Last update: 26 Oct 2026
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Tanzania Summary
These place ratings give you a quick overview of how well a destination matches different types of trips.
‘Best for’ scores:
The specific interest scores show where this place really shines – whether it's ideal for hiking, food & drink experiences, museums or other activities. These highlights help you understand what makes the destination special at a glance.
‘Your personal’ scores:
This reflects how well a place matches your personal preferences. You can adjust the importances of travel topics or other personal requirements categories in your account settings.
‘Suited for’ badges:
These give you a quick overview of how well a destination suits specific types of travellers, to help you find the places that match your lifestyle, preferences or travel situation.
Suited for
Tanzania – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type D , Type G
Type D:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) £1 ≈ TZS 3,520.45 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 3/5
Cashless payments are becoming more common in Tanzania’s larger cities, but cash is still the most widely accepted form of payment. Credit cards are accepted in some establishments.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is appreciated in Tanzania, typically around 5-10% in restaurants. Taxi fares should be rounded up, and small tips for hotel staff are common. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking is not common in Tanzania, and alcohol is typically consumed in licensed venues like restaurants and bars. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is allowed in outdoor public spaces and designated indoor areas. Many restaurants and public spaces have non-smoking sections. |
| Independence Day (9 December) |
Celebrates Tanzania’s independence from British colonial rule |
|---|---|
| Saba Saba (7 July) |
Industry Day |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 112 |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | Uber, Bolt |
| Other: | Tanzania is famous for its stunning wildlife, including safaris and Mount Kilimanjaro. The coast also offers beautiful beaches, particularly around Zanzibar. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for Tanzania, Tanzania
Climate and season vary by region: safari parks best June to October and in January and February, Zanzibar and the coast best June to October and December to February, Kilimanjaro best January to March and June to October
Long rains March to May, with the heaviest rain in April and May, when many safari lodges and some coastal hotels close
Great Migration: calving in southern Serengeti and Ndutu January to February, Mara River crossings in northern Serengeti July to October
Don't miss
- 🗻 Climb Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak
- 🦁 Go on a safari in Serengeti National Park
- 🐘 Explore wildlife in Ngorongoro Conservation Area
- 🏖️ Relax on the pristine beaches of Zanzibar
- 🎈 Take a hot air balloon ride over Serengeti
- 🐦 Visit Lake Manyara for birdwatching and scenery
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Why travel to Tanzania?
Tanzania's appeal lies in its remarkable diversity of experiences and natural wonders. The country boasts some of Africa's most iconic wildlife viewing opportunities, with the Great Migration across the Serengeti being one of nature's most spectacular events. Beyond the famous safari circuits, you'll find pristine beaches along the Indian Ocean coast, the exotic spice islands of Zanzibar and the challenging trek up Africa's highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro. The cultural experience is enhanced by encounters with traditional Maasai communities and the warm hospitality of Tanzanians. However, travelers should be prepared for certain challenges. The rainy seasons (November-December and March-May) can make some roads impassable, particularly in southern parks like Nyerere, Ruaha and Mikumi. While major tourist areas have good infrastructure, facilities in remote regions can be basic. The weather can be extremely hot and humid, especially along the coast where temperatures average around 26°C year-round. Despite these considerations, Tanzania offers incredible natural beauty and wildlife viewing that make it well worth navigating these challenges.
🏙️Cities & Regions
-
1
Serengeti National Park
Home to the Great Migration and iconic savannah landscapes, this vast Tanzanian reserve offers unforgettable wildlife encounters. Visitors can track herds across plains, spot predators in action and experience the raw beauty of one of Africa's most celebrated national parks. -
2
Zanzibar City
One of Africa's premier island hubs, Zanzibar City boasts historic Stone Town and pristine beaches. Despite tourist crowds, explore quiet alleys away from the main square to find authentic spice markets and serene waterfronts. -
3
Kilimanjaro National Park
Tanzania's crown jewel, Kilimanjaro National Park shelters Africa's highest peak. Its vast landscape features alpine meadows, dense rainforests and dramatic volcanic craters, offering unparalleled wildlife viewing and challenging treks to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. -
4
Zanzibar
A tropical archipelago off Tanzania’s coast offers pristine white-sand beaches, coral reefs and historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can enjoy spice tours, wildlife safaris on nearby islands and vibrant Swahili culture. -
5
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
This vast Tanzanian conservation area features iconic rock formations, diverse wildlife and dramatic landscapes. The region offers exceptional birdwatching opportunities and unique geological features that attract visitors from around the world seeking natural wonders. -
6
Tarangire National Park
Home to the world’s largest single animal migration, the park offers expansive savannahs and dense woodlands where zebras, wildebeest and predators converge each year. Visitors can track herds from the Serengeti, spot rare species and enjoy guided safaris in a protected ecosystem. -
7
Nyerere National Park
Spanning over 1,000 square kilometers in the southern coast of Tanzania, Selous Game Reserve offers vast savannahs, dense forests and a network of rivers that support diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions and rare hippos and. -
8
Ruaha National Park
A vast savanna landscape stretches across Ruaha National Park, offering rare wildlife sightings such as elephants, lions and black rhinos in a low‑human‑impact setting. The park’s rolling hills, seasonal rivers and scattered acacia trees create an authentic African wilderness experience. -
9
Dar es Salaam
A bustling coastal city on Tanzania’s eastern shoreline, Dar es Salaam offers a mix of colonial architecture, vibrant markets and a growing arts scene. Its waterfront promenade, historic museums and nearby beaches attract both business travelers and tourists.
