Tanzania travel tips for first-timers: What to know

Tanzania doesn’t ease you in – it grabs you from the get-go with big skies, bigger wildlife, and beaches you’ll struggle to leave. The Serengeti is the headliner (yes, the Great Migration really is that good), but don’t make it a one-hit wonder. There’s ancient Swahili history in Kilwa, barefoot charm on Mafia Island, and grilled mishkaki on street corners from Arusha to Dar. Zanzibar’s spice-scented chaos is part of the charm – just leave room in your bag for clove soap and sun-faded kikoys. You’ll meet Maasai warriors, squeeze into dala-dalas, and learn that “pole pole” isn’t just a saying – it’s a lifestyle. To help you avoid common pitfalls, soak it all in, and travel smart, these Tanzania travel tips have got your back.

When is the best time to visit Tanzania?

The best time to visit Tanzania depends on what you're after – wildebeest stampedes, underwater adventures, or lazy days on the Swahili coast. With national parks, tropical islands, and highland plateaus, Tanzania’s climate is anything but one-size-fits-all. Here’s how to time it right.

• Dry season (June to October) is the go-to. Perfect for planning a safari in Tanzania – grass is low, animals gather at waterholes, and the Great Migration crosses the Serengeti. Skies stay clear, and the weather’s warm but not oppressive. It's also high season, so expect crowds and locked-in prices, especially in July and August.
• Shoulder months (January to February and early June) are a sweet spot. These pockets between rains offer good weather, active wildlife, and fewer tourists. February is peak calving season in the Serengeti, which also means predators are on the move. If you're after that National Geographic drama, this is your window.
• Wet season (March to May, and November) is the wildcard. The long rains (March–May) can flood roads and cut off parts of the bush. But it’s lush, green, and cheap – ideal if you’re not chasing big game. November’s short rains are more unpredictable but don’t usually ruin travel plans. Meanwhile, the coast and Zanzibar stay steamy year-round, but the rain can stir up the seas and spoil beach days.

What to pack: Think light, breathable layers – and lots of them. Early morning game drives are cold; midday sun is no joke. Bring a good rain jacket if you’re traveling during the wet months, plus decent walking shoes, sunscreen that can handle equatorial rays, and mosquito repellent that actually works.

Is Tanzania expensive?

Tanzania isn’t dirt cheap, but it can be excellent value – especially if you skip the luxury lodges, eat local, and don’t fly everywhere. Safaris are the big wallet-burners, but outside the national parks, costs drop fast.

• Park fees are steep: Serengeti entry alone is $70/€65 per day, and that doesn’t include vehicle fees or guides. A budget safari? You’re still looking at around $150-200/€140-185 per day if you go group-style. Luxury options easily run $500+/€460+ per day. Zanzibar can also get pricey, especially on the beachy north coast.
• On a tight budget ($40-60/€37-55 per day), you’ll get by with hostels or budget guesthouses, local buses (dala-dalas), and Tanzanian staples like chipsi mayai (egg and fries) or ugali and beans. It’s basic but doable.
• Mid-range ($80-120/€75-110 per day) buys you nice lodges or B&Bs, domestic flights when needed, and the odd guided activity – think a walking safari in Arusha or a dhow trip off the Zanzibar coast.

With more to spend? Tanzania knows how to do luxury. Think private plunge pools in the Serengeti, fly-in safaris, and beachfront villas with candlelit seafood feasts. It's not cheap, but it's spectacular – and still often cheaper than similar setups in Botswana or Kenya.

Is Tanzania safe for travelers?

Yes – with common sense and a bit of prep, Tanzania is a safe and welcoming place to travel. Millions visit every year without trouble, but there are a few Tanzania travel tips to know to keep your trip smooth.

Crime and personal safety

Petty theft is the main concern, especially in busy areas of Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and parts of Stone Town. Violent crime against tourists is rare, but bag snatching and pickpocketing do happen.

Solo travelers, including women, usually get around fine – just keep a low profile in more conservative or rural areas.

To stay safe:

• Keep valuables out of sight in crowded places and on public transport.
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar neighborhoods.
• Use trusted taxis or ride apps (like Bolt), not random motorbikes or street cabs.
• Ask locals or your guesthouse about areas to avoid – they’ll know what’s changed lately.
• Use ATMs inside banks or supermarkets when possible.

