Everything to know about the 2023-2024 Tanzania safari tour

Everything to know about the 2023-2024 Tanzania safari tour: In Tanzania, there are many different safari options. You can see the Great wildebeest migration in the Serengeti or explore western Tanzania’s less-traveled areas. Go with your own 4×4 car to a luxurious resort or set up a mobile tent camp to follow the migration! Tanzania is an excellent choice since it has some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, such as the Ngorongoro Crater, and amazing wildlife. With several good roads and a variety of lodging options, tourism in this area is well ahead of that of many other locations.

The breathtaking variety of flora and animals is what distinguishes Tanzania as the top safari destination in Africa. This country in East Africa is endowed with a staggering variety of wildlife, breathtaking natural wonders, towering mountains, dense rainforests, and much more. Tanzania Safari Tours will ensure that you have the time of your life. We frequently get questions about visiting this incredible safari destination, some of which we have attempted to address in our Tanzania Safari FAQs. Please find some answers to some frequently asked questions about 2023-2024 Tanzania safaris below. If there is anything else you would like to know or feel we have missed, please contact us.

FOOD ON SAFARI

Is it okay to eat salads, fruits, and drink water?

Tanzanian tap water is not suitable for immediate consumption. In Tanzania, you can undoubtedly eat fruits and salads. A healthy diet will protect you from all medical conditions. Here, you can eat any fruit you want because it is usually safe.

Can special diets be accommodated?

Our clients are required to notify us of their food requirements well in advance in order to take advantage of the customized diets. We can easily organize meals for you at your convenience, regardless of whether you are a vegetarian, vegan, or need gluten-free meals or meals suitable for those with diabetes. When you book your safari, please let us know if you have any special dietary needs.

Are there a lot of bugs in Tanzania?

Certainly, Tanzania hosts a lot of bugs, insects, and mosquitoes, just like any other tropical country. To protect our clients from these unpleasant hosts, all hotels and tented camp rooms are treated with insect repellents. When visiting Tanzania, it is essential to have insect repellents with you.

What’s the food like on the safari?

Tanzania’s delectable cuisines are an excellent blend of the best Western, Arabic, and Indian flavors with the best Swahili flavors. Tanzanian cuisine offers a flavor of practically every culture due to the numerous foreign monarchs and travelers who visited this nation in the past. If you let us know in advance, we can cater to your unique dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, and other dietary restrictions.

What can I expect to eat and drink on safari?

Breakfasts are typically buffet “British” breakfasts at Tanzania Safari Tours. Omelets, potatoes, bacon or sausage (which is more like a hot dog), toast, cereals, etc. are all included. In Tanzania, lunch typically consists of cold chicken, yogurt, juice, hard-boiled eggs, raw vegetables, and some sort of baked cake or cookie. You will be fed meat, potatoes, or rice, and vegetarian meals for dinner.

What kinds of wildlife will I see on safari in Tanzania?

In the majority of Tanzania’s national parks, the animal species are relatively similar. The Tanzania safari packages you select through Focus East Africa Tours will have a significant impact.

• Wildebeests and Elephants: Tanzania’s main draw is its abundance of wildebeests, which may be seen at the Serengeti National Park.
• Lions: Throughout the year, lions can be seen in these parks prowling around in search of food or cover. A very robust population of lions, lionesses, and cubs can be found in the nation.
• Giraffes: The astounding quantity of giraffes that are sighted in Tanzania will astound you. It’s interesting to note that this nation has the world’s greatest giraffe population.
• Hippopotamus: Seen in large numbers all year long in Tanzania, hippopotamuses are a member of the Big Five group.
• Zebra: The population of zebras in this nation is extremely dense. You will have the wonderful chance to observe these naked creatures up close as they browse the lush green terrain of Tanzania’s national parks and sip water.

 What is the Great Migration?

The Great Wildebeest Migration, an annual movement of enormous herds of grazers across northern Tanzania and Kenya, is the most alluring attraction and activity in Tanzania. In quest of food and water, more than two million wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles travel through the Serengeti and Masai Mara networks every day.

Wildlife in Tanzania migrates in a cyclical direction around the Serengeti National Park, making the Great Migration an annual event.

