Safari & Tour Tips
Tanzania Visa is compulsory for all foreign nationals who are planning their Tanzania Safari and Tours. We suggest you apply for your visa online in advance of travel to enjoy a hassle-free journey in Tanzania. Travelers can apply for Tanzania Visa Online through the Tanzanian Immigration website where you can make payments online with a credit card or bank transfer.
Tanzania Visa Requirements
Your Tanzania Visa Requirements include the following items:
- Valid Passport – All citizens are required to have a valid passport which is valid for a minimum of six months until the day of completion of your safari.
- Yellow Fever Certificate– In case you are passing through a country with a risk for yellow fever virus transmission, it is essential that you show a yellow fever certificate to the Immigration Officer when you land in Tanzania.
- Methods of Payment– There are various methods of payments where multiple types of credit and debit cards like Visa and American Express are also accepted. You can also pay through the process of PayPal as a standard payment method.
- Flight Itinerary– The Tanzanian Immigration Officials also ask about your flight itinerary.
- Passport Digital Scan– You also need to upload a copy of your passport bio page for the e-Visa application, along with carrying two recent passport photos with you to enter Tanzania.
Tanzania Visa Types
There are six types of visa valid for entry into Tanzania
- Ordinary Visa (Single Entry Visa)
An ordinary visa is granted to all foreign nationals for attending Conference, Humanitarian, Visit, Tourism, Leisure, Holiday, and charity activities, Family Visit, Health Treatment, or any other purpose as may be determined by the issuing authority. These visas are valid for 90 days for a single entry.
- Business Visa
Business visas are issued for a period not exceeding 90 days to any foreign national who wishes to enter the country for one of the following purposes:
- For conducting special assignments such as fixing/repairing machines or running short term training programs, etc.
- For conducting short time professional roles such as auditing accounts, and making business contacts, making feasibility studies, and more.
- For conducting any other short term lawful business-related task recognized by the laws of the country.
- Multiple Entry Visa
In case a foreign national needs to make multiple visits to Tanzania he/she may be provided with a multiple – entry visa. The people who can acquire such visas include Directors of Companies registered in Tanzania who do not reside in the country, Spouses married to Tanzanians/Residents, Persons engaged in Bilateral Meetings, Representatives of international NGO’s, Government Consultants, and any other person as may be determined by the Commissioner-General of Immigration or Commissioner of Immigration Zanzibar.
- Transit Visa
A transit visa is issued to foreign nationals to transit through to another destination outside Tanzania for a period not exceeding seven days. For a transit visa, the applicant may be required to provide proof of a Visa of the destination country and/or onward ticket.
- Gratis Visa
Foreign nationals entering the country for Academic conduct such as Research Students, EAC Students, Exchange students (EAC and Exchange students are free of charge), Intern, Volunteering, and Prospective Students admitted in recognized and legally registered Institutions are provided a gratis Visa.
- Student Visa
A student visa is issued for a single entry or multiple entries to the holder of diplomatic, services or official passport or Travel Document of recognized International Organization who is on official duty and their Dependents.
Tanzania E-Visa Processing Time
The Tanzania Visa processing times are of three types:
- Standard processing – Your e-Visa will arrive by email within 9 Business Days, and the e-Visa cost will be USD 100.00.
- Rush processing – Your e-Visa will arrive by email within 7 Business Days, and the e-Visa cost will be USD 100.00.
- Super Rush processing – Your e-Visa will arrive by email within 5 Business Days, and the e-Visa cost will be USD 100.00.
Tanzania Visa Cost
On your Tanzania Safari and Tours, you can get varieties of types of visas depending on the purpose of your visit. The Tanzania Visa Cost is provided in the following table:
Types of Visa
- Ordinary (single Entry) Visa: USD50
- Multiple Entry Visa: USD100
- Business Visa: USD250
- Transit Visa: USD30
- Student Visa: USD50, USD250, USD550
Gratis Visa: None
Tanzania visa cost ranges from $50 to $550 depending on the type of visa and the duration of your stay.
