Tanzania
East Africa • TZA
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Tanzania is a premier East African destination renowned for its vast wilderness areas, including the Serengeti plains and the iconic Ngorongoro Crater. Visitors can experience world-class wildlife safaris and unwind on the pristine beaches of Zanzibar's tropical coastline.
Visa Requirements
Most international tourists require a visa to enter Tanzania; this can be obtained online via the e-visa system or upon arrival at major entry points.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation
- Completed visa application form
- Visa processing fee in USD
Popular Attractions
Serengeti National Park: Famous for the annual Great Migration, this park offers unparalleled opportunities to witness lions, leopards, and herds of wildebeest.
Mount Kilimanjaro: As Africa's highest peak, it attracts trekkers from around the globe who aspire to reach the snowy summit through diverse ecological zones.
Ngorongoro Crater: This UNESCO World Heritage site is a massive volcanic caldera teeming with diverse wildlife, often called the eighth wonder of the world.
Zanzibar Archipelago: These islands feature historic Stone Town and idyllic turquoise waters, perfect for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing on white sandy beaches.
Tarangire National Park: Renowned for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees, this park provides a beautiful and unique landscape for game drives.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Dress modestly, especially in Zanzibar and rural areas, by keeping shoulders and knees covered to respect local Islamic culture.
Always use your right hand for shaking hands, giving, or receiving items as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean.
Ask for permission before taking photographs of local people to show respect for their privacy and culture.
Tipping is highly appreciated in the tourism sector, though it is considered optional; it is customary to tip safari guides and hotel staff.
Avoid public displays of affection as these are generally frowned upon in conservative Tanzanian society.
Learn a few basic Swahili phrases like 'Jambo' for hello; locals truly appreciate the effort to communicate in their language.
Safety Tips
Keep your valuables secure and out of sight in crowded areas, particularly in busy markets or major cities like Dar es Salaam.
Only use registered taxis or hotel-arranged transport to ensure your safety when traveling between locations at night.
Drink only bottled or treated water to prevent waterborne illnesses while exploring rural or remote areas.
Ensure you are up to date on recommended vaccinations and consider taking malaria prophylaxis as prescribed by a medical professional.
Keep a digital and physical copy of your passport and important documents stored separately from your originals.
Avoid walking alone on dark or isolated beaches at night, particularly in coastal tourist areas.
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