Transport, road safety, and scams

Road travel is the riskiest part of getting around  Tanzania – traffic laws exist but aren’t always followed, and buses can be reckless. Avoid traveling at night and stick with known operators for longer journeys.

Scams are low-level but annoying – watch for inflated prices or bogus tour offers, especially around airports and ferry terminals. If it sounds too good, it is.

Nature, wildlife, and health

Tanzania’s wildness is its appeal – but it comes with risks.

• Malaria is real. Use repellents, sleep under nets, and take your meds.
• Wild animals are not cute photo ops. Don’t wander around camps after dark or approach wildlife on foot unless it’s a guided activity.
• Hiking Kilimanjaro? Altitude can mess you up. Go slow, listen to your guide, and don’t push if you feel sick.

Laws, customs, and local respect

Tanzanians are welcoming, but culturally conservative in many areas.

• Drugs are strictly illegal. Don’t test it.
• LGBT+ travelers should stay discreet – same-sex relationships are illegal, though enforcement is inconsistent.
• Dress modestly in rural areas and towns. Zanzibar’s beaches are chill, but Stone Town and local villages expect covered shoulders and knees.
• Always ask before taking someone’s photo, especially Maasai or locals in markets.

Do you need a visa for Tanzania?

In many cases, yes – but getting one is usually straightforward. Tanzania offers visa on arrival and e-visa options for many nationalities, so the red tape is minimal if you do your homework. Here’s what you need to know before you board that flight.

Visa on arrival or e-visa?

Citizens of the US, UK, EU countries, Canada, Australia, and many others can get a visa on arrival (usually $50/€45, but $100/€92 for US citizens). That said, applying online via the official Tanzania Immigration website is a safer bet – queues at the airport can be long, and online approval speeds things up.

You’ll need:

• A passport valid for at least six months.
• Proof of return or onward travel.
• Hotel booking or address of where you're staying.
• A yellow fever certificate if you're arriving from a country with risk of transmission.

Double-check entry rules before you go – Zanzibar has the same visa rules, but immigration might ask more questions if you're flying direct from abroad.

Planning to stay longer?

Tourist visas are typically valid for 90 days. Extensions are possible, but not guaranteed, and must be done at immigration offices in major cities. Overstaying can mean fines or denial of entry next time, so don’t chance it.

Volunteering, business, or working? You’ll need a different visa type – apply well in advance through the Tanzanian consulate or embassy in your home country.

How to stay healthy while traveling in Tanzania

Staying healthy in Tanzania is about malaria prevention, hydration, and knowing your limits in remote places. The cities have decent clinics, but the bush? Not so much. Pack smart, be alert, and you’ll be just fine.

Medical care and pharmacies

Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Zanzibar Town have private hospitals and clinics where you’ll find English-speaking staff. In rural areas or on safari, healthcare is minimal – assume you’re hours away from help.

Travel insurance that covers medical evacuation is a no-brainer.

Pharmacies are easy to find in towns and cities. Bring your own supply of:

• Prescription meds
• Anti-malarials
• Diarrhea and rehydration kits
• Painkillers and antihistamines
• Motion sickness meds (for safaris or boat rides)

Vaccinations and prep

You might not be asked for these, but they're strongly recommended:

• Yellow fever – mandatory if arriving from (or transiting through) a country with yellow fever risk.
• Hepatitis A – For food and water safety.
• Typhoid – Especially if you’ll be eating street food or going rural.
• Tetanus – Cuts happen.
• Rabies – Optional, but smart if you’re working with animals or hiking in remote areas.

Malaria is a real risk, especially in coastal and lowland regions. Use anti-malarial pills, DEET-based repellents, and sleep under mosquito nets. Zanzibar has malaria too – don’t skip the meds.

Food, water, and hygiene

• Don’t drink tap water. Stick to bottled or filtered, even when brushing teeth.
• Wash your hands before eating – or use hand sanitizer.
• Avoid salads unless you trust the kitchen.
• Eat food that’s hot and freshly cooked – that sizzling roadside barbecue? Fair game.
• Ease into street food if you’ve got a sensitive stomach.

Heat, sun, and bugs

• Sunscreen is essential, even on cloudy days. You’re close to the equator.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat and drink water constantly – dehydration creeps up on you.
• In the evenings, cover up or use repellent to avoid mosquito bites.
• Bring antibiotic cream and band-aids – small cuts can get infected fast in the tropics.

