Tanzania
East Africa • TZA
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Tanzania is a breathtaking East African destination renowned for its vast wilderness, including the Serengeti National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro. Visitors can experience world-class wildlife safaris and unwind on the pristine, turquoise beaches of the Zanzibar archipelago.
Visa Requirements
Most international tourists require a visa to enter Tanzania; visitors can obtain a visa on arrival at major ports of entry or apply for an e-Visa online in advance.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport with at least six months validity
- Completed visa application form
- Proof of onward or return travel
- Recent passport-sized photograph
- Visa processing fee payment
Popular Attractions
Serengeti National Park: Famous for the annual Great Migration, this park offers unparalleled opportunities to witness lions, leopards, and herds of wildebeest in their natural habitat.
Mount Kilimanjaro: As the highest peak in Africa, this dormant volcano offers challenging yet rewarding trekking experiences for adventure seekers.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area: This UNESCO World Heritage site features a massive volcanic caldera acting as a natural enclosure for a high density of diverse wildlife.
Zanzibar Island: Known for its beautiful white-sand beaches and the historic Stone Town, it is a cultural melting pot featuring unique architecture and spice markets.
Tarangire National Park: Renowned for its enormous elephant herds and iconic baobab trees, this park provides a quieter alternative to other popular northern safari spots.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Dress modestly, especially when visiting Stone Town or rural villages, by keeping shoulders and knees covered.
Always ask for permission before taking photographs of local people to show respect for their privacy.
Use your right hand for eating, shaking hands, or passing items, as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean.
When visiting mosques or religious sites, remove your shoes and ensure you are dressed conservatively.
Greeting people politely is essential in Tanzanian culture; take a moment to exchange pleasantries before jumping into business or questions.
Tipping is highly appreciated in the tourism industry; small gestures for guides and hotel staff are customary.
Safety Tips
Only use registered taxis or pre-booked hotel transportation rather than hailing unmarked vehicles on the street.
Keep your valuables, such as passports and extra cash, in a secure hotel safe rather than carrying them around.
Avoid walking alone at night in unlit or isolated areas of major cities like Dar es Salaam or Arusha.
Drink only bottled or treated water to prevent stomach-related illnesses and dehydration.
Consult your doctor regarding malaria prophylaxis and necessary vaccinations well before your departure date.
Be cautious of street vendors or 'beach boys' in tourist hotspots who may be overly persistent in selling goods or services.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Polio
Source: WHO
Travelers from polio-affected areas should have received a dose of oral polio vaccine (OPV) or inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) within 4 weeks to 12 months prior to travel.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: WHO
Travelers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission are required to present proof of vaccination upon entry into Tanzania.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission. Travelers should ensure they have the certificate.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Leptospirosis Prevention
Source: WHO
Recommended to prevent leptospirosis infection.
Leptospirosis is present in Tanzania; travelers should avoid contact with potentially contaminated water and soil.
View sourceMalaria Chemoprophylaxis
Source: WHO
Recommended for all travelers to prevent malaria infection.
Malaria is prevalent in Tanzania; travelers should take appropriate antimalarial medications as prescribed.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before traveling.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before traveling.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
COVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended for protection against COVID-19 while traveling.
View sourceMeningococcal
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers attending mass gatherings or living in close quarters.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers due to the potential for contaminated food or water.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Rabies
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers involved in outdoor activities or who will be interacting with animals.
View source