Tanzania Travel Guide

Travel Information

Tanzania Travel Guide

Everything you need to know before you travel

Tanzania Visa

Most visitors need a visa to enter Tanzania. You can apply online (e-Visa) or get a visa on arrival at major airports and border crossings.

Single-entry tourist visa: USD 50 (most nationalities)
US citizens: USD 100
Apply online at the official Tanzania e-Visa portal
Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival

Best Time to Visit

• June–October: Dry season. Best for safari and Kilimanjaro.
• January–March: Dry and warm. Great for calving season.
• April–May: Long rains. Fewer tourists, lower prices.
• November–December: Short rains. Good value.

Weather

• Coastal: Hot and humid (28–35°C)
• Moshi/Arusha: Pleasant (20–30°C)
• Kilimanjaro summit: Below freezing (-10°C to -25°C)
• Ngorongoro rim: Cool (10–20°C)

Currency

• Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
• USD widely accepted for tourism services
• Bring USD notes printed after 2009
• Small denominations useful for tips

Credit Cards & ATMs

• Visa and Mastercard accepted at major hotels/lodges
• ATMs available in Moshi, Arusha and Stone Town
• Carry cash for small purchases and tipping
• Inform your bank before travelling

SIM Cards & eSIM

• Local SIMs available from Vodacom, Airtel, Tigo
• Purchase at airport or in town (passport required)
• eSIM options available through Airalo, Holafly
• Mobile data coverage good in cities, limited on mountain

Electricity

• 230V, 50Hz
• Plug type: British 3-pin (Type G)
• Bring universal adapter if coming from outside UK/East Africa
• Power banks essential for Kilimanjaro climb

Time Zone

• East Africa Time (EAT)
• UTC +3 hours
• No daylight saving time
• Same as Nairobi, Kampala, Addis Ababa

Safety

• Tanzania is generally safe for tourists
• Use reputable tour operators (like us!)
• Keep valuables secure in cities
• Follow your guide's advice at all times

Travel Insurance

• Strongly recommended for all travellers
• Must cover trekking to 6,000 m for Kilimanjaro
• Include medical evacuation coverage
• Include trip cancellation coverage

Tipping

• Tipping is customary in Tanzania
• Safari guide: USD 20–30 per day
• Kilimanjaro crew: USD 250–380 total per climber
• Lodge staff: USD 5–10 per day

Airport Information

Kilimanjaro International (JRO)

Main airport for Kilimanjaro and northern safari circuit. 45 min from Moshi/Arusha.

Arusha Airport (ARK)

Domestic flights. Charter flights to Serengeti and Zanzibar.

Zanzibar (ZNZ)

Main airport for Zanzibar. International and domestic flights.

Need More Information?

We're happy to help with any travel questions.