Nature and wildlife

• Don’t assume safari lodges are bug-proof – check nets and doors.
• If hiking, wear boots and long pants to avoid ticks, snakes, or nasty bites.
• Don’t swim in lakes or slow-moving rivers – schistosomiasis is a risk.

Cultural etiquette to know before visiting Tanzania

Tanzania is friendly, relaxed, and full of warm hospitality – but that doesn’t mean you should treat it like your backyard. It’s a place with deep traditions, diverse cultures, and a quiet sense of pride. A few cultural Tanzania travel tips will help you avoid awkward moments and show respect where it counts.

Dress modestly, especially away from the beach

In cities like Dar es Salaam or Arusha, locals tend to dress smart-casual. But in rural areas and especially on the Swahili coast or Zanzibar, modesty is important – for both men and women.

• Avoid short shorts, crop tops, and revealing clothes when you're not on the beach.
• In Stone Town, cover your shoulders and knees – it’s a predominantly Muslim area, and local customs run conservative.
• On safari? Lightweight long sleeves and trousers aren’t just practical – they’re respectful too.

Visiting mosques or religious sites? Wear long, loose-fitting clothing and remove your shoes before entering. Women may be asked to cover their hair – a scarf does the job.

Greetings and social norms: take your time

Tanzanians value politeness and patience. Rushing through conversations or skipping greetings comes off as rude.

• Always greet people – even strangers – with “Jambo” (hi), “Habari” (how are you?), or “Shikamoo” (a respectful hello to elders).
• A handshake is the standard greeting, and it can last a while – don’t be in a hurry to let go.
• If you know someone well, a gentle two-handed shake or clasp of hands is common.

Use titles when possible – Mwalimu (teacher), Bwana (Mr.), or Mama (Ms./Mrs.). First names are fine after you’ve been invited to use them.

Invited to someone’s home? Bring a small gift – fruit, sweets, or something from home. And don’t rush in – greet everyone before sitting down.

Public behavior: calm, not flashy

Tanzanians tend to be soft-spoken and courteous in public. Flashy or loud behavior isn’t the norm and can come across as disrespectful.

• Public displays of affection? Keep it minimal, especially in rural or Muslim areas. Holding hands is fine. Kissing – not so much.
• Getting drunk in public is frowned upon, even if alcohol is legal and widely available.
• Avoid raising your voice, swearing, or aggressive hand gestures – they make things worse, not better.

Politics, religion, and tribal identities are sensitive topics – listen more than you speak, especially around strangers.

Eating customs: take your time, wash your hands

Meals are important moments to share in Tanzania – often with family or friends.

• Wash your hands before and after eating – some meals are eaten by hand, especially in local homes or with traditional dishes like ugali.
• If you’re eating with your hands, use your right hand only – the left is considered unclean.
• Don’t start eating until your host or elder begins, and don’t leave the table early without excusing yourself.

In restaurants, wait staff may not bring the bill until asked – it’s not bad service, just polite.

If invited to someone’s home:

• Try everything you're served.
• Thank your host with “Asante sana” (thank you very much) or say “chakula kitamu” (the food is delicious).
• Clearing your plate too fast might be seen as impatience – slow down and enjoy.

Religion and local customs

Tanzania is religiously diverse – Christianity and Islam are the main faiths, often coexisting peacefully. In Zanzibar and coastal regions, Islamic customs dominate daily life.

• Dress modestly, especially during Ramadan or in religious communities.
• Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours.
• Don’t photograph mosques, religious leaders, or ceremonies without asking.

In Maasai communities or other ethnic villages, always ask before taking photos and follow your guide’s lead on etiquette.

Tipping: not expected, but always appreciated

Tipping isn’t required everywhere, but it’s very much appreciated – and often expected in tourism.

• In restaurants, 5-10% is a good tip unless service is already included.
• Safari guides, drivers, porters, and hotel staff often rely on tips – even a few dollars makes a difference.
• For taxis, rounding up is fine – tipping isn’t standard unless they go above and beyond.

Is Tanzania a good destination for families?

Absolutely – if your idea of a family holiday involves lions instead of log flumes, dhow boats instead of cruise ships, and learning to say “asante” rather than standing in line for a photo with Mickey. Tanzania with kids is about wide-open spaces, unforgettable animals, and immersive cultural experiences. Just come prepared: long drives, uneven roads, and a bit of “pole pole” (slowly, slowly) are all part of the adventure.

