Practical Advice for Your Tanzania Journey

Visa Requirements for Tanzania

Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam), or Zanzibar International Airport. Alternatively, travelers can apply for an e‑visa online before departure. Visa requirements change periodically, so checking the current regulations before travel is recommended.

Required documents: Passport valid for at least six months, return flight confirmation, proof of accommodation, yellow fever vaccination certificate (if arriving from an endemic country). Visa fees vary by nationality.

Safari Packing Essentials

Packing for a Tanzania safari requires lightweight, neutral‑coloured clothing, layers for cool mornings and evenings, sun protection, sturdy shoes, camera gear, and personal health items. Soft‑sided luggage is essential because charter flights have strict weight and size limits.

• Neutral‑coloured long‑sleeved shirts and trousers
• Fleece or light jacket for early morning game drives
• Wide‑brimmed hat, sunglasses, high‑SPF sunscreen
• Sturdy walking shoes and sandals
• Binoculars, camera with telephoto lens, extra batteries
• Insect repellent, personal medications, basic first‑aid kit

Kilimanjaro Packing Guide

Climbing Kilimanjaro requires layered clothing for sub‑zero summit temperatures, good hiking boots, waterproof outer layers, and trekking essentials. A detailed packing list is provided upon booking, but key items include thermal base layers, insulated jacket, headlamp, hydration system, and high‑energy snacks.

Our mountain crew supplies tents, sleeping mats, and group gear. Climbers carry a daypack with personal items; porters carry the main luggage in a soft duffel bag.

Money, Cards & Cash in Tanzania

The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the local currency, but US dollars are widely accepted for tourism services, park fees, and tips. Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted at lodges, hotels, and larger shops in Arusha, Moshi, and Zanzibar, but cash is still required in remote areas and for smaller purchases.

Practical advice: Bring crisp, post‑2006 US dollar bills (old or damaged notes may be rejected). Use ATMs in major towns for shillings, but carry enough cash for tips, souvenirs, and incidental expenses.

Flights & Airports in Tanzania

Most international flights arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for northern circuit safaris and Kilimanjaro climbs, Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam, or Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) for beach extensions. Domestic flights connect Arusha, Serengeti, and Zanzibar.

Luggage limits: Allowances on safari and domestic flights vary by airline and aircraft. Coastal Aviation, for example, allows 15 kg (33 lbs) per person including hand luggage and recommends soft-sided bags. We confirm the allowance for each flight on your itinerary. Excess luggage can be stored at your arrival hotel.

Travel Insurance for Tanzania

Since 1 October 2026, eligible foreign visitors entering mainland Tanzania need mandatory inbound travel insurance from the National Insurance Corporation; Zanzibar has required its own policy since 2024. One policy, bought from the insurer for your first point of entry, can cover a journey that includes both, provided it remains valid and applicable throughout. Residents of EAC and SADC partner states are exempt on the mainland. Our guide to Tanzania's mandatory travel insurance explains costs, cover and how to buy.

The mandatory policy is a basic entry requirement, not a full travel policy. Personal travel insurance covering medical evacuation, trip cancellation, lost luggage and emergency medical expenses is still strongly recommended. For Kilimanjaro, confirm your policy covers trekking to the altitude you will reach and evacuation from the mountain. We can suggest what to look for.

Even a well-built itinerary can face unexpected changes: weather, flight delays, or illness. Insurance provides peace of mind and financial protection.

Drone Rules in Tanzania

Drones are strictly regulated in Tanzania. Flying drones inside national parks, conservation areas, or over wildlife is prohibited without a special permit from the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) and the relevant park authority. Permits are difficult to obtain and rarely granted for tourism purposes. We strongly advise leaving drones at home to avoid confiscation or fines.

If you believe you need a drone permit, we can direct you to the relevant authorities, but approval is not guaranteed.

Do I need a visa to visit Tanzania?

Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival or apply for an e‑visa online. Check current requirements before departure.

What vaccinations are required?

Yellow Fever vaccination is required if arriving from an endemic country. Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus are recommended. Consult a travel doctor 6–8 weeks before travel.

Is malaria a risk in Tanzania?

Yes. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for safari areas and Zanzibar. Use mosquito repellent, nets, and long sleeves in the evening.

What currency should I bring?

US dollars are widely accepted. Bring crisp, post‑2006 bills. Tanzanian shillings are useful for small purchases. Credit cards work in major towns but cash is preferred in remote areas.

Can I use my mobile phone in Tanzania?

Yes. Local SIM cards are available at airports. Coverage is good in towns but limited in remote safari areas. Lodges often have Wi‑Fi in common areas.

What is the luggage limit on safari?

It depends on the airline and aircraft. Coastal Aviation, for example, allows 15 kg (33 lbs) per person including hand luggage and recommends soft-sided bags. We confirm the allowance for each flight on your itinerary.