2025 Tanzania Travel Guide

Where is Tanzania?

Tanzania is located in East Africa, bordered by Kenya and Uganda to the north, Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west, and Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique to the south. To the east lies the Indian Ocean, making Tanzania not only a prime safari destination but also a tropical beach paradise.

Capital:

• Dodoma (official), though Dar es Salaam remains the largest city and economic hub.

Official Language:

• Swahili (Kiswahili), though English is widely spoken in the tourism industry.

Why Visit Tanzania?

Tanzania is a land of natural wonders and rich cultural experiences. It is home to:

• Africa’s highest mountain (Mount Kilimanjaro)

• The Serengeti National Park, renowned for the Great Migration

• Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

• Zanzibar, with its white sandy beaches and rich Swahili heritage

• Over 120 tribes offering cultural diversity

Tanzania is perfect for adventure seekers, nature lovers, families, honeymooners, and cultural explorers.

Tanzania Travel Entry Requirements

1. Visa Requirements

Most travelers require a visa to enter Tanzania.

• Tourist visa: Can be obtained on arrival or online via the Tanzania Immigration website.

• Cost: $50 for most nationalities, $100 for US citizens (multiple entry).

• Validity: 90 days

2. Passport

• Valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.

• Must have at least 1 blank page.

Best Time to Visit Tanzania

Tanzania is a year-round destination, but timing matters based on your interests.

• Dry Season (June to October): Best for safaris and game viewing. Animals gather near water sources. Also perfect for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

• Short Rainy Season (November): Quick showers, still a good time to travel.

• Green Season (December to March): Lush landscapes, great for birding.

• Long Rains (April & May): Less crowded but some lodges may be closed.

Best time for safari: June–October Best time for Kilimanjaro climb: January–March and June–October Best time for Zanzibar beach holidays: June–October & December–March

Top Things to Do in Tanzania

1. Go on a Wildlife Safari

• Serengeti National Park

• Ngorongoro Crater

• Tarangire National Park

• Lake Manyara National Park

• Ruaha and Selous (for remote safaris)

2. Climb Mount Kilimanjaro

• Africa’s highest peak (5,895 meters)

• Popular routes: Machame, Marangu, Lemosho

• Guided treks take 6–9 days

3. Relax in Zanzibar

• Stone Town for history and culture

• Nungwi and Kendwa for white sandy beaches

• Jozani Forest for red colobus monkeys

4. Visit Local Tribes

• Maasai, Hadzabe (hunter-gatherers), Chaga, and more

• Learn about traditional dances, crafts, and daily life

5. Explore Natural Wonders

• Lake Victoria (Africa’s largest lake)

• Lake Tanganyika (world’s second-deepest)

• Mount Meru, hot springs, waterfalls

Budget: How Much Does It Cost to Travel in Tanzania?

Tanzania caters to both budget travelers and luxury seekers.

Daily Travel Budget (Approximate):

• Budget Traveler: $50–$100/day

• Mid-Range: $150–$300/day

• Luxury: $400–$1,000+/day

Typical Safari Prices:

• Group Safari (3–5 days): $500–$1,200

• Private Safari: $1,500–$5,000+

Kilimanjaro Climb:

• $1,500–$3,500 depending on route and operator

Zanzibar:

• Budget hotels: from $25/night

• Mid-range resorts: $100–$200/night

• Luxury resorts: $300–$1,000/night

What to Pack for Tanzania

Essentials:

• Valid passport and printed visa/e-visa

• Yellow fever certificate (if coming from an endemic country)

• Lightweight clothes in neutral colors

• Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen

• Comfortable walking shoes or boots

• Power adapter (Tanzania uses type D and G plugs)

Safari Gear:

• Binoculars, camera with zoom lens

• Insect repellent

• Travel insurance documents

• Daypack

For Kilimanjaro:

• Warm layers (base, fleece, down jacket)

• Waterproof gear

• Sleeping bag

• Trekking poles

• Headlamp

Health and Safety Tips

Vaccinations:

• Yellow fever (required if from endemic country)

• Hepatitis A and B

• Typhoid

• Tetanus and diphtheria

• Malaria prophylaxis is recommended

Safety Tips:

• Use registered tour operators

• Avoid walking alone at night

• Use hotel safes for valuables

• Keep copies of important documents

Tanzania is generally safe, especially in tourist areas. Exercise normal precautions.

Local Customs & Cultural Etiquette

• Greeting is important: Use “Shikamoo” for elders.

• Dress modestly in public and villages.

• Remove shoes when entering homes or mosques.

• Ask permission before taking photos of locals.

• Use right hand for eating and greetings.

Learning a few Swahili phrases goes a long way:

• Hello – “Jambo” / “Habari”

• Thank you – “Asante”

• How much? – “Bei gani?”

• Goodbye – “Kwaheri”

Internet and Connectivity

• Most hotels and lodges offer Wi-Fi

• Local SIM cards available (Airtel, Vodacom, Tigo)

• eSIMs also available for compatible phones

Transportation Within Tanzania

Domestic Flights:

• Fastest way to get between national parks and Zanzibar

• Carriers include Precision Air, Coastal Aviation, Auric Air

Road Travel:

• Buses available but slow and not ideal for tourists

• Best to use private 4x4s or tour operators for safaris

In Cities:

• Taxis and ride-hailing apps (like Bolt in Dar es Salaam and Arusha)

• Dala-dalas (shared minibuses) – cheap but crowded

Sample Tanzania Itinerary (10 Days)

Day 1: Arrive in Arusha Day 2–4: Safari in Serengeti National Park Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater tour Day 6: Fly to Zanzibar Day 7–9: Relax on Zanzibar beaches, Stone Town tour Day 10: Depart Tanzania

Final Thoughts: Plan Your Dream Trip to Tanzania

Tanzania is a destination that leaves travelers in awe. Whether you’re chasing the Big Five on safari, summiting Kilimanjaro, or soaking in Swahili culture on Zanzibar’s beaches, this East African gem delivers unforgettable experiences.

Use this Tanzania travel guide to plan smart, pack right, and explore deeply. With the right preparation, your Tanzanian journey will be safe, enriching, and truly magical.