Tourism plays an important role in Tanzania's economy and the country is very much geared towards tourists. There are numerous international airports and most travellers prefer flying around this vast country. Although road conditions vary, travelling between safari lodges by road can mean a long, dusty and exhausting journey.

Tanzania is a safe country to visit but it helps to be vigilant, especially in the bigger cities like Dar es Salaam. Watch your belongings and don't leave luggage unattended.

Climate

• Summer: September - April     30˚C/86˚F    20˚C/68˚F

• Winter: May - August     25˚C/77˚F    19˚C/66˚F

• Rainfall: April - May (long rains), November - mid-December (short rains)

Currency & Banking

• Banking hours at most commercial banks are Monday to Friday from 09h00 to 15h30 and on Saturday from 10h00 to 13h00.
• ATMs are found throughout Tanzania’s major city centres and shopping complexes.
• The currency is the Tanzanian shilling, where TZS1 is made up of 100 cents. Please check with your hotel for daily exchange rates.
• Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club and American Express are accepted by most restaurants, shops and hotels. Proof of identity may be requested, so be sure to carry a passport or some form of photo identification at all times. Credit cards are not accepted at petrol stations.
• Please note that US dollar bills printed before 2003 are not accepted in Tanzania, as there was a large amount of illegal processing of dollar bills in the country during that time.   High denomination bills may also not be accepted.
  

Safety

• It is advised you check with your tour operator or hotel concierge - they will know if there are any potentially unsafe areas along your travel route.
• It is wise to avoid deserted areas, particularly at night, and if you are on a self-drive adventure then please ensure your car is locked at all times - park in well-lit, busy areas.
• Dress-down (i.e. don’t wear excessive jewellery) when exploring Africa’s diverse cities. Concealed travel wallets are recommended.
• Stopping for hitch hikers is not recommended.

Photography

Please be sensitive when photographing people. Tanzanians are renowned for being friendly; however, it is courteous to ask permission before snapping away.

Passport & Visa Requirements

Guests visiting Tanzania must be in possession of a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of travel and should have two blank pages available in their passport.

It is a good idea to obtain a visa for Tanzania before leaving your country of origin, however, visas can also be obtained at the airport on arrival. If you are planning to get your visa at the airport, please note that you will need to pay for this in USD. Make sure that you have enough cash available for the fee. Try to have the exact amount available, as you may not be able to obtain any change at the visa counter.

Visitors who intend travelling to Tanzania’s neighbouring countries and back are advised to apply for multiple entry visas.