Tips & Guides

Embarking on a Tanzania Adventure Tour safari is an exhilarating experience that promises breathtaking landscapes, unforgettable wildlife encounters and unforgettable cultural immersive experiences. 

To make the most of your adventure, proper packing is key. In this blog, we'll guide you through simple and easy ways to pack for your Tanzanian safari, ensuring you're well-prepared for every moment of this once-in-a-lifetime journey.

Clothing Essentials:

• Lightweight and Neutral Colors: Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics in neutral colors such as khaki, beige, and olive. These colors help you blend into the natural surroundings and are less likely to attract insects.
• Long Sleeves and Pants: Protect yourself from the sun and potential insect bites by packing long-sleeved shirts and pants. Consider convertible pants for versatility.

Footwear:

• Comfortable Closed-toe Shoes: Whether you're walking through the bush or enjoying a game drive, comfortable closed-toe shoes are essential. Choose sturdy, breathable footwear suitable for uneven terrain.
• Sandals or Flip-Flops: Pack a pair for relaxation at your accommodation or during leisure time.

Weather-Appropriate Gear:

• Hat and Sunglasses: Shield yourself from the African sun with a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses.
• Light Jacket or Sweater: Evenings can get cool, so having a lightweight jacket or sweater is advisable.

Personal Items:

• Sunscreen and Insect Repellent: Protect your skin from the strong African sun with a high SPF sunscreen and guard against mosquitoes with a reliable insect repellent.
• Personal Hygiene Products: Bring travel-sized toiletries and a basic medical kit with essentials like pain relievers, antihistamines, and any prescription medications.
  

Photography Gear:

• Camera with Zoom Lens: Capture the incredible wildlife from a distance with a camera featuring a good zoom lens.
• Binoculars: Enhance your safari experience by bringing binoculars for a closer look at distant animals.

Electronics:

• Power Bank: Ensure your devices stay charged by packing a reliable power bank.
• Adapters and Converters: Tanzania uses the British-style Type C electrical outlets, so be sure to bring the appropriate adapters and converters for your devices.

Documents and Essentials:

• Passport and Visa: Confirm your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date and obtain the necessary visas online or upon arrival.
• Travel Insurance: Safeguard your trip with comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and trip cancellations.
• Cash and Credit Cards: While major cities accept credit cards, it's advisable to have some cash for remote areas and small purchases.

Daypack:

• Small Backpack or Daypack: Use a lightweight and compact daypack to carry essentials during day trips and game drives.

By following these simple and easy packing tips, you'll be well-prepared for the adventure that awaits you on your Tanzanian safari. Embrace the beauty of the wildlife, landscapes, and culture, and make lasting memories in this extraordinary destination. Safari Njema!

Here is our quick safari animal checklist for Tanzania! Can you spot them all on your next adventure? All of the major animals that can be found in northern circuit of Tanzania are listed on this checklist. Before your next Tanzania adventure, you may want to print a free copy.

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Last Updated: October 25, 2022.

For the latest CDC information on travel to Tanzania, including Zanzibar, please review the CDC's information directly.

Tanzania Vaccine Recommendations (Based on CDC Guidelines)

Routine Vaccinations

Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.

Hepatitis A

CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Tanzania, regardless of where you are eating or staying.

Hepatitis B

You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.

Cholera

Vaccination may be considered for adults who are traveling to areas of active cholera transmission. Areas of active cholera transmission are localized to the regions of Arusha (last case reported April 2019), Dar es Salaam (last case reported July 2019), Songwe (last case reported March 2019), and Tanga (last case reported July 2019) in Tanzania. Cholera is rare in travelers but can be severe. Certain factors may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease. Avoiding unsafe food and water and washing your hands can also help prevent cholera.

Typhoid

You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Tanzania. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.

Rabies

Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Tanzania, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups:

• Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
• People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
• People who are taking long trips or moving to Tanzania
• Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.

