Your Complete Guide to Tanzania

The most popular time to visit is from June to October during the dry season.  Clear skies and minimal rain make it ideal for both safari and beach vacations.  The wet season (November to May) sees fewer tourists, lush scenery, and better birdwatching.  While better when dry, wildlife sightings are good throughout the year.

Most tourists need an Ordinary Visa.  First determine whether you need to obtain this prior to arrival via Tanzania diplomatic missions, or an online eVisa.  For some nationalities, visas are issued at the point of entry (international airport or border post).  Visitors from the USA, and those who will visit other neighboring countries before departing Tanzania, must obtain a Multiple-Entry Visa.  Always check the latest visa requirements before traveling.

Swahili and English are the two official languages of Tanzania.  English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, such as lodges and resorts.  It is used in business and government communications.  The indigenous language, Swahili, is used in daily communication across the country.

Tanzania’s currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS).  Use it for smaller purchases and tips.  US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas and for payment of larger transactions.  Payments by credit and debit cards are also possible, with Mastercard and Visa being the most widely accepted options.  Amex is useful when withdrawing dollars at certain ATMs, although most dispense TZS.  Expect a hefty surcharge when paying by card (up to 10%).

You need a standard visitor/tourist visa. Until this year a person could obtain one upon arrival in Tanzania. That is no longer the case. Today, all visitors intent on enjoying Tanzania safari holidays must apply for and be issued a visa through the country’s online application system that can be accessed here. On the application website, you will also find information on all the documentation you need to travel to Tanzania.

Yes, some vaccinations are either required or recommended for travel to Tanzania.  If you are arriving from a country with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission, vaccination is mandatory.  Recommended vaccinations include those for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies.  Consult your travel health specialist before your trip for current regulations and recommendations.

Tanzania is safe for tourists, especially in major cities and tourist areas.  As in any unfamiliar destination, be cautious and apply standard travel safety practices.  Keep your valuables secure, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid walking around alone at night.

Clothing should be neutral colored, lightweight and breathable.  Pack some warm clothing.  Sun protection, including a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen is essential.  Insect repellant, good walking shoes, and a reusable water bottle are indispensable.  Take a good camera and binoculars.  Enquire about any luggage restrictions.  Note: if you are mountain trekking (e.g. climbing Kilimanjaro), you will need specialist clothing and equipment. Here is a Packing List for your Tanzania Safari.

Stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a vibrant culture.  On safari you can expect game drives in customized safari vehicles, nature walks with experienced guides, the chance of seeing the Big 5 (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo) and a myriad species of wildlife, plants and birds. Accommodation standards vary.

The Tanzania Big 5 remain the most sought after species to view on safari.  They can be seen in their natural environment, including the Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Nyerere, and Ruaha National Parks.

Safari length is determined by time constraints, budget, and specific interests.  Typically, safaris last between 5 and 10 days, incorporating various wildlife destinations, landscapes, and wildlife.  Longer safaris invite relaxation and exploration, while shorter safaris can feel rushed.  People often add a beach vacation to unwind after safari.

WiFi is available in the public areas of all the hotels/lodges used by Flash McTours.  Not all rooms have WiFi in the rooms.  Mobile phone reception for calls and data is available, but varies in strength at the various national parks, reserves, and conservancies.  We suggest buying a local Vodafone SIM card.  Data can be arranged via our Safari Vehicle Hotspots.

Our tour prices are inclusive of most safari expenses, with the exception of international flights, visas, laundry, and alcoholic beverages.  Take into account: optional gratuities, alcohol, and souvenirs.  Credit/debit cards can be used to settle some bills and are accepted in tourist establishments

We recommend $10-15 per person per day for the guide at the end of the tour. Gratuities are not mandatory, and the amount is at your discretion based on your level of satisfaction.  At the end of hotel/lodge stays, you have the option of leaving a general gratuity for staff which will be fairly distributed.

Serengeti National Park, home to the Great Migration, is the most popular national park in Tanzania.  The Ngorongoro Crater boasts the world’s highest concentration of lions.  In Lake Manyara National Park, lions often rest in trees.  Renowned for its otherworldly baobab trees, Tarangire National Park is a place for quiet contemplation.

Absolutely!  We encourage our guests to include a range of wildlife destinations in their itinerary, to truly experience the country’s diversity.  Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater  are close to one another, forming part of Tanzania’s Northern Circuit.  Also nearby are Lake Manyara and Tarangire National Parks.

Yes!  Guided tours are widely available in all of Tanzania’s major national parks.  Guided tours promise valuable insights into the wildlife, ecology, and culture of the area.  These are easily arranged through Flash McTours.

Tanzania’s people are as interesting as its natural treasures.  Experience their way of life connected to the land in music, dance, crafts, and cuisine during interactive encounters.  In the coastal regions, the historical ties to the Arab world are evident in the food, architecture, and relaxed way of life.

Yes, when you book your tour with Flash McTours, there are numerous opportunities to interact with local communities.  Through respectful engagement, supporting local craft industries, and visits to various community-based initiatives, you’ll have the opportunity to give back to the people who so generously share their country’s natural heritage and hospitality.

The tallest peak in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro stands proud over the endless plains of Tanzania, symbolizing the national pride of its inhabitants.  Kilimanjaro is the source of cultural heritage, spiritual inspiration, and economic opportunity.

As a mark of respect for local culture, please be aware of the following:

• Dress code – modest, for both men and women.
• Public displays of affection can make certain communities uncomfortable.
• Ask permission before taking photographs of the locals and their possessions.
• Refrain from handing out sweets/trinkets to children.
• Do not aggressively haggle when purchasing souvenirs.
• “Jambo” is the traditional greeting, and is followed by polite enquiries before getting to the topic.
• Do not sniff the food and sample each dish presented to you.