Travel Tips to Tanzania

Ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip with these tips.

Best Time to Visit: The dry seasons from January to March and June to October are ideal for climbing Kilimanjaro. Considering that climate change now affects the whole planet and that the weather has become increasingly unpredictable at all latitudes.The best times to visit the north of Tanzania are from December to March and from June to October. Mid-January to early April is perhaps the best time to visit the Serengeti, because it is when the great migrant herds of wildebeest and zebras gather in the south-central sector. The wettest time is usually mid-April to mid-May. Occasional downpours between mid-November and mid-December will not disturb your itinerary in the north.

The best time to visit the south of the country is from June to December. From June to October temperatures are usually lower and from March to April are by far the wettest time.

Along the coast and on the Islands the best times are from December to March, when daytime temperatures exceed 30°C and the sea is incredibly warm, and from July to October, which are cooler and breezy.

Currency: The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the local currency. Carry some cash for small purchases and tips. Traveler’s cheques and cash are accepted at hotels and Bureau de Changes. US$ are the preferred currency. If you plan on taking cash, make sure you take large bills (e.g. $50 or $100) as these for some unknown reason always get a better rate. Don’t go running to the first Bureau you see at the airport, as these, along with the hotels and resorts, normally have the worst exchange rate. If you are planning on taking a taxi into town, rather pay the fare in US$ and go to a bureau in town. There are many all over town. Try to negotiate a better rate, you never know. Try to pay for as much as possible in the local currency (Tanzanian Shillings), always bearing in mind the exchange rate. If the locals see you have foreign currency, they will try to relieve you of it. ALWAYS haggle or bargain and try to pretend you know what you are doing. Remember to keep some of your home currency for your return, just in case. You will also have to pay a departure tax of $30 when you leave

Language: Swahili and English are widely spoken. Learning a few basic Swahili phrases can enhance your experience.