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Travel Tips!
CLIMATE
If there is a perfect climate in the world, surely it is
in East Africa with cool mornings and warm midday's. Although it
can be hot and sticky by the sea, inland the air is dry and even
at midday the temperatures are equitable. Due to the proximity to
the equator, sunrise occurs daily between 06:00 hrs and 06:30 hrs,
while sunset takes place twelve hours later. It can get quite
chilly in the early morning and evening, hence visitors should
pack a sweater. Each time of year has its special attractions.
There are two main rainy seasons; usually mid-April to the end of
May and November to mid-December. Even during the rains, the
weather can be pleasant with rain occurring in the early morning
and late in the afternoon or evening.
VISA REGULATIONS
Visitors must be in possession of a valid visa upon
arrival. The regulations vary depending on nationality and
country of origin and should be checked with the nearest tourist
office or diplomatic mission. You may also purchase a visa at the
airport and at border crossings, although it is advisable to
obtain one prior to arrival.
HEALTH REGULATIONS AND MEDICAL ADVICE
Inoculation centers in the country of origin will provide
updated information and advice on health regulations and
recommendations. As Tanzania enjoys a healthy, invigorating
climate, visitors need feel no concern for their general health
during their stay. However, malaria is endemic in certain areas
and anti-malaria medication should be taken according to
prescription recommendations. Visitors requiring special
medication should pack sufficient supplies in their hand luggage.
Chemist shops are well stocked, but the same generic medication
may not be readily available. Tap water is considered safe in
Arusha. On safari, rooms are provided with flasks of filtered and
purified water. Mineral water is readily available.
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CUSTOMS AND EXIT REGULATIONS
Personal effects, film and cameras may be imported
temporarily free of duty. However, professional video equipment,
tape recorders, radios, musical instruments, and souvenirs from
other countries may require a customs bond to ensure
re-exportation. Firearms need a special permit which must be
obtained in advance. Baggage is normally inspected by customs
officials upon arrival and departure. Please strictly keep to
baggage limitations as advised by the airline, as excess baggage
charges can be quite expensive.
AIRPORT DEPARTURE TAX
A local airport service charge is payable on departure for
domestic flights.
CURRENCY
The unit of currency is the Tanzanian shilling, and there
are no smaller denominations. There is no restriction to the
amount of foreign currency a visitor may import provided that it
is exchanged through authorized dealers only. It is essential to
retain a receipt for each transaction in order to re-exchange the
local currency on departure. Foreign currency, as the U.S. dollar
or the British pound (in cash or travelers cheque), are the most
widely accepted. Well know credit cards are also widely accepted
in Tanzania. It is a legal offense to deface local currency.
BANKS
Banking hours are from 09:00 hrs to 14:00 hrs Monday through
Friday. Most hotels and lodges exchange money outside of these
hours.
SECURITY
Tanzania is a safe country to travel in. Its people are
warm-hearted and generous and always eager to assist visitors to
get the most out of their visit. However, as in all countries,
normal precautions should be taken. Keep a close watch on
handbags, wallets and cameras when walking in crowded places and
avoid walking at night (take a taxi). Place all valuables in
safety deposit boxes at hotels and lodges, and only carry small
amounts of cash with you. Wear as little jewelery as possible, if
any, and never leave valuables visible in an unattended car or on
a bus tour. Taking photographs at airports, near military
installations, of policemen, the President, the national flag, the
State House, state lodges, soldiers, prisons, and prisoners, etc.
is prohibited. Before photographing local people, permission
should be obtained and a fixed price agreed upon beforehand. Seek
assistance of your driver/guide in this matter.
DRIVING
Driving is on the left hand side of the road.
CLOTHING
Safari clothing should be casual and comfortable. Cotton
slacks and shirts for men, and skirts or culottes for ladies, as
well as a light sweater or jacket for during the day. Evening
wear in game lodges and safari camps can be very casual. In the
more sophisticated clubs and hotels, gentlemen will be required to
wear a jacket, while ladies should dress more formally. At high
altitudes, where early mornings and evenings can be very chilly,
warm sweaters, socks, and comfortable shoes are recommended. Pack
suntan lotion, swim wear (to be reserved for the beach and
poolside only), and a small first aid kit. Local customs of
modesty should be respected.
LAUNDRY
Most hotels, game lodges, and safari camps offer a
24-hour inexpensive laundry service.
ELECTRICITY
Voltage in East Africa is 240 volts/50 cycles AC, British
standard generally through three-pin square plugs. Some lodges
and camps have power only in the early mornings and evenings, and
in some, video charging facilities are centralized.
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