 SAFARI WEAR

What clothes should I bring on safari, and what are the items required for safari?

In your Tanzania safari packing list, you must pack the right clothes, equipment, and necessary documents. The clothes required for the Tanzania Safari are:

• One light jacket
• One fleece
• Three pairs of safari pants (one of them zips off)
• One pair of shorts
• One long-sleeve shirt (light, breathable)
• Four short-sleeve shirts
• One dress (for nice dinners)
• A set of pyjamas
• A pair of hiking boots
• A pair of sandals (or Keens)
• Underwear
• Sports bra (for women)
• Three pairs of socks
• Sun hat
• Swimsuit
• Sunglasses

Vaccination card: A few months before your trip, you must obtain the required immunizations and maintain the vaccination cards for your destination.

First-aid kit: Before you leave on your trip, it’s crucial to assemble a first-aid or safety kit. All of the prescription medications that you usually take may be included in this medical kit. Before traveling to Tanzania, check with your own doctor if you have any additional medical needs.

Focus East Africa Tours suggests that you include the essential medications, such as paracetamol, antihistamines for insect bite reactions, diarrhea medication for food sickness, and cough drops.

Insect repellent: If you plan to camp outside in a national park in Tanzania, be prepared for a variety of insects, as well as bugs and mosquitoes. Despite the fact that we do spray bug repellents in the lodgings we offer to our clients, to stay safe here you must still bring anti-malaria medication and other requirements.

Electronics: Bring your camera, a portable charger, binoculars, batteries, and a solar flashlight, among other things.

Toiletries: tampons for women, shower gel, shampoo, toothpaste, and other necessities

Cash: Most Tanzanian restaurants and hotels accept US dollars; however, some other places only accept Tanzanian shillings. Thus, you must convert your money into Tanzanian shillings and travel with some cash.

• Don’t also forget other travel documents, such as a passport, visa, and travel insurance

 What to wear on safari in Tanzania?

Tanzanians often dress casually, so there’s no need to carry anything fancy. The best clothing for a Tanzanian safari is loose-fitting, lightweight clothing since it keeps you cool and dries quickly in case you get trapped in a downpour. Bring a quality fleece or jacket to keep warm during the chilly morning game drive activities. Even though there will generally be a campfire to keep you warm at night, you should still wear long sleeves to avoid being bitten by insects.

 SAFARI WEATHER

What’s the climate like?

Tanzania’s interior has a tropical environment, whereas the coastal regions are hot and muggy. The northwest highlands have a cool, temperate climate. There are two rainy seasons: a short wet season that typically lasts from October to December, and a long rainy season that lasts from March to June. Nonetheless, the central plateau is typically dry and arid all year long.

When is the best time of year to go on safari in Tanzania?

Focus East Africa Tours advises you to visit Tanzania throughout the year. However, the dry season (late June to October) offers the finest climatic conditions, with clear skies and low humidity, making it the best time for wildlife safaris in Tanzania or for climbing Kilimanjaro or other mountains.

When is the best time to see the migration?

Visit this breathtaking nation in August or September to see the Serengeti’s largest mass migration of wildebeests. Your chances of seeing different herds of animals cross rivers during this time are extremely good. The herds return to the Serengeti beginning in early October due to the wet season.

What kind of weather can I expect on safari?

Due to its proximity to the equator, Tanzania experiences seasonal temperature variations. Although it is usually mild here, temperatures can drop sharply during and after rainstorms, as well as at night. The coastal region has year-round heat and humidity.

 MISCELLANEOUS

Can I make my own itinerary?

Yes! With Focus East Africa Tours, you can undoubtedly create a custom holiday itinerary. We offer bespoke Tanzania safari tours that are tailored to your requirements. You can consult our travel specialists for help creating the ideal Tanzania safari itinerary. They can advise you on the locations of your choice. We also give our clients’ safety and cleanliness the utmost attention. When planning a safari, you can request the food of your choice based on your suggestions.

Can I take my children on safari?

You can most definitely bring your kids on Tanzania safari. However, you should be aware that most national parks and hotels have a minimum age requirement of between 4 and 12 years old. You must confirm the age requirements at the various locations on your schedule with our travel agents, because minors are not permitted in any safari activities.

