How to get a visa, when to see the Great Migration, how much a day on safari costs, and how to handle the yellow fever certificate and plastic ban — cover all key pre-departure tasks for Tanzania in one go and avoid common pitfalls on arrival.
Visa & Entry
Most foreign visitors can apply for an eVisa (electronic visa) through the official Tanzanian Immigration website. Standard tourist eVisas cost between 50–100 USD, typically take 2–3 weeks to process, and it’s recommended to apply at least one month in advance. Major entry points such as Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar also offer visa-on-arrival, but queues can be long during peak season and policies may change, so it’s safer to opt for the eVisa. Upon entry, you’ll need to show proof of return or onward flights, hotel or camp bookings, and a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Tanzania has a strict plastic ban — do not bring any plastic bags in your luggage.
Best Time to Visit & Migration Schedule
- Dry Season (June–October): The most comfortable period across Tanzania, with short grass and concentrated wildlife. July to September is prime time to see wildebeest crossing the Mara River in northern Serengeti — the most spectacular highlight of the year.
- Short Dry Season (January–February): Wildebeest gather in the southern Serengeti’s short-grass plains to give birth, offering frequent sightings of newborn calves and predator activity.
- Long Rainy Season (March–May): Most roads are muddy and some camps close, but this is also when hotel prices are lowest, making it ideal for budget travelers.
Budget Guide (Per Person, Excluding International Flights)
| Category | Daily Cost (Including Safari) | Description |
|---|
| Budget | $170–$255 | Tent camps, group safaris, and local hotels in Dar es Salaam |
| Mid-range | $350–$565 | Permanent tented camps / mid-tier lodges, private 4WD safaris, and domestic flights |
| Luxury | $705 and above | Top-tier luxury camps, helicopter tours, and Zanzibar resorts |
Safari is the biggest expense. National park fees and camp costs are charged in USD. It’s advisable to budget separately for the safari and island portions of your trip.
Etiquette & Taboos
- Greetings are extremely important in Tanzania. A simple “Jambo” or “Habari” helps build rapport quickly.
- Always ask permission before photographing Maasai people, fishermen, or market vendors. Visiting villages may involve a small fee.
- About 99% of Zanzibar’s population is Muslim. Avoid wearing tank tops or shorts when visiting Stone Town’s historic area. Women may want to carry a lightweight scarf.
- The left hand is considered unclean in Swahili culture. Always use your right hand for handing items or eating.
- No loud noises, feeding animals, or pressuring drivers to leave the trail in pursuit of wildlife during safaris. Respect the camp rule of no flashlights or bright lights for night wildlife viewing.