Tanzania safari FAQs: what travellers ask before they go
Before a Tanzania safari, check visa and entry rules on the official Tanzania government immigration website and your own government's travel advice, because rules change. Speak to a travel health clinic several weeks ahead about vaccinations and malaria prevention. Take a bank card and some recent US dollar notes, and buy travel insurance that includes medical evacuation. Most first safaris on the northern circuit run for about five to eight days.
Planning your safari
How many days do I need?
For a first safari on the northern circuit, five to eight days lets you see Tarangire, the Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti without rushing. Three or four days works well for Tarangire and the crater, but the Serengeti really needs at least two nights of its own.
Compare the 3-day Tarangire and Ngorongoro safari, the 5-day classic Tanzania safari and the 8-day premium Tanzania safari to see the difference a few extra days make.
When should I go?
Each season has its strengths. The long dry season from June to October is the classic choice, and January and February are excellent for calving in the southern Serengeti. Our guide to the best time to visit Tanzania goes through the year park by park.
Should I travel privately or in a small group?
A private safari gives you your own vehicle and guide, and the day runs at your pace. A small-group departure shares the vehicle with other travellers. Private travel suits families, photographers and anyone with fixed interests. Our private tailor-made safari page explains what changes.
How much does a safari cost?
Prices depend on the season, the comfort level, the number of travellers and whether you drive or fly, so we quote each trip individually. Our guide to safari comfort levels explains what shapes the price.
Visas and entry requirements
Most visitors need a visa or some form of entry permission to visit Tanzania, and the rules depend on your nationality. They also change. Check the current requirements on the official Tanzania government immigration website, and read your own government's travel advice for Tanzania, before you book flights.
Entry rules can include a minimum passport validity and blank pages, and Zanzibar may have additional requirements of its own. Treat any rule you read on a travel blog, including this one, as a prompt to check the official source.
Health and vaccinations
Book an appointment with a travel health clinic or your doctor several weeks before you travel. They'll advise on routine and travel vaccinations based on your health and your route.
Malaria is present in much of Tanzania, including the safari areas and Zanzibar. The clinic will tell you whether to take preventive medication and which kind. Cover up at dusk, use repellent and sleep under a net where one is provided.
Yellow fever certificate requirements depend on where you're travelling from and through, including airport transits. Check the official source for your route.
Travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is strongly advised. The parks are remote, and good cover gives you options if something goes wrong.
Money and payments
Tanzania's currency is the Tanzanian shilling. US dollars are widely used in tourism, but older or damaged notes are often refused, so bring recent, clean notes. Many lodges and camps accept cards, sometimes with a surcharge. Cash machines are found in towns such as Arusha but not inside the parks, so it's wise to carry some cash for tips and small purchases.
Tipping is customary on safari. Ask us for current guidance when you plan, and see the travel information page for how tipping usually works.
On safari
What does a typical day look like?
Most days start early, often with coffee before first light and a morning game drive while the animals are active. You might return to camp for brunch or stay out with a picnic. The middle of the day is hot and quiet, a good time to rest. An afternoon drive follows, and you're usually back in camp around dusk, as most national parks don't allow game drives after dark.
Is a safari safe?
Safaris in Tanzania's main parks are well established and generally safe when you follow your guide's instructions. Stay in the vehicle unless your guide says otherwise. Most camps are unfenced, so walk with a staff escort after dark. Keep valuables out of sight in towns, as you would anywhere.
What about toilets on game drives?
Lodges, picnic sites and park gates have toilets. Between them, your guide will find a safe spot for a quick "bush stop". Just ask.
Will I have Wi-Fi and phone signal?
Many lodges and camps have Wi-Fi in the main areas, but speeds vary and some remote camps have none. Mobile signal is patchy inside the parks. Plenty of travellers find the break welcome.
Is the food and water safe?
Lodges and camps cater to international guests and are used to dietary needs. Tell us about allergies or preferences when you plan. Drink bottled or filtered water, which camps usually provide.
Can I photograph people?
Always ask first, and accept a no with good grace. In Maasai areas and villages, your guide can help you ask politely. Our cultural experiences page covers visits that are planned with communities in mind.
Still have a question? Send it when you plan your safari and we'll answer it as part of your plan.