Tanzania

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. and Canadian citizens must have a valid passport to enter Tanzania. Passports must be valid for at least six months after the date of entry and have at least one blank page available.

A tourist visa is also re­quired for entry. An e-visa can be obtained online in advance by completing the e-visa application form and making payment online with a credit card or bank transfer at www.immigration.go.tz. Processing can take up to 10 days; please allow yourself sufficient time prior to travel. If the e-visa is approved, you will receive a “grant notice” via email. You must present a printed copy of the grant notice to the Immigration Officer on arrival at the airport in Tanzania.

U.S. citizens may also opt to obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at the airport in Tanzania. Expect delays if you choose to obtain a visa at the airport. The fee is $100 for a 12-month multiple-entry visa (subject to change). Be prepared to pay in cash, as credit card payments can be unreliable due to connectivity issues.

If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the Tanzanian Embassy for the requirements based on your nationality. 

Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous region in Tanzania. Be prepared to show your passport and explain your visa status when entering or departing Zanzibar.

Additionally, travelers to Zanzibar must complete an online Public Health Surveillance Form within 24 hours before arrival. This form is available at: https://healthtravelznz.mohz.go.tz/traveller.

Effective October 1, 2024, all foreign visitors to Zanzibar must purchase mandatory inbound travel insurance prior to their trip. This insurance must be acquired from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation, even if travelers already have other travel insurance. The government will provide a QR code to access the purchase link. The insurance is USD $44 per person and is valid for 92 days. Failure to comply may result in denied entry at immigration checkpoints.

Health Information

IMMUNIZATIONS

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.

There are no vaccinations required for entry into Tanzania or Zanzibar, unless you are traveling from a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk, in which case proof of yellow fever vaccination is required.

Additionally, the CDC recommends inoculation against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most travelers to Tanzania.

Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

MALARIA

The CDC warns that travelers to Tanzania may be at risk for exposure to malaria. Malaria is caused by a parasite found in Anopheles mosquitos, which are active from dusk until dawn. Prevention is twofold: the use of anti-malarial drugs and the prevention of insect bites. If you choose to use an anti-malarial drug, as recommended by the CDC, see your physician for a prescription.

To protect against mosquitos and other biting insects, cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants, consider treating clothes with permethrin, and use an insect repellent containing an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin. Apply sunscreen first, followed by the repellent (preferably 20 minutes later).

OTHER INSECT-BORNE ILLNESSES

In addition to malaria, the CDC warns that travelers may be at risk for other illnesses transmitted by mosquitos, ticks, or sand flies, such as dengue fever, chikungunya, African tick-bite fever, and others. Travelers are advised to protect themselves against insect bites using the measures noted above.

After spending time outdoors, especially in grassy or wooded areas, the CDC recommends showering and conducting a full-body check for ticks. If you find a tick attached to your skin, safely remove it as soon as possible.

WILDLIFE

Follow all instructions from your guides regarding wildlife. Animals may become aggressive to protect themselves, their young or their mates, or to guard a food supply. Do not make sudden movements either toward or away from them, as this may be interpreted as threatening or territorial. Avoid stray dogs, as they may carry rabies. In the unlikely event of being bitten, clean the wound and control bleeding. Seek medical attention immediately.

Parasites & Bacteria

Avoid swimming or bathing in freshwater lakes or rivers. Some freshwater bodies contain disease-causing parasites or bacteria that may be contracted through contact with infected water.

SUN EXPOSURE

The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.

CPAP Machines

Some safari lodges and tented camps in remote areas of Tanzania supply electricity through generators or solar power, and shut off electrical power during part of the night in order to conserve energy. If you use a CPAP machine, please be prepared to bring a battery pack (and any necessary cables) to power your equipment when electricity is not available. The battery pack can be charged during the day in preparation for nighttime use. Please be aware that if you do not have a battery pack, some lodges may assess a fee to run electricity through the night.

Travelers Diarrhea

The CDC warns that travelers’ diarrhea is one of the most common travel-related illnesses worldwide. Consumption of contaminated food and water may cause diarrhea. To avoid this, do not drink tap water, and use bottled water to brush your teeth. Avoid ice and uncooked vegetables or fruit without a peel. When in doubt, ask your guide. Restrict yourself to cooked food at restaurants, and avoid food sold on the streets. If you contract diarrhea, it is important to drink large quantities of purified water. Consult your doctor for appropriate medication should you experience diarrhea.

Respiratory Illness Protocols

Please review our Respiratory Illness Protocols page, which explains our policy and procedures if you or another traveler should develop symptoms of a respiratory illness during your trip. Your participation in a Holbrook Travel program indicates that you are in agreement with these protocols.

Currency

The currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling.

Electricity

The electrical current in Tanzania is 220V 50Hz AC. Travelers from the United States need to use a converter.

Time Zone

The time zone of Tanzania is East Africa Time Zone (UTC+03:00).

Tanzania does not observe Daylight Saving Time.

Departures and arrivals on flight schedules are listed in the local time.

Communications

PHONES

Tanzania’s country code is +255.

To call Tanzania (from the U.S.): Dial 011-255-(xx-xxx-xxxx)

To call the United States: Dial 001-(xxx-xxx-xxxx)

Please check with your cell phone provider if you’re unsure whether or not your cell phone will work internationally. Be aware that you are likely to incur additional charges for international use. It may be more affordable to purchase a local SIM card upon arrival.

INTERNET

Internet is not reliable in Tanzania, but major cities often have cafes and hotels that offer WiFi.