Question 1

Do I need a visa, and how do I apply?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you’ll need a visa to travel to Tanzania. These days, the process is fully online, and you can apply through the official website: www.immigration.go.tz.(www.immigration.go.tz)

Important to know: it can take up to three weeks to receive your visa, so be sure to apply well in advance of your trip.

For most European travelers, a tourist visa costs $50 and is valid for one entry. For U.S. citizens, the visa is $100, valid for one year, and allows multiple entries. Since requirements can sometimes vary by nationality, it’s always a good idea to double-check with your own government before applying.

And a quick note if you’re visiting Zanzibar: the government has introduced a new insurance tax of $44 per person, which covers your entire stay. This must be arranged online before you travel via https://inbound.visitzanzibar.go.tz.(https://inbound.visitzanzibar.go.tz)

Taking care of it beforehand ensures your entry is smooth and hassle-free. If the process feels overwhelming, don’t worry—we’re here to help and can walk you through it step by step.(https://www.rewildaway.be/post/tanzania-e-visa-guide-how-to-apply-online-step-by-step)

Question 2

Is Tanzania safe to travel?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Tanzania is a safe and welcoming country for travelers. Of course, just like anywhere, it’s always good to stay aware of your belongings and surroundings in busy towns.

When you’re with our guides, you’re in great hands—they know the areas inside out and will make sure you feel safe and comfortable at all times.

As a general rule, we recommend not walking around the lodge grounds alone after dark. If you’d like to go somewhere, simply ask our guides or the lodge staff to accompany you.

For more detailed information and the latest official updates, you can always check your government’s travel advice website.

Question 3

Is it safe to bring children on safari?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Taking kids on safari is safe, educational, and an incredible adventure for them. Seeing wildlife in its natural habitat is something they’ll never forget.

We always adjust itineraries for families—shorter drives, family-friendly lodges, and activities that are fun for everyone.

Read more in our blog post:
Going on safari with children: why Tanzania is perfect for family adventures (https://www.rewildaway.be/post/going-on-safari-with-children-why-tanzania-is-perfect-for-family-adventures)

Question 4

What is the best season to travel to Tanzania?

Accepted Answer

The great thing about Tanzania is that it’s a year-round destination—you can always enjoy a safari here.

That said, many travelers prefer the dry season (June to October and mid-December to March) when wildlife is easier to spot around waterholes.

If you’d like fewer crowds and greener landscapes, the months just after the rains can be magical too.

And of course, there’s the Great Migration—one of the world’s most breathtaking wildlife spectacles. Depending on the time of year, the herds of wildebeest and zebras move across different parts of the Serengeti.(https://www.rewildaway.be/serengeti-national-park) We’ve written a full blog post (https://www.rewildaway.be/post/the-great-migration-in-tanzania-everything-you-need-to-know)about where the herds are throughout the year and the highlights of their journey, so you can plan your trip around the best viewing opportunities.

https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c9ed97_ca060c83d80a46fa9fbd3f85b21cafc9~mv2.png

We’re always happy to help you pick the perfect season (https://www.rewildaway.be/post/when-to-visit-tanzania-weather-wildlife-safari-seasons-explained)based on what you’d like to see.

Question 5

What time is it in Tanzania?

Accepted Answer

Tanzania follows the East Africa Time (EAT).

For reference, Tanzania is usually:
 • 1–3 hours ahead of most of Europe (depending on daylight saving time)
 • 7–10 hours ahead of the U.S. East Coast
 • 10–13 hours ahead of the U.S. West Coast

A fun local detail: Tanzanians often count the hours a little differently, starting the day at 6 AM (so 7 AM is considered “hour one”). Don’t worry—our guides always make sure you’re on track with local time and won’t let you miss any of the action!

Question 6

Will I have internet connection while traveling?

Accepted Answer

Most lodges offer Wi-Fi, though sometimes only in common areas—this gives you a chance to truly immerse yourself in the wild without distractions.

If you’d like to stay more connected, it’s easy to get a local SIM card, with Vodacom and Airtel being the most reliable providers. We can even help you pick one up on your day of arrival, so you’ll be online from the very start of your adventure.

Question 7

Which currency should I bring, and how do I pay?

Accepted Answer

Both Tanzanian shillings (TZS) and US dollars are widely accepted, but for smaller expenses and souvenirs it’s very handy to have some Tanzanian shillings in your pocket. In lodges, you can often pay with Visa or Mastercard.

ATMs are available in the bigger towns, but keep in mind that withdrawal and bank fees can be quite high, and the withdrawal limits are fairly low—usually between $120–170 per time. For that reason, we recommend bringing some cash from your home country.

In summary, a mix of USD in small bills (new ones), your debit card to withdraw Tanzanian shillings and your credit card to pay for extras in the lodges, is the most convenient setup. And make sure to inform your bank that you will be using your debit or credit card abroad.

Question 8

How does tipping work in Tanzania?

Accepted Answer

Tipping is a long-standing part of the safari culture in Tanzania and is seen as the proper way to thank the people who make your journey so special.

