General information on Tanzania- Magical Africa Safaris

General Information On Tanzania

Tanzania has spectacular tourist attractions in its game parks, the Indian Ocean coast and Islands, large fresh water lakes and snow-capped mountains.

It has a history embracing early relics of mankind, the African explorers, and exotic Zanzibar with it's Arabian influence. It is a large country, about four times the size of Great Britain, of enormous diversity. From Africa's highest mountain, Kilimanjaro (5895 mts, 19,158 ft), to sandy white beaches, coral reefs and off shore islands.

The wide open plains of the Serengeti National Park, where the famous wildebeest migration begins and ends, the Selous and Ruaha National Parks in the south, the Rufiji River, and the fresh water lakes in the west.

Lake Victoria, the source of the Nile river and the largest lake in Africa, which shares its shores with Kenya and Uganda, and Lake Tanganika, teeming in tropical fish, is the 3rd deepest lake in the world, and shares its shores with Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Zambia. Zanzibar Island, off the coast, steeped in history, with the narrow winding streets of Stone Town, fragrant spices and glorious beaches.

When To Travel

Organizing a safari in Tanzania starts with important details below.

Tanzania has much to offer all year round. Situated just south of the equator, temperatures average between 25-30C°. Humidity can be very high along the coastal strip and on Zanzibar but much lower in the interior highlands.

There long rains are from March to May and short rains between October and December. In addition there are frequently heavy rains in the south of Tanzania from December until April.

The wildebeest migration in the Serengeti occurs in June and July. If you are planning a trekking or climbing holiday the best months are May to September. Travelling by road, especially in the more remote areas or through the national parks, is easier during the dry months, as road conditions deteriorate significantly in the rain. There is an average of 4-6 hours of sunshine each day.

Visas

Customs and immigration officials are polite and efficient, and a visa - for those who require one - can be purchased on the spot, Zanzibar or Kilimanjaro Airport or at any overland border. Visa are required by all visitors except citizens of the Commonwealth (excluding citizens of the UK, Australia, Canada, India and Nigeria who do require visas). Please note that requirement may change at any time, and check with us at time of booking.

Health

We recommend anti malarial prophylactics, especially if you are visiting the coast and during the wet seasons when malaria is more prolific. For more information on health issues please consult your doctor.

Language

The official language is Swahili, which is spoken by everyone. Most places on the tourist routes English will be spoken.

Money

Tanzania shilling is the official currency. Foreign exchange and ATM facilities are available at the airport, which is also serviced by several shops and restaurants.

Tipping

Tipping in Tanzania is not compulsory. However if you are happy with the service you have received any gesture of appreciation will be enthusiastically received.

Safaris in Tanzania

Tanzania safaris options just like in Kenya is wide, from accommodation in hotels and lodges to luxury tented camps and budget camping in Tanzania.

Lodges are often built of local stone and thatch to blend harmoniously with the landscape. Restaurants and bars in warmer areas are on wide, open verandas whilst in the cooler highlands, lodges are glassed in and many have log fires in the evenings.

Arranging a family safari in Tanzania is so much easy, luxury tented camps offer high standards of comfort and service — twin-bedded, insect-proof tents with en-suite shower / flush toilet and dining / bar facilities in central mess tents or attractive open buildings. Budget camping is basic and adventurous in game reserves and other beautiful surroundings like lakes, rivers or mountains.

Facilities in all hotels, lodges and camps are excellent. Arranging a honeymoon safari in Tanzania is a dream come true. Same thing with booking or arranging a safari in Tanzania.

Tanzania Game reserves
Tanzania Camping Safaris
Tanzania Lodge Safaris
Ngorongoro Crater Tanzania

Dar Es salaam town

Zanzibar Island

*See other relevant general information on Kenya tour.

Nairobi hotels

Mombasa Kenya

Safaris in Kenya.

List of budget camping safaris in Kenya

Africa safaris.

Accommodation in Kenya