Required if traveling from a country with risk of YF virus transmission and ≥1 year of age, including transit >12 hours in an airport located in a country with risk of YF virus transmission.¹ Generally not recommended for travelers to Tanzania. Note: Yellow fever vaccine availability in the United States is currently limited.

*Additional Vaccinations may be recommended based on traveler’s medical history

Prophylactic Medication Recommendation for Tanzania (based on CDC guidelines)

Malaria Prophylactic Medication

Atovaquone-Proguanil(Malarone), Doxycycline, Mefloquine, or Tafenoquine.  Chloroquine not recommended secondary to drug resistance.

Current Health Issues / Notifications for Tanzania

Dengue

Because dengue is spread by mosquito bites, all travelers to risk areas should prevent mosquito bites by using an EPA-registered insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors, and sleeping in an air-conditioned room or room with window screens or under an insecticide-treated bed net.

COVID-19 

• Sustained community spread of respiratory illness caused by the novel (new) coronavirus (COVID-19) is occurring globally. Some countries have widespread sustained spread.
• Older adults and people of any age with serious chronic medical conditions are at increased risk for severe disease and should consider postponing nonessential travel.
• Travelers should avoid contact with sick people and wash their hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
• Travelers should monitor their health and limit interactions with others for 14 days after returning from travel.
• Travelers that are sick with fever, cough, or have trouble breathing should stay home and call ahead before seeking medical care.

Benefits of a Group Safari

Tanzanian safaris are once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, and our group trip is one of the most affordable ways to explore all of Tanzania’s beauty!

Our group trips are budget friendly, conveniently planned in advance, and the perfect way to meet like-minded travelers.

Budget-Friendly

Traveling with a group is much more affordable, because you’re able to split the cost with multiple other travelers.

Meet Like-Minded Travelers

Joining our group trip will give you the opportunity to make new friends along the way.

Our team will work with you in advance to help coordinate international travel with other adventure-seekers.

Less Planning, More Adventure

When you join our group trip, everything’s planned for you. There’s no worrying about which parks to visit or how long to stay. Our team has already prepared the perfect itinerary!

You’ll be able to see the most breathtaking views, visit the oldest tribes, and experience the start of the great migration.

The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly made it difficult to travel, but it is still very possible to see the world while maintaining you and your family’s safety. As of June 2022, Tourists entering Tanzania must have a negative COVID-19 test result valid no more than 96 hours before your arrival in Tanzania, as well as the Ministry of Health’s online surveillance form 24 hours before arrival. Additionally, you will be required to take a rapid test at your own expense upon arrival; these tests can range from $15-$80 per person. Though these steps may sound intimidating, please be assured that these requirements will be the most difficult part of your COVID-free trip in Tanzania! Since the pandemic has been present in our lives for over 2 years now, the airport has sufficient experience with tourists and the process is easy and fast. Once you’ve received a negative rapid test at the airport, your true adventure in Tanzania will begin with TAT!

Throughout your safari with TAT, interaction with potential COVID-infected people will be limited. Most of your time will be spent with your wonderful guide and hotel/resort staff. We would advise both vaccinated and unvaccinated tourists to take safety precautions, such as wearing a mask when indoors and washing your hands frequently. Before departing for your adventure, make sure to check updated CDC guidelines and recommendations. Communicate with your guide and travel companions to find what your most comfortable with. We want this trip to be one to remember, and we will work with you to ensure your safety and comfort!

Your safari is booked and you’re ready to go, but now it’s time to pack. Packing for your Tanzania Safari can be a bit overwhelming but the TAT Team has you covered!

General Packing List

• In general, pack lightly. Leave room for gifts and souvenirs. Soft sided luggage packs more easily into the safari vehicle.
• Always carry passport, airline tickets and money on your person. A fanny pack or moneybag that hangs around the neck works well.
• In case luggage doesn’t arrive the same day you do, put enough clothing and supplies for the first day in your carryon luggage.
• If taking a domestic flight luggage weight restrictions range between 15-20 kgs (33-44 lbs.) total per person.

