Travel Information

Visas for Tanzania

You’ll need a valid passport a visa is also required depending on your nationality.
You can apply online for an e-visa or get one on arrival at any major entry points. Processing times may vary, we recommend applying for your visa two weeks before your travel dates or earlier.
Make sure your passports have a validity of at least six months and at least one unused visa page before submitting your application or before travelling.

If you’re planning to visit for a holiday/ tourism in general, you need to applying for an Ordinary Visa.
However, if you’re holding an American passport, you’ll need to apply for a Multiple Entry Visa.
Tourist visas are typically valid for up to three months.

Since visa policies can change, we recommend checking the latest requirements through the official Tanzania Immigration website before your trip.
If you need any advice or assistance with your visa application or entry process, just reach out to us. Our friendly experienced team is always here to help!

Climate & Weather in Tanzania

Tanzania enjoys a diverse tropical climate, with variations depending on the region. The coastal areas, including Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar, are hot and humid, while the inland highlands, such as Arusha and the Serengeti, have a more temperate climate. The central and western regions tend to be drier, especially in areas like Dodoma.

Tanzania has plenty of sunshine year-round, so lightweight clothing is recommended. However, early mornings and evenings can be cool, particularly in higher-altitude areas like Ngorongoro, Lushoto, Iringa, and Mount Kilimanjaro, so bringing a warm layer is a good idea.

Tanzania experiences two rainy seasons:

Long rains: mid-March to late May (heavier and more prolonged).
Short rains: October to December (brief showers, often in the afternoon or evening).

The hottest months are February to March, while the coolest period is June to August.

One of the most breathtaking natural events in Tanzania is the Great Wildebeest Migration. Between June and September, nearly two million wildebeest, zebras, and other animals make their legendary journey across the Serengeti National Park, heading towards the Maasai Mara in Kenya. This awe-inspiring spectacle, often called “the greatest wildlife show on Earth,” has been captured by filmmakers worldwide and is a must-see for safari enthusiasts.

At Charles Tours, we’re here to help you plan the perfect safari experience, whether you want to enjoy wildlife safari, birdwatching, explore authentic cultures, or enjoy Tanzania’s beautiful beaches. Let us know and we will make your adventure unforgettable!

USEFUL TIPS

Baggage allowance on safari is limited to one medium suitcase or hold per person, along with hand baggage. However, this restriction does not apply to private safaris with fewer than 7 passengers in the vehicle. Most hotels offer baggage storage at no additional cost. For air safaris, a baggage weight limit of 15 kg per person applies, which may be reduced to 10 kg when using very small aircraft.

Security

As with any travel destination, it is important to take standard precautions. We recommend that visitors avoid leaving cash or valuables in hotel rooms and instead use the provided safe deposit boxes or in-room safes. It is also advised not to carry large sums of cash; visitors should also be cautious with handbags in crowded areas or busy streets, as jewelry snatching can occur.

In major cities, walking alone or in small groups at night should be avoided for safety reasons. Reliable taxis are available at all principal hotels.

Please note that photography restrictions apply in certain areas such as military installations, police officers, the State House, soldiers, prisons, and prisoners. Always seek permission before photographing local people and your driver or guide will be happy to help

Language

In Tanzania, Kiswahili is the most commonly spoken language, while English is used for official matters. You’ll also find that many of the country’s diverse tribes speak their own unique languages, making Tanzania’s linguistic landscape wonderfully rich and varied.

Voltage

Most lodges and hotels provide a 240-vol, 50-60h. The sockets are typically the three-pin, square-type.

Tipping and Porterage

Although service charges are included at hotels and lodges, it’s customary to tip porters, waitstaff, taxi drivers, and safari guides for their excellent service. Your appreciation is always welcomed!

Arrival and departure

For your safari starting in Northern Tanzania, most visitors are recommended to book flights arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), located about an hour from Arusha. Major international airlines operating to and from Kilimanjaro and Dar es Salaam include Air Tanzania, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Gulf Air, Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, and Emirates. Alternatively, flights to Nairobi (Kenya) are also available, and we can arrange a seamless transfer from Nairobi to Arusha, the starting point of your Tanzania safari

Charles Tours is here to assist with all your travel logistics, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free journey.