Where to go with kids in Tanzania

The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are top of the list for a reason. Safaris are pure magic for kids – spotting elephants, lions, and giraffes in real life beats any zoo, hands down. That said, long game drives can test younger kids’ patience. Choose lodges that welcome families and offer short, flexible drives or activities back at camp.

Lake Manyara and Tarangire National Parks are also great options for families. They’re smaller, closer to Arusha, and packed with wildlife. Plus, tree-climbing lions? That’s a story for show-and-tell.

Zanzibar has one if the best beaches in Tanzania break with spice farms to explore, boat rides to sandbars, and snorkeling in shallow reefs. Stone Town’s alleys are fun to wander (just keep little ones close), and the beaches are ideal for downtime.

Arusha or Moshi can be good base towns pre- or post-safari. They’re safe, walkable, and offer cultural experiences like banana beer brewing or village visits.

Skip climbing Kilimanjaro with young kids – it’s a serious trek. But a day hike on its lower slopes is doable and gives bragging rights without the altitude headaches.

Getting around and where to stay

Tanzania’s roads are bumpy, and distances are long. Domestic flights between major areas (like Arusha–Zanzibar) save time and are a good option with younger kids.

Private drivers are the norm for safaris and intercity travel – worth it for the flexibility alone. Public transport and budget minibuses (dala-dalas) are chaotic and not suited to families.

Family-friendly lodges and tented camps are common in safari zones – many have triple or quad rooms, early meal options, and even guides trained to engage kids. In Zanzibar, resorts often cater to families with pools, shallow beaches, and flexible meal plans.

Bring a carrier for toddlers – strollers won’t survive the terrain. And pack plenty of patience: things run on Swahili time.

Food, supplies, and eating out with kids

Tanzanian food is hearty and simple – think grilled chicken, rice, beans, flatbreads (chapati), and lots of fresh fruit. Kids can also try snacks like mandazi (fried doughnuts) or maize porridge (ugali) if they’re feeling adventurous.

Picky eaters? No stress. Most hotels and restaurants can prep plain pasta, rice, or fries. Spicy food is common but not mandatory – just ask for mild.

Supermarkets in cities like Arusha or Stone Town stock diapers, formula, and basic baby supplies, but brands may vary. In rural areas, bring what you need.

High chairs and kids’ menus are rare, but staff are generally welcoming and helpful – expect friendly faces, not side-eyes, if your toddler goes rogue mid-meal.

What are the best places to visit in Tanzania?

Tanzania’s known for its epic safaris – and fair enough, the wildlife doesn’t disappoint. But there’s way more to explore beyond the big game drives. From volcanic peaks and palm-fringed islands to ancient Swahili towns and hidden lakes, Tanzania is full of unexpected twists. Here’s where to go – and why these are the best places to visit in Tanzania.

• Serengeti National Park: The classic safari dream. Home to the Great Migration, endless savannahs, and more big cats than you can count. Come between July and October for river crossings, or earlier in the year to catch calving season in the southern plains.
• Ngorongoro Crater: An ancient volcanic bowl packed with wildlife – rhinos, lions, flamingos, the lot – all in one compact area. It’s one of the easiest places to see the Big Five in a single day, and the views from the rim? Unreal.
• Zanzibar: Spice markets, turquoise beaches, and centuries of history. Stone Town is a maze of alleyways and old mosques, while the coast offers barefoot luxury or budget-friendly beach bungalows. Snorkel, sail, or just soak it all in.
• Mount Kilimanjaro: Africa’s highest peak is both a serious trek and a bucket-list badge of honor. The full climb takes around a week, but even a day hike on the lower slopes gives you a taste of its scale. Come prepared – altitude is no joke.
• Tarangire National Park: Often skipped for the Serengeti, but don’t. It’s got massive elephant herds, giant baobabs, and fewer crowds. Visit in the dry season (June-October) for best sightings when animals cluster around the river.
• Lake Manyara: Small but mighty. Known for tree-climbing lions and flamingo-dotted shores, this park is close to Arusha and works well as a first or last stop on a northern safari circuit.
• Arusha: The safari capital of the north. Use it as a jumping-off point, but don’t rush through – local markets, coffee tours, and nearby waterfalls make it worth a pause. You’ll also get a first glimpse of Mount Meru.
• Mikumi and Ruaha National Parks: Underrated and uncrowded. Head south for a wilder vibe and fewer vehicles. Ruaha, in particular, is massive and raw – think lions hunting buffalo, riverbeds full of elephants, and not much else for miles.
• Mahale Mountains and Gombe Stream: Chimp trekking on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. Remote and hard to reach, but unforgettable. This is the spot for watching wild chimpanzees in the forest and swimming in Africa’s deepest lake.
• Bagamoyo and Kilwa Kisiwani: Swahili coast history without the crowds. Bagamoyo’s crumbling colonial charm and Kilwa’s ancient ruins (a UNESCO site) tell a different story of East Africa, far from the safari trail.