Footwear

• Sturdy, comfortable shoes, preferably waterproof. They will get dirty.
• Tennis shoes or sandals for lounging in the evening
• Comfortable, breathable socks

Clothing

• Shorts, mid-thigh or longer (not advisable for village visits)
• Lightweight, breathable pants
• Short-sleeved shirts, cool and breathable (neutral colors are best, avoid black, dark blue and bright red)
• Bathing suit if staying at a lodge with a swimming pool or if visiting Zanzibar
• Long-sleeved fleece or sweater for evenings and/or early mornings
• Rain jacket or rain poncho
• Women: pants (capri-length or longer) and shirts that cover the shoulder are advisable for village visits. Lightweight dresses or skirts that cover the knees are optional depending on how rural your village visit is but can also be worn for evening dining at the accommodations.
• Men: short-sleeve shirts with collars (for visiting villages or evening dining at the accommodations).
• Keep valuable jewelry to a minimum

Note: Laundry service is available at most lodges either at a nominal cost or free of charge in some cases.

Baggage

• Day pack, for you to carry
• Large waterproof duffel bag or backpack

Other

• Sun hat
• Maps, guidebooks
• Scarf (for dust and/or sun)
• Batteries
• Sunglasses
• Binoculars (2 pair are standard in each vehicle –
• At least 2 Pairs of Binoculars (Nikon Monarch 8×36 or Eagle Optics Ranger 8×42)
• Money (small Tanzanian bills and/or small US bills for small purchases and tips. Larger US bills and/or travelers checks for bigger purchases)
• Journal/notebook, pencil and pen
• Pocket knife (for travelers doing basic camping)
• Electricity adapter
• Energy bars and snacks
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Playing cards, games, books, Frisbee
• Camera, memory cards, mini-tripod
• Mementos for guides and other travelers
• Personal music device
• Video camera
• Travel pillow

Toiletries

• Small hand towel (spare item)
• Roll of toilet paper (for some public restrooms)
• Soap
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Hand-wipes
• Lotion
• Glasses, contacts, solution
• Comb, mirror
• Shampoo (without heavy fragrance)
• Unscented Deodorant (use cologne/perfume sparingly, if at all, in case it might attract bees or other insects)

Documents

• Passport (with visa stamp or completed visa application with $50 or $100 US cash, exact change)
• Yellow fever certificate (REQUIRED if traveling from or through an endemic zone – refer to Medical Tips)
• Medical and Travel Insurance
• Address book

First Aid

• Ibuprofen
• Antiseptic cream
• Band-Aids
• Bandages and tape
• Sunscreen (SPF 15+)
• Diarrhea medicine
• Anti-malaria pills
• Antibiotics
• Insect repellent
• Antihistamines
• Lip balm with sunscreen o Prescription drugs

Ready to book your adventure? Our team will create the perfect itinerary for you. Click here to get started!

Are you aware that you can travel to Tanzania (or TZ as it’s commonly called) and have a great time even on a budget?

The answer is a capital “YES”.

Now I guess you want to know how it’s possible. Planning a trip on a budget, especially when it’s tight can be discouraging. I have been there and I understand that feeling. Imagine staying in the best hotels and visiting the best tourist sites without breaking your bank account. I personally used these tips that I am about to share several times.

Let me explain!

Am sure you’re beginning to feel that these tips will include cutting your safari, beach and other fun opportunities to nothing. Let’s assume that’s the case, where is the fun?

Transportation

You can save money on your trip to Tanzania if you’re willing to meet people as you travel through this beautiful country. Moving very fast will cost you more money.

Instead of traveling on a plane (which will definitely cost more) use a bus. Buses are available to take you to, from and around Tanzania. There are several bus service operators that offer great services at a very reasonable price. With some operators you can travel from one city to another with just $25. You can also book a bus online and have an a very enriching experience while on your ride.
The best way to save money flying to Tanzania is to fly busy international routes like Johannesburg and Cairo, etc. If you travel through smaller airports, you will spend more.

