Travel Tips

To ensure a successful and enjoyable safari experience in Tanzania, it is important to consider the following tips. These insights have been gathered over the years through our travels to various destinations in Tanzania and are designed to help you prepare for your vacation with Ngorongoro Twin Peaks. By following these valuable details, you can avoid unnecessary frustration and hassle before and during your trip.

Visa

It is required for every foreigner to have a valid visa to enter Tanzania, unless your country of origin has a convention that exempts Tanzania from requiring visas. Your passport must have at least two blank pages and be valid for at least six months after your departure from Tanzania. You can apply for a visa online in advance or get one at the airport.

The Tanzania Electronic Visa Application System allows for both options. After application, you will receive an email confirmation, which could take one to three weeks. Applying for a visa in advance can save you time at the airport, and it will simply need to be stamped in your passport. The cost of a tourist visa is US $50 per person, except for United States citizens, who must pay US $100. It is essential to confirm the cost again before leaving.

Travel Insurance

It is highly recommended that you obtain a travel and cancellation insurance that covers your stay in Tanzania with Ngorongoro Twin Peaks.

If you plan to trek Mount Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru, please confirm with your travel insurance provider whether or not it covers mountain climbing.

If not, you may need to purchase additional coverage. Similarly, if you wish to go diving, it is advisable to check whether or not you require additional coverage.

Flight

We understand that planning a safari trip can be a daunting task, but we’re here to assist you in every possible way. Depending on your itinerary, we can provide you with personalized travel recommendations to ensure a seamless and hassle-free experience.

There are several reputable airlines that cater to popular safari destinations, including KLM, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines. Each airline offers unique features and benefits, so you can select the one that aligns with your preferences. We’re committed to helping you make informed decisions and enjoy a memorable safari experience.

Health

We highly recommend that you consult with your personal physician for a general health check-up and medication advice before flying to Tanzania. Once you have arrived in Tanzania, we suggest scheduling a day of rest to help you adjust to the new environment.

A change in diet and high altitude may cause diarrhea, headache, and/or loss of appetite. Also, be cautious of the harsh sun in Africa. It is advisable to wear a hat or cap, drink plenty of water, and use extra salt if necessary. Avoid drinking tap water in Tanzania and opt for sealed bottled mineral water instead.

Safety in Tanzania

Tanzania is a wonderful and peaceful country. However, it’s important to be cautious and keep an eye on your belongings in busy areas such as markets and bus stops. It’s recommended to leave your valuable items at your place of accommodation to avoid any potential loss or theft. It’s also advisable to avoid walking alone at night and instead arrange for private transportation for your safety.

While you are in the national parks, it’s important to keep in mind the following guidelines:

  • Always take advice from your guide seriously and act accordingly.
  • Never leave your vehicle during a game drive without consulting your guide first.
  • Follow the guidelines set by your lodging, tented campground, and the parks.
  • If you’re going for a hike, make sure you’re accompanied by an armed ranger at all times.
  • During the briefing, pay close attention to all the guidelines provided to you and make sure to follow them strictly.

Clothing

We would like to kindly suggest avoiding the use of camouflage clothing during your trip to Africa. It is worth noting that wearing such clothing is considered military and is prohibited in several African countries. Additionally, locals do not typically view it as a fashion trend. To ensure your comfort and respect for local customs, we recommend dressing in comfortable, neutral-colored clothing. While the color of clothing is of secondary importance, we advise avoiding colors like blue and black during game drives, as these colors may draw tsetse flies and other insects.

We would also like to suggest tucking your long pants into your socks when visiting a park where tsetse flies may be present, such as Tarangire National Park. For safari activities, we recommend neutral colors like light brown, olive green, and khaki. Lastly, we advise against wearing white garments during the safari due to the dusty roads, as they tend to get soiled quickly.

Here is some of the basic packing we’ve listed for you:

We have provided a list of basic items you should pack for your safari trip. It’s advisable to pack minimally to make room for souvenirs. You can achieve this by bringing essential clothing items such as flexible zip-off pants, light layers that can adapt to varying climates, or a simple skirt or pair of slacks that can be worn repeatedly during your stay at the campsite. Laundry services are usually provided at most campgrounds, but dryers are not common in the wilderness. As a result, clothing made of quick-dry fibers will keep you clean and comfortable during your safari adventure.

