The name Tanzania instantly conjures images of wildebeest stampeding across endless savannah, rainforests alive with monkeys and birds, and vast plains filled with roaming wildlife. And the truth is, it is all real. This exceptionally diverse African nation delivers every bit of that magic, and more.
Most travelers come for one of four unforgettable experiences. You might unwind on the white sand beaches of Zanzibar, explore world renowned dive sites around the Spice Islands, head out on safari in some of Africa’s most spectacular game reserves, or take on the adventure of a lifetime hiking through Mount Kilimanjaro National Park. Each journey offers a completely different side of Tanzania, yet all feel uniquely and unmistakably Tanzanian.
Beyond the landscapes, it is the people who truly shape the experience. More than 120 ethnic groups live here peacefully side by side, welcoming visitors with warmth, kindness, and a rich culinary tradition influenced by African, Arab, and Indian flavors.
With so much diversity in one country, Tanzania does not just offer a holiday. It offers a collection of once in a lifetime moments. The hardest part is deciding where your adventure begins.
Entry Requirements
As a Dutch tourist, you do need a visa to enter Tanzania.
Visa Types
Tourist Visa: This is the most common visa for leisure travel, safaris, and sightseeing.
Application and Requirements
You can apply for your visa in different ways:
Online eVisa: Through the official Tanzania Immigration portal (immigration.go.tz).
Visa on Arrival: Available at major airports and some border posts, but applying in advance is recommended.
Typical requirements include:
A valid passport with at least 6 months validity from the date of arrival.
A recent passport photo.
Proof of a return or onward ticket.
Accommodation details.
Visa Validity
Tourist eVisas are usually valid for up to 90 days once issued.
You generally need to print your eVisa and present it with your passport on arrival.
Processing
Apply well in advance (several weeks before departure) to avoid delays.
Travelling with children
Children also need their own visa and valid passport.
Banking and Currency
The official currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), indicated by the symbol TSh. It is advisable to carry some local currency, especially when traveling outside major cities where card payments are less common.
Payments
- Cash: Most local shops, markets, and smaller restaurants operate on a cash basis. It is helpful to carry small denominations, as change may not always be available.
- Credit Cards & ATMs: In larger cities such as Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Zanzibar, credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and bigger stores. Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted. ATMs are available in cities but can be limited in rural areas.
- Exchange Offices: US dollars and euros can be exchanged at official exchange offices and banks. Bring newer, undamaged bills, as older or damaged US dollar notes may be refused.
- US Dollars (USD): USD is widely accepted in tourist areas, especially for safaris, hotels, and excursions. Carrying some dollars can be convenient.
- Mobile Payments: Mobile payment services such as M-Pesa are extremely popular and widely used by locals throughout the country.
Practical Tips
Check the current exchange rate before exchanging money.
Tipping is customary in the tourism sector (guides, drivers, hospitality staff).
With these tips, you can manage payments smoothly and confidently during your trip to Tanzania.
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Tanzania is large and diverse, so transportation varies from comfortable to adventurous. There are several ways to explore the country:
Domestic Flights
Fastest way to cover long distances.
Connects cities like Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Arusha, and Kilimanjaro.
Airlines: Precision Air, Air Tanzania.
Buses & Minibuses
Buses are cheap and reliable for long-distance travel.
Dala-dala: local minibuses, often crowded and chaotic, but affordable.
Car & Taxi
Renting a car gives flexibility, especially for safaris or remote areas.
Left-hand driving, like in the UK.
Taxis are safe if you use official taxis or ride apps like Bolt.
Trains
Limited, but the Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA) offers a unique scenic journey through the south.
Roads & Safety
Main roads in cities are generally good.
Rural roads can be rough, unpaved, and challenging during the rainy season.
Avoid night travel on remote routes and be prepared for local conditions.
This way, you can safely and efficiently explore Tanzania, from lively cities to vast national parks, while enjoying the scenery and local culture.
Health and Medical Information
Vaccinations are an important part of travel preparation, as they protect against diseases that may occur in certain regions. Always check which vaccinations are recommended for your destination well in advance.
For the latest and most accurate advice, contact the GGD (Municipal Health Service) or visit their website. Provide details about your destination, travel duration, and health situation so they can advise you properly.
Remember that some vaccines need time to become effective, so arrange them early. In addition to vaccinations, protect your health by practicing good hygiene, avoiding unsafe food and water, and using mosquito repellent in areas with malaria risk.
For travel to Tanzania, no vaccinations are mandatory, but several are recommended. In addition, yellow fever vaccination is required if you arrive from a high-risk country or have transited there.