Across the tourism sector, the general guideline is about $10–20 per traveler, per day, for each person contributing to your safari—this includes your driver-guide, cook, hiking guide, or anyone else directly involved in your trip.

Our guides are well-paid, but a tip is always a kind gesture that means a lot. It’s a way to say “thank you” for the care, knowledge, and effort that go into making your journey unforgettable.

At the lodges, tipping works a little differently. Instead of giving every individual (like the waitress who serves you dinner) a separate tip, most lodges have a general tip box. A contribution of around $5–10 per guest per night is a good guideline, and this is then shared fairly among all the staff who made your stay comfortable—like the kitchen team, housekeepers, and waitstaff.

For more detailed information about tipping, consider reading our blog post:
Who to tip and how much: Tanzania safari tipping explained (https://www.rewildaway.be/post/who-to-tip-and-how-much-tanzania-safari-tipping-explained)

Question 9

Should I self-drive or travel with a driver-guide?

Accepted Answer

We honestly don’t recommend self-driving in Tanzania. The roads can be tricky, signs are few, and if anything happens you might be completely out of reach.

Plus, having one of our driver-guides with you makes the whole experience so much richer—they know the wildlife, the hidden routes, and the best spots. And the best part? It’s not more expensive than self-driving in Tanzania.

More information about self-driving in Tanzania can be found in our blog post:
Self-drive in Tanzania? Here's why we don't recommend it. (https://www.rewildaway.be/post/self-drive-in-tanzania-here-s-why-we-don-t-recommend-it)

Question 10

What’s the difference between a safari and a game drive?

Accepted Answer

The word “safari” actually comes from Kiswahili and simply means “trip” or “journey.” Think of a safari as the whole adventure—the complete experience of exploring Tanzania’s nature, wildlife, and culture.

A game drive, on the other hand, is just one part of that safari: it’s when you head out in the jeep with our guides to search for animals.

So, your safari will include plenty of game drives, but it’s also about all the moments in between—the landscapes, the sunsets, the stories, and everything that makes your journey unforgettable.

Question 11

What time do game drives start?

Accepted Answer

That’s up to you—since our safaris are private, you set the rhythm.

We do recommend heading out early in the morning: the light is magical, the animals are most active, and there are fewer vehicles around. But if you’d like a slower start some days, that’s perfectly fine too.

Question 12

How do park fees work in Tanzania?

Accepted Answer

Park fees are valid for 24 hours from the moment you enter. The rules are strict—if you go in at 10 AM, you’ll need to be out again before 10 AM the next day.

Don’t worry, our guides always keep an eye on the timing so you can just enjoy the experience.

Question 13

Why should I choose Tanzania for my trip?

Accepted Answer

Because Tanzania is magical. From the endless plains of the Serengeti to the stunning Ngorongoro Crater and the warm Swahili coast, it’s a country full of contrasts and breathtaking experiences.

And beyond the hugely diverse landscapes and wildlife, what really makes Tanzania special are its people—warm, welcoming, and ready to share their culture with you.

Question 14

How many days should I spend in Tanzania?

Accepted Answer

That really depends on what you’d like to see and do. For a balanced trip that combines game drives, nature, and culture, we usually recommend around 10 days or more. Of course, we’ll happily tailor everything to your schedule, whether you have a week or three weeks.

And for those lucky enough to travel even longer—well, let’s just say Tanzania has a way of keeping you happily busy for months!

Question 15

What should I know about my passport before traveling to Tanzania?

Accepted Answer

Before you go, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your trip ends and has at least three blank pages.

Visa and entry requirements can change, so it’s a good idea to double-check with your country’s embassy for the latest information.

Question 16

What vaccinations or health precautions do I need for Tanzania?

Accepted Answer

For your trip, certain vaccinations are normally recommended. Since we’re not medically trained, we always suggest visiting your doctor or travel clinic for personalized advice. Here are the vaccinations commonly advised:

• Tetanus
 • Polio
 • Hepatitis A
 • Typhoid
 • Rabies
 • Yellow Fever*
 • Malaria**

*Yellow Fever vaccination is required if you’re coming from a country where Yellow Fever is present or if you have been there in the week before arriving in Tanzania. Your vaccination certificate may be checked at immigration. If you’re coming from a country without Yellow Fever, it’s usually not needed. For the latest list, check the World Health Organization website: WHO Yellow Fever Info(http://www.who.int/)

**Malaria is a risk in most areas we visit. To protect yourself, consider taking malaria tablets and using mosquito repellent with DEET. Mosquitoes that carry malaria are most active at sunset, so we recommend wearing long sleeves and trousers and applying repellent to exposed skin, especially ankles.

Our guides are happy to remind you about these precautions, and we can also give practical tips for staying healthy throughout your adventure.

Question 17

What should I pack for Tanzania?

Accepted Answer

Think light, comfy, and practical. Neutral-colored clothing is best for safaris (it blends into nature and avoids attracting tsetse flies). Bring a warmer layer for cool evenings, long sleeves for mosquitoes, and a rain jacket if you’ll be hiking or traveling in the wet season.