How long to spend in Tanzania?

Tanzania may look compact on the map, but travel here takes time. Safaris involve long drives, flights cover vast distances, and Zanzibar moves at its own easy rhythm. Whether you’re here for wildlife, white sand, or wild hikes, how long you stay shapes the kind of trip you’ll have — and how many things to do in Tanzania you’ll actually enjoy. Best advice? Don’t cram it. Let the pace of the game drive – and the spice market chats – set your tempo.

Ask yourself:

• Are you just here for a classic safari, or do you want to add the coast, mountains, or islands?
• Are you flying between regions, or okay with long drives and dusty roads?
• Are you chasing highlights or looking to build in breathing space?

Rough timing breakdown

• 1 week in Tanzania – You’ll hit the core safari circuit. Think Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti, starting and ending in Arusha. You’ll need to fly into or out of the Serengeti to keep things tight. Add a quick hop to Zanzibar if you cut the safari short.
• 10-14 days in Tanzania – The sweet spot. Combine the northern parks with a few days in Zanzibar, or go deeper into the Serengeti and Ngorongoro with time to actually relax. If you prefer the road less traveled, swap in Ruaha or Mikumi for a southern circuit.
• 2-3 weeks – Now you’ve got range. Trek in the Usambara Mountains, chimp-track in Mahale, or take a dhow trip around Pemba. With time on your side, you can embrace slow mornings, hidden lodges, and spontaneous detours.
• 1 month+ – Tanzania becomes a full-on immersive adventure. Stay longer in safari camps, learn Swahili basics, volunteer at a village school, or dive deep on remote islands. You won’t see everything (it’s bigger than it looks), but you’ll start to feel the rhythm.

What’s the best way to plan a Tanzania itinerary?

Planning a trip to Tanzania isn’t just about seeing lions. It’s about balancing wild adventures with downtime, giving yourself space between game drives, boat trips, and bumpy bush roads. The best Tanzania itinerary isn't packed wall-to-wall – it leaves room for the unexpected: a herd of elephants blocking your road, or a slow lunch in a coastal village where no one’s in a rush.

Start with how long you’ve got

Travel here isn’t fast – but it’s part of the charm.

• Under a week – Focus on one region. A short northern safari (Tarangire, Ngorongoro), or a Zanzibar beach break with a splash of Stone Town history.
• 7-10 days – Combine northern parks with Zanzibar. Fly between Arusha and the island to save time. It’s a solid blend of action and relaxation.
• 2 weeks – Go bigger. Do a full northern circuit, spend longer in the Serengeti, then head to Zanzibar or Mafia Island to recover. Or do a southern route (Ruaha and Nyerere) for a more remote feel.
• 3-4 weeks – Explore more diverse landscapes. Hike the Usambaras, explore Bagamoyo’s history, snorkel off Pemba, or track chimps in Gombe. Now you’ve got time for cultural depth and off-grid experiences.

Match your itinerary to your travel style

There’s no one-size-fits-all Tanzania trip. Tailor it to what excites you most:

Into wildlife?

• Serengeti – For the Great Migration and big predators.
• Ngorongoro Crater – For seeing almost everything in one day.
• Ruaha and Nyerere – Less crowded, more rugged.
• Tarangire – Great for elephants and baobabs, especially in dry season.

Love beaches and slow days?

• Zanzibar – Mix of culture, coast, and sunsets.
• Mafia Island – Quiet, low-key, and home to whale sharks (October-February).
• Pemba – Off the radar and rich in marine life.

Into hiking and nature?

• Mount Kilimanjaro – Multi-day summit challenge.
• Usambara Mountains – Village walks, forests, and cooler temps.
• Udzungwa Mountains – Hidden waterfalls and endemic monkeys.