Will I stay in tents or lodges?

The sort of packages you have booked, such as luxury safaris, mid-range safari and affordable safaris where we will bring our own tents, camping equipment, a cook to prepare your meals, food, and other cooking equipment, will determine whether you stay in lodges or tents. You can decide to enhance your lodging in order to have a more pleasant and opulent experience.

What size are your safari groups?

Depending on the kind of safari you select, we can fit anywhere from 4-6 people in our car for a safari in Tanzania. On group tours, a maximum of six people are allowed. Although fewer than three people will travel with you on a private tour in the safari vehicle,

What kind of vehicles do you use?

A 4×4 safari vehicle is the one offered and used by Focus East Africa Tours. We typically seat six people in our closed safari cars, which have pop-top roof hatches that let you see wildlife from a higher perspective. Minibuses, 4X4 Land Cruisers, and 4X4 Land Rovers are other options for these safari vehicles.

 PROGRAMS

I am interested in a Tanzania safari… What is my next step?

Choosing a safari in Tanzania as your next trip or vacation destination is a wise decision. Since you’ve already decided to come to this amazing nation, we advise you to contact our Focus East Africa Tours Sales department to learn more about and reserve a suggested itinerary of your choosing. You are welcome to join us on one of our group safari excursions or create your own private Tanzania safari with a range of customizable dates, destinations, and safari lengths. You can move forward with booking the safari once you’ve decided on your travel itinerary or package.

Will I have a chance to interact with the local people of Tanzania?

For many years, multitudes of indigenous tribes and people of many ancestries and cultures have called Tanzania home. More than 60 million people reside in Tanzania, an East African nation that is home to 120 different African ethnic groups. You will be astounded to meet and engage with Tanzania’s Maasai tribe, who will demonstrate to you how to start a fire without using any combustibles. On your Tanzania walking or cultural tours, you can learn about other, lesser-known tribes like the Datoga, Hadzabe, Sukuma and Chagga and their rich cultural tapestry.

What additional costs can I expect when traveling in Tanzania?

In your Tanzania safari package cost, the following expenses are not included:

• Airport departure taxes
• Travel Insurance
• Excess baggage fees
• International flight travel expenses
• Tanzania Visa or passport costs
• Medical expenses, meals, or activities included in the safari package (upgrades to the stay or additional activities included after travel bookings)
• Tips for drivers, guides, and tour leaders

 BOOKING AND PAYMENT

How far in advance should I book my safari?

If you don’t want to have trouble securing seats on British Airways or KLM, it is recommended that you purchase your foreign airline tickets at least three months in advance. Booking your safari to Tanzania at least six months in advance is advised if you are traveling during the busiest time of year.

Can I use a credit card to pay?

You can use credit cards to pay your bills, but only at upscale lodging or dining establishments. Unfortunately, only Tanzanian shillings are accepted in other neighborhood markets. In Arusha, Dar es Salaam, and Zanzibar, there are ATMs where you can use your Visa or MasterCard to receive local cash.

Should I bring some cash with me?

Yes, you are allowed to carry cash in either Tanzanian shillings (TSH) or US dollars, as both are accepted in many establishments in and around the city.

What will my means of transport be?

In the Tanzanian town, Uber is the most affordable mode of ground transportation, with a minimum fare of $3.50 for a 30- to 40-minute trip. In Tanzania, there is a reasonably priced public bus system called Dallas-Dallas. It might be challenging to find in a city because there are no names on the bus terminals, so you will need to ask locals for directions. The Rapid Transit System is another option for getting around the towns, but it does not serve the peninsular areas.

What about Tanzania safari tips?

Tanzania safari tipping is common, but not mandatory. Depending on your degree of satisfaction with the services, Focus East Africa tours advises you to tip moderately.

• Safari guide(s): US $10 per day;
• Cook US $7,
• Camp staff make US $3–$5 per day.

 VISA

Do I need a visa to enter Tanzania?

Certain nations, like the USA, Australia, and the UK, require a Tanzania visa to enter this wonderful nation with its varied wildlife and distinctive culture. A Tanzania visa costs about $50 in cash for non-US citizens and $100 for US citizens. This visa is also available at the airport when you arrive.

