Things to Know Before Going on a Tanzania Safari

23/11/2021

Tanzania offers a complete safari package, from following the wildebeest migration, one of nature’s greatest spectacles, to swimming with the marine life in Zanzibar, it is the ultimate safari destination. Also, let’s not forget Tanzania is also home to the highest mountain in Africa, the snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro, while other wildlife highlights include the tree-climbing lions in Lake Manyara National Park and the stunning seasonal display of pink flamingos at Lake Manyara and Lake Natron.

Planning a trip to Tanzania can be confusing with a desire to visit all popular destinations. Our handy guide will prepare you for the adventure by providing information on things you need to know for your stay in Tanzania and Zanzibar. Our guide also shares additional informative resources wherever necessary.

Vaccination Requirements

• First and foremost, be informed about the vaccination requirements. Travellers everywhere need to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to visit foreign countries.
• Tanzania and Zanzibar both have active cases of malaria and dengue. Pack mosquito repellents, bug sprays, and anti-malarial medication. Contact your doctor to find out which malaria prophylactics you should take. Double check with your safari operator that there are mosquito nets at all the places you will be staying.
• Visitors travelling from countries with yellow fever cases need to show proof of vaccination.
• Visitors must also ensure they are up-to-date on their hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies vaccinations.

Refer to the CDC’s vaccination guide for more information about the vaccinations required to enter Tanzania.

Visiting Tanzania on Safari

• You will need to carry some cash on you for purchasing snacks, souvenirs, some meals and drinks, and tipping guides and safari staff. Small denomination notes are the best for tips.
• Safari packages usually cover domestic travel within the country, often including pick-up from the airport and drop-off at the end of your stay. Your safari operator should be very clear about what transport costs are and are not included.
• Tanzania has a lot to offer, so don’t just plan for a wildlife safari. Why not spend time on the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar, climb Africa’s highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, learn more about the culture with community visits, or experience thrilling activities such as a hot air balloon safari, bike adventure or a hiking trip.
• If you visit Zanzibar, be sure to explore world-renowned Stone Town. If you stroll through the streets of Zanzibar’s Stone Town, stay close to your tour group and guide to make sure you don’t get lost within the maze of similar-looking streets.
• Climbing the legendary Mount Kilimanjaro is not for the faint hearted. It takes at least five days to scale the mountain. The climbers have to cover 6-10 kilometres of distance daily. The rising altitude is another factor to consider. Beginners should prepare themselves for the climb with some training, gradually learning to cover more distance at a shorter duration and become acclimatised to the elevation. We have listed four popular routes with difficulty levels.

• Marangu Route: Medium difficulty, suitable for beginners
• Rongai Route: Medium difficulty, suitable for beginners
• Machame Route: Highly difficult, suitable for experienced climbers
• Lemosho Route: Highly difficult, suitable for experienced climbers

• Those considering self-driving across the country need to remain calm and polite while talking to the police and local people. Stick to the recommended speed limits, and check the car for all necessary supplies such as a fire extinguisher and safety vest.
• Compared to the rest of Africa, Tanzania has better internet connectivity. You can purchase a sim card once you enter the country and top up with data to enjoy wireless connectivity even in regions such as the Usambara mountains.

Tanzania is a great place to visit throughout the year. While the winters are ideal for wildlife viewing, there are other things you can do during the summers and rainy season. During the rains, visitors can take in the beautiful views from the top of Mount Kilimanjaro. The rainfall might make the trek more challenging, but with an expert guide, it is possible. Visitors can also head over to Lake Natron to see flocks of pink flamingoes. Similarly, the summers have a lot to offer. Our guide on reasons to visit Tanzania in the summer, monsoon and winter can help you decide the ideal time for visiting this beautiful country.

Adventures You Shouldn’t Miss in Zanzibar

A trip to Tanzania is incomplete without visiting the Zanzibar beaches. Thanks to the efficient services of the domestic flights, it now takes approximately 40 minutes to cover the distance between the mainland and Zanzibar islands. Adventures you shouldn’t miss include:

• Snorkelling in the clear waters of Zanzibar
• A Zanzibar spice-tour
• Make time to go watch dolphins and turtles
• A visit to the Stone Town and Prison Island

Read more about how to reach Tanzania with our informative guide, which also includes visa and passport requirements.

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Safari Deal

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