Want a cultural twist?

• Stone Town – Swahili culture, spice markets, and faded colonial beauty.
• Bagamoyo and Kilwa – Historic coastal towns with a past.
• Lake Eyasi – Meet Hadzabe hunter-gatherers and Datoga blacksmiths.

Getting around Tanzania: plan smart

Distances are huge, roads are slow, and delays are normal. Build flexibility into your plan.

• Domestic flights are essential for long-haul jumps – Arusha to Zanzibar, or Dar to Ruaha.
• Private drivers and safari operators are the best way to cover safari routes.
• Shared minibuses (dala-dalas) are cheap but chaotic – not ideal for most travelers.
• Ferries run between Dar and Zanzibar, but flying is faster and more reliable.
• Driving yourself is possible but only recommended if you're confident with dirt roads, dodgy signage, and a sense of humor.

How to slow travel in Tanzania?

Tanzania isn’t just a safari sprint or a dash to Zanzibar. It’s a country that opens up when you slow down – where sitting under a baobab watching birds or sharing a tea with locals can outshine any wildlife checklist. If you’re planning a trip to Tanzania and want to see more than the inside of a safari vehicle, pace yourself.

Start in Arusha, but don’t just pass through. Wander the local markets, sip ginger tea (chai tangawizi), and catch the buzz of daily life. Visit nearby villages like Mto wa Mbu to explore banana farms and local art collectives. Take your time getting into the safari rhythm – it’s not all lions and Land Cruisers.

Travel through the northern parks slowly. Instead of rushing from park to park, spend multiple nights in one place. Watch elephants at the river in Tarangire, go on a walking safari in Lake Manyara, or spend an afternoon at camp listening to hyenas in the distance. Early mornings and lazy afternoons are part of the experience.

On Zanzibar, resist the urge to hop beaches every day. Stay longer in one spot – whether it’s Nungwi’s lively shores or Jambiani’s chill tide pools. Explore spice farms, learn to cook pilau, or take a dhow trip at sunset without watching the clock. Stone Town deserves more than a single stroll – wander aimlessly, get lost in the maze, and soak in its layered history.

In the Usambara Mountains, take it slow with village hikes, visits to small schools, and storytelling sessions with your local guide. This is slow travel gold – no crowds, just real conversations and unforgettable views.

The keys to slow travel in Tanzania?

• Stay longer in fewer places. It’s not about ticking boxes – it’s about digging into the vibe of each spot.
• Use local transport or private drivers. Dala-dalas, shared taxis, and long road trips give you a feel for the country in motion.
• Eat where locals eat. Street food stalls, market canteens, and roadside grills are where the flavor – and the fun – lives.
• Say yes when someone invites you in. Tanzanians are famously hospitable. Accept the chai, listen to the stories, and make space for the moments that don’t fit your itinerary.

How to handle money and payments in Tanzania?

Tanzania runs on cash – especially outside of major cities and resort zones. If you’re planning a trip to Tanzania, be ready for a mix of modern and old-school when it comes to money.

The local currency is the Tanzanian shilling (TZS). Locals usually quote prices in “shillings” or “elufu” (thousands), so 5,000 TZS might just be called “five.”

• ATMs are common in big cities like Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Zanzibar Town. Use machines from major banks like CRDB, NMB, or NBC – they’re more reliable and safer. But in rural areas or smaller towns, ATMs may be non-existent or out of service, so stock up before you leave the city.
• Most higher-end hotels, lodges, and safari companies accept Visa or Mastercard, often with a fee. But for taxis, local restaurants, market shopping, and entry fees, it’s cash only. Always carry small bills – many places can’t break large denominations.

You don’t need to exchange Tanzanian shillings before arriving. Bring a debit card and withdraw local currency on arrival. If you prefer to exchange, currency exchange offices in cities offer better rates than hotels or airports. US dollars are widely accepted for tours and park fees, but notes must be clean, unmarked, and issued after 2009.

What are the most common scams?

Tanzania is generally safe and welcoming, but like anywhere with a growing tourist scene, there’s a bit of hustle in the mix. Most scams are low-key – more about smooth talk and small cash than real danger. Knowing what to look out for helps you steer clear and focus on the good stuff.

