VISA REQUIREMENTS
​
Most visitors require visas. Australians do require a Tourist Visa. Further information can be found here.
It is advisable to obtain your visa in advance prior to departure, however, they can also be obtained on arrival at Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro airports and at the Namanga Gate on the Tanzania/Kenya border - single entry visa cost US$50. Requirements may change so you are advised to contact the appropriate diplomatic or consular authority before finalising your travel arrangements.
HEALTH
​
Your doctor or travel clinic is the best source of information for recommended immunizations and preventative measures for disease before travelling in Tanzania.
It is necessary to have a current Yellow Fever Vaccination and certificate to enter Zanzibar and is also necessary when returning to Australia.
Click here to view the travel doctor’s advice.
CURRENCY
​
The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (Tsh). There are notes of 10000, 5000, 2000, 1000 and 500 as well as coins in 200, 100 and 50 shillings. View currency converter. US dollars, followed by Euros, are the most convenient foreign currencies and get the best rates, although other major currencies are readily accepted in major centres. Note that US$50 and US$100 notes get better exchange rate than smaller denominations. Old-style US notes (pre 2000) are not accepted anywhere. The Australian dollar is difficult to change and is usually at a much lower rate. Credit Cards are not widely accepted but can be used in some up-market tourist establishments with an additional fee attached.
​
SAFETY
​
As with most major cities around the world, it is recommended to take sensible security measures. Keep a close eye on valuables and don’t leave camera bags, money and other valuables unattended. It is advisable to avoid dark, deserted areas, especially at night. It is recommended to use a taxi in the evenings. Whilst walking around during the day, you should avoid wearing expensive and/or flashy jewelry.
Tanzanians are well known for their friendly, laid-back attitude. In most cases, you will be humbled by their hospitality despite the fact that most people are a lot poorer than you. As you travel in the touristy areas, you will probably attract your fair share of souvenir hawkers and beggars. Remember that these are poor people who are trying to earn money to feed their families. If you aren't interested then say so, but try to remain polite.
​
PROHIBITED
​
Visitors to Tanzania are expected to show due respect to the State, it’s officials and local people. This includes not photographing the State House, Government or Military offices and people. If you would like to photograph local people, ask for permission. It is strictly prohibited to trade in or accumulate any wildlife products.
​
CLOTHING AND BEHAVIOUR
​
Neutral coloured clothing is recommended while on safari, as bright colours are believed to scare the animals. It can also get cooler in the evenings – particular at higher altitudes where a warm sweater would be recommended depending on your destination and time of year. We would also recommend bringing sunglasses, hat, sunscreen and insect repellent. Women should also be aware when visiting Tanzania, Islam is one of the main religions and modest clothing is required in certain areas (notable Zanzibar Island which is 99% Muslim occupied). It is also important to remember swimwear, as you don’t want to miss the opportunity to enjoy the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Hiking could require thermal underwear, rain jacket and sturdy boots.
​
ELECTRICITY
​
Electricity is 230 volts in Tanzania. Most common power points are two parallel flat pins with one earth pin. Adapters are very common in Tanzania and can be purchased for approximately AU$4. Depending on your level of accommodation, it is important to note that electricity is not always available and accommodation facilities are often providing power via a generator, which will only be turned on at certain times of the day (usual for about 5 hours in the evening). Tented camps often only have facilities to charge your electrical devices at the reception area.
​
TELECOMMUNICATIONS
​
It is very affordable to purchase a SIM card if you are traveling with an unlocked mobile phone. Mobile coverage in Tanzania is excellent. International text messages are from as little as AU$0.25. For convenience, there are also a number of private telephone centres from where you can make international calls or send faxes – always check the price first. Internet cafes are readily available, however, the connection is often slow. Many accommodation facilities are now providing Wi-Fi as an option but check first and don’t assume.