of wildlife than you would in the Serengeti, if you're looking for a destination with fewer tourists these parks are for you. Ruaha is known for having the largest elephant and giraffe population of any park in Africa and often goes by the name 'Giraffic Park', it is also a good place to see large prides of lion and the elusive and rare hunting dogs. Selous is the only other place besides Ngorongoro where you may see a rhino. You can also visit the Uduzungwa Mountains Park for a truly wilderness hike through unspoiled and spectacular scenery. There are few places left in the world like this one. With new gates opened up on the Iringa side of the park with great camping it is a great addition to any visit to Tanzania.
• Tarangire National Park is in the northern circuit of Tanzania and was named after the Tarangire river flowing within the park. The park area is approximately 2,600 km 2 . Similar to Serengeti, the park has a high concentrations of wildlife during the dry seasons. Also, over 570 bird species have been identified, and the place is surely a birdwatchers' paradise. Safari accommodation is available in quality safari lodges and campsites.

When visiting wildlife parks be sure to stay as close to the viewing areas (center of the parks) as possible and leave as soon as you can in the morning as animals are typically most active soon after sunrise.

Islands [ edit ]

• Zanzibar is an island off the coast of Tanzania and includes the island of Pemba. Zanzibar has beautiful beaches and a historical Stone Town. Zanzibar is great for scuba diving, snorkeling, and swimming with dolphins. Other attractions include spice tours and the Jozani Forest, which shelters a small population of red Colobus monkeys.
• Mafia Island Marine Park is south of Zanzibar and boasts some fantastic scuba diving and snorkeling. You may also get to swim with whale sharks, as this is one of the few areas in the world where they congregate annually.
• Bongoyo Island is easy to get to with a boat from Slipway. It has a remarkable beach with excellent snorkeling in clear water, although you may be better off taking your own snorkels as renting is costly. The island is not tide dependent, therefore you can swim at any time. There is a resident price and a 'muzungu' price' but still quite reasonable.
• Sinda Island is a small uninhabited island of ínner sinder' and outer sinder'.
• Mbudya Island can be accessed from Silver Sands hotel. The water is amazing although it looks clear you cannot snorkel in it as it is surprisingly murky underneath the surface.
• Lazy Lagoon There are 12 rooms on the private 9 km-long white sandy island with deserted beaches. It boasts swimming at all tides in clear azure blue water, ideal for snorkelling to be mesmerized by the shoals of iridescent tropical fish hiding among the pristine coral gardens that protect the island. The island is accessed from the mainland, just south of Bagamoyo town 70 km north of Dar es Salaam. It is home to bushbabies, wild pigs, genets, baboons, duiker, and Suni antelope. The bandas were well appointed and have solar-powered hot water, a large shady verandah with spacious rooms and big windows.

Mountains [ edit ]

• Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in Africa and one of the highest freestanding mountains in the world. Many people travel to Tanzania just to climb this mountain. Does tend to be crowded with tourists. You can either organize your trek up the mountain from your home country through a travel agency, but you'll pay a lot more for this convenience, or, if you've got a bit of time, hop on plane and save some money by organizing it in Arusha or in Dar. There are as many incompetent and dishonest trek organizers as there are good ones. Make sure your guide will deliver on his promises.
• Mt Meru is an active stratovolcano located 70 km (43 mi) west of Mount Kilimanjaro in the nation of Tanzania. At a height of 4,565 m (14,977 ft), it is visible from Mt Kilimanjaro on a clear day, and is the ninth or tenth highest mountain in Africa, dependent on definition. Much of its bulk was lost about 8,000 years ago due to an eastward volcanic blast, similar to the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens in the U.S. state of Washington. Mount Meru most recently had a minor eruption in 1910. The several small cones and craters seen in the vicinity probably reflect numerous episodes of volcanic activity.

Do [ edit ]

• There are loads of National Parks for those wanting to watch Tanzania's wildlife. You can gain entry for around US$100 and benefit from a tour (and perhaps a night's accommodation). The better parks, though packed with tourists, are found in the north of the country. Ruaha National Park is the best in the south (locals actually say this is the best park, especially if you want to see wild animals as opposed to semi-tame ones in the northern parks). Don't just be sucked into the tourist circuit in the north; the south offers great parks and towns (base yourself in Iringa), and you will feel less of a tourist and more of a guest if you travel this way.
• Scuba diving in and around Pemba and Zanzibar is another good experience.
• You can also visit numerous historical Slave Trade sites located in Bagamoyo , which could make for an interesting, if a little depressing, excursion.
• Beaches : Tanzania has some of the best, most unspoiled beaches in the world. They are stunning, with their white sand, palm trees, and cool Indian Ocean water!
• Kayak the beautiful coastal waters with a tour operator.
• Tanzania has two of the best Stone Age sites in the world: Isimila Gorge (near Iringa) and the earliest known examples of human art among the rock paintings, near Kolo, north of Kondoa, Dodoma -- some of which are reckoned to be around 30,000 years old.
• Kilimanjaro is one of Tanzania's main attractions. Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa. Many visitors come to Tanzania to summit this great mountain. The main peak is estimated to be 5895 m high, making it a real challenge for mountaineers.

Talk [ edit ]

Swahili and English are the official languages of Tanzania. Swahili however is the dominant language of society, with English largely limited to commerce and higher education. Over 100 different languages are also spoken by individual ethnic groups, though Swahili is almost universally spoken across the country.

Time of day

This is where a little knowledge of Kiswahili can cause some inconveniences. Tanzanians don't function on the same time as Westerners. This doesn't mean Africa time, which is the notion that appointments are flexible and people can arrive when they please. For Tanzanians, it's illogical that the day would start in the middle of the night.

Since sunrise and sunset happen pretty much at the same time all year round, 6AM and 6PM, the day starts at 6AM which is 0 hours. So when telling time in Kiswahili, Tanzanians always subtracted 6 hours for western time. 11AM is 5AM to a Tanzanian. To avoid any confusion, a Tanzanian will tell time in English if they want to use the western standard and in Kiswahili if they use local standard.

In Kiswahili, if you say Saa kumi na moja asubuhi (11AM), instead of Saa tano asubuhi (5AM), you'll end up waiting for 6 hours if the person arrives on time, plus however long it takes to arrive fashionably late!

Buy [ edit ]

Money [ edit ].

The currency of Tanzania is known as the Tanzanian shilling , denoted by the symbol " TSh " or by " /= " or " /- " following the number (ISO code: TZS ). There are five denominations of notes and four of coins in circulation in Tanzania:

• Notes: 10,000 (red), 5,000 (violet), 2,000 (brown), 1,000 (blue) and 500 (green; now changed to coins) shillings.
• Coins: 500, 200, 100 and 50 shillings.

Notes and coins vary in size and colour. In descending size order, TSh 10,000 is the largest note, and 500 is the smallest.

Tanzanian currency exchangers usually have a different exchange rate for different US$ denominations, larger and newer bills having a better exchange rate than older and smaller bills. The difference in exchange rate between $1/$5 bills and $50/$100 bills may exceed ten percent. Older US$100 notes are no longer accepted in Tanzania, and any note older than 2003 will most likely be refused everywhere. Also, it's best to avoid attempting to exchange notes with pen marks or any writing on them. If you withdraw a large amount of money, in the range of US$400, you'll have to carry over 40 notes around!

The TSh 10,000 and 5000 notes can be difficult to break when shopping in small shops, a.k.a. dukas . In Tanzania, it's usually the customer's responsibility to provide exact change. But if they do agree to provide change, you could be left with several 1000 and 500 notes of very poor quality. However, you won't have such problems in the large hotels and restaurants catering to foreigners.

Most stores and restaurants expect payment in Tanzanian shillings. On the other hand, travel visas, safaris and Kilimanjaro treks are generally priced in US dollars, and entry fees to national parks must be paid in US dollars by non-residents. On Zanzibar, prices are generally in US dollars (including the ferry fare from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar), and non-residents are required to pay for hotels with foreign currency (although the hotel will change Tanzanian shillings for you). Hotels on the mainland expect payment in Tanzanian shillings.

Most hotels will exchange US dollars, euros and British pounds for Tanzanian shillings. Other currencies, such as Canadian or Australian dollars, may be accepted but at rates far below the going rate.

ATMs are mostly located in the city centre and on the Msasani Peninsula. If you have a PIN code for your credit card, almost all Tanzanian banks with ATMs will allow cash advances on credit cards like Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Union Pay, JCB, Diners Club, Discover cards. If the ATM reports your home balance in TSh, you may be pleasantly surprised to find that you're a "shillionaire".

̈' Ecobank , GT Bank , KCB , I&M , DTB . have no ATM fees for overseas bank cards at their ATMs.

̈̽' Absa bank , Stanbic , Bank of Africa charges a US$5 fee for all overseas cards. Similarly most local banks will charge fees around TSh10,000–15,000 per withdrawal. Some ATMs don't even disclose the fees beforehand (e.g. TCB , Mkombozi bank )!' local banks Exim , NMB , CRDB ATMs take mastercard but with a 15,000 fee.

Traveller's cheques have become impossible to cash in. use your ATM card.

Credit cards can be used in big supermarkets, malls, large hotels, resorts and with certain travel agents – and to get cash from ATMs.

Shopping [ edit ]

There are many markets in tourist cities that sell standard "African" goods. Beaded jewellery, carved soapstone, and Masai blankets make interesting gifts. Most "ebony" wood is fake (shoe polish) - the exception being in the far south-east of the country, where the Makonde tribe of Tanzania and Northern Mozambique create masks and other carvings from ebony and mpingo wood. Be prepared to bargain for everything. Masks are not typical of most East African groups, and the ones you find in the markets are either imported from West Africa or are strange things made just for tourists, with the exception of the Makonde masks.

Tinga Tinga paintings, named after the painter who originated that style, are for sale everywhere. Their distinctive style and colors make for attractive souvenirs. A standard size painting can be had for TSh 5,000-10,000. There is a Tinga Tinga school in Dar es Salaam, where you can purchase paintings from the artists themselves.

Air freight [ edit ]

If you happen to buy too many goodies during your travels, it is possible to send them home air freight. Many airlines will allow you to check additional parcels when you fly, for a fee, which probably makes the most sense if you're going straight home. But if you're continuing on, air freight might be the way to go. Many listed rates do not include 20% VAT, or a "fuel surcharge" of 13.5% as of 2008.

• DHL . Offers quite pricey service (e.g. about US$300 for a 10-kg package to the US) but is conveniently located in Dar city centre, as well as in a bunch of other cities (see web site). Will deliver direct to the recipient in most countries.  
• KLM ( go to the old terminal at DAR airport ). Offers slightly more reasonable rates than DHL (e.g. about US$100 for a 10-kg package to the US) but requires a trip to the airport and about 1 hour of paperwork & waiting. You must pay cash, in US dollars, plus some fees in shillings. Customs will want to go through the package, so bring something to (re)seal it. You can first go to the KLM freight office (look for the sign), then to the cargo building further down the same road, or call ahead and be met at cargo. If you just arrive at cargo you will be swarmed by freight forwarders - to find the KLM staff, look for the KLM logo (e.g. on a lanyard) or call ahead ( ☏ +255 714 474 617 ). Despite what you might be told, someone will need to go to the destination airport to pick up the package - it will not be delivered to an address by KLM. Storage charges will accrue if it's left for very long.  
• EMS . EMS is a branch of the Tanzanian postal service, and is the cheapest way to send packages. It's available at most larger town post offices. But shipping time can be quite long, and delivery is not always reliable. Also there are size/weight restrictions. Packages will be transferred to the local postal service at destination, which usually provides direct delivery.  
• Fedex . Fedex have offices in Arusha, Dar es Salaam and Mwanza, and like DHL, they are also pricey.  

Eat [ edit ]

• Produce is often of very high quality. Meat and milk can prove difficult for western taste and diets, so be sure that all meat is cooked through. At hotels, you won't have any trouble, but if you venture into small villages, make sure that all water is filtered or boiled before drinking and all fruits and vegetables are peeled before eating.
• Local dishes include Mtori - cooked beef and bananas - and Mchicha , a vegetable stew with meat or fish in it.
• If there is anything that can be called Tanzania's national dish, then Ugali would most likely win out. A polenta-style dish made with corn flour, it accompanies cooked meat and a variety of stews, and it's eaten with your hands. Recipes vary from village to village, and everyone has their own way of making it. Many foreigners find it bland and unappealing, but it's worth a try, and some upscale establishments serve it.
• Street food is also cheap and plentiful. Barbecued maize on the cob is very nice, as are the chipped potatoes (fries), cooked over a roaring fire.
• Mandazi is a sweet doughnut-styled food that is mostly made fresh each morning. Great with coffee in the morning, it makes an ideal snack.
• Tanzania's large South Asian community ensures that a great variety of restaurants offer cuisine from all parts of that region of the globe. All eateries near Hindu temples (particularly in Dar) are a good bet. Just watch where the local Indians go to eat, and you won't be disappointed. Most of the food is cooked in large amounts of Ghee, clarified butter, which can be hard for some people to digest.
• Chipsi Mayai (chips cooked in an omelet) are served at nearly every African food stand in Tanzania and are considered a Tanzanian specialty. They're quite good with pili pili (hot sauce).

Drink [ edit ]

• Konyagi is a wonderful gin-like beverage, sold only in Tanzania.
• Domestic beers are Kilimanjaro , Serengeti, Balimi, Pilsner, Kibo and Safari , which are western-style and very good. Imports include Tusker, Stella Artois, and Castle.
• Locally produced banana-beer is also available at times, but questionably safe to drink. Traditionally, you will drink this out of a hollowed gourd. First drink the guests, who then pass it to the elders. In some parts of Tanzania, fermented bamboo juice (Pombe) is the common tipple.
• Passion fruit, mango, and orange juices are available in many restaurants, and excellent when the fruits are in season.
• Soft drinks are widely available; Stoney Tangawizi (ginger ale - tangawizi means 'ginger', in Swahili) is one of the most popular besides Fanta and Co.
• Mbege, a locally made drink made up of ripe bananas and finger millet, commonly in the northern Tanzania from the chagga community in the Kilimanjaro region.
• Other popular beverages include lassi (a sweet or salty yogurt drink) and Chai Maziwa (chai with milk) which is well worth trying if you can handle the large amounts of sugar added to this drink. (Milk) tea is a much more common drink than coffee in Tanzania.
• Northern Tanzania has a number of great coffee plantations. Although coffee does not have the same popularity in Tanzania as it has in Ethiopia, with a bit of searching you can find a decent cup of java, instead of the instant "Africa" coffee that is served in most restaurants. All large hotels in Dar make good coffee. If you want to brew your own cup, Msumbi Coffee Shop , +255 22 260 0380, Sea Cliff Village, sells Tanzanian coffee beans ground or whole, roasted on the premises.

Sleep [ edit ]

In bigger cities be sure to avoid touts. If you are travelling as a couple, a good idea is for one person to sit in a lobby or restaurant with the bags, while the other scopes out rooms. You are likely to get a cheaper price without the bags, and not be targeted by sneaky touts that will raise the price US$5-10 for you for their commission.

As of 2021 budget travelers will find guest houses to offer simple rooms in the TSh8,000-20,000 price range even in smaller towns or villages. They often come with a private bathroom, a fan and a condom hidden discretely somewhere in the room. Typically these accommodations cannot be booked online and it is rare to run into any Western tourists here.

Learn [ edit ]

Various schools and volunteer programs offer courses ranging from Beginners Swahili to Economic Development. Dar es Salaam also has a well-established university, which has exchange programs with several universities in the US and other countries.

Work [ edit ]

There is a wide assortment of volunteer organisations sending volunteers and interns to Tanzania to do work in health care, orphanages, education, and development projects. Finding a paying job may be more of a daunting task, taking more time and making use of local connections, but a job could be certainly obtainable when sought hard enough.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Theft [ edit ].

As in many impoverished countries, caution should always be exercised, particularly in tourist areas, such as Arusha, Stone Town (Zanzibar), and Dar es Salaam. Violent crime against foreigners is not uncommon, particularly against those walking alone at night, which is not recommended. Pickpocketing and con artists are also common. Pickpockets work crowded markets, like Kariakoo, and bus stations. Don't be fooled by small children who are often forced into a life of crime by older kids or parents -- never carry anything of value in your pockets and don't let expensive camera equipment dangle from your neck. Don't leave bags unattended or even out of your sight when on the beach.

See specific area or city articles for details.

In general, avoid isolated areas, especially after dark. Travelling in large groups is safer. If there are many people or security guards around (e.g. city center areas) you should be relatively safe.

The safest way to travel is by taxi with a driver you know, especially when it's dark out (late night or early morning). Although it's uncommon, taxi drivers have been known to rob tourists. Get the number for a taxi you trust, from your hotel or a local.

Buses have infrequently been stopped by robbers on long-distance (often overnight) routes. If you have to travel a long distance by bus, it might be better to break it into multiple day-only trips, or to travel by plane or train.

In the event of an incident, the police may or may not make a strong effort to identify the culprits, but obtaining a police report is necessary if you plan on filing an insurance claim later, or if important documents are stolen. Make sure the police report indicates if your papers were stolen; otherwise you may have difficulty leaving the country. You should immediately contact your local embassy or consulate in the event that your passport is taken.

Walking [ edit ]

There are very few sidewalks in Tanzania, always pay careful attention to the traffic and be prepared to move out of the way, as vehicles do not make much effort to avoid pedestrians. In Tanzania, cars have priority.

The best way to avoid touts, sellers, dealers etc., when they inevitably come up to you and say "jambo" is to either say nothing, or to say "thank you" or "asante", and to keep moving. Some may be offended by 'no', and persistent touts will be encouraged by any kind of interaction at all.

Corruption [ edit ]

Tanzania, like many developing countries, suffers from corruption. Police are poorly paid - many make less than US$40/month. You may be solicited for a bribe by an official willing to turn a blind eye to your infraction, fabricated or otherwise. Some travellers are very much averse to paying bribes to anyone, especially in a country with so many needy but honest citizens.

Fraudsters are known to impersonate police, sometimes in the guise of an "immigration official" who identifies a problem with your documents. They will flash official-looking papers at you. But there are many plainclothes officers as well. And if you are confronted with someone in uniform, they will almost certainly be an actual officer.

On-the-spot-fine is one term used for a bribe. Those words are meant to initiate a conversation about money. You may be told that the real fine is TSh 40,000 or more and that for TSh 20,000 or 30,000, paid immediately, you can be on your way and avoid a trip to the police station to pay a higher fine.