Another, better way to move around the city is to board “Dala Dala” for short trips. This is always one of the favorite parts of my journey. You get to meet and interact with the locals. You can stop at any point you choose, but you must inform the fare collector where you want to get off. We do not encourage travel by a Dala Dala at night.

Accommodations

This next tip will help you find the best accommodations in Tanzania and stay within your budget. You definitely need clean, comfortable, safe shelter after a long day’s travel. The right accommodations will make a great day even better. I know that they there are so many luxurious hotels, but there are so many comfortable, affordable alternatives that rival some of the more expensive choices. These hotels give you the opportunity to socialize, especially when you’re in the mood. Some of these alternatives offer delicious meals, WiFi services, outdoor pools and above all, they are safe.

Have you ever considered sleeping in a tented camp? If you want to save money, you should consider this option. The last time I visited I slept in a tented camp.

Wait a minute! Did I explain what a tented camp is? A tented camp is a perfect fusion of luxury, affordability, safety and being close to nature. Your safety is very important so I advise you also listen to your instinct. Yes! This is very important too. Although during my stay in Tanzania I never had a security challenge. This is not to say that they don’t have one or two bad around. Just be careful!

Food

Traveling to a strange land requires some sacrifice. Please don’t jump to conclusions having heard “sacrifice”. The point is that you should be willing to try new things.

After all, you’re on an adventure…

The first time I tasted some Tanzanian dishes, I couldn’t help but ask for more. I must confess, Tanzania’s local dishes are different from most other meals I have tasted during my trip in other African countries. Their dishes are not seasoned too harshly, but in just the right proportion. They really taste nice.

I was able to saved some money because I was able to cook a meal or two myself. If you can’t prepare a meal, never mind, local delicacies are often tasty and delicious. I enjoyed taking fruits, because they were fresh abundant and delious.

Shopping in Tanzania

It’s almost certain that you will go for shopping if your trip will last for more than a few days. If you fall into this category, just follow me closely.

Supermarkets are a no-go area for tourist if you really want to save some money. Ninety percent of their products are imported. Visit the local markets. You will have the opportunity to buy directly from Tanzanians. Their prices are not rubber stamped, you can negotiate. Also avoid malls rather buy from stalls, independent shops, and markets.

Communication

It is very important that you can communicate with friends and loved ones while in Tanzanian.

You can’t entirely rely on the WiFi connection at your hotel. You can buy a local Sim card. It will help you make calls and also chat on social media. The Sim cards and data subscriptions are inexpensive, usually just a few dollars. They have a strong data connection.

One last thing! You can choose a travel agency to help plan your trip. There are lots of travel agencies in Tanzania. I have traveled through the nooks and cranny of Tanzania. My travel agency is familiar with the locals and their culture. We will help you save some money and also spend quality time during your trip. We can arrange a group tour and this is ideal for you if you’re on a budget.

Notes

• The pack that the porters carry on Kilimanjaro is limited to 15 kg (35 pounds). Overweight or extra luggage will require an extra porter at $15/day
• Wrap clothing in waterproof plastic bags.
• In the day pack, take along water, sunglasses, camera, binoculars, rain pants and jacket at a minimum. Add any other items you might need during the day because you may not see the porters until the end of your trek for that day.
• Bring double extra sets of batteries as cold weather shortens their life.
• Carry critical climbing gear on the airplane in case baggage is delayed.
• You may want to bring some older items of warm clothing as gifts for your guides and porters.

Clothing

You want your inner layer to be wicking — no cotton. Next layer should be insulating and warm, and the top layer should be water proof but breathable. You will need clothes for hiking during the day, lounging in the evening, and for sleeping. Layers are important as temperatures vary greatly.

Your clothing should be lightweight, breathable, hand-washable, and quick-drying.

