Welcome to Paradise: Tanzania & Zanzibar 🇹🇿

What to Expect: Tanzania Awaits You

Tanzania is an East African country known for its vast wilderness areas and breathtaking natural beauty. Home to Africa's highest mountain (Kilimanjaro), the "big five" game animals, and the tropical paradise islands of Zanzibar with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world — Tanzania is where adventure meets serenity.

Capital: Dodoma (though Dar es Salaam is the largest city)

Population: 30 million beautiful souls

Main Languages: Swahili (official) and English

Climate: Tropical — warm year-round with 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C)

Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) | $1 USD ≈ 2,400 TZS

Emergency Numbers: Police/Fire/Ambulance 111, 112, or 999

Dialing Code: +255

Best Time to Visit

The dry season (late June to October) is ideal for safari, with excellent wildlife viewing and pleasant weather. December to February is also beautiful with warm temperatures perfect for beach time in Zanzibar. The islands are stunning year-round, so whenever you come, magic awaits!

"I hope you have an experience that alters the course of your life because, after Africa, nothing has ever been the same." — Suzanne Evans

Preparing for Your Journey

📋 Your Essential Checklist

Before You Leave Home:

https://africacdc.org/disease/yellow-fever/

What to Pack:

What to Wear in Tanzania & Zanzibar

Climate & Cultural Respect

Tanzania's tropical climate means warm temperatures and humidity year-round. Zanzibar has a significant Muslim population, so modest dress is essential, especially in Stone Town and local villages.

Your Daily Wardrobe:

• Safari days: Neutral colors (khaki, olive, beige) — avoid bright colors and black (attracts tsetse flies!)
• Beach days in Zanzibar: Swimwear is fine at resorts, but cover up when leaving the beach
• Stone Town & local areas: Shoulders and knees covered — lightweight, loose-fitting clothing
• Evening vibes: Resort wear, elegant attire for dinners
• Cultural moments: Respectful, modest clothing that honors local traditions

City vs. Islands:

• Dar es Salaam is cosmopolitan but still conservative
• Zanzibar (Stone Town) is predominantly Muslim — modest dress is non-negotiable
• Beach resorts are more relaxed, but still be mindful outside resort grounds

Footwear Essentials:

• Comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes for safari
• Sandals for everyday beach wear
• Water shoes for rocky beaches
• Nicer shoes for dinners

Accessories:

• Wide-brim hats and sunglasses (that Tanzania sun is powerful!)
• Lightweight, breathable scarves
• Minimal jewelry

Power & Technology

The Technical Details:

• Tanzania uses 230 volts and Type G power adapters (UK-style three-prong plug)
• Most US devices are dual voltage — check yours before you go!
• If not dual voltage, you'll need a power converter
• Bring portable chargers (power outages are common, especially in Zanzibar)
• Download offline maps and entertainment before you arrive

Immigration & Documentation

Your Visa

You'll need a visa to enter Tanzania. Here's what you need to know:

Visa Options:

• Single Entry: $50 (valid for 3 months)
• Multiple Entry: $100 (valid up to 12 months) — We strongly recommend this option!

How to Apply:

Apply online at: https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa/

You can also obtain a visa upon arrival at the airport for $100 USD (cash).

Processing time: Apply at least 2 weeks before travel

What to Submit:

• Completed visa application form
• Passport valid for at least 6 months with one blank page
• Passport-size photo
• Copy of round-trip flight itinerary
• Yellow Fever vaccination certificate
• Letter from Certified Africa (we'll provide this!)

Your Contact in Tanzania:

Slim Salim

Kiembe Samaki Street, Zanzibar, Tanzania

contact@certifiedafrica.com

Arrival Airport:

Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) in Zanzibar

Zanzibar Travel Insurance (MANDATORY)

Non-resident U.S. citizens traveling to Zanzibar must pre-pay for compulsory travel insurance.

Purchase online at: https://visitzanzibar.go.tz/

This insurance is required and will be checked at the port of entry.

