Getting Ready

                                                       

Entry and Exit Requirements

U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport to enter Tanzania. Passports must remain valid for at least six months beyond the entry date and have at least one blank page.

A tourist visa is required. You can apply for an e-visa online by completing the application and paying with a credit card (Visa or Mastercard) or bank transfer at Tanzania Immigration. Processing may take up to 10 days, so plan accordingly. If approved, you will receive a "grant notice" via email, which must be printed and presented to the Immigration Officer upon arrival in Tanzania.

​

Alternatively, U.S. citizens can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at Tanzanian airports. Expect delays if choosing this option. The cost is $100 for a 12-month multiple-entry visa (subject to change) and is typically paid in cash due to potential issues with card payments.

Non-U.S. passport holders should check entry requirements with the Tanzanian Embassy.

 

Health Information

 

Immunizations
The CDC recommends that all travelers be current on routine vaccinations, including MMR, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus, varicella, and an annual flu shot.

No vaccinations are required for entry into Tanzania unless arriving from a country where yellow fever is a risk. However, the CDC advises vaccinations for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most travelers. Consult your physician for personalized recommendations.

 

Malaria
Tanzania poses a malaria risk, primarily transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes active from dusk to dawn. Prevention involves anti-malarial medication and minimizing mosquito bites. Speak with your doctor for appropriate prescriptions.

 

Other Insect-Borne Illnesses
The CDC warns of diseases like dengue, chikungunya, and African tick-bite fever. To protect yourself, wear long-sleeved clothing, treat clothes with permethrin, use DEET-based repellents, and follow proper tick removal protocols after outdoor activities.

 

Wildlife Safety
Follow guides' instructions when near wildlife to avoid provoking aggressive behavior. Avoid sudden movements and stray animals, especially dogs, as they may carry rabies. If bitten, clean the wound and seek immediate medical attention.

 

Sun Exposure
Protect yourself from UV rays by using sunscreen (SPF 15+), wearing protective clothing and a wide-brimmed hat, and staying hydrated.

​

Packing Guidelines

Packing preferences vary, so use this as a general guide tailored to your itinerary and personal needs. Casual, comfortable attire is ideal for most activities in Tanzania. Bring a nicer outfit or two for formal outings if your itinerary includes them. Wear layers to adjust to temperature changes throughout the day, favoring moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabrics. Neutral or muted colors like green, khaki, brown, or gray are recommended to avoid attracting animals. Avoid bright colors, white, and blue (the latter attracts certain insects). Camouflage clothing resembling military uniforms is illegal. Dress conservatively in public: tank tops and shorts above the knee are generally not advised.

 

Suggested Clothing Items

• Short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts

• Shorts

• Lightweight, quick-drying long pants; medium-weight pants or trousers

• Undergarments

• Sleepwear

• Light to medium-weight jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, especially May–August

• Swimsuit (some hotels have pools)

• Socks (pack extra pairs)

• Comfortable walking or hiking shoes with sturdy soles for uneven terrain; consider sturdier boots for active programs

• Sport-strap sandals (e.g., Keens or Tevas) and casual flip-flops

• Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, or windbreaker

• Sun hat or visor

• Bandana, scarf, or gaiter

 

Personal Toiletries
Pack based on your routine, avoiding strong fragrances to reduce insect attraction.

• Sunscreen and SPF lip balm

• Aloe vera gel

• Shampoo, conditioner, soap, and lotion

• Washcloth or quick-drying microfiber towel (not all hotels provide washcloths)

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, razor, and hairbrush/comb

• Earplugs for light sleepers

• Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin

• Travel tissues (useful for napkins or toilet paper)

• Optional Medical Kit

• Bandages, antihistamines, pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medicine, antibiotic ointment, antifungal cream, moleskin, eye drops, tweezers, sewing kit, and spare eyewear.

 

Miscellaneous Items

• Keep valuables like passports, cash, and medications in your carry-on.

• Essentials

• Passport and copies of travel documents

• Insurance card and travel insurance info

• Money in small, good-condition bills

• Prescription medications and a copy of the prescription

• Yellow fever certificate (if applicable)

• Sunglasses with strap

• Small daypack for excursions

• Flashlight or headlamp

• Alarm clock or waterproof watch with an alarm

• Binoculars

• Camera and accessories (charger, lenses, memory cards)

• Reusable water bottle

• Non-perishable snacks

• Pocket knife or multipurpose tool (in checked luggage)

• Notepad, journal, or pen

• Reading material, music, or entertainment for downtime

• Collapsible walking stick

• Laundry detergent for hand-washing

• Money belt

• Voltage converter, plug adapter, and chargers
   

Note on Single-use Plastics
Tanzania prohibits single-use plastics, including garbage and grocery bags. Zip-top bags for toiletries under TSA’s liquid rule are allowed if reused. Leave any plastic bags on the plane to avoid fines or delays.

 

​