Travel Information
Essential Details for Your Conscious Tanzania Adventure
Whether you are trekking Kilimanjaro, going on a safari, volunteering, or combining both, this page ensures you are fully prepared for a safe, comfortable, and eco-conscious journey.
Entry Requirements
- Visa: Most visitors need a Tanzanian tourist visa. Obtain online via Tanzania eVisa or at the airport.
- Passport: Valid for at least 6 months from entry date.
- Yellow Fever Vaccination: Required if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever.
Health & Safety
- Vaccinations: Recommended — Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus, and Malaria prophylaxis.
- Travel Insurance: Strongly advised — should cover medical evacuation, safari activities, and adventure trekking.
- COVID-19: Follow current government travel regulations.
Climate & Best Travel Times
Region
Months
Notes
Kilimanjaro & Northern Highlands
Jan–Mar, Jun–Oct
Dry season; best for trekking.
Serengeti & Tarangire
Jun–Oct
Peak wildlife viewing; Great Migration.
Zanzibar
Dec–Mar
Warm, sunny; ideal for beaches.
Rainy Seasons
Apr–May, Nov
Trails may be muddy; fewer tourists, lush scenery.
Packing Essentials
For Safari:
- Lightweight long-sleeve shirts & pants (sun & mosquito protection)
- Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
- Comfortable walking shoes / hiking boots
- Binoculars & camera with zoom lens
For Kilimanjaro Trekking:
- Layered clothing (base, mid, insulated layers)
- Waterproof jacket & trousers
- Warm hat, gloves, and thermal socks
- Trekking poles (optional but recommended)
General:
- Refillable water bottle (eco-friendly, reduces plastic)
- Travel adapter (Tanzania uses Type D & G plugs)
- Small first aid kit & personal medications
Money & Payments
- Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS); USD widely accepted.
- ATMs: Available in major towns (Arusha, Moshi, Zanzibar).
- Tips: Commonly given to guides, porters, and lodge staff. Approx. $5–$10 per day per guide is standard.
Connectivity
- SIM cards available in airports and towns; networks: Vodacom, Airtel, Tigo.
- Lodges offer Wi-Fi (speed may vary in remote areas).
Accommodation
- Eco-lodges, tented camps, and boutique resorts.
- Solar-powered, water-conscious, local cuisine.
- Special dietary requests accommodated if notified in advance.
Transportation
- Private 4×4 safari vehicles with experienced guides for all game drives.
- Domestic flights (e.g., Arusha → Serengeti, Serengeti → Zanzibar) included in selected packages.
- Transfers to/from airports included.
Preparation Tips
1. Physical Fitness
- Cardio & endurance training: hiking, running, cycling 3–4 times a week.
- Strength training: focus on legs, core, and back.
- Practice hikes: gradually increase distance and elevation.
2. Acclimatization
- Choose longer routes like Lemosho or Machame for better altitude adaptation.
- Drink plenty of water, pace yourself, and listen to your guide.
- Avoid alcohol and heavy meals during the trek.
3. Mental Preparation
- Trekking Kilimanjaro requires determination and patience.
- Set realistic goals: summit success depends on gradual ascent and rest.
4. Travel Health
- Consult your doctor for vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis.
- Bring necessary medications (altitude sickness tablets, painkillers, digestive aids).
- Ensure travel insurance covers trekking activities.
Packing List
Clothing
- Base layers: moisture-wicking shirts & thermal tops
- Mid layers: fleece or down jackets
- Outer layer: waterproof & windproof jacket and pants
- Warm hat & gloves: insulated, windproof
- Trekking socks: 3–4 pairs, moisture-wicking
- Comfortable hiking boots: well broken-in
- Camp shoes: lightweight sandals or trainers
Gear & Accessories
- Backpack (30–40L for day items)
- Trekking poles (optional but recommended)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Sunglasses (UV protection) & sunscreen
- Water bottles / hydration system (eco-friendly, reusable)
- Personal first-aid kit
Optional Items
- Camera or GoPro
- Notebook or journal
- Small binoculars
- Lightweight travel towel
Toiletries & Essentials
- Biodegradable soap & shampoo
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Lip balm with SPF
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes or tissues
Eco-Trekking Practices
- Carry all trash back to the lodge or designated disposal points.
- Use refillable water bottles; avoid single-use plastic.
- Stick to established trails to minimize environmental impact.
- Respect local communities and porters — follow your guide’s instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What routes are recommended for beginners?
Lemosho, Machame, and Rongai offer good acclimatization and scenic diversity.
How fit do I need to be?
Moderate fitness is recommended; training hikes of 10–15 km with elevation gain are ideal.
Do I need special equipment?
Most gear can be rented locally, but we recommend bringing your own boots and sleeping bag for comfort.
How long should I plan for the trek?
6–9 days depending on route; longer routes improve altitude acclimatization and summit success.
Can children or teenagers climb?
Minimum age for trekking is generally 10+, with guidance and adjusted routes.