Traveling to Tanzania for the First Time? Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Tanzania is a land of breathtaking contrasts—from the snowcapped summit of Mount Kilimanjaro to the vast plains of the Serengeti, and the turquoise waters of Zanzibar. But if this is your first time visiting Tanzania, you probably have a lot of questions. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.

At Jipemoyo, we help travelers explore East Africa with confidence, purpose, and ease. Here's a complete guide to make your first Tanzanian adventure safe, smooth, and unforgettable.

1. Entry Requirements: Visas and Passports

• Visa: Most travelers can get a tourist visa on arrival at the airport or apply online through the Tanzania eVisa portal.
• Passport: Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your date of entry.
• Yellow Fever Certificate: Required if you’re coming from (or transiting through) a country with risk of yellow fever.

2. Best Time to Visit Tanzania

• Dry Season (June–October): Great for safaris and Kilimanjaro treks.
• Green Season (November–May): Fewer crowds, lush landscapes, and great birdwatching. Some parts may be wetter, but still magical.

3. Health & Safety Tips

• Vaccinations: Consult your doctor about hepatitis A, typhoid, and malaria prophylaxis.
• Water: Stick to bottled or filtered water.
• Safety: Tanzania is generally safe, especially with a trusted tour operator like Jipemoyo. Avoid walking alone at night in cities, and secure your valuables.

4. Currency and Payments

• Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but USD is widely accepted.
• ATMs: Available in major towns. Credit cards are accepted in many hotels and lodges, but not in rural areas.
• Tip: Always carry some cash for small purchases and tips.

5. Language and Communication

• Language: Swahili is the national language, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourism.
• Greetings: A simple “Jambo” (Hello) or “Asante” (Thank you) goes a long way in creating warm connections.

6. What to Pack

• Light, breathable clothes for the day and warm layers for cool evenings.
• Hiking boots or sturdy shoes if you plan to trek.
• Sunscreen, hat, insect repellent, and reusable water bottle.
• Power adapter (Tanzania uses UK-style Type G plugs).
• Respectful clothing when visiting villages or cultural sites.

7. Cultural Etiquette

• Dress modestly in public, especially in rural or Muslim areas like Zanzibar.
• Ask before taking photos of people.
• Handshakes are common, and Tanzanians value politeness and hospitality.

8. Getting Around

• Domestic Flights: Efficient for reaching Zanzibar, Serengeti, and other regions.
• Private Transfers: With Jipemoyo, all transfers are handled for you—safe, reliable, and comfortable.
• Local Travel: “Dala-dala” (shared minibus taxis) are cheap but often crowded and chaotic—an adventure on its own!

9. Connectivity

• SIM cards are cheap and easy to get at the airport or in town (Vodacom and Airtel are reliable).
• Many lodges and hotels offer Wi-Fi, but connections may be slow in remote areas.

10. Responsible Travel

By choosing Jipemoyo, you're already making a difference. We work closely with local communities, support conservation, and promote ethical travel that uplifts people and protects places.

Your first visit to Tanzania will be one to remember—not just for the landscapes and wildlife, but for the warmth of its people and the richness of its culture. Prepare well, travel with purpose, and let Jipemoyo lead you to the heart of Africa.

Ready to begin your journey?
Explore our custom tours and let us handle the rest—from the airport to the summit and everything in between.