🏯Places worth seeing
🎡Places for activities
🏞️Natural landmarks
-
1
Mount Kilimanjaro
A towering granite peak dominates Tanzania’s northern highlands, offering year-round climbing routes that range from easy treks to technical ascents. The surrounding national park features diverse ecosystems, from alpine meadows to dense rainforest and hosts a variety of wildlife. -
2
Lake Victoria
-
3
Olduvai Gorge
-
4
Ol Doinyo Lengai
-
5
Lake Tanganyika
-
6
Ngorongoro Crater
-
7
Mountain Trail
-
8
Lake Natron
-
9
Mount-Kilimanjaro Primary School
-
10
Pemba Channel
🛍️Shopping
🎈Events
-
Serengeti Great Migration
-
Zanzibar International Film Festival
-
Kilimanjaro Marathon
-
Sauti za Busara Music Festival
-
Mwaka Kogwa Festival
-
Goat Races (Dar es Salaam)
-
Wanyambo Festival
-
Unification Day
-
Bagamoyo Arts Festival
-
Nyama Choma Festival
Popular travel destinations in Tanzania
Knowledge before you go
- Plastic bags are banned; use reusable packing cubes or totes.
- Safaris feel remote; choose licensed operators and follow guides’ wildlife and vehicle safety instructions carefully.
- In cities like Dar es Salaam and Arusha, avoid walking after dark and use registered taxis or hotel transfers.
- Zanzibar expects modest clothing away from resorts and some visitors need separate island-specific insurance – confirm requirements with your tour operator beforehand.
How to travel to Tanzania
Most international visitors arrive in Tanzania through Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam or Kilimanjaro International Airport near Arusha, which serves the northern safari circuit. Additional international airports operate in Zanzibar and Mwanza. As of March 2025, most nationalities require a visa to enter Tanzania, which can be obtained online through the e-visa system or upon arrival at major entry points. When planning your trip, consider that the dry season (June-October) is ideal for wildlife viewing, while the short dry season in January and February also offers good conditions.
Access summary
- Serengeti/Ngorongoro: Fly to JRO Kilimanjaro; safaris from Arusha.
- Zanzibar beaches: Fly to ZNZ; ferries from Dar es Salaam.
- Dar es Salaam: Fly to DAR; buses to southern parks.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay in Tanzania
Tanzania offers accommodations ranging from luxury safari lodges and beach resorts to mid-range hotels and budget guesthouses. In wildlife areas, tented camps and lodges provide immersive experiences, with prices generally higher in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro regions. Zanzibar features beachfront resorts and boutique hotels in Stone Town. Major cities offer international hotel chains alongside local options. During high season (June-October and December-February), accommodations in popular safari destinations and coastal areas should be booked well in advance.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
How to get around Tanzania
Getting around Tanzania varies by region and season. In cities like Dar es Salaam, local buses (dala-dalas) and taxis provide affordable transportation. For intercity travel, buses connect major destinations, though comfort levels vary widely. For safari circuits, organized tours with 4WD vehicles are the standard option, as many national parks require specialized transportation. Domestic flights save time when traveling between distant attractions like Serengeti and Zanzibar, especially during rainy seasons when some roads become difficult to navigate.
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in Tanzania are around 70% lower than the average across United States. That means you'll spend a lot less on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to TZS) is 12% better than in recent years. That means travelling now is cheaper compared to the past.
Travel costs
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
Daily cost summary
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
| Backpacker | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💵 Total costs per day, including accommodation | |||
| 🏨 Accommodation per night, per person | |||
| 🍝 Food per day | |||
| 🚕 Transportation per day |
Food & Drink
| 🍽️ Restaurant Dinner, per person | |
|---|---|
| 🍛 Lunch Set, per person | |
| 🍟 Fast food combo | |
| 🍝 Preparing your own food, per day | |
| ☕ Cappuccino | |
| 🍺 Beer in a restaurant, 0.5 l |
Transportation
| 🚌 Public transport ticket | |
|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi Ride, 10 km / 6 mi | |
| ⛽ Petrol, 1 l |
Other
| 🎞️ Cinema ticket | |
|---|---|
| 👩⚕️ Doctor's consult | |
| 🤧 Cold medication | |
| 💇 Basic haircut |
Safety information overview
General safety
Tanzania is generally safe for tourists in popular areas, though exercise caution in cities where petty theft can occur. Avoid isolated areas after dark, especially in Dar es Salaam. Wildlife areas are safe when accompanied by professional guides who understand animal behavior.
Health & Medical
Medical facilities are limited outside major cities. Comprehensive travel insurance including evacuation coverage is essential. Malaria is endemic in most regions, so antimalarial medication and mosquito precautions are necessary. Stomach issues are common, so be cautious with food and water hygiene.
Accessibility
Accessibility is challenging throughout Tanzania. Even in major cities, sidewalks and buildings often lack proper accessibility features. Safari vehicles and accommodations rarely cater to mobility-impaired travelers, though some luxury lodges offer limited accessible facilities.
Tap water
Tap water is not safe for drinking throughout Tanzania. Rely on bottled water with sealed caps, which is widely available. Most hotels and safari lodges provide bottled or filtered water, but carrying your own purification method is advisable for remote areas.
Packing recommendations for Tanzania
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🌞
Sun cream
hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sun cream
👕
Light, breathable clothing
🧥
Waterproof jacket
especially during the rainy seasons
👀
Binoculars
for wildlife viewing
🕶️
Sunglasses
hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sun cream
🪰
Insect repellent
🔋
Power bank
🩹
Basic first aid kit
👒
Sun hat
hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sun cream
📃
Travel insurance
🪪
Copies of passport and important documents
👖
Long trousers
for sun and insect protection
👚
Long-sleeved shirt
for sun and insect protection
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
🩺
Prescription medicines
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
🛂
Passport
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