For shoes: sturdy walking shoes plus easy slip-ons or sandals for the jeep (you might be standing more on the seats than sitting on them).

Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and binoculars (we always have a pair in the car too). A scarf is great for dusty rides, and you’ll be thankful for it!

Worth a read:
Safari Suitcase Guide: Essentials to Pack (https://www.rewildaway.be/post/safari-suitcase-guide-essentials-to-pack)

Question 18

Which camera lens should I pack for my safari adventure?

Accepted Answer

On safari, animals can be right next to your jeep—or far off on the horizon. That’s why many travelers love a zoom lens, something like 100–400mm, to capture both close and distant wildlife.

A prime lens works beautifully too for close encounters; if you go this route, we’d suggest a minimum of 200mm.

Since we specialize in photography safaris,(https://www.rewildaway.be/post/plan-the-perfect-photography-safari-in-tanzania-a-comprehensive-guide) we’d be happy to chat with you (mailto:info@rewildaway.com)about your photography goals and help you choose the right lenses and gear for your trip. That way, you’ll be ready to capture every unforgettable moment.

A quick tip: always ask before taking portrait photos of people, out of respect for locals. And remember, some of the best shots aren’t just of animals—they’re of the landscapes, sunsets, and all the special moments that make your safari unique.

Question 19

Can I bring a drone to Tanzania?

Accepted Answer

Drones are allowed in Tanzania only with legal permits issued by the local government. We can help you navigate this process, but keep in mind it can take a while, and there’s a daily fee for each day your drone is in the country, which can make it quite expensive.

Authorities also do regular checks at the airport, and if you arrive with a drone without the proper license, chances are that it will be confiscated until you leave Tanzania.

If capturing aerial footage is important to you, we’re happy to guide you through the rules and help make sure everything is set up correctly—safely and legally.

Question 20

Which sockets should I bring?

Accepted Answer

In Tanzania, plugs and sockets of type D and type G are used. The voltage is 230 V with a frequency of 50 Hz. We recommend bringing a universal travel adapter so you’re always covered.

All our safari vehicles have charging points so you can charge your devices on the road as well.

Question 21

Are breakfast, lunch and dinner included on safari days?

Accepted Answer

Yes! All of our game drive days are on a full-board basis. We always bring a proper hamper so you can even enjoy a hot breakfast or lunch out in the bush. This way, you get a real safari experience—and it also avoids the waste from the standard lunch boxes many lodges provide.

On beach days however, we standardly include half board since you might opt for activities that include lunch. Though, if you wish to have full board or even all-inclusive, we can take care of that too.

Question 22

What kind of food will I get in the lodges?

Accepted Answer

You’ll be pleasantly surprised! Lodges in Tanzania serve a mix of international dishes and fresh local flavors. Expect plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, and fish.

Dietary requirements are almost always taken care of, just let us know beforehand and we’ll make sure the lodges are prepared.

Worth a read for vegans, vegetarians and if you have certain food allergies:
Tanzanian Food for Vegetarians, Vegans and Travelers with Allergies (https://www.rewildaway.be/post/tanzanian-food-for-vegetarians-vegans-and-travelers-with-allergies)

Question 23

Is the water safe in Tanzania?

Accepted Answer

For drinking and brushing your teeth, always use bottled water—every lodge provides it. It’s not recommended to drink tap water, but showers and washing with it are completely safe.

Question 24

How can I be a responsible traveler?

Accepted Answer

Traveling responsibly makes your trip more meaningful—and helps protect the amazing places and people you’ll meet along the way. Here’s how we like to do it:

Before you go:
 • We provide a reusable water bottle for your trip to reduce plastic waste.
 • Try to remove unnecessary packaging from the things you bring. Less waste, happier planet.
 • Take eco-friendly toiletries to avoid polluting local water supplies.
 • Consider bringing a wind-up or solar-powered torch or media player—it’s handy and kind to the environment.
 • Learn a few words of the local language (https://www.rewildaway.be/post/a-little-swahili-goes-a-long-way-your-safari-phrase-guide)and read up on Tanzanian history and culture. It goes a long way in connecting with people.
 • Packing a few pens, pencils, or exercise books is a lovely way to support local schools. You can also buy these locally, which helps the local economy.

While you’re traveling:
 • Water is precious—please use it thoughtfully, especially in remote areas.
 • Never buy products made from endangered species or habitats. It’s illegal and harmful to wildlife.
 • Support the local economy by buying locally made crafts and products. Don’t stress about haggling too aggressively—pay what feels fair and respectful.
 • Try local foods and drinks; it helps local farmers and small businesses.
 • Dispose of litter properly, including cigarette butts. Trash can be dangerous for wildlife.
 • On game drives, don’t encourage your guides to get too close to the animals—let them behave naturally.
 • Respect local customs, traditions, and beliefs, and ask before taking photos of people, ceremonies, or sacred places.
 • Dress thoughtfully and respectfully, especially during religious festivals.

Being mindful of these small actions makes a big difference and helps keep Tanzania beautiful for everyone—including future travelers.

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