Frequently Asked Questions for Visitors to Tanzania

Click on each underlined topic to jump to the section:
>Planning your trip: Flights Travel Information and Seasons Health and Immunizations Reservations and Cancellations Money Issues
>While on Safari: Lodging and Food on Safari Driving on Safari Photography on Safari
>Other: Souvenirs Wildlife and Other Information While on Kili About Tanzania Reading List: safari books

Flights
Q. What is the best way to get to Tanzania?
A. If you are coming from North America or Europe, we recommend flying KLM to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Although KLM is slightly more expensive than British Airways, BA flies to Dar es Salaam and Nairobi only. Kilimanjaro Airport is a one hour drive from Arusha while Dar es Salaam and Nairobi are a one hour flight or several hour bus ride from Arusha. If planning a visit to Zanzibar or Pemba during your Tanzania vacation, consider flying into Dar es Salaam and then flying to Kilimanjaro for your safari and climb.

Q. Can Duma Explorer help me book flights?
A. Duma Explorer books East Africa travel including flights and shuttles. Tickets will be e-mailed to you or you will be given an e-ticket number so you may collect your tickets at the airport. Duma Explorer can also book flights going to and coming from other African destinations. For flights originating outside Africa, we recommend calling the airline directly as fares are usually lower.

Q. Does Duma Explorer pay for airport taxes?
A. Airport taxes are not included in the price of internal Tanzania flights. Be sure to bring extra US dollars with you to pay airport taxes which range from US $5 to US $25 per flight.

Q. What is the best way to get to Zanzibar?
A. If you are going to Zanzibar after your safari, we recommend flying from the Serengeti to Zanzibar. Although this flight is slightly more expensive than the Kilimanjaro - Zanzibar flight, you cut off six hours of driving over rough terrain by flying directly from the Serengeti. If you are visiting Zanzibar after a Kilimanjaro trek, then we recommend flying from either Arusha or Kilimanjaro Airports. Duma can arrange all of your domestic flights for you.

Q. Do you recommend flying to Nairobi?
A. Flying to Nairobi is often less expensive than flying to either Kilimanjaro or Dar es Salaam so if your trip includes Northern Tanzania only, it may save you money to fly into Nairobi. However, flights from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro are pricey and may not justify the cost savings. If your trip includes Zanzibar, consider flying into and out of Dar es Salaam. Please note that travelers transiting through Nairobi must now show proof of Yellow Fever vaccination when they arrive in Tanzania.

Travel Information and Seasons
Q. Do I need to purchase a visa in advance?
A. It is possible to purchase for most nationalities to purchase a tourist visa at the port of entry. If you plan to purchase Tanzanian visas at the airport or border, please bring USD 50/person (USD 100/person for US citizens). A short arrival form is completed when entering the country but no passport photos or documentation other than your passport is necessary to purchase a visa. Please ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry. Also, you will need at least one blank page in your passport (the back page does not count).

Q. I am traveling alone. Is it possible to join a group?
A. Yes, Duma posts open trips on its itinerary page of the Duma website. Group rates are applied to individuals who join open safaris.

Q. What are the best months to go on safari?
A. There are two factors to consider when choosing a time to visit Tanzania, the wildlife and the crowds. For the best wildlife viewing, visit Tanzania during the dry seasons of December through February, and July through September. To avoid the crowds, visit in May, June or November.

Q. When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?
A. The driest month to climb Kilimanjaro is September. However, it is also one of the coldest. Because Kilimanjaro is such a large mountain, it has its own weather pattern and it often rains on Kilimanjaro when it is not raining elsewhere. You should prepare for rain and have your rain gear with you at all times while on the mountain.

Q. What are the seasons like in Tanzania?
A. Late March through late May represents the period of long rains in Tanzania. This is usually not an ideal time to plan a safari because of the potential for sudden downpours. Directly after the long rains, however, is a wonderful time to visit Tanzania's national parks due to the abundance of wildflowers and vegetation. It is also a wonderful time to go on safari because the level of dust and the number of tourists is minimal.

July through October is Tanzania's dry season and also the high season for tourism. This is the best time to view wildlife as grasses are virtually nonexistent. It is usually very dusty and can be cold at higher elevations such as Ngorongoro Crater. Tanzania's short rains occur from late October through mid December. This is a low season for tourism in Tanzania. December through March is Tanzania's "summer" and many tourists visit during late December and January for optimal game viewing.

Health and Immunizations

Please refer to our Altitude Sickness information page for climbing Kilimanjaro and Meru.

Q. Does Duma provide health insurance?
A. Health insurance is not included in tour quotes. However, for an additional US $15 to $50 per person, we provide emergency medical evacuation through The Flying Doctors.

