FAQs ABOUT TANZANIA

The following frequently asked questions pertains to visitors when they travel to Tanzania. This is just a guideline and in no way presents a view that will affect the outcome of the actual visit. It is merely presented here as a guide.

Why Tanzania?
When is the best time of the year to go on a Safari to Tanzania?
What will I see on a Safari?
Do the guides speak English?
What is the weather like?
Can I customize my Safari?
What if I am a single traveller?
What customs do I need to be aware of?
What do I wear? Do I need to dress up?
Do I get to meet the local people?
How is the food on a Safari?
Is it safe to drink water?
Is Tanzania safe?
Do I need a visa?
What shots do I need to take?
Can you make flight arrangements?
Are the roads really bumpy?
What additional costs do I need to be aware of?

Why Tanzania?
Tanzania is one of the most beautiful countries in the continent of Africa. We may be biased but where else can you find as many parks in one country each with its own distinct characteristics with abundant wildlife and flora some even unique to the particular park. To name one, Serengeti, the most talked about park where most of the nature shows are taped. This park alone is famous for 'the great migration' where millions of wildebeest and zebra moving in search of pasture or home to the fastest animal on earth, the cheetah. Trekking up the highest mountain in Africa, Mt. Kilimanjaro, an experience even if you don't make it to the top, you will never forget. Some remember is with a certificate congratulating them of their achievement in reaching the top and some with frost bits. Zanzibar Island or fondly known as the Spice Island because of its history of trading Spice like cloves, cinnamon with the Far East. Ruled by the Omani Arabs in the 1800s until the early 1900s, this little Island had a thriving economy with commodities from spices to slaves.

When is the best time of the year to go on Safari to Tanzania?
Tanzania is a place where you can visit any time of the year. However, it is advisable to visit the parks during the dry season. Also, best times can depend on the parks that you would are most interested in. Our agents can advice you where you should spend more time depending on the time of the year you can make it to Tanzania. One thing is for sure, no matter what time you go visit Tanzania, you will still come out of there in awe of the beauty of the country, the people, nature, scenery…

What will I see on Safari?
We aim to please. How about people, animals, birds, nature, towns etc. Our guides have an instinctive sense of smell for animals and will go out of their way to spot a particular animal for you. A visit to a local village (if part of your itinerary) to see how the local people gives you more insight on the way of live of a local. Tanzania is a beautiful country and with an open mind and a sense of adventure, you spot tons of thinks different from your country that is unique to Tanzania.

Do the guides speak English?
Yes, all of our guides speak English. They enjoy interaction with the clients and enjoy questions from you. They have a vast knowledge of the flora and fauna of the areas.

What is the weather like?
The weather in Tanzania depends on the time of the year and the altitude above sea level. Tanzania lies within the tropics (about 3° South of the Equator) hence has hot and cool season. Generally the temperature in Northern Tanzania is cooler than the temperature around the coastal regions. During the hot season (November to March), the temperatures in Northern Tanzania are around the Mid 80s + and in Zanzibar from 90s+. During the cool season (May to October), the climate in Northern Tanzania can be around 60s and in Zanzibar around the 70s.

Can I customize my Safari?
Yes. Infact most of our Safaris are custom designed to fit the clients specification. We have a few sample itineraries to give you an idea of the type of Safaris we offer and can arrange for you.

What if I am a single traveller?
We have no problems in arranging Safaris for single travellers. We do have a slight addition in the price for single supplements costs. If the client wishes, we can try and place them together with other clients in the same car if they have the same itinerary / timings.

What customs do I need to be aware of?
The customs vary depending on the region. Generally, we advise clients to dress presentable so not to offend the local people. We ask our clients to be a little more conservative in Zanzibar Island, as the Island has a majority of Muslims and hence more conservative. Short shorts or tanks tops may not be appropriate.

What do I wear? Do I need to dress up?
Wear clothes that are comfortable, as you will be seated for long periods. Wear light airy materials such as cotton or linen especially during hot times. Even during cold season, the day time can become hot so we recommend layers - bring a jacket (the rim of the crater does tend to get cold at night, a jacket would be good). It is advisable to wear clothes that are more natural colored so that if they get dirty, they do not show. Bring clothes that can be hand washed incase you would like laundry to be done. There is not much of dressing up required even if in staying in lodges in the parks.

Do I get to meet the local people?
Yes, you will meet with local people in the town and in the parks. When stopping at villages on the way, you may encounter children running up to you and trying the chat with you, as they are just as intrigued with you as you are with them. Just have a good time with them. If you choose to visit local villages and spend more time learning, we arrange special trips for that purpose.

How is the food on a Safari?
The food that you will be served in the lodges or luxury tents can range from local foods to western food. The chefs are trained chefs who know the importance of prepared a delicious cuisine after hard days Safari.

Is it safe to drink water?
We DON'T advise drink tap water. We provide bottled water for the trips and recommend bottled water anywhere else.

Is Tanzania safe?
Tanzania is one of the safest East African countries. The people are generally friendly and will not be violent towards you. However, just as any country, you have to be cautious of your surrounding. Few safety precautions such as going in groups, not walking in isolated areas or dark areas, not accepting food or drinks from strangers. Avoid temptation e.g. do not wear flashy jewelry or loosely carry purses or cameras.

Do I need a visa?
Yes, most countries require visas to enter Tanzania. Please contact the Tanzanian embassy in your country to find out if visa is required.

What shots do I need to take?
Yellow fever is the only shot required by the Tanzania health Authority. Depending on your health, you may consult with your doctor to determine if you need any additional shots besides the required. Malaria dosage is recommended two weeks before departure, while in Tanzania and two weeks after arrival. Please contact your local health services who specialize in foreign travel for prescription.

Can you make flight arrangements?
Yes, we make arrangements for International Airfare. Please let your consultant know when you would like to travel and from what city in the world.

Are the roads really bumpy?
Sometimes right after the rainy season, the roads if not yet graveled can become bumpy. However, be prepared for a bumpy ride through out the year for even in the parks, the roads are not tar roads. Our cars are four wheel drives and are high clearance cars which can make the ride slightly more bumpier. This bumpy ride adds to the excitement of traveling in 'safari style'.

What additional costs do I need to be aware of?
Visas, international flights (we recommend making arrangements through Hit Holidays Travel & Tours Ltd.), drinks, tips, insurance and purchase of personal items. Climbers are responsible for climbing gear, personal requirements and insurance.