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Travel guide · 2 min read

Tanzania Safari Visa, Health and Safety Essentials

What to know about visas, vaccinations, malaria, money and staying safe on safari.

A little preparation makes your trip smoother. Always check the latest rules with official sources before you travel, because requirements change.

Visas and passports

  • Most visitors need a Tanzanian tourist visa. It can usually be arranged online in advance through the official immigration portal or obtained on arrival.
  • Your passport should be valid for at least six months and have blank pages.
  • Carry printed copies of your itinerary and return flight details.

Vaccinations and health

  • Visit your doctor or a travel clinic four to six weeks before you go.
  • Routine vaccinations should be up to date. Hepatitis A and typhoid are commonly recommended.
  • A yellow fever certificate may be required if you arrive from, or have transited through, a country with yellow fever risk.
  • Malaria is present in Tanzania. Ask your doctor about preventative medication and use repellent, long sleeves and bed nets.
  • Drink bottled or filtered water, which we provide on safari.
  • Travel insurance with medical and emergency evacuation cover is essential.

Money and tipping

  • The currency is the Tanzanian shilling, but US dollars are widely accepted on safari.
  • Major credit cards are accepted at some lodges, but not everywhere, so carry some cash.
  • Tipping is customary. Guides, camp staff and drivers rely on tips, and we provide guidance on suitable amounts before you travel.

Safety on safari

  • Always stay in the vehicle unless your guide says it is safe, and never leave your camp at night without an escort.
  • Keep quiet and still around animals, and never feed wildlife.
  • Follow your guide's instructions. They are trained to read animal behaviour and keep you safe.
  • Keep valuables in your lodge safe and be sensible in towns, as you would anywhere.

Connectivity and power

  • Mobile coverage is good in towns and patchy in the parks. Most lodges offer Wi-Fi, though it can be slow.
  • Tanzania uses 230 V with types D and G sockets.

If you have questions about health, visas or special needs, our team is happy to help you prepare.

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