June to October – Dry season: perfect for safari and the Great Migration in Serengeti.
January to February – Calving season in southern Serengeti and excellent wildlife viewing.
December to March – Best time to climb Kilimanjaro (clear skies, warmer).
Avoid April–May (long rains) if possible.

Yellow Fever certificate is mandatory if coming from or transiting through an endemic country.
Recommended: Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Rabies (especially for longer stays), and antimalarials (most of Tanzania is malaria zone). Consult a travel clinic 6–8 weeks before departure.

Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas (bring newer bills, post-2009). ATMs are available in cities (Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar). Credit cards are accepted at lodges and larger hotels, but cash is king in remote areas.

Yes, Tanzania is generally safe for tourists. Exercise normal precautions: avoid isolated areas at night, don’t display valuables, and use registered taxis or transfers. Safari areas and Zanzibar are very safe. Petty theft can occur in crowded places like Dar es Salaam.

Yes! No technical climbing skills are required. Good physical fitness and mental determination are key. Choose a longer route (7–9 days) for better acclimatization. Success rate increases significantly with reputable operators.

No. Zanzibar is part of Tanzania — one visa covers both mainland and the islands.

Recommended on safari:
• Guide: $15–25 per person per day
• Cook/porter: $10–15 per person per day
• Kilimanjaro crew: $250–$400 total per climber (distributed by the team leader)
Tipping is customary and greatly appreciated.

Safari (game drives):
• Neutral colors: khaki, beige, olive, brown (avoid bright colors, white, and black/dark blue — they attract tsetse flies)
• Long-sleeved shirts & pants (protection from sun and insects)
• Comfortable closed shoes, hat, sunglasses, and a light fleece for early mornings/evenings

Mount Kilimanjaro or other hikes:
• Layering is essential (temperatures range from 30°C/86°F at the base to -15°C/5°F at the summit)
• Moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers (fleece), waterproof/windproof jacket & pants
• Warm hat, gloves, thick socks, and sturdy waterproof hiking boots
• Gaiters, trekking poles, and a headlamp are highly recommended
• Bring a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen for lower altitudes

Essential items:
• High-DEET insect repellent & anti-malarial medication
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+), lip balm with SPF, and sunglasses
• Reusable water bottle & water purification tablets (or LifeStraw)
• Power bank (charging opportunities can be limited on safari)
• Binoculars and a good camera with extra batteries/memory cards
• Universal travel adapter (Type D & G plugs, 230V)
• Small daypack, dry bags/ziplocks for dust & rain protection
• Personal first-aid kit & any prescription medicines (plus copies of prescriptions)