• Shorts, mid-thigh or longer
• Long pants (zip-off pants are very useful)
• Short-sleeved shirts
• Long-sleeved shirts
• Undergarments, socks
• Sport bras for women (roads can be bumpy)
• Sweater, jacket, windbreaker
• Rain racket and pants or rain poncho
• Sun hat with brim and chin strap
• Bandana (for dust, washing, etc.)
• Belt

Cold Weather Clothing

• Long underwear
• Fleece jacket or wool sweater
• Fleece pants
• Mittens and/or gloves (waterproof, one thin pair, one thick pair that can be layered)
• Wool or pile hat
• Balaclava or neck gaiter
• Hand and foot warmers (chemical activated)
• Down jacket or parka (for temperatures below freezing plus wind)

Footwear

Be sure to break in your shoes before the hike!

• Trekking shoes for hiking during the day, preferably warm, waterproof, and with ankle-support — not too light and not too heavy
• Tennis shoes or sandals for lounging in the evening
• Hiking socks for warmer conditions
• Wool socks for colder conditions
• Sock liners to wick away moisture
• Gaiters (for mud and scree)
• Snow cleats (optional)

Sleeping

• Sleeping bag (Rated -10 degrees F/-25 degrees C or colder is recommended)
• Sleeping pad and repair kit

Baggage

• Large duffel bag or backpack with rain cover, for porters to carry
• Day pack and rain cover, for you to carry
• Waterproof plastic bags for storing clothing and gear (ziplocks are great)

Electronics

Store electronics in sealed water-proof bags (double bagged if possible).

• Headlamp or flashlight
• Camera, lenses, filters, memory disks (you will not be able to download)
• Video camera, tapes
• Tripod or Monopod
• Batteries
• GPS (for Geocaching)

Toiletries

• Soap, shampoo, conditioner
• Shaving supplies
• Nail clippers, nail brush
• Toothbrush, toothpaste
• Moist towelettes (handi-wipes)
• Hand sanitizer
• Lotion
• Hairbrush, comb, mirror
• Small towel
• Toilet paper
• Facial tissue
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm with sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Q-tips
• Feminine products
• Cosmetics
• Sewing kit

First Aid

You really only need one first aid kit in your travel group, so coordinate with your travel companions.

• Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen, or Aspirin
• Band-Aids/plasters
• Disinfectant, antiseptic cream, antibiotic ointment
• Gauze bandages and tape
• Throat lozenges
• Vitamins
• Diarrhea medicine
• Antihistamines
• Ace bandage
• Melatonin or other sleep aid
• Malaria pills (talk to doctor)
• Antibiotics (talk to doctor)
• Prescription drugs (talk to doctor)
• Diamox for altitude (talk to doctor)

Other

• Sunglasses with straps
• Eyeglasses, contacts, solution
• Binoculars
• Pocket knife
• Notebook, pencil and pen
• Playing cards, games, books, frisbee, football, kite
• Energy bars, hard candy, snacks, and comfort foods
• 2-3 Water bottles and Camelback (no disposable water bottles)
• Bring 3 liters of bottled water for the first day of hiking.
  - Guides will boil water or use steripens for water sanitization for you along the route.
  - To prevent water from freezing on summit day, keep your water and tube inside your jacket. For Camelbacks, blow air back into the bladder after each sip and drink often.
  - Gatorade or other drink mix helps with taste and minerals.

• Trekking or ski poles

Unsure of the best time to go to Tanzania based off of the weather? Here's our guide to give you an idea of the weather for your planned trip and how costs can vary.

LOCATION; Northern Circuit

Arusha, Lake Manyara, Mkomazi, Ngorongoro, Serengeti, Tarengire

LOCATION; South

Mikumi, Ruaha, Selous, Undzungwa

LOCATION; West

Gombe, Katavi, Mahale

LOCATION; Zanzibar

* In Tanzania, when it rains it pours, for about an hour; usually in the late afternoon leaving the rest of the day sunny. Essentially, during the rainy season it is cooler, cheaper and less crowded in the parks.

Tanzanian Visa Application

To obtain your Tanzanian Visa in advance contact one of the two addresses in the United States listed below. We recommend mailing your application and passport to the New York office.  