Tanzania Visa on Arrival
Tanzania Visa on Arrival is available for all foreign nationals who are eligible for a Tanzania Visa are also eligible for a visa on arrival. Despite this facility we recommended you apply for a visa before visiting the country as you may require standing in long queues to obtain a visa at the airport.
Tanzania Visa Uk
Citizens of the UK need a tourist or business visa to enter Tanzania. The easier way to apply for your Visa is through the ‘e-visas’ system in advance. To get a tourist or business visa for a single entry on arrival one needs to fulfill all the immigration requirements. Most of the times you may be asked to provide proof of your return journey. But if you need a multiple entry visa you won’t be able to get one on arrival.
Tanzania Visa for U.S. Citizens
Tanzania Visa for Us Citizens can be obtained online for which they are required to fill in the online form, make a payment, and apply online. After reviewing and processing your application and your documents you will be provided the visa with a payment of US$100.
Tanzania Visa Refund
As per the Refund Policy of Tanzania High Commission, the Visa application fees are non-refundable despite your application is successful or not. You can, however, claim a refund in case you pay for same-day service or next day service and your application is not processed within the specified time.
WEATHER AND CLIMATE
Tanzania is a tropical country in East Africa on the Indian Ocean. It is more than twice the size of California with a 2017 population of 57 million. Tanzania lies a few degrees south of the equator, enjoying a moderate tropical climate with seasons regulated by rainfall rather than temperature.
The coast, including the largest city Dar es Salaam and the islands of Zanzibar, are hot and humid with cooling breezes off the Indian Ocean. Inland Tanzania, which includes all the safari parks and Mount Kilimanjaro, is on the African plateau with base elevations ranging from 600-1200m above sea level. This elevation moderates the heat so that days are warm and nights are cool throughout the year.
Most regions of Tanzania experience two rainy seasons. The long rains last from mid-March through early June and the short rains from November through December. The long rains consist of regular periods of steady, soaking downpours and the short rains usually entail light morning or evening showers. Regional variations occur and even during the rainy seasons rarely a day goes by without some sunshine!
THE TANZANIA COAST AND ZANZIBAR.
Temperatures are always warm. The months of January and February can be particularly hot, but the sea breezes regulate the temperature, so you can take full advantage of the paradisiacal beaches of the islands. The months of April and May account for 40% of the annual rainfall on the islands and the majority of the hotels are closed. The rest of the year is relatively dry with sun almost every day. The islands are at their peak for travel between June and October.
SAFARIS IN NORTHERN TANZANIA
Safaris in northern Tanzania – especially in the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater – are excellent throughout the year. The coolest months are June and July and the warmest January and February, though seasonal variations are only a few degrees. The dry season months of July through October are best for animal viewing as grasses are low, making for excellent visibility, and seasonal water sources dry up, forcing the concentration of wildlife. Heavy rains fall from mid-March to early June, with a peak in April. During these “green season” months, you will enjoy the safari parks in tranquility while prices at lodges and bush camps are reduced significantly. In the short rainy season, from early November to mid-December, tourist numbers are also down while the colors of the savannah are sublime.
While massive herds of wildebeest can be found in the Serengeti year round, during the annual wildebeest migration certain parts of the park are more favorable at certain times of year:
The southern Serengeti near Lake Ndutu is where the herds gather for the annual calving during a three week period in February. The herds arrive in Dec-Jan and are on the move again in Mar-Apr. The far northern Serengeti around the Mara River is the location of the famous river crossings that usually occur from late August through October. The best time to visit Tarangire National Park runs from June to November, when the permanently flowing Tarangire River is the only water source in the area. The migrating herds will converge along the river during this time. From October to April you can admire some 300 species of birds, many of them are migrants from the European winter.