If you are certain you are in the right, and do not want to pay a bribe, some strategies are:

• Involve other people . Fraudsters or corrupt officials are unlikely to pursue their schemes near an audience. You can ask bystanders for help on the pretext of not understanding the officer.
• Invoke higher powers . Insisting on going to the local police station is a good way to make an illegitimate issue go away. Suggesting a visit to your country's embassy (e.g. to have an official there help translate the conversation, due to one's poor knowledge of the local language and laws) is also effective. At this point, they usually have a look of horror on their face, since they don't want any real officials involved. Asking for bribes is illegal, and there is an office of corruption where they can be reported.
• Play dumb . Politely explain to the person that you don't understand the nature of the infraction, even if you do. Tanzanians are not direct, and prefer to imply what they want, instead of asking outright. Tell them you've only just arrived in the country, even if it's your 100th visit. If you know some Kiswahili, don't let on. It may only make things harder.
• Insist on getting a receipt with an official stamp -- a request that is most likely to be met with confusion and concern. The idea is to show that you don’t know that this is actually a bribe and that you simply wish to play by the rules. Hopefully, after 10 or 20 minutes of a circular, but always polite, conversation, they may send you on your merry way. A word of caution about this approach: corrupt officials have become wise to this and in one case a person requesting a receipt was told the cashier's office was closed and would not open until the next morning. The options were to pay the fine or spend the night in prison. It appears this was not a bluff on the part of the officer. The fine was paid and no receipt was issued. The game is constantly changing.
• Discussing money or negotiating the fine may encourage the perception that you understand the nature of the conversation (i.e. you are willing to pay a bribe).
• Directly accusing the officer of corruption is likely to be counter-productive; it is important that you allow the officer to save face.
• If you insist on going to the police station, you may be expected to give the officer a ride. If you are alone, and especially if the "officer" is plainclothes, this may not be a good idea. If you are approached by multiple people and are alone, under no circumstances get in their vehicle - insist on taking a taxi. And once you get to the station, just pay whatever fine is quoted and insist on a receipt. This may end up costing you more than the bribe, but at least this cop won't get any money out of you, and he/she may think twice before flagging down other foreigners. Also, demonstrate respect for their authority, never raise your voice, and never swear or insult them. Whether you are right or not does not matter at that point.

Finally: incidents of excessive force involving tourists are rare, but that doesn’t mean it cannot happen. For instance, police have been known to be drunk on the job, which can seriously inhibit their ability to reason. As in any situation where someone is trying to get money out of you, by force or threat of force, it's better to be safe than sorry; it's only money.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

Bottled water is cheap and widely available throughout the country. You shouldn't drink the tap water unless you have no other option, and it must either be filtered with a high quality filter and purifier or brought to a boil before consumption. Tests on tap water have found it contaminated with e-coli bacteria.

Illnesses and diseases [ edit ]

As in most African countries, the AIDS/HIV infection rate is high. Tanzania's HIV/AIDS infection rate was 5% among ages 15-49 according to a 2015 UNAIDS estimate [2] . This figure is deceiving, however, since several distinct segments of the population, such as artisanal miners, itinerant fisherman, truck drivers, and sex workers, have HIV infection rates significantly higher than the national average. Do not have unprotected sex in Tanzania or anywhere else, for that matter.

After food-borne illnesses, malaria should be your greatest concern. Malaria is transmitted by mosquitoes and is endemic to Tanzania. You may find yourself at risk in almost every part of the country, although this risk is diminished at altitudes above 2000 m. Care should always be taken between sunset and sunrise, especially during the rainy season. Always sleep under a treated net; wear trousers and closed footwear, and use an effective repellent. It's amazing, but many large hotels don’t automatically install mosquito nets in their rooms. However, a call to the reception requesting one is seldom ignored. In some cases, the nets have several large holes, but a bit of adhesive tape or tying a small knot to cover the hole should do the trick.

Prior to leaving for Tanzania, you may also wish to consult a physician about taking some anti-malarial medication -- before, during, and after your trip. If, in spite of your best efforts, you do contract malaria, it is usually easily treated with medication that is readily available throughout most of the country. If you plan on being in isolated locations, you may wish to drop by a clinic and purchase a batch. Symptoms associated with malaria can take up to two weeks before manifesting themselves. The rule of thumb for ex-pats living in Tanzania is this: Any fever lasting more than a day should be cause for concern and necessitate a trip to the clinic for a malaria test. Upon your return home, should you show signs of a possible malaria infection, notify your doctor that you’ve visited a malaria-infected country.

Other major illnesses to avoid are typhoid and cholera . In theory, typhoid can be avoided by carefully selecting food and drink and by avoiding consumption of anything unclean. Typhoid infection, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) [dead link] , is marked by 'persistent, high fevers...headache, malaise, anorexia, splenomegaly, and relative bradycardia.'

Cholera infection is marked by vomiting and sudden, uncontrollable bowel movements, which can dehydrate and ultimately kill the sufferer within 48 hours. It is important to seek medical attention as quickly as possible. Cholera is more or less a seasonal phenomenon in Zanzibar, where outbreaks frequently occur during the rainy seasons. Vaccines and/or oral prevention are available for both typhoid and cholera.

Yellow fever is an acute viral disease transmitted through the bite of a particular mosquito. Although not as common as malaria, it is nonetheless a serious disease, and travelers to Africa should consult a physician about being vaccinated against it. If you plan on traveling to other countries after your stay in Tanzania, some countries, such as South Africa , may require proof that you’ve been vaccinated against Yellow Fever before allowing you to enter the country. If you aren’t or can’t prove it, you will be offered two options: 1) receive the Yellow Fever vaccination at the airport, and 2) immediately leave the country. The Yellow Fever vaccine (as any vaccine) can have side effects for some people, so you may wish to get the vaccine in your home country, under controlled conditions. Most physicians will not administer the Yellow Fever vaccine to children under the age of 1 year, and a letter from a physician explaining this will ensure that your infant child will not receive the vaccine at the airport. - People travelling to Tanzania from India, There is acute shortage of the yellow fever vaccine in India so please get yourself vaccinated at the airport in Dar-es-Salaam as soon as you land there.

Gastrointestinal Distress , a.k.a. traveler’s diarrhea, is the result of one, some, or all of the following factors: Unhygienic food preparation and storage, changes in diet, fatigue, dehydration, and excessive alcohol consumption. Prevention is your best defense. Eat only raw vegetables and fruits you can peel and which have been rinsed in clean water. Avoid street or restaurant food that appears to have been left in the open for an extended period of time. Eat only freshly fried or steamed food. You should drink only bottled water, which is available throughout the country. You should even brush your teeth with it. If you must drink tap or well water, boil it for a minimum of 10 minutes or use a high quality filter.

Rift Valley Fever: In January 2007, there was an outbreak of RFV in the Kilimanjaro area. Consumption of unpasteurized milk and improperly cooked meat from infected cows led to a number of deaths in the area. Following the deaths, beef sales dropped sharply all over the country, despite the limited scope of the infection. In general, meat served in upscale restaurants is of superior quality. However, care should be taken when indulging in street foods or when eating in remote areas.

Insects and animals [ edit ]

Tanzania has its fair share of venomous and deadly insects and animals, such as Black and Green Mambas, scorpions, spiders, stinging ants, lions, sharks, and others. You should take care when walking through high grass; when visiting national parks, or when shoving your hand under rocks or into dark holes -- unless you know what you are doing. In actuality, the likelihood of encountering these and other similar dangers is remote.

The insect/animal most residents fear is the mosquito.

Medical facilities [ edit ]

Hospitals and dispensaries in Tanzania do not meet western standards. If you require surgery or any complex medical procedure you will have to be evacuated to Kenya, South Africa or Europe. You should ensure your medical insurance covers such expenses. Outside of Dar es Salaam, and especially outside of the larger cities and towns, you will be hard pressed to get even basic medical help as many doctors are poorly trained and/or have limited equipment and medication. You should ensure you have your own medical kit to hold you over in case of an emergency. Misdiagnoses are frequent for even common ailments such as malaria, as high as 70% of the cases.

Dar es Salaam is served by a few clinics staffed by western trained physicians. However, some surgical procedures still require evacuation out of Tanzania.

• IST Medical Clinic: Just off Haile Selassie Road past the Chole Road intersection, behind the International School of Tanganyika, Msasani Pinensula, Tel: +255 22 260 1307, Emergency: +255 754 783 393.
• Premier Care Clinic Limited: 259 Ali Hassan Mwinyi Road, Namanga, Kinondoni, P.O. Box 220, Dar es Salaam, Tel: +255 22 266 8385, Mobile: +255 748 254 642.
• Aga Khan Hospital: Corner of Ocean Road & Sea View Road, Tel: +255 22 211 5151.

Government hospitals [ edit ]

• Bugando Hospital , Mwanza, Tanzania Tel: +255 68 40610. The University College of Health Sciences at Bugando Medical Center is established as a Catholic college having four schools: Medical, Nursing, Pharmacotherapy and Dental.
• Muhimbili National hospital, located in Dar es Salaam
• Mbeya Referral Hospital, PO Box 419, Mbeya Tel: +255 65 3576.
• Mnazi Mmoja Hospital, PO Box 338, Zanzibar Tel: +255 54 31071.

Other Government run hospitals used for electives:

• Hindu Mandal Hospital, PO Box 581, Dar es Salaam Tel: +255 51 110237/110428.
• Agha Khan Hospital, PO Box 2289, Dar es Salaam Tel: +255 51 114096.
• Nachingwea District General Hospital, Nachingwea, Lindi, South Tanzania
• Teule District Designated Hospital, Muheza, Tanga Region.

Mission hospitals [ edit ]

• Berega Mission Hospital, Berega, Morogoro, Tanzania.
• St Anne’s Hospital, PO Box 2, Liuli (via Songea) (connected via USPG charity).
• St Francis Hospital, Kwo Mkono, Handeni District.
• A flying doctor service is based in Arusha, Tel: +255 2548578.

For any medical issues, contact : Ministry of Health, PO Box 9083, Dar es Salaam Tel: +255 51 20261 Fax: 51 39951

In Moshi Municipality (Kilimanjaro Region) there is the renowned KCMC , Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, which is in the foothills of the snow-capped, Mount Kilimanjaro.

Respect [ edit ]

In general, tourists should wear modest or conservative attire, especially in Zanzibar, which is a conservative Muslim society. Western women should not wear clothing that reveals too much skin. 'Kangas', brightly-colored wrap-around cloth, are affordable, available throughout the country, and can serve as a discreet covering.

The Masai people, with their colorful clothing, are tempting targets for any tourist with a camera. However, they expect to be paid for it, and you should always ask before taking pictures.

It is common practice among Swahili-speakers to use 'shikamoo' (prounounced 'she ka moe' and literally meaning, 'I hold your feet') when greeting elders or superiors. The usual response from an elder will be 'marahaba'. In Zanzibar, the equivalent of 'shikamoo' is 'chei chei'. The traveler will get along very well when using these verbal expressions of respect. In addition, a title after the 'shikamoo' is also a useful indicator that you are not just a dumb tourist -- 'shikamoo bwana' for the gents, and, when addressing a female elder, 'shikamoo mama'.

Tanzanians will also comment if you are doing any work while they are not, with the phrase "pole na kazi". It literally means "I'm sorry you have to work". A simple "asante", or "thanks", will suffice in reply.

Many Tanzanian sellers are persistent and, ordinarily, a simple head shake, accompanied by "asante sana", should settle it. However, as a last resort, a firm "hapana", meaning "no", will do the trick. Tanzanians find the word "hapana" quite rude, so please don't use it casually -- only as a last resort. Whatever you plan to do, do not tell someone you will come back to buy from them later when you have no such intention; better to be honest and say 'no' than having to avoid someone for days. They somehow have a funny way of finding you when you promised to visit their stall or shop!

The most polite way to refuse something is to say "sihitaji" (pronounced see-hih-tah-jee)- "I don't need it".

Connect [ edit ]

Keeping in touch while traveling in Tanzania is rarely a problem. You can get decent mobile phone reception even in some national parks.

Telephone calls [ edit ]

The "Tanzania Telecommunications Company Ltd" (TTCL) is the state owned telecom, operating all pay phones and landlines in Tanzania. As it is the case with most developing countries, telephone fixed-lines are not affordable for many ordinary people. However, the mobile network has blossomed throughout Africa in the past years, and this is equally true of Tanzania. With many used mobile phones for sale and the very low cost of getting a SIM card, this is the popular choice of most Tanzanians. For many, a mobile phone is the first large purchase when they get a job. The major mobile service providers operate all over the country, even in some of the most remote areas, although service interruptions are common.

If you find a taxi driver or tour guide that you like, ask for their mobile number. This is often the best way to reach them.

Using a mobile phone If you have an "unlocked" GSM 900/1800MHz frequency mobile phone (the same frequency as used in the rest of the world, apart from USA and Canada), you can purchase a local SIM card for 500 Tsh from a series of Tanzanian service providers. The most popular are Airtel , Vodacom , and Tigo . Zantel is a new arrival on the mainland and, through the national roaming agreement with Vodacom, has the largest network coverage.

Air time You can top up your "prepaid" mobile phone account by using "scratch-cards", which are available everywhere. Just look for shops or even small tables set up along the road, with posters for the various mobile service providers. Those cards typically come in the denominations from Tsh500-50,000. If you plan on making frequent calls outside of Africa, you will need at least a Tsh10,000 card.

International telecommunications have low capacity, and can be unreliable

Internet [ edit ]

With the advent of Internet-equipped cell phones, internet cafés are dying out throughout Tanzania. They used to be easy to find in major urban areas, like Dar es Salaam and Arusha, and may persist.

As of 2021, all mobile providers are offering mobile internet service. Zantel, Vodacom, Tigo, Airtel and Halotel are the main providers. 4G coverage is available in many areas of Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Zanzibar town and other cities in the country. A 8GB/month data bundle costs around Tsh10,000, SIM card included.

Wireless (WIFI) is also provided by some providers mainly Powernet (Bibi Titi Mohammed Road, Elia Complex) 0658769376, 0787769376, 0757769376, 0777769376, Unlimited Internet Access anywhere in the Urban Areas of Dar-Es-Salam costing Tsh 30,000 (US$20).

Emergency [ edit ]

• Emergency Services: 112 - If you can, it's probably better to go straight to the nearest police station, instead of dialing 112.

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Tanzania Travel Guide: Essential Facts and Information

One of the continent's most iconic safari destinations,  Tanzania is a haven for those looking to immerse themselves in the wonder of the African bush. It is home to some of East Africa 's most famous game reserves – including the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Many visitors travel to Tanzania to see the annual Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra, but there are many other reasons to stay. From the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar to the peaks of Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru , this is a country with limitless potential for adventure. 

Tanzania is located in East Africa, on the shores of the Indian Ocean. It is bordered by Kenya to the north and Mozambique to the south; and shares inland borders with Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi, Rwanda , Uganda and Zambia. 

Including the offshore islands of Zanzibar, Mafia and Pemba, Tanzania has a total area of 365,755 square miles/ 947,300 square kilometers. It is a little more than twice the size of California.

Capital City

Dodoma is the capital of Tanzania, although Dar es Salaam is the country's largest city and its commercial capital. 

According to a July 2018 estimate published by the CIA World Factbook, Tanzania has a population of almost 55.4 million people. Almost half of the population falls into the 0-14 age bracket, while the average life expectancy is 63 years of age. 

Tanzania is a multilingual nation with many different indigenous languages . Swahili and English are the official languages, with the former spoken as the lingua franca  by the majority of the population.

Christianity is the predominant religion in Tanzania, accounting for just over 61% of the population. Islam is also common, accounting for 35% of the population (and almost 100% of the population on Zanzibar). 

Tanzania's currency is the Tanzanian shilling. For accurate exchange rates, use this online converter . 

Tanzania lies just south of the equator and on the whole enjoys a tropical climate. Coastal areas can be particularly hot and humid, and there are two distinct  rainy seasons . The heaviest rains fall from March to May, while a shorter rainy season occurs between October and December. The dry season brings with it cooler temperatures and lasts from June to September.

In terms of weather , the best time to visit is during the dry season, when temperatures are more pleasant and rains are rare. This is also the best time for game-viewing, as animals are drawn to waterholes by a lack of water elsewhere. If you're planning on witnessing the Great Migration , you need to make sure that you're in the right place at the right time. Wildebeest herds gather in the southern Serengeti at the start of the year, moving northwards through the park before eventually crossing into Kenya around August. 

TripSavvy / Felicia Martinez

Key Attractions:

Serengeti National Park

The Serengeti is arguably the most famous safari destination in Africa. For parts of the year, it is home to the vast wildebeest and zebra herds of the Great Migration - a spectacle that remains the park's biggest draw. It is also possible to see the Big Five here, and to experience the rich culture of the region's traditional Maasai tribespeople. 

Ngorongoro Crater

Set within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the crater is the largest intact caldera in the world. It creates a unique ecosystem filled with wildlife - including giant tusker elephants, black-maned lions and endangered black rhino. During the rainy season, the crater's soda lakes are home to thousands of rose-colored flamingos. 

Mount Kilimanjaro

Iconic Mount Kilimanjaro is the world's tallest free-standing mountain and the highest mountain in Africa. It is possible to climb Kilimanjaro without any specialised training or equipment, and several tour companies offer guided hikes to the summit. Tours take between five and 10 days, and pass through five different climate zones. 

Located off the coast of Dar es Salaam, the spice island of Zanzibar is steeped in history. The capital, Stone Town , was built by Arab slave-traders and spice merchants who left their mark in the form of elaborate Islamic architecture. The island's beaches are blissful, while surrounding reefs offer ample opportunity for scuba diving. 

Getting There

Tanzania has two main airports - Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam, and Kilimanjaro International Airport near Arusha. These are the two main ports of entry for international visitors. With the exception of a handful of African countries, most nationalities require a visa for entry into Tanzania. You can apply for a visa in advance at your nearest embassy or consul, or you can pay for one on arrival at several ports of entry including the airports listed above. 

Medical Requirements

There are several vaccinations recommended for travel to Tanzania, including hepatitis A and typhoid. Zika virus is also a risk, and as such pregnant women or those that are trying to conceive should consult a doctor before planning a trip to Tanzania. Depending on where you're going, anti- malaria prophylactics may be necessary, while proof of yellow fever vaccination is compulsory if you're traveling from a yellow fever endemic country. 