Q. What immunizations do I need before visiting Tanzania?
A. For current immunization recommendations and requirements for travel to Tanzania, please check the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) site.

Q. What immunizations do you recommend?
A. We recommend the following immunizations:
Typhoid: Typhoid vaccination is good for three years. This inoculation consists of two shots given four weeks apart or four tablets taken orally, one pill every other day over the course of six days. The pills must be refrigerated.
Hepatitis A: Should be taken just prior to departure as immunity becomes less effective with time.
Hepatitis B: Is a viral disease transmitted mainly through blood or sexual contact. Vaccination lasts forever and is recommended by the CDC for long-term travelers to Africa who will have contact with the local population. Ideally the vaccine is administered over a six-month period.
Meningitis: The vaccine for memingitis is called Menamune. It can cost up to $100 at clinics that don't administer it frequently, or as a little as a third of that cost elsewhere. You may want to shop around. While this disease occurs only sporadically, it is fatal unless treated immediately.
Yellow Fever: Proof of Yellow Fever vaccination is required for travelers arriving from or transiting through most African countries. Travelers arriving with KLM from Amsterdam or British Airways from London (direct flight) do not need to show proof of Yellow Fever vaccination.
Malaria: The most common anti-malarial drug in the US is Mefloquine (Lariam). The prescribed dosage is one tablet (250mg) per week. It can cause side effects such as upset stomach or nightmares and is not recommended for people suffering from and on medication for epilepsy or schizophrenia. It is not recommended for people on medication with beta-blockers, commonly prescribed for high blood pressure or heart disease. Please consult your physician before taking Lariam. Other drugs are available, though their effectiveness varies.

Reservations and Cancellations
Q. Can I pay with a credit card?
A. We accept credit cards (Visa/MasterCard) for deposit payments. Final payments must be paid by USD check or bank transfer. If you are interested in paying by credit card, please let us know and we will send instructions.

Q. Can Duma Explorer help me with my Zanzibar hotel reservations?
A. Duma Explorer can arrange Zanzibar flights and hotels. We also arrange Zanzibar transfers with Abdulla Ali, Duma's Zanzibar driver.

Q. What is Duma Explorer's cancellation policy?
A. Please read our Terms and Conditions page for details on our cancellation policy.

Money Issues
Q. How much should I tip?
A. Please visit our Tipping Guidelines page for more information.

Q. Will I be able to use ATM/credit cards in Tanzania?
A. You can withdraw Tanzanian shillings using a Visa/MasterCard in Arusha. Upscale hotels and safari lodges generally accept credit cards but charge a commission to do so. Please call your credit card company before you leave for Tanzania to notify them of your travel plans. Some companies will put a block on your card if you try to use it at a Tanzanian ATM. Please note that you usually need to have a four digit PIN to use your ATM/credit card at a Tanzanian ATM.

Q. Should I change money to Tanzanian Shillings or can I pay in foreign currency?
A. We recommend changing some money to shillings to pay for small items during your trip. Local stores and restaurants charge in shillings, and if you pay in dollars you will pay a higher rate. At souvenir stores in Arusha town, we recommend paying in shillings as the price will be lower. Any shillings that you have leftover can be used to tip staff during your trip. Be sure to carry small notes in whatever currency you choose to use as it is difficult to get change on safari.

Q. Should I bring travelers checks?
A. We do not recommend bringing travelers checks to Tanzania as few banks accept them and the rate is lower than the rate for cash. We recommend bringing some USD cash and using an ATM/credit card to withdraw shillings. ATMs are available in all major Tanzanian cities.

Q. Are old USD notes accepted?
A. No, your USD notes will need to be the recent notes that have the large faces on the bills.

While on Safari: Lodging and Food
Q. What do the lodges look like?
A.Please visit the Lodges page for photos of popular lodges.

Q. How does Duma Explorer choose lodges and tented camps in Arusha and on safari?
A. Duma matches the type of experience you desire with the most appropriate lodge arrangements. Available lodging ranges from private luxury tented lodges to adventure camping. There are both mid and high-end private lodges so we can accommodate any budget.

Q. How rugged is a camping safari?
A. On a camping safari, guests and staff sleep in private tents in designated campsites in or near the national parks. Duma Explorer staff setup the camp and prepare all meals while you relax, read and eat snacks. Duma camps consist of tents set up around tables and chairs. We also provide hammocks on some safaris.

Whenever possible, Duma Explorer uses more remote campsites to make your camping experience more private. There are toilet and shower facilities at almost all the campsites although the level of cleanliness varies. Duma Explorer heats water for your shower at more remote sites.

Q. On camping safaris, what equipment does Duma Explorer provide?
A. Duma Explorer provides camping equipment including tents, sleeping mattresses, tables and chairs. Hammocks are provided on some safaris. We also provide all cooking equipment for safari. Please see our packing list for items you should bring with you to Tanzania. All of Duma Explorer's equipment is less than two years old and has been highly rated by many of our past clients. If you need to rent equipment such as sleeping bags or other gear, let us know.