• Taxi tricks – A classic. Drivers may claim the meter is “broken” or quote inflated prices, especially at airports or tourist hubs like Arusha and Zanzibar. Some may also “forget” the price you agreed on. Always settle the fare before getting in, or use ride apps like Bolt in major cities.
• Fake safari operators – Some operators promise multi-day safaris or Kilimanjaro treks at unbeatable prices – then vanish with your deposit or deliver something very different. Book with established companies that have real offices and check reviews before handing over cash.
• Currency swaps – A common scam involves switching your note mid-transaction and claiming you gave the wrong amount. This often happens with large denominations. Count your money slowly and clearly, and avoid changing cash on the street.
• “Helpful” strangers – Around bus stations or ferry ports, someone might offer to “help” with your bags, tickets, or directions, then expect a tip or try to sneak off with your things. Friendly doesn’t always mean trustworthy. Be polite, but keep your distance.
• Counterfeit goods – That handmade Maasai jewelry or “Tanzanite” stone might be fake. Markets and roadside stalls often sell lookalikes. If you want the real thing, shop at certified stores or cooperatives, especially in Arusha or Stone Town.
• Distraction scams – A bumped shoulder, a staged argument, or someone dropping something in front of you – all are tricks to grab your attention while a second person lifts your wallet. Stay alert in crowds, markets, and during ferry boarding.

How to travel responsibly and ethically in Tanzania?

Tanzania’s wildlife, cultures, and landscapes make it one of East Africa’s most memorable destinations – but with that privilege comes responsibility. These Tanzania travel tips will help you explore with care, respect, and a lighter footprint.

• Dress respectfully – In rural areas and Muslim-majority regions like Zanzibar, modest clothing matters. Cover shoulders and knees, and skip revealing outfits. It shows respect and earns better interactions, especially with elders.
• Learn a little Swahili – A few words go a long way: asante (thank you), pole pole (slowly), karibu (welcome). Locals appreciate the effort, and it opens doors to real conversations.
• Support local businesses – Shop at local markets, eat at family-run cafés, and book activities through community tourism groups. Skip mass-produced souvenirs and look for cooperatives that directly benefit artisans and guides.
• Respect cultural sites and nature – Don’t climb on ancient ruins, stray from marked paths in parks, or pick plants and shells. Tanzania’s natural and cultural heritage is precious – treat it like it matters.
• Ask before taking photos – Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in Maasai or Hadzabe communities. Some may request a small tip – fair enough if given respectfully.
• Avoid unethical animal experiences – Don’t support places that offer wild animals for photos or keep them in poor conditions. Stick to ethical safaris, conservation lodges, and operators who prioritize wildlife welfare.
• Cut down on waste and water use – Bring a reusable water bottle, avoid plastic bags (they're banned in Tanzania), and skip single-use plastics. Take short showers and don’t expect daily towel changes in lodges.
• Don’t give money to children – It can keep kids out of school and encourage begging. If you want to help, donate to a vetted local organization or support school supply drives through your hotel or tour company.
• Be present and open-minded – Travel with curiosity, not judgment. Say yes to local invitations, ask questions, and leave space for unscripted moments. The best memories in Tanzania often come from the in-between.

Don’t underestimate ferry days in Zanzibar

The Dar es Salaam-Zanzibar ferry isn’t just a boat ride – it’s a bit of a scene. The terminal is chaotic, boarding is pushy, and sea conditions can get rough. Book your ticket in advance (Azam Marine is the legit operator), arrive at least an hour early, and bring motion sickness meds if you’re sensitive. Skip the cheapest seats – VIP upstairs has AC, fewer crowds, and fewer people vomiting.

Don’t flash your drone permit – or your drone

Flying a drone in Tanzania isn’t just about avoiding zebras. It’s about navigating red tape. You need a permit from the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA), plus additional approval if you’re filming in national parks. Enforcement is inconsistent – which makes it worse. You might fly unnoticed one day and get slapped with a fine the next. Unless you’re on assignment and fully cleared, it’s easier (and safer) to leave the drone at home.

Don’t rely on your hotel for safari prices

Many hotels in Arusha or Moshi will happily book a safari for you – but they’ll take a cut, and it often shows in either the vehicle quality or last-minute logistics. Instead, compare quotes from safari operators directly before you land. Look for TOATO members (Tanzania Association of Tour Operators), check if the company owns its vehicles, and read reviews carefully. Booking through your lodge might be easy – but not always best.