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: The Complete Guide

Weather in Tanzania: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

The 18 Best Things to Do in Tanzania

East Africa's 10 Best Travel Destinations

The Best Time to Visit Tanzania

Five of the Best Safari Itineraries in Tanzania

Best Places to Visit in Tanzania

Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania: The Complete Guide

Top 10 Unmissable African Safari Destinations

How to Go on Safari in Tanzania

Lake Manyara National Park: The Complete Guide

The Best Time to Go on Safari

Kenya Travel Guide: Essential Facts and Information

Africa Highlights: What to Do and Where to Go

How to Experience the Great Migration in Kenya and Tanzania

Tarangire National Park: The Complete Guide

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Tanzania Travel Guide – Everything You Need to Know

Welcome to Tanzania, a land of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and some of the most spectacular wildlife on the planet. Nestled in East Africa, Tanzania is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. From the iconic plains of the Serengeti and the pristine beaches of Zanzibar to the towering peak of Mount Kilimanjaro, this diverse and enchanting country offers a wealth of experiences for travelers. Whether you’re embarking on a thrilling safari, immersing yourself in local cultures, or simply relaxing on the shores of the Indian Ocean, Tanzania promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Africa. Join us as we explore the wonders of tourism in Tanzania and the incredible adventures that await you.

What’s the Best Time to Visit? 📅

The best time to visit Tanzania as a tourist depends on your specific interests and the experiences you want to enjoy, as the country offers diverse climates and attractions. Tanzania can generally be divided into two main travel seasons:

1. Dry Season (June to October):

• Best Time for Safari: This is the most popular time for wildlife safaris in Tanzania. The dry season offers excellent game viewing opportunities as animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot.
• Great Migration: If witnessing the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras in the Serengeti is a priority, visit between June and July when they typically begin their northern migration or from September to October when they return to the south.

2. Wet Season (November to May):

• Green and Lush Landscapes: This is when Tanzania’s landscapes are at their most vibrant and lush due to the rain. The countryside is beautiful, and birdwatching is exceptional.
• Lower Crowds: Compared to the dry season, there are fewer tourists, and accommodations may offer lower rates.
• Calving Season: If you’re interested in witnessing the wildebeest calving season in the southern Serengeti, visit between December and March.

Specific Considerations:

• Mount Kilimanjaro: If you plan to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the best times are during the dry seasons from late June to October and from late December to February. These periods offer the most favorable weather conditions for the trek.
• Zanzibar and the Coast: For beach vacations on the Tanzanian coast and islands like Zanzibar, the dry season from June to October is ideal for clear skies and calm waters. However, Zanzibar and the coast are enjoyable year-round, and the wet season can be a good time to visit if you prefer fewer tourists.
• Cultural Experiences: If you’re interested in cultural experiences, consider planning your visit to coincide with local festivals and events. For example, the Lamu Cultural Festival on Lamu Island in November or the Mwaka Kogwa Festival in Makunduchi, Zanzibar, in July.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Tanzania depends on your priorities and interests. If wildlife and safaris are your focus, the dry season offers the best game viewing. However, if you’re interested in lush landscapes and a quieter experience, the wet season can be equally rewarding. Always check local conditions and weather forecasts for your specific destination in Tanzania when planning your trip.

What’s the Best Way to Get Around? 🚌

Getting around Tanzania as a tourist can be an adventure in itself, with various transportation options available to explore this vast and diverse country. Here are some of the best ways to get around Tanzania:

• Tanzania has several domestic airports, and flying between major cities and safari destinations can save you time and provide stunning aerial views.
• Airlines like Precision Air, Coastal Aviation, and Auric Air operate domestic flights.
• For exploring national parks and wildlife reserves, booking a safari tour or game drive with a reputable tour operator is a popular and convenient option.
• 4×4 safari vehicles are equipped for wildlife viewing and can access remote areas.
• Long-distance buses are an economical way to travel between cities. Companies like Dar Lux and Scandinavian Express operate comfortable buses on popular routes.
• Be prepared for long journeys and check the schedule and safety standards of the bus company.
• Taxis are readily available in major cities like Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Zanzibar. Use reputable taxi services, and negotiate fares before starting your ride.
• Rideshare apps like Uber and Bolt are available in some urban areas.
• In smaller towns and urban areas, you’ll find bajajis (three-wheeled taxis) and tuk-tuks as convenient modes of transportation for short distances.
• Negotiate fares before starting your ride.
• To reach coastal destinations and islands like Zanzibar, Mafia Island, and Pemba Island, you can take ferries and boats. Services operate regularly from Dar es Salaam and other coastal cities.
• Renting a car with a driver is an option for those who want more flexibility and independence. It’s especially convenient for exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations.
• Self-driving in Tanzania is possible but can be challenging due to road conditions, traffic, and local driving habits. Ensure you have proper documentation and a reliable vehicle.
• In cities and towns, walking is a great way to explore local neighborhoods, markets, and attractions.
• Cycling can be enjoyable in areas with low traffic and scenic routes, such as Arusha and Zanzibar.
• For those embarking on treks, such as Mount Kilimanjaro or Ngorongoro Highlands hikes, guided tours and trekking companies are essential.
• In some urban areas, you can rent motorcycles and scooters for short trips, but ensure you have the necessary licenses and safety gear.
• In places like the Serengeti, you can take hot air balloon rides for a unique perspective of the wildlife and landscapes.
• While not as common among tourists, hitchhiking is practiced by some travelers, especially on rural routes. Exercise caution, and use good judgment when accepting rides.

Always plan your transportation in advance, especially for long journeys and safaris, and book accommodations accordingly. Tanzania’s diverse landscapes and attractions make it a fantastic destination for exploration, so choose the mode of transport that best suits your itinerary and travel preferences.

What’s the Official Language?

The official languages of Tanzania are Swahili (Kiswahili) and English. Swahili holds a prominent place in daily communication and is widely spoken throughout the country.

Here are some useful Swahili phrases for tourists:

• Hello – Jambo (informal) / Hujambo (formal)
• How are you? – Habari gani?
• I’m fine – Nzuri
• Thank you – Asante (informal) / Asanteni (formal)
• Please – Tafadhali
• Yes – Ndiyo
• No – Hapana
• Goodbye – Kwaheri
• Excuse me / Sorry – Samahani
• What is your name? – Jina lako nani?
• My name is [Your Name] – Jina langu ni [Your Name]
• How much is this? – Hii ni bei gani?
• Where is the bathroom? – Choo kiko wapi?
• Water – Maji
• Food – Chakula
• Help! – Saidia!
• I don’t understand – Sifahamu
• Numbers: Learn basic numbers like moja (one), mbili (two), tatu (three), etc., to help with shopping and bargaining.

Learning a few Swahili phrases can enhance your interactions with locals and show your appreciation for their culture. Tanzanians generally appreciate when visitors make an effort to use their language. Additionally, English is widely spoken in urban areas and among educated populations, so you can communicate effectively in English as well.

Where to Stay? 🏨

Tanzania offers a wide range of accommodation options for tourists, catering to various budgets and preferences. The choice of where to stay depends on your travel itinerary and the experiences you seek. Here are some popular types of accommodations in Tanzania:

• Many national parks and wildlife reserves in Tanzania offer lodges and tented camps that provide a safari experience in close proximity to wildlife. These range from budget-friendly to luxury accommodations.
• Major cities like Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Zanzibar have a variety of hotels and resorts, ranging from budget to high-end luxury. These are suitable for urban exploration, business trips, or beach vacations.
• Guesthouses and B&Bs offer a more intimate and homey atmosphere. They are often family-run and provide a chance to interact with locals.
• For budget travelers and backpackers, hostels are available in some urban areas and backpacker-friendly destinations. They offer dormitory-style rooms and shared facilities.
• If you enjoy camping, many national parks and reserves provide campsites. Some are equipped with basic facilities, while others offer a more primitive experience.
• Some lodges and camps offer unique accommodations like treehouses or stilted bungalows, providing a one-of-a-kind experience.
• In addition to traditional lodges and tented camps, some accommodations offer “safari-style” luxury, where you can enjoy modern amenities while feeling immersed in the wilderness.
• Along the coast and on Zanzibar Island, you’ll find beachfront villas, boutique resorts, and all-inclusive beachfront properties for a relaxing seaside getaway.
• Tanzania has eco-friendly lodges in its natural and rural areas, focusing on sustainability and providing opportunities for eco-tourism.
• In some rural areas and cultural tourism destinations, you may have the opportunity to stay with local families, providing an immersive cultural experience.
• If you’re seeking a high-end safari experience, Tanzania boasts a selection of luxury lodges and camps with top-notch service, gourmet dining, and exclusive wildlife viewing.

When choosing where to stay in Tanzania, consider factors such as your budget, the destinations on your itinerary, the type of experiences you want (e.g., safari, beach, cultural), and the level of comfort and amenities you desire. It’s advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your stay, especially in popular national parks and beach destinations.

What to Eat? 🍽️

Tanzanian cuisine is a flavorful fusion of East African and Indian influences, with a focus on spices and aromatic dishes. While exploring this diverse country, be sure to try these must-try Tanzanian foods:

• Ugali: This staple food is made from maize (corn) flour and water, resulting in a dense, starchy side dish often served with meat, vegetables, or sauce. It’s similar to polenta.
• Nyama Choma: Tanzanians love grilled meat, and nyama choma is a popular dish featuring skewered and grilled meat, often served with a spicy tomato and chili sauce.
• Pilau: A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices like cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom, often featuring meat or vegetables. It’s a delicious and aromatic specialty.
• Zanzibar Pizza: Found mainly in Zanzibar, these “pizzas” are actually more like savory crepes or wraps filled with a variety of ingredients like egg, vegetables, cheese, and meat, then fried to perfection.
• Mishkaki: These skewered and marinated meat kebabs are a popular street food and a tasty snack option.
• Biryani: An aromatic and flavorful rice dish often cooked with chicken, beef, or fish, along with a blend of spices and saffron.
• Chapati: A flatbread that’s soft and flaky, often served as a side or used to wrap meat and vegetables. It’s a common accompaniment to meals.
• Mandazi: These sweet, doughnut-like pastries are a popular snack and breakfast item in Tanzania. They come in various shapes and flavors.
• Kachumbari: A fresh tomato and onion salad with chili peppers and cilantro, providing a zesty and spicy kick to meals.
• Kisamvu: This is a dish made from cassava leaves cooked with peanut sauce, creating a rich and savory flavor.
• Wali Wa Nazi: A creamy coconut rice dish often served with fish or chicken. The coconut milk adds a delightful tropical twist.
• Supu Ya Ndizi: A hearty banana soup, usually made with green bananas and coconut milk. It’s a unique and satisfying dish.
• Urojo: Also known as Zanzibar mix, this is a tangy and spicy soup featuring a mix of ingredients like potatoes, lentils, and fried cassava.
• Maharage Ya Nazi: A dish of red kidney beans cooked in a creamy coconut sauce, typically served with rice or ugali.
• Kaimati: Sweet dumplings made from deep-fried dough and coated in sugar syrup. They are a delightful dessert or snack.
• Samaki Wa Kupaka: A flavorful and creamy fish curry with coconut milk, served with rice or chapati.
• Mtori: A traditional Chagga dish made from green bananas and meat, cooked to create a creamy stew with a unique flavor.
• Chipsi Mayai: A popular street food, this dish consists of french fries (chips) and eggs cooked together, often served as a fast and satisfying snack.
• Vitumbua: Small, sweet rice cakes that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They are often enjoyed as a snack or dessert.
• Baobab Fruit: Try the unique and tangy baobab fruit, which can be eaten fresh or used to make juices and smoothies.

Don’t miss the opportunity to savor these delightful Tanzanian dishes and experience the rich culinary traditions of this East African nation.

What to See? 🔍

Tanzania boasts a wealth of stunning natural landscapes, wildlife-rich national parks, and cultural attractions. Here are some must-see places in Tanzania for tourists:

• Serengeti National Park: Known for the Great Migration, the Serengeti is one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. Witness vast herds of wildebeest, zebras, and other animals on the move.
• Ngorongoro Conservation Area: Explore the Ngorongoro Crater, a natural amphitheater teeming with wildlife. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers some of the best game viewing in Africa.
• Mount Kilimanjaro: Embark on the adventure of a lifetime by climbing Africa’s highest peak. Kilimanjaro offers various routes for trekkers, each with its own unique landscapes.
• Zanzibar Archipelago: Discover the captivating islands of Zanzibar, Pemba, and Mafia, known for pristine beaches, historic Stone Town, and vibrant Swahili culture.
• Serengeti Plains: Witness the iconic savannah landscapes of the Serengeti, characterized by vast grasslands dotted with acacia trees and roaming wildlife.
• Tarangire National Park: Famous for its large herds of elephants, Tarangire offers fantastic game drives, particularly during the dry season when animals gather around the Tarangire River.
• Lake Manyara National Park: Explore the diverse habitats around Lake Manyara, home to tree-climbing lions, flamingos, and a rich variety of birdlife.
• Selous Game Reserve: This vast and less-visited reserve is known for its boat safaris along the Rufiji River, offering opportunities to spot crocodiles, hippos, and a range of bird species.
• Mahale Mountains National Park: Trek through lush forests to see chimpanzees in their natural habitat on the shores of Lake Tanganyika.
• Ruaha National Park: Visit Tanzania’s largest national park for a more remote safari experience, with diverse landscapes and wildlife.
• Mikumi National Park: Often called “Little Serengeti,” Mikumi is easily accessible from Dar es Salaam and offers great wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Olduvai Gorge: Discover the cradle of humanity and the site of important archaeological discoveries, shedding light on human evolution.
• Lake Natron: This soda lake in the Rift Valley is known for its red-hued waters, large flamingo populations, and unique landscapes.
• Gombe Stream National Park: Made famous by Jane Goodall’s research, Gombe is another chimpanzee tracking destination on the shores of Lake Tanganyika.
• Mafia Island Marine Park: Snorkel, dive, and relax on the pristine beaches of Mafia Island, known for its coral reefs and marine biodiversity.
• Bagamoyo: Explore this historic coastal town with a rich Swahili and colonial heritage. It was a key trading post during the slave and ivory trade eras.
• Arusha National Park: Located near Arusha, this park offers a mix of landscapes, including forests, lakes, and the stunning Mount Meru. It’s a great place for hiking and game drives.
• Kigoma: Visit this lakeside town on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, known for its scenic beauty and as a gateway to Gombe Stream National Park.
• Materuni Waterfalls: Located near Moshi, hike to these picturesque waterfalls and enjoy the lush surroundings.
• Lake Eyasi: Explore the cultural diversity of the area, including interactions with the Hadza and Datoga tribes, as well as the chance to see flamingos on the lake.

These are just a few of the must-see places in Tanzania, a country blessed with an incredible range of natural and cultural wonders that will leave you in awe of its beauty and diversity.

What to Do? 📸

Tanzania offers a wealth of incredible experiences for tourists, ranging from thrilling wildlife safaris to cultural encounters and adventurous activities. Here are some must-do things to make the most of your visit to Tanzania:

• Embark on a Safari: Go on a game drive or wildlife safari in world-renowned parks like the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Selous. Witness the “Big Five” and other incredible wildlife in their natural habitat.
• Climb Mount Kilimanjaro: Conquer Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, by embarking on a trekking adventure. Choose from various routes that suit your level of fitness and preference.
• Meet Chimpanzees: Trek into the Mahale Mountains or Gombe Stream National Parks to encounter chimpanzees in the wild. These parks offer unique opportunities for primate tracking.
• Relax on Zanzibar’s Beaches: Explore the stunning beaches and turquoise waters of Zanzibar and its neighboring islands. Snorkel, dive, or simply unwind on the picturesque shores.
• Explore Stone Town: Wander through Stone Town in Zanzibar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to discover its historic architecture, markets, and the House of Wonders.
• Visit Local Markets: Immerse yourself in Tanzanian culture by exploring bustling local markets like Darajani Market in Stone Town and Arusha’s Central Market.
• Experience a Cultural Tour: Participate in cultural tours and visit Maasai villages to learn about traditional lifestyles, dances, and crafts.
• Witness the Great Migration: Time your visit to witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti, where millions of wildebeest and zebras traverse the plains in search of greener pastures.
• Hot Air Balloon Safari: Experience a sunrise hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti for a breathtaking and unique view of the wildlife below.
• Hike in the Usambara Mountains: Explore the lush, green Usambara Mountains on foot, with hiking trails leading to picturesque viewpoints and charming villages.
• Go Birdwatching: Tanzania is a paradise for birdwatchers, with a diverse range of bird species. Lake Manyara and Arusha National Parks are great places for birding.
• Sample Local Cuisine: Savor Tanzanian dishes like ugali, nyama choma (grilled meat), pilau, and fresh seafood. Don’t miss the opportunity to try street food and local delicacies.
• Take a Dhow Cruise: Experience a traditional dhow cruise along the coast or around Zanzibar’s islands, enjoying sunset views and snorkeling opportunities.
• Swim in Natural Pools: Take a refreshing dip in natural swimming pools at waterfalls like Materuni and Ndoro Waterfall.
• Stroll Along Lake Shorelines: Enjoy leisurely walks along the shores of Lake Victoria, Lake Tanganyika, or Lake Eyasi, taking in the serene views and local life.
• Visit Historic Sites: Explore historical sites like Bagamoyo, a former slave trade center, and Olduvai Gorge, known for its archaeological significance.
• Engage in Watersports: Try kayaking, paddleboarding, or kite surfing in coastal areas or on the lakes of Tanzania.
• Attend Local Festivals: If your visit coincides with local festivals and events, such as the Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF) or the Ngorongoro Marathon, consider participating.
• Relax at a Spa: Pamper yourself with a relaxing spa treatment in one of Tanzania’s luxury lodges or resorts.
• Capture the Beauty: Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes, wildlife, and vibrant cultures you encounter during your Tanzanian adventure.

Tanzania offers a wide range of experiences, ensuring that every traveler can find something memorable to do while exploring this diverse and captivating country.