MOUNT KILIMANJARO
It is possible to climb Kilimanjaro year round on any route, even during the season of heavy rains. Only on very rare occasions does the weather prevent climbers from reaching the summit. During the rainy seasons, the Rongai route, ascending from the drier northeast side of the mountain, is a good choice at that time of year.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Tanzania Safari and Tours are a trip of a lifetime. And the good news is you can go to Safari Tanzania all year round. But if we have to narrow it down then, the dry season of June to October is undoubtedly the best time to visit Tanzania.
Overall this is the ideal period to witness the great migration of wildebeest in Serengeti, to explore the quieter southern Selous reserve and its incredible wildlife sightings. Plus, the dry season is the best time to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, as the clear skies offer spectacular views from the peak.
Tanzania Safari Weather
The tropical country of Tanzania is situated south of the equator. All in all, Tanzania has a comfortable climate all year-round. But, the higher altitude creates significant regional variations. The coastal part of Tanzania is the hottest and most humid part. Whereas, the low-lying areas of western and southern Tanzanian National parks feel less humid. The central plateau, on the other hand, is pretty awesome.
Tanzania Safari Season
Altogether Tanzania experiences two distinct wet seasons. There are two rainy seasons:
March to May – Heavy rains
November to January – shorter period of rain
In between falls the dry season of June to October where you will see a drastic fall in temperature.
June to October –Dry Season
From late June to late October, Tanzania experiences a dry season. Understandably the vegetation is less dense in the dryer months. So naturally, all the animals gather at watering holes and rivers, which makes for great wildlife sightings. Also, all the Tanzanian National parks are a lot more popular at this time of the year. Skies are clear, days are sunny, with cold mornings and nights. Hence probably the ideal time for a beach retreat.
November to May –Wet Season
The wet season is the perfect time for game drives in safari Tanzania if you’re willing to be a bit more patient. As this is the breeding season, with the newborn animals comes an increase in predators. In fact, it is the best time to see the wildebeest calving in Serengeti. In the wet months from November to February, the vegetation is much lusher, which makes navigation a little trickier. But the exceptional scenic beauty of all the Tanzanian destinations during this period is second to none. Also, it is the best time for bird watching on Tanzania safari.
Best Time for Tanzania Safari Wildebeest Migration
Hands down, the spectacular wildebeest migration is the best Safari in Tanzania. Many travelers plump for Tanzania Travel to witness the great wildebeest migration. But in reality, the Wildebeest migration is an unending yearlong cycle occurring at different parts of the country at different times of the year.
The Wildebeest progress around Serengeti National Park all year round. They begin from the south between Januarys to April and arrive near Seronera Valley around May, June. However, July to October is the best time to see the wildebeest migration. During this period, huge herds reach the Grumeti River in search of water flowed closely by the hungry predators. Hence it is also the best time to witness the predator-prey drama. Next, they cross the Mara River between August and September. They return to the Serengeti just around October. Soon after that, they head south again, arriving at eastern plains around November, December.
So, if you’re hoping to witness the wildebeest migration during your safari to Tanzania then it’s important to be aware of when and where exactly the Great Wildebeest Migration is happening at that given point of time.
Best Time For Tanzania Safari Activities
- June to October: All Tanzania national parks
- June-July: Wildebeest migration and calving
- January-February: Serengeti National Park for the wildebeest migration and calving
- December to March: Mount Kilimanjaro Trekkin
- December to February: Zanzibar Beaches
So, you see there is no particular good or bad time for Tanzania Safari Destinations. However, the only time we advise you to avoid is between April and May when heavy rains can disrupt wildlife viewing or mountain hiking or beach bathing. Hopefully, this guide provides you with all the necessary information you are looking for Safari to Tanzania. Having said that, if you’ve any further questions regarding planning a perfect Tanzania Safari and Tour you can contact us.
TRAVEL INSUARANCE
Tanzania Travel Insurance is like the good friend you call at home for help if anything goes wrong on your Tanzania Safari and Tours. If you get the hint right, you should know how important your travel insurance is and why choosing the right one ensures your complete trip.