Q. Are vegetarian meals available?
A. Of course; just let us know in advance so we can make necessary arrangements.

Q. Do I need to bring a water filter?
A. On safari we provide bottled water. On Kilimanjaro trips, we filter all drinking water using either a Katadyn KFT Expedition Filter for large trips or a First Need filter for small trips.

Q. What is a typical menu on a camping safari or Kilimanjaro climb?
A. During a camping safari, Duma Explorer provides three meals a day as well as afternoon snacks. We also provide all of your bottled drinking water. After your game drive, a snack with tea or coffee will be waiting for you at the campsite. You will have a choice of fresh popcorn, peanuts, cake or sliced fruits. View a sample menu!

Q. What is Tanzanian food like and will I get to try some?
A. Staple foods found throughout Tanzania include ugali (maizemeal), chapati (thick naan-like bread), kichumbari (tomato, cucumber, bell pepper salad), nyama choma (barbecued meat- goat, chicken, beef) and mchicha (green vegetable stew). Dishes specific to Northern Tanzania include ndizi nyama (banana beef stew) and mahindi maharage (maize and bean stew). If you would like to try Tanzanian food, let us know prior to your climb or camping safari and we'll include some local dishes on your menu.

Q. What precautions should I take to avoid stomach problems?
A. Be sure to wash your hands often with soap and avoid eating raw vegetables and fruits. Before meals, wash and dry your hands before touching your food. Do not eat food sold by street vendors. Wipe the mouth of soda and alcohol bottles before drinking and ensure that water bottles are sealed properly before purchasing. Also, eat fruit that can be peeled, such as bananas, unless it is fruit prepared by Duma Explorer. If you unsure of any food, ask our cooks and guides.

Driving on Safari
Q. What are Duma Explorer vehicles like?
A. During safaris, Duma Explorer uses 4WD Land Cruisers and occasionally Land Rover Defenders. Our vehicles have been made safari-ready by cutting wildlife viewing holes in the roof and changing the seats to be more comfortable, full-size seats.

Q. What are the road conditions in Tanzania?
A. Although the roads between cities and the national parks are generally well-maintained, the roads inside the national parks are rough and dusty, and hence, muddy during the rainy season. During game drives we drive slowly for a more comfortable drive. During the dry season you will get very dusty, so bring some moist cleansing cloths to clean up before meal times.
The road from Arusha to Ngorongoro is now tarmac so the driving time to the park is approximately one and a half.

Photography on Safari
Q. Is it possible to recharge a digital camera on safari?
A. Duma's cars are outfitted with inverters that allow you to charge your camera batteries or laptop right in the car. The inverters accommodate North American plugs.

Q. Should I bring extra batteries for my camera or will they be available in Tanzania?
A. You can find AAA-D batteries in Arusha including Energizer and Duracell brands. Batteries are probably cheaper in your home country, so you may want to bring them with you. It is difficult to find high quality batteries outside major cities.

Q. What extra camera equipment should I bring to Tanzania?
A. 1. Small sand bag on which to rest your camera. The safari vehicles shake quite a bit and sometimes you may miss a great shot if you wait for the car to be turned off. 2. Lightweight tripod or monopod. 3. Small can of compressed air to clean the camera. Be sure to clean your camera every night as it is usually very dusty while on safari.

Q. Will I be able to charge rechargeable batteries while in the bush?
A. Most lodges have outlets so you will be able to recharge batteries. However, because the lodges are run on generators, the electrical current is not as strong as traditional electrical currents. Some lodges turn off their generators at midnight. Keep in mind Tanzania uses 220 Volt electricity and you will need to bring necessary converters and plug adaptors. Try to take as few electrical powered tools as possible. All of our vehicles also have US compatible power inverters that allow you to plug in your laptop or battery charger while on game drives.

Q. I'm planning to use a film camera. How much film should I bring?
A. It really depends on the passion you have for photography. As a general guideline, plan on shooting three to four rolls with 24 exposures per day; this is adequate for most people. Remember also that animals often move just when you want to shoot and don't pose for you so you may waste some pictures.

Q. What sort of film should I use?
A. Much of the time you will be in bright sunlight so ISO100 speed will give you the best quality. However, some of the best times to see animals is in the late afternoon or early morning and the light may be low. In this case, ISO 200 or ISO 400 would be better.

Q. What lenses should I bring?
A. This will depend on the type of photography you do. If you are interested in vegetation, you may want a macro lens. For animals, because you will be photographing from a distance, you will definitely want a long lens, at minimum 300 mm and up to 500 mm if possible. A zoom lens will provide you with the best flexibility.