Culture and Safety 🦺

Traveling to Tanzania as a tourist offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in a rich and diverse culture while enjoying the country’s natural beauty. However, it’s essential to be aware of cultural norms and safety considerations to ensure a rewarding and safe experience:

• Respect Local Customs: Tanzanian culture is diverse, with over 120 ethnic groups, each with its traditions and customs. Be respectful of local customs, especially in rural areas. Learn about cultural norms and ask for guidance when needed.
• Greeting: Greetings are important in Tanzanian culture. Use polite language and a friendly demeanor when greeting people. Common greetings include “Jambo” (hello) and “Karibu” (welcome).
• Dress Modestly: In many parts of Tanzania, particularly outside urban areas, dressing modestly is important. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid wearing shorts in some communities.
• Conservative Areas: In Zanzibar and some coastal areas with predominantly Muslim populations, dressing conservatively is especially crucial. Women should cover their heads in mosques and some public places.
• Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas. Some locals may be uncomfortable with photography, so respect their privacy.
• Bargaining: Bargaining is common in local markets, but do it respectfully and with a smile. Avoid aggressive or disrespectful bargaining tactics.
• Eating with Hands: It’s customary to eat with your right hand, as the left hand is considered impolite. Wash your hands before and after a meal.
• Health Precautions: Consult a healthcare professional before traveling to Tanzania. Ensure you have necessary vaccinations and take malaria prophylaxis if required. Carry a basic medical kit with essential medications.
• Water and Food: Drink bottled or treated water and eat at reputable restaurants and lodges to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses. Avoid street food in areas with questionable hygiene.
• Travel Insurance: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events.
• Currency Exchange: Use official currency exchange services or banks to exchange money. Be cautious of street money changers.
• Road Safety: Tanzania’s road conditions can vary, and traffic can be chaotic, especially in cities. Use seat belts, drive cautiously, and consider hiring a reliable driver for long journeys.
• Wildlife Safaris: Follow the instructions of your safari guide and respect wildlife. Keep a safe distance from animals and never feed them.
• Emergency Contacts: Know the local emergency numbers, including the police (112), medical emergency services (115), and fire department (114).
• Travel Advisory: Check for travel advisories and updates from your government’s embassy or consulate before and during your trip. Tanzania may have specific travel advisories depending on the political climate.
• Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs. Possession and use of drugs are illegal, and penalties can be severe.
• Cultural Respect: Respect local cultures and traditions. Learn about the local customs and be mindful of local sensitivities.
• Alcohol: Alcohol is available in Tanzania, but excessive drinking in public places is discouraged. If you consume alcohol, do so responsibly.

By respecting local customs, staying informed about safety precautions, and using common-sense travel practices, you can have a safe and culturally enriching experience while exploring Tanzania’s diverse landscapes and cultures.

As your adventure in Tanzania comes to an end, you’ll leave with cherished memories of a country that captivates the soul. Tanzania’s vast and varied landscapes, teeming wildlife, and warm hospitality offer an unparalleled travel experience. Whether you’ve witnessed the Great Migration on the Serengeti, scaled the roof of Africa on Mount Kilimanjaro, or basked in the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar, Tanzania has left an indelible mark on your heart. The rhythmic beats of local music, the vibrant colors of Maasai attire, and the friendly smiles of its people will echo in your memory, beckoning you to return to this remarkable corner of Africa. Until next time, Tanzania remains an inviting land of adventure and discovery. Karibu Tena—welcome back.

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Home » Africa » Tanzania » Backpacking Guide

Backpacking Tanzania Budget Travel Guide 2024

I’ve written the best travel guide to backpacking Tanzania on a budget, for I can think of few other countries that better represent the African continent.

Lush, verdant, rich in lore and industry, and home to some of the noblest creatures and mountains in the world, Tanzania is a world wonder.

Tanzania has been romanticized countless times by the greatest Western authors. Hemingway, Fitzgerald, and many more from the Lost Generation traveled to Tanzania in search of a greater truth.

Philanthropy legend Jane Goodall started her career here. So many people over the years have fallen in love with Tanzania and I’m sure you will too.

With this travel guide to Tanzania, you’ll gain valuable information about how to have an amazing trip in the country.

We’ll cover a wide range of topics over the course of this article, covering vital topics like what to do in Tanzania and the best places to stay.

By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped with all of the necessary tools to go backpacking around Tanzania on a budget!

Why Go Backpacking in Tanzania?

Backpacking Tanzania is one of the best experiences a traveler can have.

On a journey through this marvelous country, backpackers will find a menagerie of exotic wildlife, heavenly beaches, and friendly and warm people. Moreover, they may discover an elusive piece of themselves that has escaped so many journeymen before them.

Think great food, stunning beaches, interesting cultures, and—last but not least—the mighty Kilimanjaro. There are so many different backpacking routes in Tanzania, but no matter which backpacking route you choose they will all be amazing.

We’re going to break down the best places to visit in Tanzania soon, but before we get to that section we need to talk about specific routes for backpacking Tanzania.

Below are a couple of itineraries for backpacking Tanzania that are meant to inspire you. Each one is specially drafted to give you the best experience possible. Though if you wish, please feel free modify them in any way that you like.

Afterward, we’re going jump into the meat of the article – the destinations – and then follow up with some more specific information e.g.  Costs, Food, Diving , etc.

Hang tight my fellow broke backpackers; we’re getting into the meat of the article now!

Best Itineraries for Backpacking Tanzania

I have written four travel itineraries for backpacking Tanzania. They are titled Sea to Sky, Time to Enjoy Tanzania, More Sun and Savannah , and the Grand Tour .

These vary from 1 week to 3 weeks in length and cover the majority of the best places in Tanzania to travel to.

Backpacking Tanzania 7 day Itinerary #1: Sea to Sky

With so little time to go backpacking in Tanzania, you’ll have to settle for its two greatest attractions: Zanzibar and the landscape around Arusha (poor you). On this 7-day Tanzania itinerary, you’ll either fly into Zanzibar or Arusha, head to the other and then fly out.

Go on a quick safari in the Tanzanian Nationa Park , Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater . Be sure to keep an eye for Mt. Kilimanjaro (I hear it’s quite big…).

Afterward, relax on the beaches of Zanzibar and drink a Kilimanjaro beer. You can go snorkeling or scuba diving, kite surfing, or maybe go on a sailing trip in a traditional dhow.

If you’d like, reverse this itinerary and start in Zanzibar, then go to Arusha afterwards!

Backpacking Tanzania 10 day Itinerary #2: Time to Enjoy Tanzania

This 10-day itinerary for Tanzania is very similar to the one above except now you have more time to really enjoy all of the best places in Tanzania!

Visit all of the hidden gems around Arusha including Lake Natron and Ol Doyino Agani ! Scuba dive off the coast of Pemba Island near Zanzibar! Maybe even attempt to climb the mighty Kilimanjaro! All of this and more is possible because you have more time to spend in this amazing country.

Backpacking Tanzania 2 week Itinerary #3: More Sun and Savannah

On this 2-week itinerary for backpacking Tanzania, you’ll have time to explore the more distant locations, but only a little…

With the extra 4 days, you’ll be able to visit Mafia Island , which is the best place to go diving in Tanzania! Whale sharks are common here and swimming with them is an unbeatable experience. Aside from the diving, Mafia Island also has some of the best beaches in the country; bonus, they are completely deserted.

Backpacking Tanzania 2 week Itinerary #4: The Grand Tour

Now we’re talkin’! With 3 weeks to backpack Tanzania, you’ll be able to experience this country properly. In addition to all of the locations discussed prior (Arusha, Serengeti, Kili, Zanzibar, Mafia, etc), you’ll have time to venture deep into the south the Southern Highlands , where some of Tanzania’s great treasures are located.

Make the long(ish) bus journey through Mikumi and Udzungwa on the way to Iringa . If you like, stop for the chance to see some big game and awesome scenery.

Once you’ve arrived in Iringa, head straight for Ruaha , which is one of the best national parks in Tanzania . While here, you’ll get to see most of the wildlife that the Serengeti has but without the tourist crowds!

Places to Visit in Tanzania

Backpacking dar es salaam.

Dar es Salaam or simply Dar is the largest city in Tanzania and the center for most of the country’s business. It’s a typical Africa city, one defined by equal parts of urban growth and apparent chaos. Regardless, Dar is one of the most important economic centers in all of Africa.

Because it is a city mostly aimed at business, those who are backpacking around Tanzania usually end up skipping Dar or simply use it as a base to organize tours. While Dar does offer less in the way of tourist attractions compared to powerhouses like Arusha or Zanzibar, it still has its own merits!

Dar has a ton of markets to visit, some of the best restaurants in Tanzania, and interesting cultural sites as well for that matter.

Shopping is the name of the game in Dar es Salaam. All of the markets are amazing and offer an awesome array of goods. Note that bartering is practiced in full force in Tanzania!

The Kariakoo Market is the most famous in Tanzania, renowned for its huge selection and very low prices. The Mwenge Market is great for woodcarvings while the Illal Market has lots of kitschy little secondhand stuff. Be sure to also drop by Kivukoni for a fresh albeit smelly seafood experience.

Some of the most interesting cultural sites in Dar include the Makumbusho Village Museum , the National Museum , the Azania Front Lutheran Church , and the Askari Monument .

There are several beaches in Dar that are of a respectable quality. Coco and Mikardi are two of the most popular, so usually pretty busy. Just across the channel is Zanzibar, which is one of the great jewels of the Tanzanian coastline.

Backpacking Zanzibar

Zanzibar is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in all of East Africa and some very significant historical architecture as well. Consequently, it is one of the most popular places in Tanzania and probably ground zero for travelers.

Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous region, having only joined Tanzania in the last 50 years. As such, it has its own immigration offices for both air and sea. You’ll have to pass through customs when traveling both in and out Zanzibar so keep your passport handy!

It should be noted that Zanzibar, along with much of the Tanzanian coastline, is predominantly Swahili, which means that Islam is the prevailing religion. Please dress and act respectively. Refer to the section on People for information on local taboos.

Zanzibar is a fairly large island with several villages with their own unique vibe. Stone Town is the historical center and a UNESCO heritage site because of its significant Arab-Africa architecture. Some important landmarks in Stone Town include the Fort , House of Wonders , Livingstone’s House , and the Palace Museum .

Fun fact: Freddie Mercury of Queen was born in Stone Town! There are several restaurants and bars around town that are dedicated to Mercury. Many will make bold claims of their connection to him, some being more authentic than others.

The northern tip of Zanzibar is where much of the action takes place due in part to its excellent beaches that are visitable at all tides. Nungwi is the busiest village in this region and Kendwa is a close second.

The beaches of Zanzibar are obviously the biggest draws. Some of the best budget accommodations in Zanzibar are on this part of the island as well. That said, you’ll also find some of the fancier beachside accommodation too.

Adventurous people can go to check out one of the many caves and islands located on the rim of Zanzibar. Kiwenge and Mangapwani are two cool caverns. Changuu (aka Prison Island )is a great place to see giant tortoises, and idyllic Mnemba Island has some great snorkeling.

Backpacking Paje

Paje is the largest village on the quieter southeastern coast of Zanzibar Island. Paje and many of the other proximitous villages have a much more relaxed vibe than the northern shores of Zanzibar.

Paje appears to be much more Swahili than the northern tourist areas. Buildings here are built in traditional style with the palm leaves and thatched roofs. Locals tend to keep to themselves here and go about their daily business, though in the evening it feels like the entire village (the men at least) move to the beaches to play football, which is the favorite sport in Tanzania.

The beaches in Paje are very long and beautiful. You could walk along them all the way to Jambiani or Dongwe , which are each about an hour away from Paje in opposite directions.

The beaches are often best for swimming when the tides are high. Kitesurfing is another popular activity here as the conditions are quite good.

If you can manage it, I definitely suggest hiring a dhow and captain for the day. Sailing in these watercrafts is an amazing experience because they are fun but mostly for the story! Dhows are sometimes nothing more than a hallowed-out tree and sail made of old t-shirts. The prospect of braving the seas in one of these whimsically precarious boats is a blast (for me at least)!

The southern villages of Zanzibar are notably more expensive but not prohibitively so. You can still find budget accommodation in Zanzibar’s southern reaches.

Though to really travel around Zanzibar on a budget, you should probably stick to the northern beaches. On that note, try and use the local dala-dalas as much as possible – private taxis are expensive on Zanzibar.

Backpacking Arusha

By now, we’ve left the coastline behind and entered into the heartland of Tanzania – a region characterized by vast savannahs, celestial mountains, great animal herds, and tribal peoples. This area truly looks like the stereotypical Africa and it’s, regardless of any predispositions, an amazing part of the country.

Arusha is the largest city in the region and the primary hub for organizing safaris and trips to Kilimanjaro. Many people just blow through town, eager to start their safaris and climbs. Though Arusha is, admittedly, an aesthetically unattractive town, it still deserves to be visited.

The markets of Arusha are the central nervous system of the city and are well worth seeing. There is a Maasai market as well that is more for tourists and souvenirs. Keep an eye for the rare tanzanite in the city as it’s famous here.

Arusha is surrounded by many coffee plantations as well and a tour of them is mandatory for any caffeine fiend! Visit one of the many cafes in Arusha (a good one is Africafe ) and inquire about visiting a plantation.

If you’re looking for a way to acclimate for a Kilimanjaro climb or just want to climb something quieter, Mt. Meru is right next to Arusha and makes for a great adventure. The mountain is 4500m tall so it will require several days to summit. Competent climbers may not need a guide but will need an official escort.

If you can manage it, try to organize a trip to the Oldupai Gorge , which is considered the “Cradle of Civilization.” Aside from being one of the most anthropologically significant places in the world, it’s also very unique looking.

Nearby Lake Natron and Ol Doinyo Lengai are even weirder destinations that offer some truly surreal experiences.

Backpacking Moshi

Moshi is the primary gateway to Mt. Kilimanjaro and, like Arusha, often used simply as a base for tourists. Much of Moshi’s attractions are hidden gems, much in the same way Arusha’s attractions are.

There’s a grand market, plenty of coffee plantations, the chance to visit Maasai villages, and two of the highest mountains in Africa nearby. Moshi does offer a few unique attractions of its own too.

One of the best things to do in Moshi is explore the surrounding countryside; there are plenty of awesome little wonders like waterfalls, hikes, and a gorgeous lake.

Lake Chala is on the border of Kenya and Tanzania and totally worth checking out. It is a very relaxed and totally lush place as well. You’ll see plenty of monkeys here and maybe the occasional elephant or two.

Marangu Falls and Materuni Falls are two very picturesque waterfalls located on the outskirts of Moshi. Both are great for swimming but be careful as the water can be freezing cold! If you searching for warmer water, head to the Kikuletwa Hot Springs  to feel your toes again.

For those who want to stay in Moshi long term, there are plenty of social welfare programs and rehabilitation centers that could use extra help. With these NGOs, you’ll often help children and abused women learn English and other vital skills that will prepare them for the modern world.

Note that many of these organization still require to you pay for your own food and board, though discounts may be offered. Ask around town to see which of the NGOs need help.

For information on climbing Kilimanjaro, refer to the Climbing Kilimanjaro section near the bottom of the article.

Backpacking Iringa and Ruaha

Iringa is the primary tourist hub for Tanzania’s Southern Highlands , which is one of the most beautiful parts of the country. This is one of the most alluring regions of Tanzania, not to mention the setting for some of its most magnificent game reserves.

The bus ride from Dar es Salaam to Iringa is worth making the trip alone. Along the way, you’ll pass through both Mikumi National Park , one of the best places to spot big game, and the Udzungwa Mountains . While driving to Iringa, there is a good chance you’ll see elephants and other animals just chilling on the side of the road.

Try and stop by the Udzungwa Mountains. Aside from being an ecological marvel, the mountains also host one of the greatest waterfalls in East Africa: Sanje Waterfall .

Upon arriving in Iringa, you may notice that it looks a bit different from other Tanzanian towns. This town was originally settled by the German Empire and so it has a distinctive Teutonic flair. Many of the local attractions in Iringa either relate to the original German colonization or their glorious defeat at the hands of the Wahehe. Some notable cultural landmarks include Kalenga Museum and the Gangilonga Rock .

The main reason to visit Iringa, however, is for the chance to visit Ruaha , one the greatest places to go on a safari in Tanzania; it is arguably better than the Serengeti!

I think Ruhaha is potentially superior to the Serengeti because it receives far fewer tourists. This means you won’t have to deal with crowds and can easily relatively affordable safaris!

You can organize a safari in Iringa or  Tungamalenga village, which is at the boundary of the park. Should you choose the latter option, you should take a bus to the village and sleep at a local campground.

Backpacking Mafia Island

Mafia Island is a much quieter version of Zanzibar, devoid of the raucous crowds and rampant tourism that can make the latter somewhat unattractive at times. It’s quickly gaining a reputation as an eco-friendly destination, yet the same time dangerously close to being discovered by the masses.

Those backpacking in Tanzania should definitely check out Mafia Island before it’s spoiled by those hordes of Zanzibarbarians.

Most travelers will fly to Mafia Island via Dar es Salaam. Tickets can be bought in advance though I’ve heard that you’ll pay less if you book in Dar itself within 2 weeks of the flight.

The other option is to grab a ferry from Nyamisati , which is about 4 hours south of Dar by bus. The ferry costs $8 and leaves at 3 am every morning though delays and/or cancellations are regular.

Upon arriving in Kilindoni , the largest town on Mafia, you’ll find it is much less busy than Zanzibar. There are very few vehicles on the island, so we suggest that you find a rental bike as a means of getting around.

The beaches of Mafia Island are gorgeous and often empty. You could spend your entire trip just being a beachbum, and chances are you’ll encounter less a handful of Westerners. The best beaches are on the west coast as the east has a lot of mangroves.

Mafia Island has the best snorkeling and diving in Tanzania! Whale sharks are very common and swimming with them is actually pretty affordable ($60 w/Afro Whale Shark Safari).

If you can, try to book a dhow to pay a visit to the beautiful lagoon and visit the surrounding islands:  Chole, Bwejuu, Jimbondo , and Juani .

Off the Beaten Path in Tanzania

Some of the best places in Tanzania are way out in the middle of nowhere! Backpacking to Tanzania’s farthest corners can be extremely rewarding and chances are you’ll be the only mizunga (white person) for miles. Sounds adventurous, right?

Below is a list of Tanzania’s most worthwhile off-the-beaten-path destinations. The journey to these will be long ( Swahili time will be in full effect!), the destinations themselves will sometimes be rough, and the locals will look at you funny.

For those who enjoy this sort of traveling, these remote locations prove to be irresistible.

Backpacking Pemba Island

If you liked the idea of Mafia Island’s solitude, then you’ll love Pemba Island just as much. Yet another tame alternative to Zanzibar, this island may be the most infrequently visited of them all.

Here you’ll find rolling hills, fishing villages, and few tourist lodges. Consequently, the beaches are pristine and the diving the best in Tanzania.

You can reach Pemba via plane from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar for around $150. There’s also a direct ferry leaving from Dar es Salaam twice per week and another from Tanga. Both schedules are highly variable and very prone to delays.

Chake Chake and Wete are the two main villages on the island and both have little in the way of tourist infrastructure. There are a few resorts and dive schools but not much else. Granted, there are still plenty of residents on Pemba Island; they tend to the fields and live a very quiet life.