It is also possible to obtain a visa upon arrival in Tanzania. To do so you must have $100 USD (US Citizens for multiple entry visa – required minimum) or $50 USD (non-US Citizens for single entry visas, $100 USD for multiple entry) in cash. Application forms are available at the ports of entry or border crossings.

Note: Insure your passport is valid for at least 6 months (from the date of your departure from Tanzania. Please review all visa regulations well in advance of your arrival.). The Tanzanian Visa that will be affixed into your passport takes up an entire page of your passport. Please ensure you have sufficient pages remaining in your passport prior to travel (2 blank pages per country on your itinerary).

Please feel free to contact with any questions.

Please visit the UN Mission or Embassy websites for the most recent visa application form and regulations (see links below):

The Permanent Representative Of The United Republic Of Tanzania To The United Nations
‍307 East 53rd Street, 4th Floor
New York, NY, 10022-4985
Tel: 212-697-3612 Ext. 10
Fax: 212-697-3618
Website: http://tanzania-un.org

Embassy of The United Republic of Tanzania
1232 22nd Street, NW
Washington Dc, 20037
Tel: 202-884-1085
Fax: 202-797-7408
Website: http://tanzaniaembassy-us.org

Tanzania Adventure Tours recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and your trip investment.

Consider travel protection for:

• Trip Cancellation
• Trip Interruption
• Emergency Medical Expenses
• Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation of Remains
• Trip Delay
• Baggage & Personal Effects
• Baggage Delay and more.

TRAVEL ASSISTANCE & CONCIERGE SERVICES*: With a Travelex Travel Protection Plan, emergency assistance and travel services are just a phone call away from virtually anywhere in the world.

YOU HAVE 24/7 ACCESS TO A WIDE RANGE OF SERVICES:

• Visa Requirements
• Cash Transfers
• Assistance with Lost Tickets or Passports
• Local Medical Care
• Emergency Medical Assistance
• International Dining Suggestions
• And More!

For more information on the available plans or to enroll, click on the link below or contact Travelex Insurance Services at 800-228-9792 and reference location number 23-0071
https://www.travelexinsurance.com/?utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=brand

Please Note: To be eligible for the waiver of pre-existing medical condition exclusion, the protection plan must be purchased within 15 days (Travel Basic) or 21 days (Travel Select)  from the time you make your initial trip deposit. However, the plan can be purchased any time prior to departure.

*Travel Assistance & Concierge Services are provided by the designated provider listed in the Policy. The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries and may be changed without notice. The full coverage terms and details, including limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. If you have questions about coverage available under our plans, please review the policy or contact Travelex Insurance Services at 800.228.9792 or email customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com. Travelex CA Agency License #0D10209. All products listed are underwritten by, Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company (formerly known as Stonewall Insurance Company), 1314 Douglas Street, Suite 1400, Omaha, NE 68102. 11.17 VXR

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Tanzania Adventure Tours enrolls all of its clients in the AMREF Flying Doctor’s program at no extra charge!

All booked clients of Tanzania Adventure Tours will automatically be enrolled for AMREF Flying Doctor’s insurance for zone one (mainland Tanzania, Zanzibar and Kenya). This enrollment does not replace traditional travel insurance but augments your coverage for emergency transport from your safari to Nairobi for onward medical evacuation.

‍This information has been compiled for you from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) website (www.cdc.gov/travel) to help you plan your adventure to Tanzania.

Food and waterborne diseases are the number one cause of illness in travelers. Travelers’ diarrhea can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites, which are found throughout the region and can contaminate food or water. Infections may cause diarrhea and vomiting (E. coli, Salmonella, cholera, and parasites), fever (typhoid fever and toxoplasmosis), or liver damage (hepatitis). Make sure your food and drinking water are safe.

Malaria is a preventable infection that can be fatal if left untreated. Prevent infection by taking prescription antimalarial drugs and protecting yourself against mosquito bites (see below). Travelers to East Africa should take one of the following antimalarial drugs: mefloquine, doxycycline, or Malarone(tm). Your risk of malaria may be high in these countries, including the cities.