We ensure you travel safely and stay sound in the country. But Travel Insurance Tanzania Safari helps you travel carefree and covers the following:
- Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation of Remains
- Trip Delay
- Baggage and Personal Effects
- Baggage Delay and more
- Trip Cancellation
- Trip Interruption
- Emergency Medical Expenses
Why Cover Your Trip?
There are many reasons why you need to cover your trip with Tanzania Travel Insurance:
You may want to cancel it due to last-minute changes in plans. The reason could be anything such as flight delays or cancellations, illness, or injury. To avoid losing your expense covering your trip is important.
In case you or your loved ones become ill or injured, and the medical facility is far away the situation might get worse. It is therefore good to secure your trip.
Moreover, insurance helps you travel with complete peace of mind letting you enjoy your much-needed vacation.
How Should Your Travel Insurance To Tanzania Look Like?
You can buy your Travel Insurance Online for Tanzania. Your Tanzania Travel Insurance should cover:
- Trip cancellation, interruption and baggage insurance
- Can be purchased alone, or to complement an emergency medical plan
- Coverage for a single trip, or several trips
- If you plan to travel more than once, save time (and possibly money)
- Emergency medical coverage
- Up to CAD 5 million (certain benefit limits apply)
What Are The Medical Features You Need To Cover In Your Insurance?
Some features of Emergency Travel Health Insurance Tanzania:
- Hospital and doctor’s fees
- Private nursing care
- New prescriptions (30-day supply)
- Treatment for dental accidents
- Fly your insured spouse or dependent children home if you are transported back to Canada
- Returning your vehicle to your home or a rental agency
- Ambulance (ground or air) to emergency care
- Transport to a hospital from a remote area during a medical emergency
- Emergency medical attention
- Also, Some Features Of Non-Medical Travel Insurance Covers Must Include:
- Travel Insurance Tanzania Coverage needs to accommodate:
- Reimbursement of costs if you have to return home early from a trip
- Cost of necessities if your luggage gets lost or stolen
- Reimbursement of costs if you have to cancel your trip before you leave home
SAFARI VEHICLES
The majority of a safari in Africa, and specifically, Tanzania, is spent inside of a safari car. Having a professional guide and a good safari car are probably the most important aspects of any safari. Skimping on either of these may have disastrous results and ruin your safari experience.
Your safari car will drive along Tanzania’s highways to reach the national parks or remote areas for your tour. Is your safari going to the Serengeti or Tarangire National Parks? These parks have some areas where your car may ford streams, drive up steep inclines or need to go through flooded or muddy sections – a quality safari car is absolutely essential for these safaris. Are you planning to visit the Hadzabe tribe? Your safari car will navigate the rough terrain to arrive at Lake Eyasi. Going to Lake Natron or planning to climb Ol Doinyo Lengai? You will certainly need a good safari car for the rough road to reach this remote location.
Basically, visiting any national park or game reserves requires 4×4 vehicles – under the current regulations of the Tanzania National Park Authority only the SUVs with a four-wheel drive are allowed to enter the protected areas. Not only is a good safari car necessary for accessing some amazing destinations within Tanzania, but a good safari car should provide a level of comfort for passengers, and safely and conveniently transport your luggage and equipment, too.
Our Tanzania Safari Vehicles
On all our safaris we make use of specially designed and converted Toyota Land cruisers. We have put a lot of thought into adapting them to the rugged African bush, the rough conditions, and the bumpy roads, providing maximum comfort and at the same time ensuring the best safari experience for our guests. Our safari vehicles have large sliding windows and pop-up roofs, offering excellent views and giving our guests fantastic opportunities for safe and undisturbed photography while on game drives.
Facilities on Our Tanzania Safari Vehicle
Each specially adapted to meet the demands of the rugged African terrain, our Tanzania safari vehicles are all fitted with: GPS tracking, HF or VHF Radio Connection, Pop-up Roof, First Aid Kit, Refrigerator, Fire Extinguisher, Tool Kit and spare tires, sliding windows and 6 passenger window seats guaranteeing an unrestricted panoramic view.