The few lodges on the island are pretty expensive. You’ll have to look very hard to find an affordable lodge. As of now, I’ve not heard of any campgrounds around the island.

As you’d expect from an island off the tourist track, the beaches are amazing and completely devoid of tourists. There are a lot of mangroves to sort through but once you arrive at the sand you’ll be shocked by the purity of it. The north of the island has plenty of jungle to explore as well.

The diving around the island is also top notch and receives its fair share of whale sharks. Humpback whales have been spotted during the migratory season.

Backpacking Western Tanzania

The far western provinces of Tanzania that border Burundi, Rwanda, and the DRC, are among the least visited areas in the whole country. Here are some of Africa’s most magnificent lakes as well as a number of significant wildlife refuges that receive far fewer tourists than likes of the Serengeti and even Ruaha.

The two gateways to the West of Tanzania are Mbeye in the south and  Mwanza in the north. For the sake of simplicity, we’re going to highlight the top attractions in the area starting from Mwanza.

Note that there are commuter trains from Dar es Salaam to many of the major cities in Western Tanzania, including Mwanza, Kigoma, and Mbeya. These trains are reliable and relatively comfortable.

Sitting on the banks of Lake Victoria , Mwanza is a regional hub and a popular stopping point for those heading to Rwanda and Burundi. It can be accessed by road from more popular locations in the East via Dodam , the administrative capital of the country.

Trips to the Serengeti can be arranged in Mwanza but the shores and many islands of Lake Victoria are the more unique attractions.

Heading southwest from Mwanza, you’ll eventually hit Kigoma on the banks of Lake Tanganyika . This is a fabulous freshwater lake with sandy shores and crystalline waters that can be compared to the likes of the superlative Lake Malawi. Relaxing and swimming around the lake are highly recommended activities.

Within a day’s journey from Kigoma is the Mahale Mountains , which is perhaps the most significant sanctuary for the chimpanzee monkey.

To reach the Mahales, you will have to take the historical MV Liemba boat to Lagosa , whereupon you organize treks into the mountains for chimpanzee viewing. This endeavor is rarely undertaken by foreigners, though it is extremely rewarding.

From Kigoma and the Mahales, you’ll head south again until you reach Mbeye, passing  Katavi and Lake Rukwa along the way.

Backpacking Kilwa

One of the most significant historical sites in all of Tanzania is located way down south in the Kilwa Islands. These islands are the very essence of off the beaten path travel but reaching them will be totally worthwhile.

Buses depart to Kilwa Masoko , the main village in the area, from Dar es Salaam. Be sure to catch the early bus as it’s a long drive and later buses have been known to drop off passengers at Nangurukuru .

There is very little to do in Kilwa Masako besides visiting the nearby ruins. There are the usual attractions on the Swahili coastline, like deserted beaches, mangrove forests, local markets, and fishmongers, but you should be accustomed to these by now.

You can also visit neighboring Kilwa Kivinje if you like; this town is more modern than Masako and has some interesting German history.

The primary and perhaps sole reason to visit Kilwa is for the ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani. Kiswani is considered to be the most important Swahili historical site and dutifully a UNESCO World heritage site now.

To visit the ruins, you will need a permit from the local government as well as a dhow . The island itself is not too far away from the mainland. Note that you will also have to pay entrance at the ruins.

Kilwa Kisiwani is a huge complex full of decrepit buildings, crumbling walls, and shadows from the old Islamic Sultanate. There was formerly a palace, a grand mosque, and an imposing fort, though they are in ruins.

Songo Mnara is near Kiswani, a stone town that is equally as impressive. Between these two archeological sites, you could easily spend the entire day getting lost.

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Top Things to Do in Tanzania

1. go on safari.

There are over 40,000 square km of protected park in Tanzania, much of which offers amazing opportunities for wildlife viewing. Go on a safari for both yourself and for the local community – your support helps to protect these lands and bring jobs to the people.

2. Explore Stone Town in Zanzibar

Stone Town is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Tanzania. It is a testament to the old days of Arab rule and a wonder to walk around.

3. Climb Kilimanjaro

This is a bucket-list item for many of those backpacking Tanzania and Africa altogether! Climb the continent’s highest peak and touch the “Roof of Africa.”

4. Dive with whale sharks

Tanzania has some of the best diving opportunities in all of Africa. To really reach the best diving, you’ll have to head to some of the more off-the-beaten-path locations, like Mafia Island or Pemba Island.

5. Sail in a dhow

For seafaring Swahilis, the dhow is like an extension of their own body. Everyday they captain their boats for work, pleasure, and sometimes for no reason at all. Joining a Swahili on his dhow is truly a spiritual experience.

6. Visit the markets

Tanzanians love to shop and the markets are absolutely bonkers! You can find just about anything at a Tanzanian market from little baubles to rare tanzanite.

7. Hang out with local tribes people

Among the myriad of tribal communities in Africa , Tanzania has some of the most interesting well known of them. Visit one of the many villages in the heartland of the country for a peek into the local lives. Just remember to be RESPECTFUL and to not treat the tribes people like zoo animals.

8. Chill on the beach in Zanzibar

The beaches of Zanzibar are among the most beautiful places in Tanzania. With their bleached sand, sapphire water, and the occasional dhow sailing by, few parts of Tanzania are more enchanting than Zanzibar’s beaches.

9. Witness the Great Migration

The Great Migration of Africa is often described as one of the most incredible natural wonders of the world. Seeing the wildebeest, among other beasts, travel across the plains in such an epic fashion is truly one of the best things that you can do while backpacking in Tanzania.

10. Explore Western Tanzania

Tourists rarely visit Western Tanzania, yet it offers some of the best attractions in the country! Go swimming in Lake Tanganyika and explore the Mahale Mountains for a chance to see a chimpanzee in its natural habitat.

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Backpacker Accommodation in Tanzania

Tanzania has been on the backpacker radar for some time now and so the country has a lot of different forms of accommodation, many of which are affordable! Between the many hostels, campgrounds, apartments, and bush lodges, you should have no trouble choosing between some of the best places to stay in Tanzania.

Hostels in Tanzania are generally good quality. Areas popular with tourists, like Zanzibar and Arusha, will have a greater selection. Some of the hostels in these places are pretty slick as well!

Staying in a lesser visited location, like Iringa or Mafia, will mean you have to stay in more basic lodges (such is Africa).

In order to save money, I definitely suggest bringing your own tent and staying in the campgrounds as much as possible. You can also bring a hammock but make sure it’s sealed to keep away the mosquitoes.

If you’re going on safari, you’ll be camping anyway! What is more, many hostels in Africa have campgrounds that share facilities. Taking advantage of hostels like this means that you have access to the communal showers and kitchens.

If a hostel doesn’t have a designated campsite, you can convince them to let you pitch your tent in the garden.

Staying in an apartment can be an awesome experience, especially in places like Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam. Airbnb is my favorite way to book an apartment, no matter where I travel.

Consider couchsurfing in Tanzania as well! Doing so will unlock another side of the country.

Where to Stay in Tanzania

Travel costs for backpacking tanzania.

Like the rest of Africa, Tanzania can be both very cheap and very expensive at the same time. Whereas the costs of living can be very low, going on a safari or a multi-day hike can turn out to be exorbitant.

All of that hard work of sticking to a budget while traveling Africa – those days of spending less than $10 – can be eradicated by a couple of days in the Serengeti or Kilimanjaro.

You can travel on a budget in Tanzania though! You just need to have the right practices, my eager broke backpackers.

A comfortable daily budget for Tanzania should be around $30-50 per day . With this, you should have no problem finding a dorm bed, groceries, beer money, and cash for transport. This does not include safaris.

Hostels can cost anywhere from $15 for a large dormitory to $35 for a private room. Conventional Western lodging can be expensive in Tanzania and the costs add up quick. Note that Zanzibar is more expensive then mainland Tanzania. Check out the hostels in Zanzibar for the lowdown.

The best way to go backpacking in Africa on a budget is to bring a tent with you! Carrying around your own shelter while traveling in Tanzania allows you to take advantage of campsites and skip on renting tents for safaris.

Food, drink, and transport can all be cheap if you stick to the local methods. Eat at the little cafes and street vendors where a meal costs between $3-$5.

Stick to the crowded minibusses where even long hauls cost a matter dollars. Domestic flights will not be cheap; ferries and buses will save you hundreds of dollars, but will take hours or possibly days of travel.

Stick to these local habits and you save lots of money while backpacking in Tanzania. This way you can splurge on the big ticket items, like a diving trip or safari.

Budget Safaris in Serengeti and Elsewhere

Going on a safari in the Serengeti or anywhere for that matter is one perhaps the #1 reason people visit Tanzania in the first place. How many dream of going off-roading in the plains of Africa in search of elephants, lions, and the rest of their favorite childhood animals?

Going on a safari in Tanzania is an amazing, once-in-a-lifetime experience, but it can also be a very expensive one.

Never fear my broke backpackers! Where there’s a will, there’s a way and there’s certainly a will for finding budget safaris in the Serengeti and elsewhere in Tanzania.

There are plenty of budget safaris in Tanzania. These multi-day tours are usually pretty basic, consisting usually of a guide or two, a single 4×4, and a group of enthusiastic backpackers.

You may camp out in the middle of nowhere but most likely you’ll end up staying in a shared campground with other groups of travelers.

Tents will be pretty rudimentary and you’ll probably be expected to bring your own equipment, like a sleeping bag, mat, and headlamp, though you should have all of these things for backpacking Africa on a budget anyway!

There are a ton of companies that offer budget safaris in Tanzania and it’s just a matter of doing your research. You should have little problem finding the right safari in tourist hubs like Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Iringa, so shop around!

Don’t be afraid to go on a safari in a lesser-known wildlife park. The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater get all of the attention but places like Ruaha , Tarangine , and Lake Manyara can be just as beautiful and even cheaper! Taragine and Lake Manyara are very close to Arusha as well and make for relatively easy trips.

Money in Tanzania

The official currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian shilling . As of October 2018, the official conversion rate for the Tanzanian shilling is 1 USD=2,289 shilling.

For small transactions in Tanzania, the kind you accrue at local markets, bars, cafes, street carts, etc, shillings will be requested. Most vendors will only accept smaller bills and may look at you irritatingly if you whip out a large bill. (Who could blame them for breaking a 10,000 note when something like a beer costs 600 shillings?) Try to save small notes as much as possible for situations like these.

You can buy shillings at one of the many currency exchange businesses, which are primarily located in the more popular tourist areas. You’ll get a better exchange rate for larger and newer bills as well.

Often times you will see hotels, safaris, and activities priced in USD, Pounds and/or Euros. These currencies are the most commonly accepted form of payment when it comes to larger, more tourist-related activities – entry into National Parks is a good example of when you need to pay with USD.

More often than naught, you will be expected to pay with foreign currency, which can be frustrating since you probably bought a shit ton of shillings in the first place!

If you are planning on going on a safari, or have any unpaid bookings for that matter, bring USD, Euro, or Pounds to settle these up. If you only have shillings, most tourist businesses will still accept them with a little convincing.

Top Tips for Broke Backpackers

• Camp: With plenty of gorgeous places, Tanzania can be a great place to camp. Check out this post for a breakdown of the best tents to take backpacking. Or, if you’re feeling really adventurous and want to save some cash, consider picking up a backpacking hammock.
• Cook your own food: If you are on a tight budget, you can save money by cooking your own food. I recommend bringing a portable backpacking stove.
• Book your transportation early: Both plane and bus tickets are much cheaper if you purchase them in advance.
• Couchsurf :  Tanzanians are awesome, and I am so grateful I was able to explore its cities with local friends. Check out Couchsurfing to make some real friendships and see this country from the perspective of locals.
• Pack a travel water bottle : Save money and the planet every day!

Why Should You Travel to Tanzania with a Water Bottle?

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful!

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller.

STOP USING SINGLE-USE PLASTIC! If you’d like some more tips on how to save the world .

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Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

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Best Time to Visit Tanzania

Due to its size and geographic location, Tanzania has a unique climate that can be hard to characterize or predict. In the broadest sense, Tanzania has two rainy seasons: the “long rains” from March-May and the “short rains” from November-December.

The long rainy season is characterized by large tropical deluges that occur in the afternoons. Humidity is very high during this time and, for much of the country, the temperatures are still quite high.

Washouts are common during this season and the vegetation is overgrown; both of these factors allow for very poor safari conditions.

The long dry season that follows the long rains (June-October) is generally seen as the best time to go backpacking in Tanzania. Rains become erratic, temperatures fall to a comfortable level, and the skies are the clearest all year.

That being said, the Long Dry is still not the best time of year for safaris as the rivers and watering holes are still full, which makes animals less inclined to go out in open.

If you wanted to see the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti, you’d be too early as well. This time of year is best for activities like island hopping or climbing Kilimanjaro.

Following the Long Dry, Tanzania enters another short rainy season in November and December that is much less dramatic. Following this is another short dry season from January to February before the whole cycle starts again. Depending on the year’s precipitation, the line between these two short seasons may be vague as rain.

Together, the short seasons are another excellent time to visit Tanzania. Game will be out in the open, the Migration will have returned to the Serengeti, and the weather will be reliable. Note that temperatures will be very hot at this time.

Festivals in Tanzania

Tanzania has some of the craziest and most unique festivals in East Africa! From cultural to musical to just downright weird, there’s a celebration for everyone in Tanzania.

Watch men lash each other (civily) to settle beefs from last year! Participate in a marathon at the base of Mt. Fuckin’ Kiliamnajaro, which has to be the coolest setting for a race that I’ve ever heard of. All of these and more are really happening in Tanzania!

Here’s a list of some of the most interesting festivals taking part in Tanzania:

• Wanyambo Festival (January) – Traditional festival that features song, dance, performances, and food. Held in Makumbusho, slightly north of Dar es Salaam.
• Sauti za Busara (February) – A big musical festival featuring jazz, pop, afrobeat, and more. Held on Zanzibar.
• KiliMan Challenge (February) – Perhaps the greatest triathlon ever. Includes a climb up Kilimanjaro, a mountain bike race around it, and, finally, a marathon at the base.
• Unification Day (April) – Celebration of the day Zanzibar joined with Tanzania. Lots of nationalistic ceremonies and flag waving.
• Mwaka Kogwa (July/August) – Multi-day festival where men beat each other with banana leaves to settle arguments. A ceremonial straw hut is set on fire too. Held on Zanzibar.
• Eid al-Fitr (dates changes on account of the Muslim calendar) – The celebration of the end of Ramadan. There is feasting, gift-giving, praying, and dancing involved.

What to Pack for Tanzania

On every adventure, there are six things I never go traveling without:

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

For plenty more inspiration on what to pack, check out my full  backpacking packing list.

Staying Safe in Tanzania

Tanzania suffers from much the same crime that is endemic to Eastern Africa: theft is ordinary, corruption is rampant, and violence is not unheard of.

When backpacking in Tanzania, you must be alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in empty streets or when it’s dark out. I cannot tell you how many times I’ve heard of backpackers getting in trouble because they were not careful; myself included.

There are a lot of petty criminals and desperate opportunists in Tanzania that have no problem targeting a tourist. Law enforcement often likes to get a cut of the business and will often solicit backpackers for bribes as well.

Even the odd taxi driver may attempt to screw over a backpacker and hold him hostage for a bribe. I’ll never forget the story my friend told me about how a simple a taxi ride turned into a stand-off and eventually led to an awkward conversation with a local mob boss (but that’s a long story).

We suggest to everyone to study our  guide on being a safe backpacker . In this article, we cover a lot of scams and how to avoid them. We also cover a lot of practicalities like avoiding the display of expensive items, traveling in groups, and using the proper safety garments. Be sure to check it out.

We mentioned before that cops like to pick on tourists by soliciting bribes. Usually, they’ll invent some sort of infracture on the spot and say that you need to pay them right there. If you’re positive that you’ve done no wrong, just hold your ground and insist on credentials. The cop will get annoyed and most likely walk away.

Staying Safe Around Tanzanian Wildlife

Tanzania is deep in malaria territory so you will need to consider your antimalarial options. Consult a doctor beforehand to see if malaria medication is right for you. I didn’t use malaria medication once in Africa – I wore long clothes and used lots of repellent instead – and probably got lucky.

Also be very cautious around the wildlife. Most of the animals that you encounter on a safari will be skittish. On the off chance you take the wrong step and encroach on a beast’s territory, things can get really hairy.

You don’t want to fuck with a charging bull elephant or a hungry lion. You especially don’t want to get caught up with a hippo, which are the number one killers in Africa.

Always ask your safari guide if it’s ok to leave the car, campsite, etc. Do not wander into areas that marked off or labeled as dangerous.

For a proper briefing on safety on safaris, read this guide here . The article discusses Kenya specifically but is still applicable to Tanzania.

Sex, Drugs and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Tanzania

Tanzania is a fairly laid back country that doesn’t attract so many party animals. People tend to unwind by drinking a beer at the campground with a nice bonfire rather than getting pissed drunk at a bar. That being said, there are definitely ways to party in Tanzania!

The best parties in Tanzania will be on the coast in either Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam. Zanzibar generally has more casual beach bars while Dar can be a little posher.

There are a couple of noteworthy bars in Dar es Salaam like Q Bar, Samaki Samaki, The Savannah Lounge , and New Maisha Club . A lot of these places are restaurants during the day and clubs at night, so if you arrive at a spot and it looks tame, it’s because you’re too early.

From what I’ve heard from fellow travelers, each bar in Dar has a certain night where things get wild. A good example is Mediterraneo , which is usually stuffy, but every third Saturday goes fuckin’ crazy. Ask around to see when is the “good night” for each bar.

Zanzibar has more beach bars and the scene here is more intimate than Dar es Salaam. Most of the bars are pretty small but you do get the occasional big one in Stone Town or on the north of the island.

Of local infamy is Zanzibar’s own Full Moon Party at Kendwa Rocks . If you’ve been to the ones in Thailand, then this will feel familiar albeit less rowdy. There will be bonfires, DJs, and lots of drunk Zanzibarbarians.

Please be aware that both Dar and Zanzibar are Muslim communities. Most of the locals look the other way at drinking, some even partake themselves, but they will not appreciate dealing with wasted tourists. Please be respectful of them.

Travel Insurance for Tanzania

Traveling without insurance would be risky so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional, and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Getting Into Tanzania

There are lots of international airlines that provide service to Tanzania. Most of these international routes are centered around Tanzania’s top landmarks like Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar.

