Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about our tours, bookings, and travel experiences. We’ve compiled helpful information to guide you through planning your perfect Tanzanian adventure, ensuring a smooth and memorable journey from start to finish.
Planning Your Safari
The best time is during the dry season, from late June to October, for prime wildlife viewing. However, the green season (November to May) offers lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and the spectacular wildebeest calving season in the southern Serengeti.
A typical safari lasts between 5 to 7 days, allowing you to experience the highlights of the Northern Circuit (Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire). For a more in-depth experience, or to include a beach extension to Zanzibar, a 10 to 14-day trip is recommended.
For safaris on the popular Northern Circuit, you should fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). For safaris in the southern or western parks, Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam is the main hub.
Most foreign visitors require a visa to enter Tanzania. You can obtain a visa online through the official e-visa portal, from a Tanzanian embassy in your home country, or on arrival at a major airport like JRO or DAR.
A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for travelers arriving from a country with a high risk of Yellow Fever. It is also highly recommended to consult your doctor about other vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis before your trip.
The Safari Experience
Accommodation options range from budget-friendly public campsites and mid-range safari lodges to luxurious, permanent tented camps and exclusive mobile camps that follow the Great Migration. Each offers a unique level of comfort and immersion in nature.
A typical safari day starts early with a sunrise game drive when the animals are most active. You’ll return to the lodge for a hearty brunch, enjoy a midday break, and then head out for a second game drive in the late afternoon. Days often end with a relaxing dinner and campfire.
While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, Tanzania’s Northern Circuit offers the best chance to spot all of the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo). The Ngorongoro Crater, in particular, has one of the highest densities of wildlife, making it a great place to see them.
The Great Wildebeest Migration is the largest terrestrial mammal migration on Earth. Millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other grazers follow the rains and new grass in a continuous cycle through the Serengeti and into Kenya’s Maasai Mara. Key events include the calving season and the dramatic river crossings.
Yes, a safari in Tanzania is very safe. Tour operators adhere to strict safety protocols, and you will be with an experienced guide at all times. Staying inside your vehicle and following your guide’s instructions are the most important rules for your safety.
Cost & Budget
The cost of a safari can vary significantly depending on the number of days, the level of accommodation (budget, mid-range, or luxury), and the time of year. A general range can be from $300 per person per day for a budget camping safari to well over $1,000 for a luxury experience.
Most safari packages include accommodation, meals, park fees, game drives in a 4×4 vehicle with a pop-up roof, and the services of a professional driver-guide. International flights, visas, and gratuities are typically not included.
Yes, prices for flights and accommodation are significantly higher during the peak dry season (June to October) due to high demand. The green season (November to May) offers much better value for money with reduced rates.
A private safari means you have an exclusive vehicle and guide for your party, offering maximum flexibility. A group safari involves sharing a vehicle with other travelers, which is a more budget-friendly option.
Tipping is an important part of the local economy. A general guideline is to tip your safari guide around $20-$30 per day per group. Lodge staff, such as housekeepers and porters, can be tipped a smaller amount.
Packing & Preparation
Pack comfortable, lightweight clothing in neutral colors (khaki, tan, brown, or olive green) to blend in with the environment and avoid attracting tsetse flies. Long-sleeved shirts and pants are recommended to protect you from the sun and insects.
Luggage on small bush planes is typically restricted to 15 kg (33 lbs) per person in a soft-sided bag. It is essential to check with your tour operator for specific weight limits and to avoid hard-shell suitcases.
A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a telephoto lens (at least 200mm, but 300mm+ is better) is ideal for capturing wildlife. Remember to pack extra batteries, memory cards, and a dust-proof bag for your gear.
Yes, a small personal first-aid kit with basic medications for headaches, stomach upsets, motion sickness, and any prescription medications is highly recommended. Your safari vehicle will also have a standard kit.
Don’t forget to pack a wide-brimmed hat, good sunglasses, a lightweight jacket for cooler mornings and evenings, a headlamp, and a good pair of binoculars to enhance your wildlife viewing experience.
Logistics & Culture
The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but US dollars (printed after 2006) are widely accepted at lodges and for safari payments. It is best to bring a mix of smaller denominations for tips and souvenirs.
Yes, many itineraries include an optional visit to a local Maasai village or another tribe. This offers a valuable opportunity to learn about their traditions, culture, and way of life firsthand.
Tanzania operates on East Africa Time (EAT), which is three hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+3).
Most lodges and camps run on generators or solar power. Plugs are typically the British-style three-pin square plugs (Type G). While many lodges have Wi-Fi, it can be slow or intermittent, especially in more remote areas. It’s a great opportunity to disconnect and fully immerse yourself in nature.