Tanzania Embassy Info is an independent guide, not an official government or embassy website. Always confirm time-sensitive requirements with the relevant embassy, the Tanzania Immigration Department, or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Tanzania Travel Guide 2026
Everything you need to know before visiting Tanzania in 2026. From visa requirements and health precautions to money, transport, and cultural tips - this comprehensive guide ensures a safe, enjoyable, and well-prepared trip.
Visa & Entry Requirements
- e-Visa: Most nationalities can apply online at eservices.immigration.go.tz. Processing: 3-10 business days. Cost: $50 (single entry) or $100 (multiple entry).
- Visa on Arrival: Available for most nationalities at airports and land borders. $50 for single entry. However, e-visa recommended to avoid queues.
- Passport: Must be valid for 6+ months from entry date with at least 2 blank pages.
- Yellow Fever: Certificate required if arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic country. Recommended for all visitors.
Health & Vaccinations
- Malaria: Present throughout Tanzania including Zanzibar. Take prophylaxis (Malarone, Doxycycline, or Mefloquine). Use DEET repellent and sleep under treated nets.
- Vaccinations: Yellow Fever (required from endemic countries), Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus, and Rabies (recommended if wildlife contact expected).
- Water: Drink bottled or purified water only. Avoid ice in drinks outside reputable hotels.
- Altitude Sickness: Relevant for Kilimanjaro and high-altitude areas. Acclimatise slowly.
- Travel Insurance: Essential. Ensure it covers medical evacuation, especially for safari and Kilimanjaro treks.
Money & Currency
- Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TSh/TZS). 1 USD = approximately TSh 2,600 (2026).
- USD Accepted: Safari operators, hotels, and national parks accept USD. Notes must be dated 2006 or later.
- ATMs: Available in cities (CRDB, NMB, Stanbic, Exim). Visa cards more widely accepted than Mastercard.
- Mobile Money: M-Pesa (Vodacom) and Tigo Pesa are ubiquitous. Tourists can use them for small purchases.
- Tipping: Safari guide: $15-20/day. Safari cook/porter: $5-10/day. Restaurant: 10% if not included.
Getting Around
- Domestic Flights: Air Tanzania, Precision Air, Coastal Aviation, Auric Air connect major cities and parks. Dar to Arusha: 1.5 hours. Dar to Zanzibar: 20 minutes.
- Road: Major highways are tarmac. Safari park roads require 4x4. Hire a driver for long distances.
- Ferries: Azam Marine operates Dar-Zanzibar fast ferries (2 hours, $35-40). Book in advance in peak season.
- Ride-Hailing: Bolt and Uber in Dar es Salaam and Arusha.
Language & Culture
- Languages: Swahili (national) and English (official). English is widely spoken in tourism areas.
- Useful Swahili: Jambo (Hello), Asante (Thank you), Habari? (How are you?), Nzuri (Good), Pole pole (Slowly), Hakuna matata (No worries).
- Dress Code: Modest dress in rural and Muslim areas (Zanzibar, coast). Cover shoulders and knees when visiting villages or mosques.
- Photography: Ask permission before photographing people. Never photograph military installations.
FAQ
Yes. Tanzania is one of East Africa's safest tourist destinations. The country has excellent political stability and a welcoming culture. Standard precautions: avoid walking alone at night in cities, keep valuables secure, use registered taxis/ride-hailing apps. Safari parks and tourist areas are very safe.
Most visitors need a visa. Apply online at eservices.immigration.go.tz (e-Visa) or get one on arrival at airports/borders. Cost: $50 single entry, $100 multiple entry. East African citizens and a few other nationalities are exempt. Apply at least 2 weeks before travel.