There are 3 international airports in Tanzania: Julius Nyerere International in Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro International between Arusha and Moshi, and Abeid Amani Karume International on Zanzibar.

Most international flights will arrive at Dar es Salaam, whereupon you’ll disembark or catch a connecting flight. That being said, there are still many major airlines going to Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar – Turkish, KLM, Emirates , and Ethiopian all offer frequent flights to some if not all of Tanzania’s international airports.

There is one luxury train that connects Tanzania and Zambia, which is called the Tazara . Riding it is an awesome way to experience the African countryside. Many ride this train as far as Mbeya and then catch a local bus to start backpacking in Malawi. For for information on the Tazara, refer to this informative website here .

Adventurous backpackers can catch a cargo freighter from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar to the tiny island nations of Comoros and Mayotte , halfway to Madagascar. There are no online resources for these islands, so interested parties will have to go to the local docks to start their journeys to these islands. If you’re lucky, you may find a more comfortable yacht that can give a ride in exchange for being a deckhand.

For more information on traveling to and from Tanzania by road, refer to the Onward Travel section.

Entry Requirements for Tanzania

Nearly every foreign country can receive a visa-upon-arrival in Tanzania. Visas-on-arrival cost $50 for a single entry 90-day visa or $100 for a double-entry 90-day visa. Note that American citizens can only obtain a multiple entry visa for $100. Most African nationalities require no visa to enter Tanzania and so only a passport is required to visit.

The Tanzanian government, as well as many foreign governments, advise that you arrange a visa beforehand. While I can see the logic in this – you won’t have to deal with bureaucracy as much in Tanzania – you may actually have to pay more when applying for a visa ahead of time. By all means, get the visa in your home country and risk paying more but I’d rather save a buck and wait in line a bit longer.

For more information, refer to the official visa website for Tanzania here .

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How to Travel in Tanzania

The best way to get around Tanzania is by the local bus system. Between the large intercity buses and the ubiquitous minibusses (referred to as dala-dalas in Tanzania), you can get just about anywhere in Tanzania.

Getting around the urban centers of Tanzania can be a somewhat harrowing experience depending on your constitution. Roads are in poor condition, sidewalks disappear without warning, and motorists are generally reckless.

You’ll have to have the courage to navigate the city streets in Tanzania, or you can just do what I do and head straight to the beach!

The most common form of public transit is the dala-dala , which costs next to nothing to ride and is usually jam-packed. Be aware of your belongings and where you’re going on these.

There are lots of taxis and rickshaws that ply the streets of Tanzania as well. Be sure to negotiate prices prior to entering one and be sure that they’re legit – people sometimes get mugged while riding unmarked taxis.

Driving between cities is a matter of catching another dala-dala , one that travels longer distances, or a larger mainliner.

The intercity mainliners are definitely more comfortable than the clown car minibusses but don’t expect too much luxury. Breakdowns occur all the time and often the AC and/or recliners don’t work either.

Hitchhiking in Tanzania should be a relatively straightforward task since many African people use it as a common mode of transport. Just be sure to follow all of the usual rules of hitchhiking and to be aware of your surroundings.

A special note on hitchhiking in Tanzania: instead of using your thumb, wave your hand with the palm up to indicate that you need a ride; having your palm face down means you want to pay.

Onwards Travel from Tanzania

Whilst most travelers choose to pair their trip to Tanzania with a backpacking adventure to South Africa , why not explore the countries nearby? Tanzania shares a border with 7 other nations and all of the borders are open to tourist crossings. Buses ply these routes very often and, regardless of the usual border town craziness, will get you safely to your onwards destination. You can be backpacking in Kenya, Zambia, Burundi, or whichever you please in no time! If you’re going to Nairobi, you’ll want to book your accommodation ahead of time – the city is a bit hectic and wandering around looking for a place to stay wouldn’t be much fun.

Most Tanzanian buses bound for a bordering country will start in Dar es Salaam, so you should have no trouble finding the right one. If you’re in a major satellite city like Arusha, Mwanza or Mbeya, you are usually close enough to a border and shouldn’t have trouble finding a bus going over it either.

Backpacking Mozambique is another popular route for travelers but note that the border between Mozambique and Tanzania is a bit rough since it requires crossing of the mighty Zambezi River. Crossing this border at one of the two major checkpoints is certainly possible but just keep in mind that it’ll be an all-day affair.

Below is a graph outlining all of the major border crossings in Tanzania.

Volunteering in Tanzania

Volunteering overseas is a great way to experience a culture whilst doing some good in the world. There are lots of different volunteer projects in Tanzania which you can join ranging from teaching, to animal care, to agriculture to pretty much anything!

Tanzania is a developing country that benefits greatly from volunteer contributions. English teachers are in high demand, and there are loads of opportunities in childcare. Whether you choose social work or contribute your skills in manual labour, you’ll get to connect with local communities and have a lasting impact on your surroundings. Volunteering for 90 days or less will require you to get a visa on arrival, whereas long-term travelers should apply for a Residence Permit ‘C’.

Worldpackers

If you want to find volunteering opportunities in Tanzania, then we recommend that you Signup for Worldpackers –  a volunteer platform that connects local hosts directly with traveling volunteers. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll also get a special discount of $10 when you sign up. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Volunteer programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers are usually very well-managed and reputable. However, whenever you are volunteering, do stay vigilant, especially when working with animals or children.

Alternatively, Workaway is another excellent common platform used by travellers searching for volunteering opportunities. Workaway is pretty massive, with over 40,000 hosts registered (that’s 40,000 opportunities) and over 350,000 reviews on the site. With a database base that big, odds are you’ll be able to find something that strikes your fancy. You can  read our review of Workaway  for more info on using this terrific platform.

Volunteer programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers and platforms like Workaway are usually very well-managed. However, whenever you are volunteering do stay vigilant, especially when working with animals or children.

Global Work and Travel

Global Work and Travel is another viable option for finding volunteer opportunities in Tanzania. What sets Global Work and Travel apart from other volunteering platforms is the amount of assistance they give, from a 24/7 global help-line, help with VISA processing to airport transfers and continued support once you are in Tanzania. It may be a smaller platform, but the projects you’ll find are high quality and immaculately organised. There are new programs and opportunities listed constantly as Global Work and Travel continues to grow its reach.

For those interested in volunteer work in Tanzania, Global Work and Travel offer community outreach projects in Arusha and Zanzibar Island where you’ll be working with children or promoting women’s empowerment. As with all volunteer abroad programs, there’s a cost, but you’ll be able to pay it off in interest-free instalments. Don’t forget to bring your camera and make sure you are between the ages of 18-85 to qualify!

Staying Connected in Tanzania

Internet access and connections are more commonly found in the major urban areas of Tanzania, like Dar es Salaam and Arusha, and are fairly reliable. You can often find internet connection at your lodge or at a local cafe that will give you the password if you buy something.

Internet becomes dodgy out in the African wilderness. You can expect to find little to no internet while on safari or while staying on a remote island. Probably a good thing, as unplugging sometimes can be hugely refreshing. In my experience, when there was internet in remote places it was extremely slow, and only efficient for simple tasks like texting, not for loading web pages, streaming or downloading.

Those who need to stay connected more regularly while backpacking through Tanzania should consider buying a local SIM card and getting a data plan. Like WiFi, data will be strongest in the more developed parts of the country.

Several local telecommunications companies offer special tourist packages that have a lot of data for a low price.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

What to Eat in Tanzania

The origin stories of Tanzanian cooking are as rich as the ingredients themselves! Taking inspiration from the various cultures that have passed in and out of the nation’s ports and history, Tanzanian food is varied, full of flair, and at the end of the day, very tasty.

Arab traders had a huge influence on Tanzanian cooking, thanks to the many exotic ingredients that they brought with them. The spicy meat and rice dishes that prevail in contemporary Tanzanian cooking are thanks to these traders.

The various colonial powers left their mark as well. The Portuguese introduced cashews and cassava, the British popularized tea and boiled vegetables, and the Germans cultivated coffee plantations.

The result of all of these mingling culinary styles is a form of cooking that will certainly make you smack your lips. Below is a list of the best Tanzanian foods to try.

• Ugali  –   cornmeal w/ sauce
• Ndizi Nyama   –   fried banana w/ meat or beans
• Nyama Choma  –   grilled meat
• Pilau –  spiced rice
• Wali Wa Nazi   –  coconut rice
• Ndizi Kaanga –   fried plantains/bananas
• Mshikaki –   marinated meats
• Chipsi Mayai –   eggs w/ fried potatoes
• Chapati –   flatbread
• Mandazi –   fried bread flavored w/ coconut

Tanzanian Culture

The first thing that you need to know is that “Tanzanian” is a pretty board term. There are over 120 ethnic groups currently inhabiting this country and each has their own social dynamics.

Throw in some European customs, which were introduced during colonization, and you have a very complex system of civics. To say that all Tanzanians fall into a neat little category would be an injustice.

Generally speaking, the coastline is dominated by Swahili culture, which is predominantly Muslim. Swahili people are often religious or not semi-practicing, so you should be aware of all the proper behaviors when it comes to Islam.

Swahili people are the most cosmopolitan in the country and are exposed to foreigners quite often – they’ll understand if you don’t know everything about their beliefs.

The deeper you travel into Tanzania, the more varied and traditional the cultures become. You’ll encounter Arusha people, Iraqw people, Maasai and probably a lot (a whole lot) more once you arrive in the heartland.

It is very important to not lump all of these cultures into one because a) it’s presumptuous and b) it could get you in trouble as not every ethnic group is friendly with the other.

The Maasai are one of the most well-known tribal groups and Africa. They are a very fascinating people, as refined and enlightened as they are raw. They practice several traditions that are meant to enrich the mind, soul, and body and are accomplished healers. Meeting a Maasai in his/her natural habitat would be a very positive experience.

There are so many different people in Tanzania that it could require a whole post to explain their cultures and traditions.

I could talk more about some general traits of each, like how the Meru are accomplished agriculturists or how the Baraig are excellent metallurgists, but these would be great understatements. To understand the cultures of Tanzania, you’ll just have to visit.

Language in Tanzania

Swahili is the official language of Tanzania and is spoken/understood by the grand majority of the population.

That being said, Tanzania has over 100 different languages that are recognized by the government and most Tanzanians can speak at the very least 3 different languages. Among these is English, which is a remnant of colonial times when Tanzania was a vassal of the British Empire.

Swahili is primarily a Bantu language that can be traced back hundreds of years. It was heavily influenced by the Arabic language due in part to the large amount of traders visiting Tanzania from the Arabian Peninsula.

When the European powers first arrived, they sought to standardize Swahili as a means to improve trade and communication. Upon successful implementation of standardized Swahili, it quickly became the de facto language of Tanzania, Kenya, (now) Rwanda, and the DRC.

Fun fact: the local dialect from Zanzibar was at the time chosen to be the model for a standardized Swahili.

Aside from Swahili, English is widely spoken by those in business and tourism. If you stick to the general Tanzania backpacking route, you shouldn’t have a problem communicating with the locals.

Some Useful Phrases for Traveling in Tanzania

If you do find yourself in a situation where no one speaks English, it would definitely pay to know a Swahili word or two. For your benefit, I’ve created a list of 10 useful Swahili travel phrases for backpackers traveling to Tanzania.

• Hello –  jambo
• How are you? –  habari gani
• See you later –  tutaonana
• Nice to meet you –  nafurahi kukuona
• Yes/No –  ndiyo/hapana
• Thank you –  asante
• No plastic bag –  Hakuna mfuko wa plastiki
• No plastic cutlery please –  Hakuna plastiki cutlery tafadhali
• Please –  tafadhali
• Excuse me –  samahani
• Can I take a picture –  naomba kupiga picha
• Where is…? –  ni wapi…?

Books to Read on a Trip to Tanzania

These are some of my favorite travel reads and books set in Tanzania, which you should consider picking up before you begin your backpacking adventure…

• The Book of Secrets –  A retired school teacher comes into possession of a mysterious diary and becomes entangled in its history. Written by M.G. Vassanji, a Canadian author who was raised in Tanzania who is among the most respected writers of the country.
• Green Hills of Africa – Hemmingway’s memoirs of his safaris in the Serengeti.
• The Snows of Kilimanjaro and Other Stories – The Snows of Kilimanjaro is widely regarded as Ernest Hemingway’s greatest short fiction. This anthology contains several other short stories.
• The Tree Where Man was Born – One of the finest travel novels ever written about East Africa. Truthful and revealing accounts of the bushman and ecosystems of Tanzania, as observed by Peter Matthiessen.
• By the Sea – Two Tanzanians, one a refugee and the other a professor, who reside in London meet on the streets and reignite an age-old feud. Written by the fantastic Abdulrazak Gurnah.

Brief History of Tanzania

Tanzania is one of the great crossroads of the African continent. Many different cultures and ethnic groups have visited Tanzania over the years in search of better game, trade, resources, and treasures. The Romans, Persians, Germans, and an uncountable number of Africa nomads have all visited Tanzania.

For several hundred years, Arabs regularly visited the Tanzanian coast for trade purposes and eventually established their own outposts. Their presence would have a huge influence on Africans. The local tribes came to adopt Islam as their religion and began speaking a form of Bantu heavily influenced by Arabic; this is the origins of the Swahili language.

The first Europeans, specifically Vasco de Gama and the Portuguese, arrived in Tanzania in the 16th century. The Portuguese were initially complacent in the region but soon became aggressive and started taking the land. For most the century, they controlled the East African coastline until the Arab powers retaliated. The Portuguese were expelled in the 17th century by the Arab Sultans.

In the 19th century, the British and German powers lead expeditions to Tanzania. The two countries began to contest over Tanzania, which eventually lead to the partition of the country into two parts.

The continental landmass became German – and was later called Tanganyika – and Zanzibar became English. Both quickly developed the land and began to build infrastructure, much of which still exists today.

The Tanzanians would not go quietly. For the duration of the European occupation, there were many revolts and proxy wars. The Germans were successful in squashing the uprisings but stretched thin. They remained in Tanzania until the Empire collapsed following World War I. Afterwards, the English took control of the greater landmass.

It wasn’t until the 1950s that the modern state of Tanzania became a plausible reality. Following much political movement, the Tanzanians, lead by Julius Nyerere, took control of the government via democratic methods in 1957. Zanzibar was reunited with Tanganyika and Tanzania was born.

Unmissable Adventures in Tanzania

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Safari Parks in Tanzania

There are a lot of places to go on a safari in Tanzania; a lot. Choosing which one can be a daunting task. You’re about to drop big bucks on one of these trips so it had better be what you want.

For your convenience, I’ve created a list of the best areas to go on a safari in Tanzania. Besides being full of wildlife, they’re among the most beautiful places in Tanzania as well.

• Serengeti – Absolutely massive park that would need weeks to explore. One of the busiest safari parks in the country, in terms of both wildlife and human spectators. Can be expensive and crowded. Best known for the Great Migration.
• Ngorongoro Crater – Perhaps the most epic place to go on a safari. Lots of big game inside an astounding natural amphitheater, where animals live year-round due to fertile soil and reliable water sources.
• Ruaha – Equal to the Serengeti in biological diversity but far fewer tourists. Hotter and drier than Serengeti.
• Lake Manyara – Smaller safari area that is often combined with Serengeti or Ngorongoro. Impressive in itself.
• Mahale Mountains – Arguably the most important sanctuary in the world for chimpanzees. Very off the beaten path so not many people visit here.
• Mikumi and Udzungwa – A small but dense series of parks that has a lot of threatened wildlife.
• Katavi – A very remote safari park that has excellent wildlife.
• Tarangire – A smaller park that hosts decent game given the right conditions.
• Selous – One of the largest safari parks in Africa. Requires a guide, 4×4, and plenty of time.

Climbing Kilimanjaro

Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro is one of the greatest achievements that many could accomplish in their lifetime. It is an epically imposing mountain – a monolithic figure that casts a shadow on landscapes and aspirations alike – and a beautiful one too.

Should you decide to summit this peak, your time will have been very well spent regardless if you reach the top or not.

Kilimanjaro is best attempted in the dry months between June and October and sometimes in January and February if it has been dry.

Climbing time is an average between 4 and 7 days. Don’t be fooled by the steamy jungles around Kili as well – it’s frigid cold, even glaciated, at the summit, though not for long .

There are several routes that lead to the top of Kilimanjaro and each offers a different experience. The most popular route to the top is the Marangu because it’s relatively quick (3-4 days) and cheap.

This route also has one of the lowest success rates because people often have trouble acclimating (but that’s what happens when you rush a 6000m peak).

The other routes to the summit of Kili include Machame, Rongai, Mweka, Umbwe , and Shira . Machame is gaining popularity because people succeed in greater numbers.

If you want to climb Kilimanjaro, you’ll have to reach out to a local climbing company. Expeditions can be arranged in Arusha or online, and a good price is around $1000-$2000 depending on how many days the climb takes.

Final Advice Before Visiting Tanzania

Try and book locally to save cash – foreign companies are often way more expensive. Also, try not to go too cheap – you’ll be taking money away from local porters/guides who need deserve your support and you’ll be putting your own life in danger as many safety expenditures are done away with.

There are a ton of good times to be had while backpacking in Tanzania but everyone, myself included, can get carried away sometimes. It is important to keep in mind that you are an ambassador for your country, which is awesome.

We can make a positive impact on people when we travel and get rid of any ugly stereotypes that may be associated with your country.

If you visit villages or small communities outside of the Tanzanian cities always ask before taking photos, especially when it comes to taking photos of women (you should ask in the cities as well).

The people who live in these villages are not exhibits in a museum. They are normal folks just living their lives. Always show them the complete respect that they deserve.

When buying local crafts or knick-knacks, do not haggle so low that the price is unfair to the person who spent countless hours crafting it. Pay people what they are worth and contribute to the local economies as much as possible.

Backpacking through Tanzania, or any region for that matter, often illuminates some of the great socio-economic inequalities of the world. Never take it for granted that you are healthy and financially able to go traveling.

Show the world around you some gratitude and help to make a positive impact on it. Most of all have the time of your life and spread the love in Tanzania!

• Backpacking Kenya
• Responsible Travel
• Backpacking Mozambique
• Choosing the BEST Travel Backpack

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Share or save this post

Wow this is well articulated and written, providing all the information, about Tanzania as a destination, thanks.

This is such a fantastic read!

We recently got back from a safari in Tanzania and we couldn’t have enjoyed it more!

You make a really good point about the park you go to. It doesn’t have to be the most famous. You can still get a wonderful experience in one of the lesser known ones!

