prepare for a safari in Tanzania

 Prepare for a safari in Tanzania

Prepare for Your Safari Adventure in Tanzania

Heading off on a safari adventure in Tanzania? While your all-inclusive package takes care of meals and accommodations, there’s still a bit of prep work to ensure a smooth journey.

Before you jet off, there are a few essential tasks to tackle. From sorting out important documents and vaccinations to packing smartly, we’ve got you covered. Our comprehensive guide makes preparing for your Tanzanian safari a breeze.

For insights into what to anticipate during your Tanzanian safari adventure, don’t miss out on exploring this page.

Flights to Tanzania

For your safari adventure in Tanzania, choosing the right airport is key to a smooth start. With three international options – Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar Es Salaam (DAR), and Abeid Amani Karume International Airport in Zanzibar (ZNZ) – it’s crucial to select the most convenient one.

While Dar Es Salaam may initially seem like a budget-friendly choice, keep in mind the additional time and expenses involved in connecting to Kilimanjaro for safaris in the Northern parks. Opting for JRO, situated just 50 km from Arusha town, the hub of Northern Tanzania safaris, saves both time and money.

Alternatively, if your journey begins in Zanzibar or Dar Es Salaam, consider a connecting flight to the local Arusha airport for a seamless transition to your safari start point, sparing you from an additional 40 km journey.

In essence, flying into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is the optimal choice, ensuring a hassle-free start to your unforgettable Tanzanian safari experience.

Necessary documents and more

Passport:

To ensure smooth travel into Tanzania, it’s vital to possess a valid passport. Your passport should remain valid for at least 6 months after your arrival in Tanzania, with 3-4 blank pages available for visa and immigration stamps. For added security, we advise keeping a photocopy of your passport handy during your travels.

Vaccinations:

Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory for visitors entering Tanzania who have recently been in or transited through high-risk Yellow Fever areas. This vaccination certificate may be requested upon arrival, so remember to carry it with you. Below is a list of countries deemed high risk for Yellow Fever transmission.

Additional vaccinations may be recommended by your healthcare provider for your journey to Tanzania. Learn more about these recommendations in the following article.

Immigration and Visas:

For your Tanzania safari adventure, securing a visitor’s visa is essential. Fortunately, this process is typically straightforward. Nationals of many countries can obtain the visa upon arrival at the airport. Alternatively, you can opt for the convenience of Tanzania’s new e-visa system, accessible via the Tanzania Immigration Department website. We highly recommend applying online to avoid the need to queue for a visa upon arrival.

To determine your eligibility for a visa and whether advance application is necessary, consult our comprehensive article on immigration and visas.

Travel insurance:

Securing travel insurance is essential for your peace of mind. Whether you’re seeking coverage for trip-related activities like flights and baggage or comprehensive protection for medical expenses, numerous options are available to suit your needs.

If conquering Mount Kilimanjaro is on your agenda, travel insurance becomes a prerequisite. Reach out to our team to explore your insurance options further. We’re here to assist you in finding the ideal insurance package tailored to your specific requirements.

Money:

With all-inclusive safari packages, your need for cash in Tanzania may be minimal. However, for occasions such as drinks, souvenir shopping, and tipping, having some local currency or USD on hand can be advantageous.

Before your departure, notify your bank of your travel plans and ensure your debit and/or credit cards are set for international use.

Ensure your PIN is a 4-digit number, compatible with ATMs in Tanzania.

Should you opt to bring cash for exchange, numerous banks throughout Tanzania offer foreign exchange services. Generally, US dollars, Euros, or British Pounds yield favorable exchange rates, while other currencies may pose challenges.

ATMs and bank currency exchanges are predominantly found in urban areas of Tanzania. Arusha or Moshi serve as excellent locations for currency exchange, especially if venturing into the Serengeti or other national parks. While USD is widely accepted, Tanzania shillings are necessary for transactions in local supermarkets.

Pack your luggage

Explore our comprehensive packing list for safaris in Tanzania by clicking here.

Additionally, if you’re gearing up to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro, find our detailed packing and gear list here.

For a succinct African safari packing guide, prioritize lightweight layers and practical clothing. While Tanzania typically boasts warm weather, evenings and early mornings in highland or northern regions may be brisk. Given Tanzania’s equatorial location, brace for intense afternoon sun by packing essential items like a hat and sunscreen.

You won’t find yourself needing fancy footwear or high heels on your Tanzanian adventure, but a reliable pair of walking shoes is a wise choice. Particularly if you’re fond of evening strolls or considering a walking safari in Arusha National Park.

Contrary to the widespread depiction in media and among tourists, there’s no obligatory ‘safari uniform’ in Tanzania. However, opting for neutral-colored attire in light and quick-drying fabrics holds practical merit for safari outings. While there’s no requirement to exclusively pack khaki-colored items, neutrals tend to fare better against dust and mud, keeping your clothing cleaner throughout your journey.

Dispelling a common myth, animals in Tanzania don’t distinguish between colors; most perceive their surroundings in black-and-white. Hence, concerns about colored clothing alarming wildlife are unfounded. Nevertheless, camouflage attire is exclusively reserved for members of the Tanzania People’s Defence Force, while general khaki clothing is permissible.

Ensure your packing list includes:

– A lightweight jacket or sweater
– Several long-sleeved shirts
– Sun-protective hat or cap
– 1 or 2 pairs of durable, comfortable trousers
– Swimwear (many lodges feature swimming pools)
– Comfortable walking shoes

Other items

Electric outlets are used in Tanzania

In Tanzania, the standard electric outlet usually accommodates a three-pronged plug, often referred to as “a G plug,” similar to those found in the United Kingdom. If you’re traveling from a country with a different plug type, you can either bring your own adapter or conveniently purchase one upon arrival in Tanzania.

The hotels provide socket adapters to anyone having European-type power plugs. You will also find some in our safari cars.

Don’t forget to pack a USB cable for your electronic devices.

Numerous safari vehicles are equipped with USB charging ports, allowing you to conveniently keep your phone or camera powered up during your adventures in the National Parks.

Should I bring binoculars?

If you prefer using your own, feel free to bring it along with you.