TANZANIA TRAVEL – FAQ
Frequently asked questions, from the currency of the destination country, to questions about Visa, security, Health and safety etc. Find some answers to the questions you might have
Q: Do I need a visa to visit Tanzania?
A: This will depend on which nationality passport that you have. You can arrange the payment in Tanzanian high commission in your respective country. Please check if your country has an issuing station, there are 57 countries with issuing stations. This process is often quick or you can always buy a Visa on arrival, also be sure to check if your country is legible to get Visa on arrival, most countries are legible. Your passport must also have a minimum of 6 months validity from your date of departure. For more information regarding Visa please see the link for the Tanzania immigration
http://immigration.go.tz/module1.php?id=32
Q: what currencies are used in Tanzania and where can I exchange money?
A: Tanzania’s local currency is Tanzanian shillings but USD’s are also accepted as legal tenders. Please note that dollar bills dated before 2003 are usually not accepted and when accepted in the Bureau DE change you may get a very bad exchange rate.
Most international airports have banks where money can be changed and, in large cities, facilities are usually available at reputable hotels and lodges. It is a good idea to change your money in advance if you are heading into more remote or rural areas.
Q: where can I find ATM?
A: ATM’s are found throughout major city centers and shopping complexes in most of Tanzania.
Q: Can I use my credit card in Tanzania?
A: All major credits cards are accepted at some hotels, shops and restaurants. However use may be restricted in small towns and country areas. No use in small retail shops. Some lodges and hotels do not accept payment by Diners or American Express. You can pay also by US dollars cash, traveler’s cheques.
Q: Is it safe to travel in Tanzania?
A: Tanzania is perfectly safe to visit and the African people are renowned for their warm hospitality. As with any travel, it is a good idea to take the standard precautions. Petty thefts may occur in major cities and towns of East Africa. Keep always an eye on your handbags, wallets, and cameras. Avoid walking alone at night in towns. We recommend you to place valuables in safe deposit boxes at hotels and lodges. Avoid wearing excessive jewelry when exploring Africa’s diverse cities and make use of concealed travel wallets.
Q Is Tanzania a good place to travel with children?
A: Tanzanians love children and are trying to help mothers and families with small children. Still there are some items more difficult to obtain on Tanzanian shops like canned baby foods, milk and disposable nappies. You can get them only in mayor towns, but is still advisable to bring them with you. For safari you should keep in mind that most of the day you will be in vehicles driving around and observing animals, so bring some toys for a child in case he/she will get bored waiting for animals to show up. It is also advisable to check with your agent which Lodges and Hotels best cater for children.
Q: Do I need any immunizations or malaria tablets?
A: The best person to speak to is your Doctor or Nurse Practitioner as the advice can change. Tanzania is affected by malaria and you will need a course of tablets. It is also advisable to come with your yellow fever immunization card, as some immigration boarders in Tanzania will request for them.
Q: Is tap water safe to drink in Tanzania?
A: No we do not recommend you to use tap water. It is highly advisable to use bottled water and check if it well sealed or boiled water. If your stomach is more sensitive we also advice using bottled water to brush your teeth.
Q: How much luggage can I take?
A: The international airlines mostly work on an allowance of 23Kg for checked bags and 1 piece of hand luggage plus a camera bag or handbag. This is the same for scheduled domestic flights. However if you are travelling by light aircraft between locations in Tanzania you will be allowed a total of 15Kg including your hand luggage. This allowance is at the Captain’s discretion and will depend on whether the flight is full, but we advise to err on the side of caution and assume this is your weight limit. Most lodges offer a laundry service, which is very reasonable, so our advice is to take advantage of this to reduce your luggage
Q: What clothes should I pack when travelling to Tanzania?
A: Cotton layers such as vest t-shirts, t-shirts, a light fleece, shorts and a pair of long trousers are the key items. The temperature can vary quite a bit from the early morning game drive to the heat of the day. Sun screen, a hat and a swimming costume are the other necessities. It is best to avoid bright colors for a safari. Footwear should include a pair of sandals or flip flops and some walking shoes, trainers would be fine. Aside from clothes, we also recommend the following items; insect repellent, some headache/pain killer tablets, some anti-diarrhea tablets as a precaution, also some rehydration sachets are handy to have. It is easy to get dehydrated without noticing, even though drinking water will be readily available. Tanzania can be quite cold at night as some of the reserves are at quite a high altitude, so a couple of extra long sleeved items are a good idea.
Q: What electricity supply and plugs are used in Tanzania?
A: Voltage in East Africa is 240 volts, 3-pronged square plugs. There is occasional power rationing during dry periods however most lodges and hotels will have generators running and later in the night switch them off, dependent on budget of the accommodation.
Q: Can I charge my camera/phone/iPod on safari?
A: In the more remote tented camps where electricity is supplied by generator or solar panels, there may not be plug points in your accommodation. Generally in this instance there is a facility to charge batteries in the Managers office. Larger safari lodges are connected to the mains and there will be power points in your room. It is best to take an adaptor with you although they will often have ones, which you can borrow.
Q: Can I use my Cell/mobile phone in Tanzania?
A: Mobile or Cellular phones work in the main urban areas of Tanzania. Travellers should contact their service provider to ensure they have international roaming.
Q: Is there Internet connectivity?
A: The Internet connection is relatively fast in Tanzania and very cheap. Internet cafes are available in most of the major cities and certain hotels and lodges.
Q: What are the weights and measures in Tanzania?
A: Tanzania and Zanzibar make use of Metric measurements.
Q: What kinds of food will I be able to eat in Tanzania?
A: Most large cities in Tanzania offer a large variety of restaurants and cuisines from around the world. Options in rural areas may be more limited, but most safari lodges and camps pride themselves on their cuisine, which may include variations on local specialties. Most places can cater for special diets, as long as they are given plenty of advance warning.
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