We also booked our safari direct with the guide, which also would’ve cut out some costs for having to go through a larger company!

Thanks for all your info!

Great information. However, safari in Tanzania is not suitable at all for a broke backpacker. Very expensive indeed.

Thanks for taking the time to comment.

Yes we agree that Safari’s in Tanzania are expensive. We have pointed this out in the post and are not trying to mislead anybody.

This is quite informative Ralph. I love the details of it including the border experiences. Thank you for sharing.

Thanks for all the great information! I’m super excited for my trip to Tanzania but I am a bit concerned about the cost for a Serengeti safari. Most blogs and forums I’ve read suggest booking a safari tour online in advance, but the prices I’ve seen online are fairly steep (600 to 800USD). In other places I’ve traveled (primarily South America) I have always found it is much cheaper to book upon arrival. What would you suggest for the Serengeti? Should I book in Arusha, or through a site like safaribookings.com? Thanks!

Hey Kelly! I agree that it’s always cheaper to book safaris upon arrival than ahead of time. Arusha would be a good place to do this. You might want to book accommodation ahead of time though if you plan on doing any independent safaris – lodges do fill up fast at the parks.

I really like what you guys are usually up too. This type of clever work and reporting! Keep up the good works guys I’ve you guys to blogroll.

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Tanzania Tours & Vacations

Home to 'the Big Five', a big mountain and a whole host of big experiences, Tanzania is a must for every African adventurer.

Search for predators in the Ngorongoro Crater, chill out on Zanzibar's perfect beaches and climb the continent's highest peak. Tanzania offers outdoor experiences, supreme wildlife viewing , warm people and the chance to connect with ancient cultures.

Our Tanzania trips

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Tanzania at a glance

Capital city.

Dodoma (313,831)

57.3 million

Swahili, English

(GMT+03:00) Nairobi

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type D (Old British 3-pin) Type G (Irish/British 3-pin)

Learn more about Tanzania

Culture and customs.

Tanzania’s population is a vibrant mix of religions, races and cultures. Depending on what area you’re traveling in, be prepared to see a variety of cuisines, customs and dress, which directly reflect the diversity of the population.

The island of Zanzibar is predominately Muslim; Maasai are largely found in the North along with other indigenous tribes whose beliefs are largely animist; and Christians, Hindus and other minority groups can be found throughout the country.

Although most Tanzanians may not have many material possessions, travelers can expect a warm welcome and generosity from most locals.

Greeting styles and language differ according to ethnic or tribal group but universally, visitors can expect to receive a warm welcome and a smile from most.

Eating and drinking

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating! Whether you're sampling street food, savoring a cheap eat or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world.

Things to try in Tanzania

Seafood-lovers will adore the range of fresh seafood on offer in Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar. From fragrant fish curries to barbecued shrimp and lobster, the waterfront markets and restaurants are full of wonders from the sea.

2. Indian Cuisine

With a significant Indian population, Tanzanian cities have a fair share of Indian restaurants. Whether you’re visiting a budget cafe or more extravagant restaurant, Indian cuisine is generally a good option for vegetarians as there will always be a few meat-free options to choose from.

These sweet, fried breads can be found at markets and street stalls throughout East Africa, and make a delicious, cheap snack. Although they can be flavored differently, the ones made in Zanzibar usually feature fresh spices and coconut.

Geography and environment

Bordered by Burundi, Kenya , Malawi , Mozambique , Rwanda , Uganda , Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania has one of the most diverse natural environments in the world.

While traveling through Tanzania, you’ll be able to see enormous gorges, sprawling savanna, ancient islands, dense woodlands, snow-capped mountain ranges, vast lakes, colonial towns and modern cities.

With the Indian Ocean occupying the eastern side of Tanzania, this country truly does have the best of both worlds. Home to Africa’s highest peak and some of the most famous nature reserves in the world, Tanzania also has eclectic cities and vibrant villages to boast of.

Tanzania’s former capital, Dar es Salaam, is a modern metropolis with a colonial flavor while the regional center of Arusha has retained a village feel.

Zanzibar is in a category of its own with its ancient cobbled streets and unique, heritage-filled buildings.

History and government

Early history.

Home to some of the earliest human remains in the world, the land now known as Tanzania could possibly be one of the first lands to have been inhabited by early humans. Human habitation can be traced back 10,000 years to a time when people lived a hunter-gatherer lifestyle before outside influences arrived bringing with them organized agriculture and cattle farming. Visitors to Tanzania should head to Olduvai Gorge (known as the 'Cradle of Mankind') if interested in the early history of Tanzania and, in fact, the world.

Recent history

Europeans only arrived in the 15th century, via the East Coast. Zanzibar was first controlled by the Portuguese, then by Arabian traders interested in easy access to the Indian Ocean that allowed trade with Asia and beyond. This was also a time when the human slave trade was a lucrative business. The island of Zanzibar became a pivotal place for this trade, with more than 100,000 slaves passing through during this period. 

Mainland Tanzania came under the influence of German, Belgian and British colonizers in the 1800s, who explored and mapped the interior of the country. German colonizers brought infrastructure, agriculture and Christianity to Tanzania, but faced resistance from many tribes who fought against being forced into labor and desperately wanted to keep their land and preserve their traditional way of life. During World War I, Germany lost the colony to the British, heralding a new era of colonial rule for the region. More recently, Tanzania adopted its constitution in 1977, held its first multi-party election in 1995 and had its first female presidential candidate in 2005.

Top 8 iconic landscapes of Tanzania

1. serengeti national park.

The grassy savannah and open plains of Serengeti epitomize Africa at its wildest. Head out on safari in the early morning to search out Africa's 'Big Five'; buffaloes, lions, rhinos, leopards and elephants all call this park home.

Experience Serengeti National Park for yourself on our 8 day Serengeti Trail tour.

2. Mt Kilimanjaro

Trekking to Mt Kili's peak has to be a major highlight of any trip to Africa. Hike past ice fields, grasslands and the odd cacti to the roof of Africa for the most amazing views on the continent.

Hike Mt Kilimanjaro on our 8 day Kilimanjaro: Marangu Route adventure.

3. Zanzibar

Arabic, Persian, African and Indian cultures mingle with the scent of fresh spices on this exotic island. Relax on perfect beaches, sail turquoise waters aboard a dhow or head inland to explore tropical fruit orchards.

Explore Zanzibar on our 20 day Best of East Africa tour.

4. Ngorongoro Crater

This massive crater is 20km wide and home to enormous concentrations of African wildlife. Go out on safari in search of them and camp on the edge of the crater for incredible views of the animals roaming below.

Spot wildlife at Ngorongoro Crater on our 10 day East Africa Highlights tour.

5. Dar es Salaam

Balmy Dar es Salaam is a modern city with ancient origins. Colonial architecture sits beside a picturesque harbor, making it a great place to see Tanzania in a new light.

Wander the streets of Dar es Salaam on our 27 day Gorillas, Game Parks & Beaches adventure.

6. Lake Manyara

There's plenty of wildlife to search out in this national park including tree-climbing lions. Yes, they climb trees! Take a safari to search them out as well as the rest of Africa's 'Big Five'.

Spend an afternoon at Lake Manyara on our 13 day Cycle Tanzania tour.

Leave the animals behind for some village R and R in Karatu. Set in the highlands and surrounded by coffee plantations, this town is the ideal spot to mingle with locals and try a cup of African coffee.

Mingle with the locals in Karatu on our 15 day Kilimanjaro & Serengeti Adventure.

8. Usambara Mountains

These lush green mountains date back 25 million years and offer endless walking trails. Grab a guide, get hiking and learn about the unique flora and fauna that live here.

Hike through the Usambara Mountains on our 12 day Road to Zanzibar tour.

Tanzania has a wealth of markets to explore, from the large markets of the big cities to the small, rural village markets throughout the countryside. 

It's also a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in Tanzania

Tanzania has a huge number of spice plantations, particularly in Zanzibar. Perhaps bring home some fresh nutmeg, cinnamon and turmeric to embark on your own East African culinary adventure when you get home.

2. Handicrafts

Woven basketry, colorful batik cloth, intricate woodcarvings and tribal art can be found in Tanzania’s many markets and make good souvenirs or gifts for friends back home.

3. Jewelery

For silver and gold jewelry with Arabic flair, Zanzibar has plenty of unique pieces in the markets, galleries and antique shops of Stone Town.

Festivals and events in Tanzania

Sauti za busara festival.

Zanzibar’s Stone Town and surrounding areas swell with Swahili music and dance in this vibrant celebration of East African culture. Stay until the last day where the festivities head to the beach and include craft, cuisine and entertainment.

Festival of the Dhow Countries

East Africa’s largest film, music and arts festival takes over Zanzibar each year in July. Film screenings, exhibitions and craft classes offer entertainment during the day, while beach parties are a fun way to interact with locals at night.

Further reading

Similar destinations.

Thinking about a trip to Tanzania but still browsing other destinations? Check out tours to neighboring locations:

• Kenya tours
• Rwanda tours
• Uganda tours

Tanzania travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Tanzania?

Tanzania’s climate changes with its diverse landscapes, so expect variances in weather in different parts of the country.

Generally, January and February are the high season for travel in Tanzania as the hot, dry weather is generally considered to be the most pleasant.

The best time to  visit the Serengeti  is late June to October when the animals are most abundant.

Expect afternoon downpours during the wet season (from March to May); however, during this time you’ll find fewer tourists in Tanzania so you won’t have to compete with crowds.

Do I need a visa to travel to Tanzania?

TANZANIA: Australia: Yes - Visa required Belgium: Yes - Visa required Canada: Yes - Visa required Germany: Yes - Visa required Ireland: Yes - Visa required Netherlands: Yes - Visa required New Zealand: Yes - Visa required South Africa: Yes - Visa required Switzerland: Yes - Visa required United Kingdom: Yes - Visa required USA: Yes - Visa required It is recommended you purchase your visa in advance at any Diplomatic or Consulate Mission of the United Republic of Tanzania abroad. The cost is approximately US$100 depending on nationality and should take 1 business day. At the present time you do not require a multi entry visa to Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda due to an agreement between the three countries (eg. if you exit Kenya to Tanzania you can re-enter Kenya on the same visa). However if your trip visits Tanzania twice after a visit to a country other than those listed above, you may need to purchase two visas. For the purpose of the visa application you can use the following address: Kibo Palace Hotel PO Box 2523 Old Moshi Road Arusha - Tanzania Phone: +255 272544472 It is also possible to obtain a tourist's visa for a single entry at any one of the following main entry points to Tanzania, subject to the fulfilment of all immigration and health requirements: -Dar es Salaam International Airport -Zanzibar International Airport -Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) -Namanga Entry Point (Tanzania-Kenya border point) -Kasumulu Border crossing  -Isebania Border crossing

This is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 28/11/2023

Is tipping customary in Tanzania?

Tipping isn’t mandatory in Tanzania but a little generosity will be received positively, especially when considering the low wages that Tanzanian service workers are typically paid. Setting aside a small amount for porters, guides and drivers is wise, as is leaving spare change or rounding up the bill at restaurants.

What is the internet access like in Tanzania?

Travelers will be able to access the internet quite easily in the internet cafes of Tanzania’s large cities, but limited to no access should be expected in regional and rural areas.

Can I use my cell phone while in Tanzania?

Cell phone coverage is good in Tanzania’s large cities and towns, but less so in rural and mountainous areas. Ensure you have global roaming activated before leaving home if you wish to use your cell phone.

What are the toilets like in Tanzania?

Squat/pit toilets are the standard in Tanzania, except for western-style flushable toilets that are sometimes available in large hotels, tourist attractions and other modern buildings. Carry your own supply of soap and toilet paper, as they are rarely provided.

What will it cost for a…?

Tanzania's unit of currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

• Street snack = 500-3,000 TZS 
• Bottle of local beer = 2,000-4,000 TZS
• Plate of food from a local eatery = 3,000 TZS
• Dinner in an international restaurant = 10,000-20,000 TZS

Can I drink the water in Tanzania?

Drinking tap water isn't recommended in Tanzania. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found; some hotels we stay in may have drinking water available. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Tanzania?

Credit cards are usually accepted by large hotels and western-style restaurants but not by smaller vendors. Ensure you have adequate cash to cover purchases not able to be made on credit.

What is ATM access like in Tanzania?

ATMs are easily found in large cities and urban centers but are rarer in small towns, rural areas and villages. Be sure to have other payment methods available when venturing out of the big cities as ATMs aren't always an option.

What public holidays are celebrated in Tanzania?

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day
• 12 Jan: Zanzibar Revolutionary Day
• 7 Apr: Sheikh Abeid Amani Karume Day
• 14 Apr: Good Friday
• 17 Apr: Easter Monday
• 26 Apr: Union Day 
• 1 May: Labour Day
• 25 Jun: Iddi El Fitry / End of Ramadan
• 26 Jun: Iddi El Fitry Holiday
• 7 Jul: Maonyesho ya Saba Saba
• 8 Aug: Wakulima ya Nane Nane / Peasants' Day
• 1 Sep: Iddi El Haji / Feast of Sacrifice
• 14 Oct: Mwalimu Julius Nyerere Day
• 30 Nov: The Prophet's Birthday
• 9 Dec: Republic Day
• 25 Dec: Christmas Day
• 26 Dec: Boxing Day

Please note, Tanzania public holidays may vary.

Does my trip to Tanzania support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Tanzania directly support our foundation partner, The Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP) . 

The Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP) provides education, support and advocacy to ensure the fair and ethical treatment of Kilimanjaro Porters. The Porters who guide and support trekkers are often overworked and underpaid; donations from our trips support KPAP to identify and monitor tour operators committed to the fair treatment of mountain crew during a Kilimanjaro climb.

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Tanzania set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Tanzania High Commission in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Tanzania.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Tanzania, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive and at least one blank page.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You must have a tourist or business visa to enter Tanzania.

If you are planning to work or volunteer, you will also need a work permit. Information on how to apply is available from the Tanzanian Prime Minister’s Office .

Your employer or volunteer organisation should help you arrange this before you travel.

If you overstay your visa or permit you can be arrested, detained and fined before being deported.

The Tanzanian Immigration Department has more information on visas .

Applying for a visa

Apply for an ‘e-visa’ before you travel. It is no longer possible to get a visa from the Tanzanian High Commission in London.

You can also get a tourist or business visa for a single entry on arrival at the main ports of entry to Tanzania , subject to meeting all immigration requirements. You may be asked to provide proof of your return journey. You will not be able to get a multiple entry visa on arrival.

Checks at border control

You must be ready to show your return or onward ticket at border control.

Vaccination requirements

To enter Tanzania, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk .

For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Tanzania guide .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Tanzania. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking wildlife products into and out of Tanzania

Do not bring animal skin accessories into Tanzania as you risk questioning or detention when leaving the country.

Border officials have arrested foreigners for trying to take wildlife items they’ve bought, including horns and seashells, out of the country. It’s illegal to do this without a certified export permit from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism. If you’re caught you can be detained or fined.

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Tanzania, including Zanzibar Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Tanzania. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 2 Practice Enhanced Precautions

• Global Polio January 05, 2024 Some international destinations have circulating poliovirus. Before any international travel, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Destination List: Afghanistan, Algeria, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Guinea, Indonesia, Israel, including the West Bank and Gaza, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, including Zanzibar, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Active cholera transmission is  widespread  in Tanzania. Cholera is rare in travelers.  Certain factors  may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease ( more information ). Avoiding unsafe food and water and washing your hands can also help prevent cholera.

Vaccination may be considered for children and adults who are traveling to areas of active cholera transmission.

Cholera - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Tanzania.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Tanzania. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Tanzania.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Tanzania take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Tanzania.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

In Tanzania poliovirus has been identified in the past year.

Travelers to Tanzania are at increased risk of exposure to poliovirus.

Vaccine recommendations : Adults traveling to Tanzania who received a complete polio vaccination series as children may receive a single lifetime booster dose of inactivated polio vaccine; travelers who are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated should receive a complete polio vaccination series before travel. Children who are not fully vaccinated will be considered for an  accelerated vaccination schedule .

Polio - CDC Yellow Book

Polio: For Travelers

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Tanzania. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Tanzania, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Tanzania. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Generally not recommended for travel to Tanzania.

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

African sleeping sickness (african trypanosomiasis).

• Tsetse fly bite 
• Avoid Bug Bites

African Trypanosomiasis

African Tick-Bite Fever

African Tick-bite fever

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Mosquito bite
• Avoid animals

Rift Valley Fever

• Touching blood, body fluids, or tissue of infected livestock

Rift Valley fever

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Tanzania, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Tanzania. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Some diseases in Tanzania—such as dengue, leishmaniasis, and African sleeping sickness—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Tanzania include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Climbing Kilimanjaro is one of the most popular outdoor activities for travelers visiting Tanzania. The high altitude may lead to altitude sickness. Talk to your doctor about ways to prevent and treat altitude sickness.

See Travel to High Altitudes .

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Tanzania. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Tanzania’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in Tanzania. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Tanzania may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Tanzania, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Tanzania.

• Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
• LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Tanzania, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Tanzania .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

To call for emergency services while in Tanzania, dial either 112 or 999. Write these numbers down to carry with you on your trip.

Learn as much as you can about Tanzania before you travel there. A good place to start is the country-specific information on Tanzania from the US Department of State.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Tanzania for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Tanzania Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 31, 2023, tanzania - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Tanzania due to crime, terrorism, and targeting of LGBTI persons .  Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Reconsider Travel To:

• Mtwara Region in southern Tanzania due to the threat of terrorism.

Country Summary : Violent crime, such as assault, sexual assault, robberies, mugging, and carjacking, is common.  Local police may lack the resources to respond effectively to serious crime.

Terrorist groups could attack in Tanzania with little or no warning, targeting embassies, police stations, mosques, and other places frequented by Westerners. Please see the additional information below regarding the increased threat of terrorism in Mtwara Region.

Members of the LGBTI community have been arrested, targeted, harassed, and/or charged with unrelated offenses.  Individuals detained under suspicion of same-sex sexual conduct could be subject to forced anal examinations.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Tanzania.

If you decide to travel to Tanzania:

• Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa and keep original documents in a secure location.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not leave your food or drink unattended.
• Stay alert in all locations, especially those frequented by Westerners.
• Avoid public displays of affection particularly between same-sex couples.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
• Review the Country Security Report for Tanzania.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Mtwara Region in southern Tanzania – Level 3: Reconsider Travel There have been reports of violence in Mtwara Region in southern Tanzania. Increased activity by extremists along the southern border has led to attacks against both government and civilian targets.

