Explore Tanzania: The Ultimate Safari, Beach & Culture Travel Guide

Tanzania is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your travel plans:

• June to October (Dry Season): Best for safaris and the Great Migration in the Serengeti; cooler and drier weather.
• November to March (Green Season): Lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and calving season in the Serengeti.
• April to May (Long Rainy Season): Fewer tourists and lower prices, but some safari camps close.
• December to March: Best for Zanzibar’s beaches and diving in clear waters.

• Serengeti National Park – Experience the Great Migration and incredible wildlife safaris.
• Ngorongoro Crater – A natural wonder filled with lions, rhinos, and diverse ecosystems.
• Mount Kilimanjaro – Africa’s highest peak, perfect for trekking enthusiasts.
• Zanzibar – White sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and rich Swahili culture.
• Stone Town – A UNESCO-listed historic town with spice markets and Arabian influences.
• Tarangire National Park – Famous for its elephant herds and baobab trees.
• Lake Manyara National Park – Home to tree-climbing lions and thousands of flamingos.
• Selous Game Reserve – A remote safari experience with fewer tourists and stunning landscapes.
• Mafia Island – A hidden paradise for whale shark diving and marine adventures.

• Nyama Choma – Grilled meat, a favorite in Tanzanian cuisine.
• Ugali – A maize-based dish, often served with meat and vegetables.
• Zanzibar’s Seafood – Fresh lobster, octopus, and fish from the Indian Ocean.
• Pilau & Biryani – Spiced rice dishes with meat or vegetables.
• Mishkaki – Grilled meat skewers, popular street food.
• Mandazi – Sweet fried dough, similar to a doughnut.
• Tanzanian Coffee & Chai – Locally grown and widely enjoyed.

• Domestic Flights: The best way to travel between parks and Zanzibar.
• Safari Vehicles & Private Tours: Ideal for game drives and national park visits.
• Dala-Dala (Minibuses): Budget-friendly but crowded and unpredictable.
• Bajaji (Tuk-Tuks): Useful for short city trips.
• Ferries & Speedboats: The best way to travel between Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam, and Mafia Island.
• Car Rental: Possible but not recommended for first-time visitors due to road conditions.

• Most travelers need a visa to enter Tanzania.
• Visa on Arrival: Available for $50 USD ($100 for U.S. citizens) at airports and land borders.
• E-Visa: Apply online at immigration.go.tz.
• Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from a country with yellow fever risk.
• Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your travel date.

• The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS).
• USD is widely accepted, especially for safaris and hotels.
• ATMs are available in major cities but rare in rural areas.
• Credit cards are accepted at upscale hotels, but cash is needed for markets and local businesses.

• Swahili and English are the official languages.
• English is widely spoken in tourist areas, lodges, and hotels.
• Learning basic Swahili phrases like “Jambo” (hello) and “Asante” (thank you) can be helpful.

• Greetings are important—handshakes and polite conversation are valued.
• Dress modestly in cities and villages, especially for women.
• Respect wildlife: Never approach animals too closely during safaris.
• Tipping is expected in restaurants, hotels, and for guides.
• Avoid public displays of affection in conservative areas.
• Always ask permission before taking photos of locals.

• Restaurants: 10% tip if service charge is not included.
• Safari Guides: $10–$20 per person per day.
• Lodge Staff: $5–$10 per person per day.
• Drivers & Transfers: $5 per ride is appreciated.
• Porters: $1–$2 per bag.

• For peak safari season (June–October): Book 6–12 months in advance for lodges and camps.
• For Zanzibar beach resorts: Book at least 3 months in advance for the best rates.
• For Kilimanjaro trekking: Pre-book a licensed tour operator well in advance.

• COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, but check for updates before traveling.
• Plastic bags are banned in Tanzania—avoid bringing them in your luggage.
• Drones require a permit and may be restricted in national parks.
• Some medications require a doctor’s prescription to bring into the country.
• Malaria risk: Bring mosquito repellent and consider malaria medication.

Contact us at 281-229-0862 or admin@pointmetoparadise.com