The CDC recommends the following vaccines (as appropriate for age). See your doctor at least 4–6 weeks before your trip to allow time for shots to take effect.

• Hepatitis A or immune globulin (IG).
• Hepatitis B, if you might be exposed to blood (for example, healthcare workers), have sexual contact with the local population, stay longer than 6 months, or be exposed through medical treatment.
• Rabies, if you might be exposed to wild or domestic animals through your work or recreation.
• Typhoid, particularly if you are visiting developing countries in this region.
• Yellow fever*, if you travel anywhere outside urban areas

As needed, booster doses for tetanusdiphtheria, measles, and a one-time dose of polio vaccine for adults. Hepatitis B vaccine is now recommended for all infants and for children ages 11–12 years who did not receive the series as infants.

YELLOW FEVER – is required for ALL persons from yellow fever endemic countries/regions. All individuals in transit for 12 hours or more and/or who leave the immediate airport vicinity in a yellow fever endemic area are required to get vaccinated. All individuals from yellow fever endemic regions traveling by way of air, marine and land are required to get vaccinated. The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare of the United Republic of Tanzania has reinstalled HEALTH SURVEILLANCE DESKS in all borders, ports and international airports. PLEASE CARRY YOUR HEALTH CERTIFICATES WITH YOU WHEN ENTERING TANZANIA.

YELLOW FEVER UPDATE (2/28/2017): If you have been immunized once for Yellow Fever, you may have lifetime immunity. Your travel clinic physician can advise you based on your personal health profile. If you are covered for life, the clinic may update your yellow card to indicate “valid for life” as well as provide a letter of exemption to ensure that you are not immunized on site.

To stay healthy, do…

• Wash hands often with soap and water.
• Drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated (bubbly) drinks in cans or bottles. Avoid tap water, fountain drinks, and ice cubes.
• Eat only thoroughly cooked food or fruits and vegetables that hve been peeled. Remember: boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it.
• If you travel to an area where there is risk for malaria, take your malaria prevention medication before, during, and after travel, as directed. (See your doctor for a prescription.)
• Protect yourself from insects by remaining in well screened areas, using repellents (applied sparingly at 4hour intervals) and mosquito nets, and wearing long sleeved shirts and long pants from dusk through dawn.
• To prevent fungal and parasitic infections, keep feet clean and dry, and do not go barefoot.
• Always use latex condoms to reduce the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.

To avoid getting sick…

• Don’t eat food purchased from street vendors.
• Don’t drink beverages with ice.
• Don’t eat dairy products unless you know they have been pasteurized.
• Don’t share needles with anyone.
• Don’t handle animals (especially monkeys, dogs, and cats), to avoid bites and serious diseases (including rabies and plague).
• Don’t swim in fresh water, including Lake Malawi. Salt water is usually safer.

What you need to bring with you…

• Long sleeved shirts and long pants to wear while outside whenever possible, to prevent illnesses carried by insects (e.g., malaria, dengue, filariasis, leishmaniasis, and onchocerciasis).
• Insect repellent containing DEET (diethylmethyltoluamide), in 30%–35% strength for adults and 6%–10% for children.
• Over-the-counter antidiarrheal medicine to take if you have diarrhea.
• Iodine tablets and water filters to purify water if bottled water is not available.
• Sunblock, sunglasses, hat.
• Prescription medications: make sure you have enough to last during your trip, as well as a copy of the prescription(s).

For the latest CDC information on travel to Tanzania, including Zanzibar, please review the CDC's information directly.

Plan on getting a Visa? Take a look at the important information on Visas & Entry Requirements.

Requirements for all Visa Types

1. A completed visa application form, signed by applicant.

2. The actual passport valid for at least 6 months and should have at least 2 blank pages.

3. Two passport sized photographs, white background, recently taken.

4. A prepaid self-addressed envelope to facilitate return of passport by the most secure mail (only if needs to be mailed back to the applicant).