Travel Advisory Levels

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The best time to go to Tanzania

Nov 20, 2023 • 4 min read

From climbing Kili to watching wildebeest on their migration, we can help you decide when to visit Tanzania © 1111IESPDJ / Getty Images

Abundant wildlife, exotic islands, colorful markets and friendly people –  Tanzania has all this and more just waiting to be explored.

Wander cobbled streets on Zanzibar Island , marvel at an elephant silhouetted against a baobab tree in Tarangire park , clamber up steep slopes to encounter chimpanzees in Mahale Mountains park and throughout, enjoy getting acquainted with Tanzanians and their culture. 

Whatever you’re hoping to do, this guide will help you plan the perfect time for your visit, with tips on everything from the seasonal wildebeest migration to climbing Mt Kilimanjaro and catching some festivals.

June through September is the best time for wildlife-watching

June through September is Tanzania’s cooler, dry, high season. The wildebeest are hoofing it northwards on their migration towards the greener grasses of Kenya’s Masai Mara, Kilimanjaro’s lower slopes are mud-free and Zanzibar’s beaches beckon. Overall, it’s a wonderful time to travel, with the only real downsides being peak prices and larger crowds.

In July and August, as the dry season progresses, animals begin to concentrate around dwindling water sources and vegetation becomes more sparse. Wildlife is increasingly easy to spot and safari season is at its prime. Southern Tanzania’s Ruaha National Park is full of animals, as is western Tanzania’s Katavi , with massive pods of hippos fighting for space around the few remaining mud wallows. In Gombe and Mahale Mountains parks, chimpanzees move lower down the steep slopes, and tracking them is usually easier.

The dry season is also ideal for trekking on Mt Kilimanjaro and on Mt Meru, in Arusha National Park , and for hiking in northeastern Tanzania’s Usambara Mountains. On the coast, temperatures and humidity are somewhat lower and the islands are crowded, but delightful.

Especially for safaris, Kilimanjaro treks and island getaways, it's essential to book in advance.

October to February is perfect for birding and fewer crowds

In October, the start of Tanzania’s shoulder season, the weather stays sunny and mostly dry, making this another fine time for wildlife-watching, but with only a fraction of the high-season crowds. Parks such as Tarangire, that are at their best in the late dry season, are particularly good. October also brings jacarandas to bloom, especially in the north around Moshi and Arusha and in the southwest around Mbeya; it’s magnificent to stroll beneath their purple canopies on a carpet of lavender blossoms.

In November, as the short rains get underway, mango season begins – watch for buckets of ripe fruit along the roadsides from late November. This is also the start of peak birding season, as the first of the migrants begin arriving from the north.

During the Christmas and New Year's holiday period – roughly from mid-December through the first week in January – prices temporarily skyrocket, but on each side of this, many lodges and camps offer appealing shoulder-season rates. 

Tanzania’s hottest temperatures are generally in February, especially along the coast, but birding is at its peak countrywide and the southeastern Serengeti is full of activity, with the wildebeest calving season in full swing. February is also the best month for seeing the orchids in Kitulo National Park , and for admiring the surrounding highlands, which are blanketed with wildflowers. 

In northern Tanzania, the warm, dry period between December and February is ideal for Kilimanjaro treks, while on the coast, the shoulder season months are optimal for spotting whale sharks around Mafia Island .

March to May is the best time for green landscapes and lower prices

Mid to late March marks the start of Tanzania's main rainy season, when heavy downpours turn roads and hiking trails to mud. Many lodges, especially along the coast and in the southern and western safari circuits, close and those that do stay open often offer significant discounts. 

Yet, despite the wet, there’s still plenty of sunshine, and if your focus is on getting to know Tanzania’s cultures, and exploring away from the crowds, this can be an ideal time. Landscapes across the country are brilliant green and visitor numbers are at their lowest. Somewhere between late April – as the rains begin to taper – and early June, the wildebeest start their long march northwestwards from their calving grounds in the southeastern Serengeti, and brightly-hued birds are easy to spot, the males resplendent in their colorful breeding plumage.

Anytime is festival time

No matter when you travel to Tanzania, there’s likely to be a festival or event somewhere in the country. Early February on Zanzibar brings the Sauti za Busara festival, while late February in Moshi is the community-oriented Kilimanjaro Marathon . Back on Zanzibar, watch for the Zanzibar International Film Festival in late June and Mwaka Kogwa festivities in late July. A highlight around October or November on the mainland is the Bagamoyo Festival of Arts and Culture .

This article was first published August 2021 and updated November 2023

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Visa Application System

Welcome to Tanzania Electronic Visa Application System!

You can now apply for an Online Visa to visit the United Republic of Tanzania (both Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar). You are required to fill in the online form, make payment, and submit your application online. Your form will be internally reviewed and processed.

Applicants will be notified through their e-mails whether their applications have been accepted or rejected. They may also TRACK their application statuses through the online system. Applicants may as well be required to visit the nearest Tanzanian Embassies or Consular Offices for interviews.

Keynote before you start:

Please consider the following information beforehand.

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5 Places to Travel Abroad With Your Kids This Year

London, lapland, and tanzania are on the cards in 2024..

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TAASA Lodge offers a walking safari among several other singular experiences.

Courtesy of Go2Africa

Is it worth traveling abroad with your kids, especially with so many great options in the United States? Short answer: yes. That’s especially true if you consider one of these family-friendly destinations our writers have visited in recent months. They’ve been roaming with their children in the United Kingdom, Japan, Tanzania, Greece, and Swedish Lapland and have unearthed some great spots for the whole fam for 2024. Just try not to think about the flight there (and especially the flight home) . . .

Osaka, Japan

Theme parks and enticing street food are among the highlights of a visit to Osaka.

Photo by Usa-Pyon/Shutterstock

Wandering through Osaka’s neon-clad neighborhood of Shinsekai with my son—a hard-to-impress tween with a thirst for photo-worthy culinary creations—we passed takoyaki stands advertising their octopus-based wares with 3D tentacle-covered displays and a conveyor belt sushi joint adorned with an enormous rotating nigiri platter. Ultimately, we were drawn into Jumbo Tsuribune Tsurikichi , a restaurant boasting expansive pools of fish that you can catch with provided bait and rods. Here, they’ll cook and serve whatever you reel in—which, in our case, was a beast large enough to feed a family twice our size.

Memory-making experiences like this are only the beginning here, where maximalist signage beckons hungry travelers at every turn. And despite rising food costs across the globe, affordable eats are still easy to find in Osaka, making it an enticing choice for anyone looking to test their taste buds without breaking the bank. Even the pickiest of eaters will find something to love in this dynamic destination, and fun-loving families will find a variety of singular eateries. Dine alongside Pikachu at the popular Pokemon Café or enjoy impossibly cute Mario-inspired meals at Super Nintendo World at Universal Japan , which will soon offer even more options in its new Donkey Kong–themed land , slated to open in 2024.

Where to stay

For an immersive experience, families can sleep on traditional tatami mats at Ukiyoe Ryokan . The Cross Hotel Osaka , meanwhile, provides comfy digs located steps from the bustling food stalls in the Dotonbori area.— Amanda Adler

“I spy” gets a whole lot more interesting when there are leopards, hippos, and warthogs to peep.

Taking a toddler on safari is not for the faint of heart; I knew if I was gonna do it, I needed serious help. Enter Go2Africa , a seasoned tour operator staffed by specialists who’ve traveled extensively with small children throughout East and Southern Africa. These experts knew exactly which camps were the family-friendliest and how to safely travel between them. They arranged private safari drives for us in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area , a UNESCO-protected World Heritage site with Africa’s densest population of large animals, and a quiet corner of Serengeti National Park. Over multiple game drives in the two regions, we spotted lions, leopards, hippos, ostriches, flamingos, warthogs, and roughly a gazillion wildebeest, but it was a dazzle of zebras lingering within arm’s reach of our 4x4 that really had my son clapping up a storm.

Check out TAASA Lodge , a boutique bush camp in a 15,000-acre concession north of the Serengeti, and Gibb’s Farm , an 80-acre organic farm and coffee plantation less than an hour from Ngorongoro Crater. Both properties hire guides, trackers, and staff who truly love children, as opposed to merely tolerate them. Both also have swimming pools—a fantastic way for kiddos to spend some time in between game drives. —Ashlea Halpern, contributing editor

Athens, Greece

Ancient history comes alive in Athens.

Photo by Sven Hansche/Shutterstock

While history and ancient ruins may seem boring for little ones at first, Athens is actually an entertaining and educational family destination. Before you even leave, get your kids into Greek mythology and history—there’s the graphic novel series Olympians that reinterprets the mythologies and a funny and engaging podcast by National Geographic called Greeking Out that my eight-year-old son loves. Once you land, kids will be eager to see the sites that otherwise might look like crumbling dirt. When I visited last summer with my husband and two young kids, I booked a private tour with Be a Greek specifically meant for families. Our guide kept both of my children (and my husband and I) engaged with a scavenger hunt, trivia, games, and dynamic storytelling as we traipsed around the city, ticking off sites like the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Panathenaic Stadium, and Syntagma Square to see the changing of the presidential guard.

Visiting the Acropolis is a bit more challenging, so be sure to go in early morning or evening when it’s cooler and less crowded, and leave the stroller behind (way too many steps!). Kids will also enjoy the Acropolis Museum (request a “family backpack” for educational resources, puzzles, and more); riding the bright red Athens Happy Train ; going up Mount Lycabettus via cable car; and strolling around the picturesque Plaka neighborhood. When you need to escape the heat, head outside the city center to the Athens Riviera for some time at Astir Beach or to the still-in-progress Ellinikon , which already features an incredible playground and park, with more to come.

To be in the center, stay at the new boutique Apollo Palm Hotel , which offers triple rooms perfect for a family of three (or four if one child is in a crib, which can be provided) while still boasting a chic design, gorgeous rooftop bar, and delicious breakfast buffet. For a resort experience, complete with a kids club, beach, and pool, the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens has spacious rooms and an incredibly friendly and helpful staff who clearly love children.— Devorah Lev-Tov

The Jokkmokk market has been around for hundreds of years.

Photo by Tommy Alven/Shutterstock

Swedish Lapland

My kids were just toddlers when we visited Swedish Lapland’s Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, where I pushed them in strollers as they teetered across packed-snow floors in rooms carved out from river ice by artists from around the world. (We sanely slept in the warm accommodations on site.)

On a visit this past winter on my own, I found several other reasons to plot a trip back soon with my now-older crew. The best winter adventures in this part of Sweden come with experiential elements that go beyond chasing the northern lights. At Arctic Bath in the small hamlet of Harads, I watched a British family with elementary school–age kids brave cold plunges together following a sauna session, stepping down a metal ladder straight into the frozen Lule River and whooping it up before beelining it for the outdoor hot tubs.

Nearby, the whimsical variety of cabins on stilts at Treehotel —including one shaped like a bird’s nest and another like a UFO—were pure fantastical fun, with ice fishing and snowshoeing among the activities. Sapmi Nature Camp offers three-night packages to stay with Sámi hosts in private lavvu tents on the family’s grazing lands for reindeer while learning about their modern way of life. And if you’re here in early February, the excitement of the annual Jokkmokk Winter Market draws hundreds of Indigenous people from all over the Sápmi region of Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Russia for an outdoor festival with live music, shopping for silverwork and traditional clothing, and many more activities.

All of the aforementioned stays are a treat worth planning a trip around. But I’m dreaming of a multi-generational winter adventure at Fjellborg Arctic Lodge , where you can arrive via dogsled from nearby Jukkasjärvi. Families stay in a luxurious four-bedroom cabin with its own sauna and outdoor hot tub overlooking Lake Väkkärä. (Smaller cabins can accommodate more people right nearby.) The lodge’s wilderness guides lead all manner of excursions—including snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.— Terry Ward

London, U.K.

With musicals, green spaces, and seemingly endless restaurants, no two days in London are the same.

Courtesy of One Aldwych

From a wickedly funny Yeoman Warder guide at the Tower to a bike tour with London Bicycle and a visit to the Harry Potter studios (where all eight movies were filmed), my family’s weeklong trip across the pond proved to be equal parts educational and fun. We also adored the Matilda musical, based on Roald Dahl’s beloved book, in the West End, with all four of us singing along to its catchy tunes as we left the theater. The city’s many green spaces (Hyde Park; Kensington Gardens, with the Princess Diana Memorial Playground; Battersea Park) also allow ample opportunity for little legs to stretch, run, and stop to smell the roses. With a food scene that’s the stuff of legend, eating at Indian street food chain Dishoom and plant-based Mallow in Borough Market were also musts and didn’t disappoint.

London has many great hotels . I liked the elegant 101-room One Aldwych in the heart of Covent Garden, within blocks of theaters, restaurants, and museums, such as the fantastic London Transport Museum (where kids can see double-decker buses and grown-ups can marvel at the history of the Tube). Along with spacious suites, thoughtful touches like the daily replenished complimentary mini-bar (with biscuits and chips to keep little ones happy) and a “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” themed afternoon tea make the hotel truly perfect for families.— Tanvi Chheda

I've visited 93 countries, 57 of them with kids. These 5 underrated spots are great places to enjoy with your family.

• Karen Edwards has traveled to 93 countries, and 57 of them have been with her young children.
• Edwards said that her family has had more fun exploring underrated spots than the popular ones.
• Her favorites include Tanzania for its safari tours and Abu Dhabi for its vibrant festival scene.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Karen Edwards , who blogs about her family's travels around the world. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

Since 2000, I've visited 93 countries and 57 of them have been with my four children who are all under the age of 10.

I am a nurse by background, but I have been blogging about traveling with my husband and kids since 2014. I cover a lot of off-the-beaten-track destinations and write itineraries for places I've been to, explaining how they work for families with children.

Many popular family destinations tend to be overcrowded. They're usually the ones that get a lot of media exposure or are shown in viral videos on social media. In America, it'd be places like Disneyland in California or Disney World in Florida, while for Europeans, it might be some of the Spanish resort areas.

Although my family and I have visited these places, we have always come away disappointed. They often lack educational experiences, feeling like pointless affairs.

I think traveling to underrated spots makes trips feel more exclusive and you can learn more about the cultures of the countries you visit — it also keeps you away from tourist traps.

We went on a safari tour in Tanzania

Our family visited Tanzania in 2019 in collaboration with a tourism brand. We were there for 12 days.

Our flights to the country were kind of expensive; we paid about $9,000 for our then-family of four, including a stop in Zanzibar at the end of the trip for a few days. However, overall, the entire trip didn't end up costing us that much.

We had some really unique experiences in Tanzania. We went to Mto Wa Mbu village , which is beneath a banana plantation, and we went on a safari tour in its Lake Manyara National Park .

Interestingly, Tanzania is one of the few places in the world where lions are known to climb trees. I remember seeing them sit in tall trees; it was quite unusual, but my kids really enjoyed how close they were to the animals.

Throughout our trip, we actually felt like we were experiencing life in Tanzania. Our campsite was on a river's edge in the depths of nature. It was nice not to feel surrounded by tourists.

My kids fell in love with Abu Dhabi's culture

Many people mistakenly believe that Dubai is a country, but in reality, it's a city in the United Arab Emirates, with Abu Dhabi being its capital.

My family and I moved to Abu Dhabi in 2021 and lived there for 18 months. The city does have a lot of similarities to glitzy and glam Dubai , but you get a more down-to-earth experience.

There are amazing festivals in Abu Dhabi where they display their culture in different formats, whether that be through local food or crafts. It does feel authentic because it's usually mainly locals participating and organizing them.

The city sits at the foot of Jebel Hafeet , one of the tallest mountains in the region. Along the way up, you'll find many ancient artifacts, such as beehive huts, which have been there for thousands of years. At the top, you can watch incredible sunsets.

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The city also has the Al Ain Oasis , which uses an ancient irrigation system. It has these beautiful paved pathways that look like cobbled streets.

My kids loved Abu Dhabi and are constantly asking me to go back — they really liked all the cultural celebrations.

We love Sri Lanka so much, we're building a villa there

In 2022, my family and I moved to Sri Lanka from Abu Dhabi. We thought we'd have more family time here, and it was going to be an affordable place to live.

We're building a family-friendly villa here that should be completed by August. The area where we are building has a lot of nice cafes, bars, and restaurants nearby.

Overall, Sri Lanka is an amazing country that has so many diverse experiences. There are tea plantations, mountains, and beaches. As for wildlife, their national parks have loads of elephants and leopards.

On one occasion, we went on a safari boat tour to an isolated national park where we watched elephants swim across a lake and onto a tiny island. It was amazing.

The beaches in Sri Lanka are pristine. They have beautiful scenery with swaying coconut palm trees, clear water, and perfect waves. Our favorite is Kabalana Beach .

Because we're always on the beach, my children have learned how to surf. I think it's the most fun thing that we do on the weekends as a family.

The ski resorts and spas are amazing in Andorra

We visited Andorra in 2018 for about six days. It's a tiny country nestled in the Pyrenees between Spain. It's a two-hour drive from Barcelona and three hours from Toulouse, France.

The city has a unique fusion of cultures, though I think Catalonian is the strongest influence. During our trip, my family and I toured many ancient churches.

We also went to some amazing spas and resorts in Andorra. The hotel and ski system there is really family-friendly.

During our visit to the Grandvalira ski resort , my daughter learned how to ski and my husband got to snowboard — the resort has a kindergarten at the foot of its mountain, where kids can play or ski.

Andorra also has amazing spa facilities that are suitable for families and are sectioned off for different age groups.

Our trip was in collaboration with Andorra's tourism board, but I feel like it wasn't overly expensive in comparison to some other places around the world.

I was treated like family in Macedonia

Macedonia is a Balkan country just north of Greece. I haven't been there with children, but I wouldn't have any issues taking my kids there.

It has many beautiful small villages and it's great for skiing too.

The country is also home to one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe named Lake Orchid, which borders Albania. There's this beautiful, small village on the lake that has charming restaurant and a lovely atmosphere for relaxing and enjoying good food.

I visited the country in 2008, and then again in 2012 with my then-boyfriend and now-husband.

The first time I visited, I went with two girlfriends, and we were backpackers. We arrived in the middle of the night by bus and had no idea what we were doing. The bus driver just made a call, and a stranger came and picked us up in his car — I thought I was going to die.

The opposite happened. He took us back to his home with his family, and we stayed there with them for a few days. We ended up extending the trip because he and his family were so amazing.

They didn't speak a word of English, and we couldn't speak a word of their language either. We'd just gesture at each other, and they'd give us food and red wine.

I just totally fell in love with them and their country.

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