Please find below a list of essential items to pack for a safari trip:

  • 1 pair of pants
  • 1 rain jacket
  • 1 fleece
  • 2 pairs of shorts
  • 1 sun hat
  • 5 athletic socks
  • 1 bathing suit
  • 1 pair of safari boots
  • 1 safari hat
  • 1 pair of sunglasses
  • 1 pair of flip flops/sandals for wearing around the camp
  • Additionally, please make sure to store your electronics in sealed waterproof bags, double-bagged if possible.
  • Don’t forget to pack batteries, toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, moist towelettes (handi-wipes), hand sanitizer, toilet paper, and insect repellent.

Your luggage

We would like to kindly suggest avoiding the use of camouflage clothing during your trip to Africa. It is worth noting that wearing such clothing is considered military and is prohibited in several African countries. Additionally, locals do not typically view it as a fashion trend.

To ensure your comfort and respect for local customs, we recommend dressing in comfortable, neutral-colored clothing. While the color of clothing is of secondary importance, we advise avoiding colors like blue and black during game drives, as these colors may draw tsetse flies and other insects.

Safety

Tanzania is a beautiful country known for its friendly people, stability, and safety. However, it’s always better to be cautious when traveling to any new place. When you’re out and about in crowded areas such as markets, bus stations, or large cities, it’s important to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid wearing expensive jewelry in public.

Additionally, for your safety, we suggest avoiding walking on the streets at night and instead opting for a taxi. By taking these simple precautions, you can fully enjoy the beauty and wonder of Tanzania without any worries.

National parks and nature reserves

Please be aware that armed robberies have taken place in national parks and nature reserves, targeting both organized tours and individuals traveling alone. Exercise caution, especially in areas around Serengeti National Park, the northern circuit, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Arusha National Park, and areas in and around Mount Kilimanjaro. It is essential to select a trustworthy tour guide and avoid camping and solo travel. Hotels can provide recommendations for trustworthy tour operators. Even though camps and lodges are typically patrolled, wild animals can still enter the camp’s perimeter, making it potentially dangerous. Therefore, it is necessary to follow the recommendations and cautions given by the local tour guides and camp staff.

Weather

Africa is a vast continent where climate patterns and weather conditions can vary dramatically, no matter where you go. It is crucial to check the weather forecast before you embark on your trip so that you can be prepared for any adverse weather conditions. It is not uncommon to encounter heavy rainfall during a dry season, or sudden temperature fluctuations that require you to dress in layers. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you pack accordingly, with appropriate clothing and closed shoes for your safety and comfort. By taking these simple steps, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey while exploring the diverse and beautiful continent of Africa.

Tanzania experiences its winter season from June to September, which coincides with the European summer. During this time, the country also experiences its dry season. The temperatures start to rise again in September. In the spring, from September to October, the jacaranda trees bloom beautifully, and the city of Arusha is engulfed in a stunning purple hue. From October to November, there are brief showers of rain, which continue sporadically until March. The rainy season typically begins in late March and lasts until the end of May. For the best view of the Serengeti’s Great Migration, check out where to go and when to go. Tanzania’s coast and islands are generally hotter and more humid than the country’s interior, while Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru have much lower temperatures that can fall below zero, and they are usually snow-capped.

Currency

The official currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). There are coins available in denominations of 50, 100, 200, and 500 TZS, as well as banknotes in denominations of 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 TZS.

Foreign currencies are generally accepted and can be converted to Tanzanian Shillings (TZS) at banks and exchange bureaus, especially Euros and US Dollars. It’s important to note that no dollar bills older than 2006 are accepted. While credit cards are accepted in some lodges, they often come with a service fee of up to 5%. Be sure to inquire with us about the accommodations on your itinerary and whether they accept credit cards.

 If you plan to use your debit or credit card while traveling in Tanzania, make sure to notify your bank in advance. Sometimes banks will deactivate your card if you haven’t informed them about your travel plans.

Safety

When traveling to Tanzania, it is important to be mindful of the local customs, including tipping. While tipping is not always expected in small establishments, it is always appreciated. In tourist areas, it is customary to tip bellmen, maids, taxi drivers, and bus drivers around USD $1, 1 Euro, or 1,000 TZS.

Don’t forget to show your appreciation to the people on the street who help you out. If you’re dining at an upscale restaurant, it is appropriate to leave a tip of 5-10% of the bill. And when it comes to your private safari guide/driver, it is recommended to tip around USD $20-25 per safari car per day. By following these local customs, you can show your respect for the culture and make your trip even more enjoyable.