The passenger compartment is equipped with six individual and comfortable seats guaranteeing a window seat for each guest. In addition, a seventh seat is available next to the guide. All our vehicles are fitted with a safari fridge, powered by the car battery, for keeping your drinks cold and refreshing.
220 Volt electric sockets for battery chargers ensure that you won’t miss capturing any of the special moments you will experience on your safari. The powerful engines allow the vehicles to manage various kinds of terrain without any difficulties even when traveling on roads that are off the beaten track. Regular services on the motors are essential to ensure continued reliability. Your safety is our priority.
All our guides only drive their “dedicated” safari vehicle. This results in optimized maintenance, handling, and caretaking of our fleet on the one hand and safe and secure driving due to being familiar with the specific Land cruiser on the other hand. As there is limited space available in the luggage compartment, we ask all our guests to restrict their luggage to 15 kg in weight. Luggage that won’t be needed on safari can be stored in our office or in the Hotel.
GUIDES AND STAFF TIPPING
Tipping in Tanzania is not mandatory but expected as custom. On your Tanzania Safari and Tour, tipping your guide, hotel staff, cook, or anyone who serves you during your stay is expected. Our detailed Tanzania Travel Tipping Guidelines will help you understand, when to tip, how much to tip, and whom to tip in Tanzania.
Tanzania Tipping Etiquette
Our Tanzania Tipping Guide suggests that tipping is firmly entrenched in the tourism industry in Tanzania and travelers shouldn’t feel awkward about it at all. Although Tipping in Tanzania Travel is supporting the Travel crew members financially but you should never feel obliged to leave a tip in case you don’t feel the service you received was immoral or insufficient.
Tipping On Tanzania Travel Considerations:
Guide to Tipping at safari lodges
Numerous people are striving hard behind the scenes to make your safari experience an unforgettable one. You can ask most lodges for their tipping advice and guidelines so that you can tip their staff accordingly without any hesitation. There is often a communal tip ‘jar’ placed in lodges and a reasonable rate for Tipping in Tanzania Travel is USD10 to 20 per person per day.
Tipping Travel Guides
Tipping Travel Guides in Tanzania is very essential as they are your go-to persons while on a game drive in Tanzania. A good safari guide is essential for a successful safari in Tanzania. Travel guides keep you safe in the wild, is chock full of interesting information about the wildlife and region, and point out the often near-hidden animals that you travelled all this way to see. For tipping your safari guide it is customary to leave a USD10 tip per person per day.
About Tipping Travel Trackers
Travel trackers are the people who accompany rangers on game drives and are very alert helping you take the best wildlife photos on your safari. We suggest that you tip trackers USD 5 per person per day.
Tipping In Restaurants and Bars
If you are on Luxury Travel Tanzania you will receive excellent service and royal treatment at various bars and restaurants. We suggest you tip 10-15% on the bill total for the waiters. For bartenders, it is recommended to tip at least 10% of the bill for large orders and if you’re paying per drink then 1 to 2 USD should be sufficient.
Tipping Travel Drivers
In Tanzania, it is customary for Tipping Travel Drivers Tanzania to support them financially. For tipping drivers, USD 7-USD 8 is good to go. A small tip in local currency should be sufficient for your safari drivers.
The Tipping Jar or Kitty While On a Group Tour
There are numerous Tipping Customs In Tanzania starting from leaving money in your room when you check out to handing cash to individuals and adding on something extra to your credit card on your final bill but the easy and less uncomfortable way to do it is adding money in a tipping jar or kitty which are either separated for guides, back of the house, and front of house or collected together and shared out at the end of the trip when everyone has departed.
About Tipping on Travel in Tanzania
Tipping in Tanzania Travel is done in both Tanzanian shillings and US dollars and we recommend tipping + 8–10 USD per guest per day for a group guide, about 5–10 USD per guest per day for a safari chef, + 2 USD per guest per day for the general staff and + 3USD per city transfer.