What are the entry requirements?

The various documents needed to enter Tanzania includes:

• Passport valid for at least 6 months
• Two blank passport pages
• A tourist travel visa is required for entry.
• Yellow fever vaccinations are required if travelling from a yellow fever endemic country. You can consult your physician for any other vaccine requirements.

 Can I get a visa upon arrival?

Sure, after minor document checks and at the airport upon entry, you may acquire a Tanzanian visa for $50 (which is a 30-minute procedure only). American citizens only qualify for a multiple-entry visa and must pay $100 USD.

 HEALTH AND VACCINATIONS

What Vaccines and Medication Should I Take?

The following vaccinations are recommended under WHO guidelines before visiting Tanzania:

• hepatitis A or B,
• typhoid,
• cholera,
• yellow fever,
• rabies,
• meningitis,
• polio,
• measles,
• Mumps and rubella (MMR)

 What immunizations or shots are required?

The following immunizations and shots are required before you enter Tanzania:

• Tetanus is good for 10 years.
• Polio Booster
• Malaria meds (tabs). For any further immunizations you might require based on your health circumstances and requirements, you can speak with your particular doctor.

OTHER TANZANIA SAFARI FAQs: OTHER IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING TANZANIA INCLUDES:

Which safari is best in Tanzania?

There are countless options when choosing the ideal Tanzania safari. There is something for every kind of traveler, whether you’re searching for a deluxe wildlife encounter or an once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Serengeti National Park is the ideal choice for affluent visitors who want to see some of Africa’s most rare and magnificent animals. Visitors have the highest opportunity of witnessing all five of Africa’s “Big Five” in the vast savannah, while lavish lodges and camps offer an amazing experience.

Ruaha National Park offers a pristine safari experience for tourists seeking a more off-the-beaten-path excursion. The park’s mountainous topography and diverse fauna, which includes lions, leopards, cheetahs, and zebras, provide visitors with stunning views. Other best places to visit in Tanzania includes:

• The mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru for hiking experiences
• Ngorongoro Conservational Area for the big fives safari experience
• The Tarangire national park for birding and wildlife experience
• The lake Manyara national Park for nature tour, primate safari, and birding safari
• The Arusha national Park for canoeing safari, nature tour, birding and hiking experience
• The mahale and Gombe national park for chimpanzee trekking safari
• Visit Dar es salaam, Arusha, Dodoma, and The stone town for cultural tours

How much does a Tanzania safari cost?

The length and kind of safari you select are just two of the variables that affect the price of a Tanzania safari. There are several camping safaris accessible under our basic type of travel if you’re seeking a more affordable choice. You may even join a group safari for a more cost-effective strategy. The best option for a genuinely opulent experience is a private, VIP safari. You may be sure to find an unforgettable Tanzania safari experience that meets your needs, regardless of your budget.

What should I pack for a Tanzania safari?

It’s important to take the safari’s climate and terrain into account while choosing your clothing for Tanzania. Pack a selection of clothes for both hot and cool days because Tanzania’s weather can be erratic.

• Moreover, clothing needs to be airy, loose, and breathable. For those extended nature hikes, appropriate walking shoes, hats, and sunscreen are all strongly advised.
• Pack camping gear, including a tent and sleeping bag, or other goods depending on the safari excursion you choose.
• Lastly, don’t forget your camera gear! You won’t want to miss a Tanzania safari’s spectacular sights and sounds.

Is a safari better in Kenya or Tanzania?

This question’s response is quite individualized. Beautiful safari excursions with the chance to see some of Africa’s most spectacular wildlife are available in both Kenya and Tanzania.

 Think about the kind of experience you want and the creatures you want to see while choosing the best country for your safari. Tanzania provides a wide range of safari experiences, including opulent safaris and adventurous journeys off the beaten path. The expansive savannahs and breathtaking national parks of Kenya are well known.

 The ideal safari location ultimately depends on your personal interests and requirements. The best method to choose the ideal country for you is to conduct research, ask questions, and consult with a travel expert.

How many days are ideal for an unforgettable Tanzania safari?

