Tanzania

Tanzania is home to the great wildebeest and zebra herds and the pursuing predators that trek the Serengeti in an annual migration in search of fresh grazing and water sources.  The annual migration of an estimated two million animals can happen anytime between May and July, depending on the rains, with the animals returning to the southern Serengeti from the Masai Mara around October.

This incredible wildlife spectacle is just one of Tanzania’s many attractions. Other attractions include the Ngorongoro Crater, the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro which is the highest free standing mountain in the world, the Selous Game Reserve, the largest game reserve in Africa and the exotic spice islands of Zanzibar and Pemba. Tanzania combines very well as a safari destination with neighbouring Kenya and is easily accessible to Uganda and Rwanda to see the amazing gorillas.

Full Country Name: United Republic of Tanzania
Area: 943,000 sq km
Population: 46.22 million (UN 2011)
Capital: Dodoma
Borders: Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique and Democratic Republic of Congo.
Religion: Mainland Christian 30%, Muslim 35%, Indigenous beliefs 35%, Zanzibar – more than 99% Muslim
Time Zone: Standard time is three hours in advance of Greenwich Mean Time
Languages: Kiswahili or Swahili (official), English (official, primary language of commerce, administration, and higher education), Arabic (widely spoken in Zanzibar), many other local languages
Country Dialling Code: +255

CLIMATE
Although Tanzania lies close to the Equator, the climate is healthy and generally agreeable due to altitude – it is the coastal zones, which have what can truly be described as a tropical climate.  There is plenty of clear sunshine all year round.  Much of the terrain is above 1,500 metres and here the climate, although warm by day is often chilly at night.  The ‘long rains’ usually fall in the months of April and May.

The migration usually takes place after the long rains, when from August to October the wildebeest migrate from Tanzania into Kenya to find new grazing.  During the months of October and November, there are occasional scattered rains, the ‘short rains’, which freshen the atmosphere and vegetation and lay the dust.

CURRENCY & BANKS
The Tanzanian currency is decimalised with 100 cents to the Shilling.  At the time of writing, hotel bills and extras have to be paid for in foreign currency.  It is possible to change Tanzanian Shillings into US Dollars on departure from the country, and bank receipts are required for this.  Please note the import and export of Tanzanian Shillings is not permitted.

US Dollar notes printed before the year 2000 will not be accepted.  Barclay’s Bank in Tanzania has implanted a new policy where they will no longer accept notes printed before 2000.  Clients who carry US Dollar notes printed before 2000 will be compelled to accept a rate of exchange lower than normal.

ELECTRICITY
In Tanzania the general voltage is 230 and the frequency is 50 Hz.  The British three rectangular blade plugs are common.  Some lodges and camps only have power in the early mornings and evenings.  Batteries may be recharged in camps during the day but it is wise to double check with the camp manager.

As the sockets can vary a ‘Travellers Adaptor Set’ is recommended.  Voltage sometimes fluctuates and whilst power cuts are rare, they are not unknown.  It is useful to carry a torch.

HEALTH
Health requirements vary from country to country.  We recommend you speak to your local Travel Doctor for up-to-date information and advice.  The following information is to be used as a guide only.

Malaria: It is recommended that precautions against malaria are taken for travel to most regions in Africa.  We suggest you contact your doctor for advice on which prophylactic is recommended.

Yellow Fever: A Yellow Fever vaccination is required.  All travellers must carry proof that the Yellow Fever vaccine has been administered at least 10 days prior to travel.

ROAD TRAVEL
Tanzania like most countries in Africa is a third world country.  Therefore please be aware that the infrastructure in certain areas is not up to the standard you would find at home.  Specifically some of the roads are often very rough and short journeys can take much longer than expected. Some days will be very long, bumpy and dusty due to Tanzania’s road conditions.  In saying this though the views and spectacular scenery encountered usually make the trip well worthwhile.

VISA INFORMATION At the time of writing, a visa for Tanzania is required for Foreign Passport Holders.  The visa can be obtained on arrival at the airport or at border posts.

Single Entry Visa: USD $50 per person on an Foreign Passport (subject to change).

We hope that you will find this country Information on Tanzania useful for reference when preparing for your holiday.  All the information above was correct at the time of writing and is to be used as a guide only.  Health, visa and other specific details should be double checked by your travel agent at the time of booking.