Owl Safaris – Travel Quick Reference Guide
Southern Africa & Indian Ocean Islands
1. Travel Documents
Passport valid 6+ months beyond travel dates
2–3 blank pages for visas and stamps
Visas may be required depending on nationality – check before travel
Carry travel insurance info and emergency contacts
2. Health & Vaccinations
Consult your local travel clinic for the latest vaccine requirements
Yellow fever certificate if arriving from endemic countries
Malaria prophylaxis recommended in certain regions
Bring medications & a basic first aid kit
3. Safety & Security
Exercise usual caution in cities; avoid displaying valuables
Follow ranger instructions and park rules in wildlife areas
Stay informed about local conditions and political stability
Use reputable transport operators
4. Money & Payments
Major credit and debit cards are generally accepted in towns, lodges, and tourist areas
Carry some cash for rural locations, markets, or smaller vendors where cards may not be accepted
ATMs are widely available in towns and larger lodges, but may be limited in remote areas
Check with your bank about international fees and notify them of your travel plans
5. Local Laws & Customs
Respect local customs, dress codes, and religious sites
Strict penalties for drugs or wildlife violations
Environmental rules enforced – do not remove plants, animals, or coral
6. Transport & Driving
Drive on the left-hand side of the road
International Driving Permit recommended
Rural roads may be unpaved; drive cautiously, especially at night
Use reputable taxis, shuttles, or rideshare apps in cities
7. Communication
Local SIM cards are inexpensive and widely available
Internet is generally available in towns, lodges, and tourist areas
Mobile coverage may be limited in remote areas
8. Climate & Packing
Coastal areas: tropical; inland: arid; highlands: temperate
Light clothing for daytime; warm layers for evenings/high altitude
Comfortable walking shoes and safari-appropriate clothing
Sun protection: sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
9. Wildlife & Nature
Maintain a safe distance from animals; never feed wildlife
Follow park rules and ranger guidance
Binoculars and cameras recommended
10. Emergency Contacts
Contact Owl Safaris directly for assistance or support during your trip
Keep travel insurance provider contact info accessible
Tip: Travel prepared, respect local culture and wildlife, and enjoy an unforgettable adventure
The name Tanzania conjures up images of wildebeest stampeding across vast savannah, rain forests teeming with monkeys and birdlife, and great plains brimming with legions of game. All of these natural wonders and more are on offer in this exceptionally diverse African nation. Visitors typically visit Tanzania to partake in at least one of the four well-known Tanzanian tourist experiences: a relaxing seaside vacation on the picturesque island paradise of Zanzibar, an underwater tour of some of the world’s most renowned dive sites around the gorgeous Spice Islands, a safari adventure in some of Africa’s most impressive game reserves, or a hiking excursion around Mount Kilimanjaro National Park. Whichever of these incredible holidays you choose, you will undoubtedly be welcomed by some fabulously friendly and peaceful inhabitants who, despite being divided into 120 different ethnic groups and cultures, live in harmony with one another and provide some of the most wonderfully exotic local cuisine you could imagine. With all of this diversity on offer, the most difficult part of your Tanzanian holiday experience is likely to be deciding where to go!
Banking and Currency
Currency
Local currency: Tanzanian Shilling
Symbol: TSh
ISO code: TZS
Subunit: Cent
Banknotes: 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, and 10 000 shillings
Coins: 50, 100, 200 and 500 shillings
Banking
Card Transactions: Yes
ATMs: Yes, in major cities
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: No
Diner’s club: No
Banking Hours:
Weekdays: Generally 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturdays: Generally 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Sundays and Public Holidays: Closed
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Air:
Main airlines: Air Tanzania
International Airports: Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam), Kilimanjaro International Airport (Arusha), Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (Zanzibar)
Domestic Airports: Arusha Airport, Dodoma Airport
Road:
Driving on the: Left
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: Yes
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: Yes
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Yes
Rail:
Railway system: Limited
Subway System: No
Water:
Ferries: Yes
Water taxis: Yes
Leisure cruises: Yes
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: No
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes, with strict precaution
Ice: No
Meat: Yes, when cooked thoroughly and served hot
Street food: No
Local cuisine: Tanzanian cuisine reflects its diverse cultural influences, offering a blend of Indian, Arab, and European flavors. Staple foods include ugali (maize porridge), nyamachoma (grilled meat), pilau (spiced rice), and chapati. Traditional dishes like mshikaki (marinated meat skewers) and samosas are popular street foods. Don't miss trying the Swahili cuisine with its rich seafood dishes.
Drinks: Notable local drinks include Tangawizi (ginger soda), Tembo (local beer), and Konyagi (a spirit).
Tipping: 10-15%
Climate and Weather
Annual rainfall: Varies by region, averaging around 1,000 mm
Average temperature: 25°C
Summer:
Average highs: 30°C
Average lows: 20°C
Winter:
Average highs: 25°C
Average lows: 15°C
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Tanzania is during the dry season, from June to October, when wildlife viewing in national parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro is optimal.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: No
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No
General
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes
Internet Availability
Internet cafes: Yes
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Yes
Public parks: Yes
Libraries: Yes
Electricity and Plug Standards
Plug Type: Type D and Type G
Voltage (V): 230
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50'
* A travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.