Depending on the kind of experience you want, a Tanzania safari can take anything from one day to many weeks. If you’re searching for a quick weekend break, 3-5 days is usually plenty to get a decent sense of what the country offers. However, a safari lasting 7–14 days is advised if you truly want to experience Tanzania’s sights and sounds. For a detailed breakdown of how many days you should spend on a Tanzania safari, please contact us or see our blog.

Is there a minimum age limit for a safari in Tanzania?

The experience of going on a safari with your children may change their lives, and the feedback we have received from parents who took their kids along has been overwhelmingly positive.

 Although our lowest age requirement is three years old, we advise that kids ages six and above would most likely enjoy our safaris. Nonetheless, because every child is unique, some could find the long days and early rises to be a bit much. Talk to us in advance so we can advise you on the safari that will best fit your family’s needs.

What languages are spoken in Tanzania?

In Tanzania, Swahili is the language that is used most frequently. Moreover, English is extensively spoken, particularly in resort areas and hotels. On your safari, it’s a smart idea to learn a few fundamental Swahili phrases so you can interact with the people.

It will be simpler for you to express your wants and ask questions because most tour guides are bilingual in Swahili and English.

Tanzanians speak a wide range of dialects, including Arabic and several tribal languages in addition to these two main languages. If you require assistance with communication, it is preferable to ask your tour guide or hotel personnel.

 Is Tanzania a good birding destination?

Absolutely! For birders of all experience levels, Tanzania is a fantastic destination. You may see a variety of bird species in their natural settings in a number of national parks and reserves.

Spectacular birds, including the African Fish Eagle, Lilac-Breasted Roller, Palm Nut Vulture, and Grey Crowned Crane, may be seen.

There are numerous marine sanctuaries and wetlands in addition to national parks where you can see a large variety of birds. With over 500 species identified, the Serengeti National Park is regarded as one of the top birding locations in Tanzania. For dedicated birders, we advise scheduling a tour or guide with a knowledgeable bird expert who can show you the best locations and help you identify unusual birds.

Where can I see the wildebeest migration?

One of nature’s most amazing spectacles is the wildebeest migration. Every year, tens of thousands of wildebeest, zebra, and other species move from the Serengeti to Kenya’s Masai Mara in search of better grazing areas.

The Serengeti National Park is the ideal location to view this breathtaking event. Here, you may get a close-up view of the migratory herds and perhaps even spot some of the predators that hunt them as they cross, including lions and wild dogs.

How long is the wildebeest migration?

Typically, the wildebeest migration takes place between June and September. Every year, the migration’s exact timing varies. The Masai Mara in Kenya and the Serengeti in Tanzania are connected by a classic north-south migration route.

It’s crucial to understand that the wildebeest migration is not a single, uninterrupted journey. If you want to guarantee that you see this incredible occurrence, it’s best to arrange your safari properly. The herds will halt and feed for weeks before continuing their trek.

What other activities are available in Tanzania?

Tanzania offers a wide range of additional activities in addition to just game viewing. Tanzania has something to offer everyone, from scaling Mount Kilimanjaro to visiting off-the-beaten-path settlements to unwinding on exotic beaches.

 Why not ride in a hot air balloon over the Serengeti and take in one of the world’s greatest spectacles, the wildebeest migration, if you’re searching for a truly unique experience? Also, you can go to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area to get up close and personal with the “Big Five” (lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhinoceros). Whichever activities you select for your safari in Tanzania, you can be sure that it will be an once-in-a-lifetime experience that you will never forget.

THE CONCLUSION:

It’s simple and convenient to arrange a 2023-2024 Tanzania safari. Either do it yourself or use a seasoned travel agent or tour operator to reserve a package trip.

Plan your activities, reserve lodges and campsites, and do your research on the best times to visit each park before making your safari arrangements.

Choose a reliable business with knowledgeable tour operators that can provide an exceptional experience when making a package tour reservation.

It’s also crucial to carefully read the terms and conditions so you are aware of exactly what is included in the tour and any additional fees that could apply.

Whatever you decide, be sure to organize and get ready for your Tanzania safari. You will undoubtedly enjoy an once-in-a-lifetime experience in Tanzania’s wilds, provided you make the necessary preparations and keep an open mind.