Health Requirements

Yellow Fever Vaccination is REQUIRED for entry into Tanzania. You must show your yellow vaccination card at immigration.

Additional Health Precautions:

• Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended — consult your healthcare provider
• Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccinations recommended
• Routine vaccinations should be up to date
• Pack a personal medical kit with antimalarials, pain relievers, anti-diarrheal medication, and antiseptic
• Bring all prescription medications in original containers
• Do NOT drink tap water — bottled water only!
• Cannabis in any form is illegal in Tanzania

Helpful Resources:

• U.S. State Department Tanzania Information

Currency & Money Matters

Tanzania is primarily a cash society. Here's what you need to know:

Currency Exchange:

• Tanzanian Shilling (TZS): $1 USD = approximately 2,400 TZS
• Bring $50 and $100 bills for the best exchange rates
• Exchange at banks or official Forex Bureaus (not at airports or hotels where rates are marked up)
• Foreign currency can be freely exchanged at any Forex Bureau

ATMs:

• Available in major cities and tourist areas
• Notify your bank before traveling
• Be aware of foreign transaction fees
• Use ATMs at reputable banks during daylight hours

Credit Cards:

• Accepted at upscale hotels and restaurants, but NOT widely used
• Always carry cash for markets, taxis, tips, and smaller establishments

How Much to Bring:

Bring $500-$1,000 in cash (USD) depending on your shopping plans and length of stay.

Cultural Etiquette: Respect & Connection

Tanzania welcomes you with open arms. Here's how to honor the culture and build beautiful connections:

The Golden Rules

Always greet first. A simple "Hujambo" (hello) or "Habari" (how are you) opens doors and hearts.

Use your right hand when giving, receiving, eating, or shaking hands. The left hand is considered unclean.

Dress modestly, especially in Zanzibar. This is a sign of deep respect for local culture and Muslim traditions.

Avoid public displays of affection between opposite sexes — this may offend locals, particularly in cities and Zanzibar.

Ask permission before taking photos of people. Some may ask for a small tip — this is normal and appreciated.

No photos at airports, government buildings, military installations, or state facilities.

Bargain with a smile! Everything except fixed-price stores is negotiable. Start at 50% of the asking price and negotiate with joy, never frustration.

Traveling with a guide ensures honest prices — that's us! We'll make sure you're treated fairly.

Avoid metered taxis. Better yet, negotiate the price BEFORE getting in. In cities, use Uber or Bolt ride-sharing apps for transparency and safety.

Religion & Respect

Tanzania is religiously diverse, with Christianity and Islam as the major faiths. Religious tolerance is high, and you should honor all traditions.

During Ramadan (the holy month when Muslims fast during daylight), be mindful:

• Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours in Muslim areas
• Dress even more modestly
• Be patient — business hours may be adjusted

LGBTQ+ Travelers: Important Safety Information

Basic Swahili: Connect Through Language

Learning just a few words goes such a long way and earns you the warmest smiles!

Hello – Hujambo (hoo-JAHM-boh)

Goodbye – Kwaheri (kwah-HAIR-ee)

Please – Tafadhali (tah-fah-DHAL-ee)

Thank you – Asante (ah-SAHN-tay)

You're welcome – Karibu (kah-REE-boo)

Yes – Ndio (nDEE-oh)

No – Hapana (hah-PAHN-ah)

Hakuna Matata – No problem, no worries!

Recommended Flights to Tanzania

Major Airlines Serving Tanzania:

• Turkish Airlines
• Qatar Airways
• Emirates
• Kenya Airways
• Ethiopian Airlines
• KLM
• Lufthansa
• Delta Airlines (via partners)
• United Airlines (via partners)

Pro Tip: Book early for the best rates, and consider flights with a layover in Doha, Dubai, or Istanbul — these hubs offer excellent connections and service!

Safety & Security

Tanzania is generally safe for tourists, but like anywhere, you should stay alert and take precautions.

