Visa Requirements
Prior to departing for Tanzania, it is essential that you check with the Tanzania embassy or consulate regarding the visa requirements for entry. It is advisable to purchase visas prior to departure for TZ in order to avoid any delays upon arrival. While it is possible to purchase a visa upon arrival in Tanzania, it can mean standing in a long queue after an international flight and only US dollars are accepted for visas.
Airport tax
Departure tax from mainland Tanzania is included in the price of your ticket, however in the Zanzibar there is a departure tax of USD 25 payable at the airport. There is a TSH 5,000 (approx USD 5) tax levied on passengers within Tanzania.
Health
Tanzania has a tropical climate and different bacteria, flora and fauna than most visitors are accustomed to, so it is advisable to take a few health precautions when travelling to make sure that your trip goes as comfortably and smoothly as possible.
Malaria is usually top on the list of visitor’s worries and prevention goes a long way toward keeping you protected. Make sure to visit your doctor to get a prescription for anti-malarial drugs that best suits you. The yellow fever vaccination, is no longer officially required when entering Tanzania, however, this is still a requirement if you wish to visit Zanzibar. Other vaccinations should be considered. For more information, contact your doctor well in advance of your visit.
Security
Tanzania is a safe country to travel in. Tanzanians are warm-hearted and generous people and are eager to help visitors get the most out of their stay. Tanzania is a politically stable, multi – democratic country. As in all countries, a little common sense goes a long way and reasonable precautions should still be taken, such as locking valuables in the hotel safe and not walking alone at night.
Wild animals
Many of the animals and reptiles you will see are potentially dangerous. Attacks by wild animals are rare. However, no safari in Africa can guarantee that such incidents will not occur. Please note that most camps are unfenced. Please make sure that you listen to and abide by the safety talks given by your guides or lodge/camp staff. Don’t wander off on your own without a guide – even to your room. After retiring to your rooms at night, don’t leave your rooms without signaling for a guard to come and escort you. If you are sensible, you will be safe.
Water
Visitors to Tanzania are prohibited from taking tap water. Always go for bottled water. This is to avoid getting amoeba. Classic Journeys will provide 2 bottles of ½ litre mineral water during the drives from one point to another.
Language used at the hotels / lodges / camps
English is widely spoken in lodges, camps and at the towns, but Swahili is a beautiful language, and you may want to learn some basic words. Here are some basic phrases to get you started.
Roads
When visiting remote areas or national parks and reserves, the roads will be rough and bumpy. Occasionally you will travel “off road”, where it is possible that injuries may occur – if for example a hidden pothole is struck. Most main roads are tarred, but not those in the national parks.