Documentation
Passports must be valid for 6 months from date of entry. Visas are required and can be obtained in advance from your closest Tanzanian Embassy or High Commission. Visas can also be issued upon arrival. Cost is USD 50.00.

Language & Culture
The national language is Swahili although English is widely spoken in the main tourist areas. Tanzania is made up of about 100 tribal groups of mainly Bantu origin.
Arab and Persian influence is strong in Zanzibar.

Health
As you are travelling in a malaria area, you must have malaria prophylaxis. As there are many choices, please check with your family doctor. Please check with your local health clinic as to what they recommend. Highly recommended are yellow fever, typhoid and paratyphoid and cholera. Bring with you all your personal prescription drugs and sundry items. Drink bottle water only, which is available at all camps as well as your safari vehicle.

Currency
Local currency is Tanzanian Shilling (TSH) With the exception of major lodges and shops, credit cards are not readily accepted. Visa and MasterCard are accepted more readily than American Express or Diners Club. Local craft markets are cash only. ATM's are available in major cities only.

Electricity
Tanzania uses a 220/240-volt system and 3 point square. North American electronic equipment will need an adaptor.

Climate
There are two rainy seasons: March to May ("long rains") and October to December ("short rains"). The climate is temperate in the northern national parks. The central plateau suffers a dry and arid climate with hot days and cool nights. The highlands in the south and northeast are cool and temperate. For the country as a whole the hottest months are October to February. Zanzibar and the coastal areas are hot and humid and average daily temperatures hover in the 30°C range. October to March is the hottest period. Sea breezes however temper the regions' climate and June to September is coolest with temperatures falling to 25°C.

What to pack
Bring sunglasses, sun block, sun hat, T-shirts and long sleeved fleece, shorts, long pants, underwear, socks, walking shoes, sports sandals, bathing suit, tissues and moist towelettes, insect repellent, waterproof/windproof hooded jacket, camera equipment including plenty of film or memory cards and extra batteries. While on safari, clothes should be neutral or earth tones. We recommend conservative dress, especially in Zanzibar.

Luggage allowance
15 kg/33 lb. of soft-sided luggage.

Telephone
Telephone/fax service is available in major cities only. In most cases, safari lodges are radio contact only.

Tipping
Tipping is at your discretion so these are guidelines only.
Porter-USD 1.00 per bag
Airport Transfers-USD 2.00 per person
Safari-Your guide is tipped separately, and recommended amount is USD 5.00 per day, per person. At all the lodges, there is a general staff tip box located by the check in/check out counter. Suggested amount is USD 5.00 per person per day. Tipping is done at the end of your stay.

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 This web page last updated: Sunday, September 17, 2006