Stay Safe:

• Keep a low profile and stay aware of your surroundings
• Secure your belongings in crowded areas (markets, beaches, bus stations)
• Don't leave food or drinks unattended
• Use hotel safes for passports, cash, and valuables
• Avoid walking alone at night
• Travel with reputable guides (that's us!)
• Keep copies of your passport and visa — carry copies, store originals safely

Crime:

• Petty theft and pickpocketing occur in tourist areas
• Home invasions have been reported in major cities
• Violent crime is possible but uncommon for tourists traveling with guides

Terrorism:

There is a risk of terrorist activity, particularly in the Mtwara Region in southern Tanzania near the Mozambique border. Avoid this area.

Stay vigilant in:

• High-profile public events
• Hotels and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Shopping malls and markets
• Places of worship

Health & Medical Care

Medical Facilities:

• Medical facilities in Tanzania are limited, especially outside major cities
• Ambulance services are unreliable
• In an emergency, take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest hospital
• Medical evacuation insurance is STRONGLY recommended

Water & Food Safety:

• Do NOT drink tap water — bottled water only
• Avoid ice in drinks (it's often made from tap water)
• Eat at reputable restaurants
• Avoid street food unless recommended by your guide
• Peel fruits yourself

Altitude Awareness:

If you're climbing Mount Kilimanjaro or visiting high-altitude areas, be aware of altitude sickness symptoms and take proper precautions.

Travel & Transportation

Road Safety:

Road conditions in Tanzania can be dangerous.

• Roads are often poorly maintained, bumpy, and potholed
• Traffic moves on the left side of the road
• Drivers can be unpredictable and drive at excessive speeds
• During rainy season (March-June, November-December), many roads require 4WD vehicles
• Traffic jams are common

Our Advice: Travel with us. We provide safe, reliable transportation with professional drivers who know the roads.

Taxis & Rideshares:

• Negotiate taxi prices BEFORE getting in
• Use Uber or Bolt apps in cities for transparency
• Avoid "dala-dalas" (public buses), "bajajis" (three-wheeled taxis), and "boda-bodas" (motorcycle taxis) — they're poorly maintained and unsafe

Ferry to Zanzibar:

• Use the high-speed ferry from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar
• Purchase tickets inside the terminal or online in advance
• Tickets should include your name, date, and class of travel

What to Know About Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous archipelago with its own government and deeply rooted Muslim culture.

Cultural Sensitivity in Zanzibar:

• Dress modestly — this cannot be overstated
• Women: cover shoulders, chest, and knees in Stone Town and villages
• Men: avoid going shirtless outside beach resort areas
• Public displays of affection are frowned upon
• Respect prayer times and mosques
• Remove shoes before entering homes or mosques

What Makes Zanzibar Magical:

• Pristine beaches with turquoise waters
• Stone Town — a UNESCO World Heritage Site with winding alleys and rich history
• Spice tours — Zanzibar is the Spice Island!
• Incredible seafood and Swahili cuisine
• Dhow sunset cruises
• Snorkeling and diving with vibrant coral reefs
• Jozani Forest — home to the rare Red Colobus Monkey

Packing Tips & Miscellaneous Must-Haves

• Sunscreen SPF 50+ (protect that beautiful skin under the African sun!)
• Insect repellent with DEET (malaria prevention is key)
• Hand sanitizer and baby wipes (lifesavers!)
• Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated — just refill with bottled water)
• Flashlight or headlamp (for power outages)
• Entertainment for travel days (books, podcasts, downloaded movies)
• Ziplock bags (for keeping electronics dry and organizing small items)
• Small gifts for locals (pens, notebooks, small toys for children — always appreciated)
• Medications in original packaging with doctor's note

Travel Insurance

While Certified Africa doesn't offer travel insurance directly, we strongly encourage you to protect your investment and your peace of mind.

Your insurance should cover:

• Trip cancellation
• Medical emergencies
• Medical evacuation (CRITICAL for Tanzania)
• Lost or stolen belongings

Find options at: certifiedafrica.com/travel-insurance

What Our Family Says

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📞 Phone: +1 (727) 222-1637

✉️ Email: contact@certifiedafrica.com

🌐 Website: www.certifiedafrica.com

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