Recommended vaccinations:
Diphtheria, Tetanus, Polio (DTP)
Hepatitis A
Depending on travel duration and personal situation:
MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Hepatitis B
Rabies
Tuberculosis
Yellow fever (mandatory when arriving from a risk country)
Key points:
Malaria: High risk → malaria tablets and mosquito protection (DEET, bed nets) are essential.
Safety Notices
Tanzania is generally considered a safe destination for travelers, especially in tourist areas such as national parks, Zanzibar, and major cities. Like anywhere in the world, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing or bag snatching, can occur in busy areas.
- Keep valuables out of sight
- Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar neighborhoods
- Use registered taxis or trusted transport services.
- When on safari or in nature reserves, always follow the instructions of your guide.
In coastal areas and cities, it’s wise to dress modestly out of respect for local culture, particularly in Zanzibar, which has strong Islamic influences.
Before traveling, check your government’s official travel advice for up-to-date information. With common sense and preparation, most visitors experience Tanzania as a welcoming, peaceful, and unforgettable destination.
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
In Tanzania, food is all about sharing. You eat with your hands, share dishes, and taste influences from Africa, Arabia, and India. The cuisine is fresh, spiced, and surprisingly diverse.
Must-try dishes
Ugali – The staple of many meals. A firm maize porridge used to scoop up sauces and dishes.
Nyama Choma – Grilled beef, goat, or chicken over charcoal. Simple, flavorful, and widely loved.
Chapati – Soft flatbread, perfect with curries and stews.
Samosa – Crispy triangles filled with spiced meat or vegetables. Great as a snack.
Mandazi – Light, slightly sweet fried dough. Delicious for breakfast or with chai.
Mchicha & Maharage – Stewed greens or beans with coconut and spices. Excellent vegetarian options.
What to drink
- Spiced chai is everywhere.
- Try a local beer like Kilimanjaro or Serengeti.
Don’t miss local markets for fresh fruit, vegetables, and spices. In Tanzania, eating is not just about taste, it’s a full experience.
Climate and Weather
Tanzania is warm to hot year-round, but temperatures vary by region.
Seasons
Dry season (June – October): Mild, little rain, perfect for safaris and beach trips.
Rainy season (November – May): Two phases:
Short rains (Nov – Dec): Occasional heavy showers.
Long rains (Mar – May): Frequent, heavy rain, especially in April; may affect travel in rural areas.
Regional differences
Coastal areas (Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar): Tropical, warm and humid, 25–32°C, lots of rain during the long rains.
Central plateau (Dodoma, Iringa): More moderate, cooler mornings and evenings, less rainfall.
Highlands (Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru): Cooler, especially at higher elevations. Nights can be cold, bring warm clothing.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
When traveling to Tanzania, choose clothing that suits the climate and local culture. Light, breathable fabrics keep you cool in hot coastal areas, and layers are useful for cooler evenings or higher-altitude regions. On safari and outdoor adventures, neutral colors like khaki or green work best, and long sleeves and pants protect against sun and insects. In cities and cultural or religious sites, it’s respectful to keep shoulders and knees covered. At the beach, wear swimwear but cover up with a sarong or pareo when outside the water.
Useful items to pack:
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection
Lightweight rain jacket for sudden showers
Insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites
Binoculars for safaris and wildlife spotting
Internet Availability
Internet in Tanzania is generally reliable in cities and tourist areas, but it can be limited in remote regions.
Wi-Fi
Available in many hotels, restaurants, and cafes in cities like Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar.
Always ask for the password at your accommodation or restaurant.
Mobile Internet
Local SIM cards from Vodacom, Tigo, Airtel, or Halotel are easy to get at airports and city stores.
They offer affordable data plans for local calls and internet use.
eSIM (Saily)
The Saily eSIM app lets you buy and activate a digital SIM, perfect if you don’t want a physical SIM or need extra data later.
Works in most urban and tourist areas.
Electricity and Plug Standards
In Tanzania, power outlets are mainly Type G, the same as those used in the United Kingdom. Here are the key things you need to know:
Plugs & Outlets
Type G: This plug has three rectangular pins arranged in a triangular pattern. Make sure your devices are compatible or bring a suitable travel adapter.
Voltage & Frequency
Voltage: 230V
Frequency: 50 Hz
Most modern chargers (for phones, laptops, cameras) are dual voltage (100–240V) but always check your device label to be sure. If your device is not compatible with 230V, you will need a voltage converter.
Travel Tips
Bring a Type G travel adapter.
Power cuts can occasionally occur, especially outside major cities, so a power bank can be useful.
