Tanzania

The Land of Kilimanjaro
and Serengeti Wonders

Flag of Tanzania

Tanzania, located in East Africa, is famed for its iconic Serengeti National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro, and the beaches of Zanzibar. Home to iconic sites like the Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Victoria, and Stone Town, Tanzania offers a stunning blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

The country’s geography includes savannas, mountains, and coastal areas. Tanzanian culture combines Swahili, Maasai, and British influences, reflected in its music like taarab, dance, and cuisine featuring ugali (maize porridge) and nyama choma (grilled meat). Known for its wildlife and warm hospitality, Tanzania is a captivating destination for safari-goers and cultural enthusiasts.

Travel Documents

Documents

Toll

Driving

Currency

Laws

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-East African Community (EAC) citizens: A valid passport is required for entry into Tanzania.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Tanzania.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens of certain nations (e.g., some EAC and Commonwealth countries) can enter Tanzania with a valid passport and stay up to 90 days without a visa. Check the full list on the official Immigration Services website.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from most other nations must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Tanzania.
  • e-Visa: Available for most nationalities via the online portal; apply at least 10 days before travel.

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen, US, or UK visas (previously used in the issuing region) may still require a Tanzanian visa—verify with the Tanzanian embassy.
  • No reciprocal entry provisions exist for residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK; a visa is typically required.

ID Card Entry

  • Only citizens of East African Community (EAC) countries (e.g., Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan) can enter Tanzania using a valid national ID card or an EAC interoperable ID.

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for 90 days within a 180-day period. Can be single or multiple entry, with validity up to 1 year.
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 90 days (e.g., work or study). Valid for up to 2 years, renewable, and allows application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free or tourist visa stays are typically limited to 90 days within 180 days.
  • Purpose of visit: Work, study, or long-term stays require specific permits—contact the Tanzanian Immigration Department.
  • COVID-19 measures: Check for current health-related entry requirements (e.g., vaccination or testing) via the Ministry of Health website.

‍

Toll

Driving in Tanzania

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, Tanzania has limited toll roads. Key examples include:
    • Dar es Salaam–Morogoro Expressway: A section of the SGR corridor with tolls.
    • Check for updates as infrastructure expansions continue.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates: Vary by vehicle type and distance. Visit the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS) website for current rates: https://www.tanroads.go.tz/.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) accepted at all toll booths.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Accepted at major urban toll points; rural areas may be cash-only.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: A prepaid e-toll system is in development—check https://www.tanroads.go.tz/ for updates.

Driving in Tanzania

  • Drive on the left side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 50 km/h
    • Rural roads: 80 km/h
    • Highways: 100–120 km/h (varies by road)
  • Road conditions: Major roads (e.g., Dar es Salaam to Arusha) are paved but rural roads may be rough or unpaved—4x4 recommended.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): Required alongside your national driver’s license for non-EAC citizens.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Tanzania does not currently use a vignette system, but road user fees may apply for certain highways—check TANROADS for updates.
  • Road Safety: Exercise caution due to wildlife crossings, pedestrians, and variable road quality. Night driving is discouraged outside cities.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS works in urban areas but may be unreliable in rural regions—carry a physical map.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies.

Useful Links

Tanzania Currency

Official Currency

  • The official currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000 TZS
  • Coins: 50, 100, 200, 500 TZS
  • Symbol: TSh

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, airports, and major hotels.
  • ATMs widely available in urban areas (e.g., Dar es Salaam, Arusha) for direct TZS withdrawals.

Payment Methods

  • Cash: Preferred, especially in rural areas and for small transactions.
  • Credit/Debit Cards: Accepted in cities, hotels, and tourist hubs (e.g., Zanzibar)—Visa and Mastercard are most common.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.
  • Carry cash for small purchases and rural areas.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Bank of Tanzania website: https://www.bot.go.tz/.
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Tanzania

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Tanzania, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking—lengthy prison sentences apply, even for small quantities.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is illegal and may lead to fines or arrest.
    • Smoking is banned in enclosed public spaces.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing Zanzibar’s autonomy or political tensions—respect local customs, especially in Muslim areas like Zanzibar.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are illegal, with severe penalties (up to life imprisonment). Public displays of affection are highly discouraged.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites, airports, or government buildings—ask permission before photographing locals.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over $10,000 USD (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, firearms, plastic bags (banned since 2019), endangered species products.
  • Counterfeit goods may lead to fines or confiscation.

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport.

Complaints

Beach Access

  • Public beaches must allow free access near the shoreline—private resorts may restrict further inland areas.

Key Resources

Tanzania Travel Safety

Tanzania is generally safe for travellers, with low crime rates and a reputation for hospitality. However, travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Tanzania.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) occurs in crowded areas like markets or Dar es Salaam—violent crime against tourists is rare.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Generally safe, though exercise caution in urban areas at night and avoid isolated spots.

Road Safety

  • Driving can be challenging due to chaotic traffic, potholes, and livestock on roads.
  • Avoid night driving outside cities due to poor lighting and wildlife risks.
  • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety: Avoid tap water—use bottled water. Practice safe eating to prevent travelers’ diarrhea.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, malaria prophylaxis, tetanus, COVID-19.
    • Yellow Fever: Required if arriving from a risk country (certificate checked at entry).
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Malaria is widespread—use repellent and sleep under treated nets. Dengue and Zika risks exist in coastal areas.
  • Altitude Sickness: Possible on Kilimanjaro (above 2,500m)—ascend gradually and stay hydrated.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Private options like Aga Khan Hospital in Dar es Salaam offer higher standards—rural areas lack advanced care.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities—carry essential medications for rural travel.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation (e.g., for Kilimanjaro climbs).

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 112 (police, ambulance, fire).
  • Ambulance: 114 | Fire: 115 | Police: 111.
  • Tourist Police (Dar es Salaam): +255 22 211 1252.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for safaris or rural areas—check insurance coverage.
  • Hiking: Use licensed guides for Kilimanjaro or other trails.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Dress modestly in Zanzibar and avoid political discussions.
  • Air Quality: Dust can be an issue in dry seasons—monitor via the World Air Quality Index.

Key Links

Flying to Tanzania

© 2024-2025 Atlas Guide