Tanzania Safari FAQ

Are there any official documents need to travel to Tanzania?^

You will need a passport that is valid for at least six months after your date of entry in Tanzania. If you are US citizens, you will also need a visa which can be purchased in advance or obtained at the port of entry. We insist you visit the Tanzania embassy in your country for the current updated information.

What are the needed immunizations/shots for Tanzania?^

We recommend you consult your personal physician or a travel health clinic. Also contact the Tanzanian embassy for more current information. As a general rule, there is no immunization/shots needed for one to get into the country however if you are coming from a yellow fever endemic area you may be required to show proof of immunization.

How safe is the food and water in Tanzania?^

Bottled water is widely available. Most food in safari lodges, camps and tourist hotels in large cities are safe. To be on the safe side, fruit and vegetables should always be washed and peeled and also try to avoid salads. Water on Kilimanjaro is generally safe but its more safe to add additional purification.

How much cash do I need and in what form?^

You might have a few added expenses ( like visa fees, gratuities to guides, liquor, phone calls, souvenirs, personal items ) on your safari so we suggest  you bring US dollar cash including the $50.00 that you need to pay at the airport. If arriving or departing via Nairobi, you may have additional visa, departure tax and  transfer.  Most people have their departure tax included in their ticket. You will be able to use in some tourist hotels and for tips as well. Bring some small bills too  for the tips. You can use the credit card in some tourist hotels. Traveler’s checks are much less versatile than cash and an average of  US $150.00 per week should be adequate.. and overnight expenses.

When is the best time of year to visit Tanzania?^

Safaris are great at any time of year however April-May is the wettest time of year and the great herds of wildebeest and zebra are concentrated and highly visible on the Serengeti. November-December is the best time to see animals and migrant birds. July–October have great weather and many animals have traveled to Kenya, Ngorongoro, Tarangire and Lake Manyara  thus excellent for wildlife safaris. The temperature varies little throughout the year.

What international airlines and routes do you recommend for Tanzania?^

KLM offers almost daily flights to Kilimanjaro airport, Tanzania and British Airways serves Nairobi daily. As for Ethiopian Air, it serves both Tanzania and Kenya. We can offer free shuttle service from Nairobi, Kenya to Tanzania. (See our schedule)

Will I be safe while I am in Tanzania?^

AllAfrika Safaris sends our travelers to very safe areas that we propose. Our guides will be there to guide you in the mountain climbing, during the safaris and in the cities. Also more current travel statements are offered by the Department of State announcements and Consular information ( HYPERLINK “http://travel.state.gov/” http://travel.state.gov/)

How many travelers per vehicle do service on a safari?^

There is a maximum of 6 people per vehicle depending on vehicle type but with a guarantee window seat. All vehicles have full roof-to-sky openings over every seat, which can be open or closed depending on the weather.

Do you offer private and customized safaris in Tanzania?^

Yes, call for details and itinerary suggestions or email us with the details of your budget, type of accommodations,  number of nights you want to spend at each locations, dates of travel, number of travelers in your group, any special interests and any other relevant info that you want us to consider on preparing your itinerary.

Are there any hiking or walking while on safari in Tanzania?^

The country rules restricts walking in many parks however AllAfrika Safaris can offer you some other options including an ethno botanical walk around Lake Manyara with a Masai guide or on the skirts of the protected areas. We will be glad to discuss your options on this so please give us a call to discuss.

Will I get the chance to see any Masai or other tribal people on my safari?^

You are definitely welcome to experience the culture of the Masai people.  We can incorporate other cultures in your itinerary to include other tribes as well. Also enjoy the freedom to speak with some of our staff here in the USA who have been there and know it all.

Are we allowed to take tribal pictures during the tribal safari?^

Before you take them any pictures, please ask your guide to ask the tribal group first for their permission. Some tribal communities offer special access for organized visits of tourists. Enjoy the time to talk with village officials and crafts people, learn their local culture, traditions, arts and music.

Can we upgrade our accommodation on your suggested itinerary?^

Yes! Let us know in advance if you would like to upgrade your accommodations standard either throughout your trip or for a special day or two, we will do our best to include them in your itinerary. We offer customized luxury packages upon request so if you are planning on luxurious accommodation, you may want us to adapt the customized itinerary to allow a more leisurely pace, which would allow you to enjoy the amenities.

I’ve been to Tanzania before and would like to do something more ‘off the beaten path’. What do you suggest?^

The country is potentially rich with possibilities for safaris and tours. Try the Southern Parks like Selous, Mikumi and  Ruaha which are worth a visit. In the North circuit, you may wish to explore  all the way to Lake Victoria or spend some time near Lake Eyasi and visit the Wa-Hadzabe people. Consider ending your safari with a visit to  Zanzibar as well.

Can I go on safari if am experiencing bad back (or other ailment)  and don’t want drive over rough roads?^

Yes, we can modify your itinerary and fly you over to the parks areas. Mention to us as we prepare your itinerary so that we can accommodate you needs.

When is the ideal time to make my reservation with AlllAfrika Safaris?^

If you already have the days of travel in your mind, we encourage you book with us right away however it works much better if you can book with us at least 6 month prior your departure date.

Why Serengeti migration is special?^

At the heart of the Serengeti ecosystem lies an ancient phenomenon that is the largest movement of wildlife on earth . On this greatest animal show on earth you will see the wild animals on the move towards greener areas between the Serengeti and Masai Mara areas..

Animals migrate because of rain or the lack of it. When a seasonal drought dries up grass and water supplies in one area, the grazing animals move on to the next area along the Serengeti migration route where seasonal rains are falling. This movement is spectacular and its better left unsaid because no enough adverbs can explain enough.

I have dietary restrictions, would you still accommodate me while on safari?^

Yes, We welcome people with dietary restrictions and will take good care of you when you are there.

What type of food do you serve while on safari in Tanzania?^

Special vegetarian meals can be arranged as well  however on average the typical menu will be:

Breakfast	Lunch	Dinner
coffee, tea, fruit juice, porridge, sausage, toast with margarine or jam or honey, omelet or scrambled eggs	fries/chips, sandwiches, coffee, tea, pancakes with honey or jam/syrup , fruit	soup, delicious cooked meal ( cooked chicken/beef with rice, mashed potatoes, sliced fresh carrots & green beans) fruits, fruit juice, other hot drinks