Tanzania – the land of a savannah full of lions, zebras, and giraffes. But also endless white beaches on the coast and on the islands. A developing country, which means that not everything is working the way we are used to. Below are some facts and tips that help you to be well prepared for your trip!

Tanzania Overview

Tanzania is located in East Africa between the Indian Ocean and neighboring countries Kenya, Mozambique, Congo, Malawi, and Rwanda. The population is 58 million people who belong to more than 120 different tribes. Dar es Salaam on the coast is the largest city with 2.6 million inhabitants. The official capital of Tanzania is the much smaller Dodoma, which is located in the center of the country. The largest tribes include the Sukuma, Nyamwezi, Haya, Nyakyusa, and Chagga, each with more than a million members. However, no single tribe dominates, contributing to the stable political climate. Tanzania has two official languages: English and Kiswahili. In addition, many tribes have their own mother tongue. Kiswahili is spoken not only in Tanzania but also (partially) in Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Mozambique, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Kiswahili originates from Bantu but incorporates some English and Arabic words.

Facts About Tanzania

  • Capital: Dodoma
  • Currency: Tanzanian Shilling
  • Population: 58 million
  • Language: Kiswahili and English
  • Area: 886,000 km²
  • Water surface: 59,000 km²
  • Neighboring countries: Kenya, Uganda, Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique
  • Highest point: 5,895 meters (you can climb Kilimanjaro with I Artist Adventure!)
  • Time difference: Summer UK - 2 hrs later; Winter UK - 3 hrs later; US 7-10 hrs later
  • Most popular places: Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar

Safari in Tanzania

The term safari is Kiswahili and literally means "travel." In the Western world, we associate a safari in Africa with the observation of wild animals. The most popular animals are the Big Five: lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos. But Tanzania also has countless other impressive animal species and hundreds of colorful birds. You can see them all with I Artist Adventure! Your private guide will be happy to tell you all about the animals, birds, and plants you encounter along the way. During the safari, you will use a 4 × 4 Landcruiser Jeep with a foldable roof from I Artist Adventure. We only organize private safaris, meaning you don’t have to share the car with anyone. You decide when the safari starts and ends, and in consultation with your guide, you can adjust the schedule for the day. If you suddenly feel like ending the day at the pool, that’s no problem. With a little luck, you can even spot some wild animals from there!

Visit Local Tribes

During the safari, it is possible to visit a traditional tribe. The most famous tribe in Tanzania is probably the Maasai. They are nomadic people who live off their cattle and are known for their beautiful beaded jewelry, long spears, and red shukkas (blankets worn as clothing). The Maasai live in semi-permanent huts – called manyattas – made of grass and dung. Traditional Maasai dance involves jumping as high as possible. The oldest tribe in Tanzania, the Hadzabe, live around Lake Eyasi. Until recently, they lived in isolation, but nowadays, they welcome tourists. The Hadzabe still have a traditional lifestyle, relying on hunting. Like the San and Xhosa of southern Africa, they communicate using a click language.

Important Travel Information

Visa for Tanzania

To enter Tanzania, you need a visa and a passport valid for at least six months upon return. You can apply for a visa in advance at the Tanzanian embassy or upon arrival at the airport for $50. If applying at the airport, have a pen and $50 in cash ready. The waiting time is about an hour.

Climate in Tanzania

Tanzania has a pleasant climate year-round, with temperatures reaching 35°C (95°F) during the day. The country has two rainy seasons:
  • Short rains (October - November)
  • Long rains (March - May)
Even during these seasons, Tanzania is still a great travel destination, as rains typically occur in the afternoon while mornings remain sunny.

Safety

Tanzania is considered one of the safest countries in Africa. However, basic precautions should be taken, such as:
  • Keeping valuables in a safe place
  • Avoiding walking alone at night
  • Using registered taxis
  • Avoiding flashy jewelry

Healthcare in Tanzania

Vaccinations

Consult your doctor about necessary vaccinations. Yellow fever vaccination is required only if you are traveling from a high-risk country or transiting there for more than 12 hours.

Packing a First Aid Kit

Include items such as plasters, iodine, anti-blistering agents, and medication for headaches or stomach issues.

Money in Tanzania

Tanzania's currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TSh). US dollars (2006 or newer) and Euros are widely accepted, especially for tipping and exchanging currency. ATMs are available but may not always work. Credit cards are accepted in many lodges, though Mastercard is more widely used than Visa or American Express.

Dress Code in Tanzania

Casual clothing is common. In Zanzibar, women often cover their hair. For safari, wear cotton clothing in neutral colors like khaki or olive green to avoid attracting insects. Avoid black, blue, or red.

Food & Drink

Lodges and camps serve European-style meals with some Tanzanian dishes. Breakfast includes eggs, bacon, tomatoes, and fresh tropical fruit. Tap water is not drinkable, so always use bottled or purified water.

Photography & Video

  • Bring extra memory cards and batteries
  • Use a zoom lens (300mm recommended)
  • Ask permission before photographing locals
  • Drones are not permitted

Public Holidays in Tanzania

  • Jan 12: Zanzibar Revolution Day
  • Apr 26: Union Day
  • May 1: Labor Day
  • July 7: Saba Saba (Farmers' Day)
  • Oct 14: Nyerere Day
  • Dec 9: Independence Day

Plan Your Adventure with I Artist Adventure!

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure in Tanzania? Whether you dream of conquering Mount Kilimanjaro, witnessing the Great Migration, or relaxing on the white sands of Zanzibar, I Artist Adventure is here to make it happen. Contact us today to start planning your dream trip!