Tanzania

Tanzania

Tanzania offers unparalleled wildlife experiences, including the Great Migration in the Serengeti and climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak. Its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and beautiful coastline provide a diverse and unforgettable travel destination.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay10 days
Budget$30/day
Mid-range$150/day
Luxury$600/day

Known For

Dar es SalaamZanzibarSerengetiKilimanjaroMount KilimanjaroArushaStone Town

🇹🇿 Country Information: Tanzania

CapitalDodoma
CurrencyTanzanian shilling (TSh)
LanguageSwahili , English
Phone Code+255
Electricity230V (Type D, G)
Tap WaterNot recommended

Tipping

  • Tipping is common and appreciated in the tourism sector
  • Guides and safari drivers: $10
  • 20 per person per day
  • Hotel staff: $1
  • 2 per bag for porters, $5
  • 10 for housekeepers
  • Restaurant staff: 10% of the bill if service charge is not included

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are available in major cities and towns, but less so in rural areas
  • It is advisable to get cash from ATMs in secure locations
  • Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and tourist establishments, but cash is preferred for smaller purchases and local markets
  • It is better to bring a mix of cash (USD is widely accepted) and use ATMs
  • There is no official black market for cash, but unofficial currency exchange may occur in some areas

Cultural Norms

  • Dress modestly, especially in conservative and rural areas
  • Shoulders and knees should be covered
  • It is considered rude to point with one finger; use an open hand
  • Always ask for permission before taking photos of people
  • Eating with the left hand is considered unclean
  • Greet elders and those in authority with respect

LGBTQ+ Information

Exercise caution. Homosexuality is illegal in Tanzania and can lead to severe penalties. LGBTQ+ individuals face significant discrimination and lack legal protections.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • The legal drinking age is 18
  • Drug laws are very strict, and possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs can result in long prison sentences and heavy fines

Special Laws

  • It is illegal to use or possess plastic bags
  • Visitors should use reusable bags
  • Taking photos of government buildings, military installations, or sensitive areas is prohibited
  • Wildlife conservation laws are strict; do not disturb animals or remove any natural items from national parks

Common Phrases

HelloJambo (jahm-boh) Jambo
Thank youAsante (ah-sahn-teh) Asante
How are you?Habari? (hah-bah-ree?) Habari?

Climate

General classification for the main regions of Tanzania. Specific microclimates exist.

Climate Zone: Equatorial Monsoon

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Ugali must_try

Considered Tanzania's national dish, Ugali is a stiff, porridge-like dough made from cornmeal, cassava flour, sorghum, or millet. It is a fundamental

Nyama Choma must_try

This is a popular grilled meat dish, often made from beef, goat, or chicken, slow-roasted over open flames for a smoky, charred flavor. It is a tradit

Pilau must_try

Pilau is a fragrant rice dish that is frequently flavored with spices. It can be paired with meats and vegetables or eaten on its own as a flavorful m

Tanzanian Chapati breakfast

This is a soft, thick, and slightly sweeter flatbread, inspired by Indian cuisine. It is a staple in many Tanzanian homes and at special gatherings, o

Urojo (Zanzibar Mix) regional_speciality

A popular Tanzanian street food sensation unique to Zanzibar, Urojo is a tangy, hearty soup. It is made with chickpea flour, potatoes, cassava, and de

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour/Permits tour_or_activity
Book 3–6 months in advance

Climbing Kilimanjaro requires booking with a licensed tour operator who secures the necessary park permits, which must be arranged well in advance, especially during peak climbing seasons.

High-Demand Safari Lodges/Camps (Serengeti, Ngorongoro) Accommodation
Book 2–6 months in advance

Luxury and well-located tented camps/lodges within or near national parks (especially during the Great Migration) have limited capacity and sell out quickly.

Great Migration Safaris tour_or_activity
Book 3–6 months in advance

The best tours that track the Great Migration have limited spots, especially those offering prime viewing locations during peak river crossings or calving season.

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam Fast Ferry Transport
Book 1–4 weeks in advance

While ferries run frequently, booking in advance secures your desired class/seat, especially during weekends, holidays, or if traveling right before a flight.

Fun Facts

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