• Be sure you are able to track it.
• FedEx and UPS are accepted.

N.B: The Mission shall NOT be responsible for any loss or damage which occurred due to poor packaging, or that which occurred at courier handling facility.

5. Provide flight itinerary.

6. Provide your hotel reservation OR if you are visiting a family of friend provide invitation letter from the host.

7. If your trip is organized by tour operators, provide tour operator’s day by day land itinerary.

8. People traveling for specific reasons other than tourism must submit a letter from their organization or office. These include but not limited to volunteers, people attending meetings & conferences, studies, diplomatic, official and any other business not mentioned here.

9. Parental Approval for minors:
Visa applications for minors under 18 years traveling alone or with only one parent/legal guardians should be accompanied by:

• A notarized letter, jointly signed by parents or legal guardians approving the minor totravel.
• A copy of their ID Passport

10. Visa Fee: Regular US Passport holder $ 100, Non US $50. Modes of payment accepted:

• Money Order or Cashier’s Check.
• Company or Organization Checks
• Cash.
• All checks and money orders should be made Payable to “The Permanent Mission of Tanzania to the UN, New York”.
• All credit cards accepted, EXCEPT AMERICAN EXPRESS. Please click here to download a form for credit card payment.

N.B: Visa Fee is NON REFUNDABLE. Personal Checks are not accepted.

Hours of Operation and Processing Time

(Mondays to Fridays, Except Holidays)

• Visa processing hours are 9:30am to 1:00 pm for submitting applications and 11:00am to 1:00pm for picking up visas.
• Visa processing takes a minimum of five (5) working days for regular process.
• Rush service is available for an extra $20, which takes 3 working days.
• Next day service is available for an extra $50 and same day service is available for an extra $100
• The duration to remain in the country is determined by the immigration office at the port of entry.
• All visas are valid from the date of issuance. In the event a visa expires before it is utilized, the applicant will have to re-apply for a new one.
• Walk-in is available, no appointment necessary.

Processing Fee for Personal Checks and Credit/Debit cards:

When you provide a personal check, debit or credit card you authorize us to debit $5.00 processing fee from your account for each check or transaction. Payment with personal checks should be accompanied with a copy of driver’s license.

A returned check fee of $25 will be electronically debited from your account in the event your electronic transfer is returned from your financial institution.

Research and Journalism

Visas for research and journalism will only be granted after the applicant has been cleared by The Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH) and Tanzania Information Services (MAELEZO) respectively

N.B: It is emphasized that nationals and persons of the above mentioned countries and/or categories above may not be allowed entry into Tanzania without being in possession of referred visas. See “types of visa” above for more information about referred visas

Immunization

The best choice of vaccines for your trip depends on many individual factors, including your precise travel plans. Vaccines commonly recommended for travelers to Africa include those against Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio, Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Yellow fever, Malaria Rabies and Meningitis.

Certificate is required for entry into, or travel between, some African countries. Several of these vaccines require more than one dose, or take time to become effective. It is always best to seek advice from your doctor on immunization well in advance, if possible around 6 weeks before departure.

The government of Tanzania requires proof of yellow fever vaccination upon arrival if you are traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever.

For Malaria, talk to your doctor about how to prevent malaria while traveling. You may need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria, especially if you are visiting low-altitude areas. See more detailed information about malaria in Tanzania.

Pets

Pet licenses/certificates are required when traveling with pets to Tanzania. You may visit frequently asked questions for more information.

Travel Insurance

In case you would like to buy travel insurance we recommend visiting the link below. It contains reviews of various travel insurance policies:
http://www.reviews.com/travel-insurance/

Visa Processing Centers – USA

Visas can be obtained from any Tanzanian embassy abroad.

Permanent Mission of the United Republic of Tanzania to the United Nations
307 East 53rd Street 5th floor.
New York, NY, 10022.
TEL: 212-697 3612 | FAX: 212-697-3618