Travel essentials
Tanzania travel essentials
General guidance on visas, arriving in Arusha, packing and getting around. Rules change, so always confirm the details with official sources.
Draft guidance. This page gives general information only. Check entry, health and transport requirements with official sources before you travel.
Visa info
Many visitors need a visa to enter Tanzania, but the rules depend on your passport. The Tanzania Immigration Department runs an official electronic visa system where you can see the visa types, required documents and which nationalities need approval in advance.
Apply only through the official government website, and allow plenty of time before you travel.
- Check your passport's validity and blank pages against the official requirements.
- Ask your doctor or a travel clinic about vaccinations — some travelers need a yellow fever certificate depending on their route.
- Keep digital and paper copies of your visa approval and travel documents.
Getting there
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is the main international gateway for Arusha and the northern safari parks. Arusha Airport handles domestic and light-aircraft flights.
Tell us your arrival and departure plans and we'll fit transfers and the first night around them.
- Share your flight times early so transfers can be arranged.
- Allow a rest day after a long-haul flight if you can.
- Light aircraft often have soft-bag and weight limits — ask before you pack.
Travel tips
Days on safari start early and can be dusty; highland mornings and evenings around Arusha and Ngorongoro are often cool.
During cultural visits, follow your hosts' lead, dress modestly and always ask before taking photographs.
- Pack layers, a warm jacket, sun protection and a hat.
- Bring binoculars and spare batteries or power banks.
- Get health and malaria advice from a travel clinic before you go.
- Ask before photographing people, and accept a no.
Getting around
Most northern journeys travel by road in a safari vehicle with a driver-guide. Distances between parks can mean long days on uneven roads, so routes are paced with that in mind.
For the Serengeti, a light-aircraft flight can replace a long drive. We'll explain the trade-offs in your proposal.
- Road transfers between parks can take several hours.
- Flights save time but cost more and have luggage limits.
- Your proposal will list exactly how each day's travel is arranged.
Still have questions? Add them to your trip inquiry and we'll answer them directly.
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