Tanzania Traveler Essentials
- Capital
- Dodoma
- Currency
- Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
- Best time to visit
- June to October for the best wildlife viewing and dry season. January to February for Serengeti calving season. Zanzibar: June to October for the north coast, December to March for the south. Avoid March to May (long rains).
Visa requirements
Tourist visa required for most nationalities. East African Tourist Visa (valid for Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania) costs USD $100 for 90 days. Standard Tanzanian visa is USD $50. Apply online at eservices.immigration.go.tz or on arrival.
Getting around
Domestic flights connect Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Zanzibar and the safari parks quickly, while buses and the new SGR railway handle overland routes and ferries link Zanzibar to the mainland. In cities, ride-hailing apps Uber and Bolt are convenient, alongside taxis and the local bajaji (auto-rickshaws) and dala-dala minibuses.
Safety
Exercise normal caution. Dar es Salaam has petty crime in busy areas. Safari regions and Zanzibar are well-monitored and generally safe. Malaria is present — consult your doctor about prophylaxis before travel. Always use insect repellent at dawn and dusk.
Tipping customs
Tipping is welcomed and important in tourism. Leave around 10% in restaurants if no service charge is added, round up taxi fares, and tip hotel porters and housekeeping small amounts; safari guides, drivers and Kilimanjaro crews customarily receive daily tips.
Travel tips
Multi-day Serengeti safaris require a significant budget — but it's worth every dollar. Budget for park fees (significant in Tanzania). Zanzibar Stone Town's narrow alleys, spice tours, and sunset dhow cruises are cultural highlights beyond beach life. Kilimanjaro requires 6–8 days and hiring a licensed guide team is mandatory.