Tanzania Travel Guide
Top Places to Visit
- Mount Kilimanjaro – Africa’s highest peak and trekking destination
- Serengeti National Park – Famous for the Great Migration
- Ngorongoro Crater – Wildlife-rich volcanic caldera
- Zanzibar – Historic Stone Town and white sand beaches
- Lake Manyara – Tree-climbing lions and birdwatching
- Selous Game Reserve – Less crowded, pristine safari area
Best Hotels to Stay
Language & Culture
Swahili (Kiswahili) is the national language, with English used in business and tourism. Tanzania is home to over 120 tribes, each with distinct traditions. Music, dance, storytelling, and community life are central to the culture.Transportation, Currency & Food
- Transportation: Domestic flights, buses, taxis, ferries to Zanzibar
- Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
- Food: Ugali, nyama choma (grilled meat), pilau, chapati, samaki (fish)
Best Season & Entry Points
| Season | Weather | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| June – October | Cool and dry | Best for safaris and climbing Kilimanjaro |
| December – February | Warm and dry | Good for wildlife and Zanzibar |
| March – May | Rainy | Fewer crowds, some areas muddy |
Entry via Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), Kilimanjaro (JRO), or Zanzibar (ZNZ)
Estimated Budget (for Two Travelers)
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Flights | $700 – $1200 | Round trip from US/Europe |
| Accommodation | $600 – $1500 | Safari lodges and beach resorts |
| Dining | $200 – $400 | Local and tourist restaurants |
| Transport | $150 – $300 | Domestic flights, taxis, ferry |
| Activities | $300 – $800 | Park fees, safaris, tours |
Packing List Suggestions
- Passport and visa (available online or on arrival for most)
- Light layers and safari clothing (neutral colors)
- Sunscreen, insect repellent, malaria meds
- Sturdy shoes or boots
- Swimsuit, sandals for Zanzibar
20 Basic Language Tips (Swahili)
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Jambo | Hello |
| Habari? | How are you? |
| Nzuri | Good / Fine |
| Asante | Thank you |
| Karibu | You’re welcome |
| Ndiyo / Hapana | Yes / No |
| Tafadhali | Please |
| Samahani | Excuse me / Sorry |
| Naomba… | I would like… |
| Unasemaje Kiingereza? | Do you speak English? |
| Choo kiko wapi? | Where is the bathroom? |
| Ghali sana! | Too expensive! |
| Punguza bei | Lower the price |
| Nisaidie tafadhali | Help me please |
| Kwa heri | Goodbye |
| Kesho | Tomorrow |
| Saa ngapi? | What time? |
| Lala salama | Good night |
| Nzuri sana | Very good |
| Hakuna matata | No problem |
Health & Safety
- Visa required for most visitors (available online or on arrival)
- Yellow fever certificate may be required if arriving from risk areas
- Use bottled or purified water
- Travel insurance strongly recommended
- Emergency number: 112 (general)
Festivals & Holidays
- Zanzibar International Film Festival – July
- Unification Day – April 26
- Nyerere Day – October 14
- Eid al-Fitr & Eid al-Adha – Islamic celebrations
- Uhuru Day – December 9 (Independence Day)