Souvenir Shopping
Q. What about purchasing souvenirs?
A. You will have many opportunities to purchase souvenirs in Arusha and while on safari. The souvenir market with the best prices is located in the center of Arusha town approximately 500 meters southwest of the central post office/clock tower on Sinoni Road. You will have to bargain at this market; you should pay about 50% of the asking price. There will also be many opportunities to purchase souvenirs while on safari. Most hotels have souvenir shops, and there are a couple of large souvenir shops along the way: Oldonyo Orok and Cultural Heritage (expensive). If you are interested in buying Tanzanite, please purchase it at Oldonyo Orok or Cultural Heritage as these two stores sell genuine Tanzanite. If you would like to stop at these shops, please tell your guide.

Wildlife and Other Information
Q. Who travels with us during safari?
A. During lodge safaris, you will be accompanied by a trained wildlife guide. Our guides have at least seven years of experience on safari and have taken several language and wildlife courses. If you choose an adventure camping safari, you will also travel with a Duma cook who will prepare all of your delicious meals while in the bush. As with any Duma-arranged trip, we will only combine tourist groups at the client's request. You can expect a private vehicle with your very own Duma guide.

Q. What are the Big Five?
A. The Big Five were originally the animals most sought after by hunters. They were the fiercest animals, the animals that hunted the hunters. They include rhino, elephant, lion, leopard and cape buffalo and today are the animals that tourists most want to see when visiting Tanzania's national parks. You can see all five of these animals during a visit to Northern Tanzania.

Q. What is the wildebeest migration?
A. The wildebeest migration is the annual movement of 1.2 million wildebeest and zebra between Tanzania's Serengeti National Park and Kenya's Maasai Mara National Park. The migration is usually in the Serengeti from late December until late August, making these months the best for wildlife viewing in the Serengeti. The best months to view the migration are generally January through March when the migration is in larger herds. The highlight of the migration occurs during a two week period in February when the wildebeest give birth to 8,000 babies daily.

Q. What is a bush walk?
A. A bush walk is a nature walk or walking safari inside or near a national park. We can tailor a bush walk to your interests. If you are a bird lover, we can arrange a bird walk. If you want to be near big game on foot, we can arrange a bush walk in a national park. (These walks require an armed guard.) A bush walk can be a leisurely stroll or strenuous hike and ranges in length from thirty minutes to six hours.

Q. What are appropriate tips for Duma Explorer staff?
A. We have put together detailed guidelines for tipping in Tanzania. Please visit it at http://dumaexplorer.com/tippingguide.html.

While on Kilimanjaro
We have a separate page dedicated to Kilimanjaro FAQs.

About Tanzania
Electricity, Phone, and Internet
Tanzania uses 220 watts AC and if you are bringing 110 appliances you will need an adapter as well as the proper plug configuration. Tanzanian outlets accommodate three prong UK style plugs. Phone calls are expensive and unreliable (approximately US $2.00 per minute to the US and Europe). The Internet can be accessed from Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Zanzibar, and Moshi. The connections are relatively fast and cheap ($1.00 per hour) and there are many internet cafes in each location. There are three internet cafes within two blocks of the Duma office so you will have time to check your email before and after safari. You will not have access to email while on Kilimanjaro. There is now internet access at some safari lodges. If you would like to use our guides' phones while on safari or Kilimanjaro, you can purchase US $5 or $10 phone cards that will allow you to place international calls. Keep in mind that a $5 card will last only for a few minutes.

Swahili: The Language of Tanzania
Tanzania is made up of an estimated 120 linguistic groups none of which is greater than ten percent of the total population. The largest linguistic group in Tanzania is the Sukuma that live in the Lake Victoria area. Other large groups are the Hehe of Iringa, the Gogo of Dodoma, the Chagga of Kilimanjaro and the Nyamwezi of Tabora.

Swahili, the language spoken by the vast majority of Tanzanians, is the most widely understood language in Africa after Arabic. Swahili has over 50 million speakers and is spoken not only in Tanzania, but also Kenya, Uganda, eastern Zaire and Rwanda. Swahili originated along the east African coast of Southern Somalia, Kenya, Tanzania, Northern Mozambique and on the islands of Lamu, Zanzibar and Pemba. Swahili has only 2 million native speakers and most Swahili speakers speak two or more languages. Although the first language of most Tanzanians is that of their ethnic group, all Tanzanians are taught Swahili in grade school. Julius Nyerere, Tanzania's first president, implemented this policy early in his rule in order to unite Tanzanians and enable them to communicate with each other.

Here are some phrases and terms to get you started:
Jambo!: Hello, welcome!
duma: cheetah
Wanyama wa pori: wildlife
Hifadhi ya wanyama: National Park