Tanzania Accommodation

The best time to visit Tanzania depends on your activities. For safaris, June to October is perfect—dry weather makes wildlife easier to spot, and the Great Migration river crossings peak from July to September. Want fewer crowds? The short rainy season (November–December) offers lush scenery. January to March brings baby animals and green landscapes. Zanzibar’s beaches shine from June to October and December to February. Climbing Kilimanjaro? The dry months (January–March, June–October) are best. The long rainy season (March–May) can make travel tricky but is great for birding and solitude.

Top months: June–October & December–February

June–October is safari season at its best—sunshine, animals, and epic migrations. December–February? A lush, wildlife-filled paradise. March–May and November are underrated gems—expect fewer crowds, greenery, and vibrant birdlife. Yes, there’s rain, but it’s still magical!

Yes, Tanzania is generally safe for tourists, but caution is necessary. In cities like Dar es Salaam and Arusha, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur, so avoid displaying valuables and use secure transportation. Solo travelers should exercise extra vigilance, especially at night. When using taxis, opt for licensed or hotel-arranged services. Safari parks are safe with proper guidance, but always follow ranger instructions. If climbing Kilimanjaro, choose a reputable tour operator for safety. Political demonstrations are rare but should be avoided. Avoid unregistered tour operators and scams involving unofficial guides. Tanzania has friendly locals, but basic precautions will ensure a smooth trip. Having travel insurance covering theft, accidents, and medical emergencies is highly recommended.

Tanzania is widely recognised as one of the safest countries on the African continent. Every year, over a million travellers from all over the globe visit the country to discover its iconic wildlife and storybook landscapes; and every year, thousands of them are Timbuktu travellers. Safety is our utmost priority for everyone in our care and we would never recommend a country that wasn’t safe.

Absolutely! Most visitors spend their time in Tanzania’s national parks and reserves, which are world-renowned for their safety, security, and hospitality. Camps and lodges are top-notch, with expert guides ensuring a smooth experience.

Tanzanians are warm, welcoming, and eager to share their beautiful country. In the northern safari circuit, tourism is a key industry, and locals are supportive of visitors. While some areas pose risks, they are far from tourist zones and unrelated to tourism.

The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the official currency, but U.S. dollars (USD) are widely accepted in hotels, lodges, restaurants, and tourist areas. Carry small USD bills (issued after 2009) for convenience. ATMs are available in major cities and accept international cards, but rural areas have limited access. Credit cards work at high-end hotels and shops, but cash is essential for markets and small vendors.

Exchange money at banks or authorized forex bureaus for the best rates—avoid street changers to prevent scams. Tipping is customary, especially for safari guides, porters, and hotel staff. Both TZS and USD are accepted almost everywhere, including airports, shops, and tourist services. Many Tanzanians are familiar with dollars, and even street vendors often quote prices in USD for souvenirs and small purchases.

Swahili is the official and most widely spoken language in Tanzania, but English is commonly used in major tourist areas, hotels, and with safari guides. Learning a few Swahili phrases can enhance your experience and help you connect with locals.

In rural areas, English proficiency is lower, so basic Swahili can be helpful. Road signs and official documents are often in Swahili, but tourism-related businesses use English. Guides and staff in national parks typically speak fluent English, so communication won’t be a problem.

Tanzania offers some of the world’s best safari experiences, with breathtaking landscapes and exceptional wildlife. The Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti is a must-see, but the country’s diversity extends far beyond. From the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO-listed caldera teeming with wildlife, to the elephant-rich Tarangire National Park, every destination has something unique.

For a more remote experience, explore Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park) or Ruaha National Park, home to vast landscapes and fewer crowds. Mahale Mountains National Park and Rubondo Island offer unforgettable chimpanzee trekking adventures.

Top Safari Destinations:

Serengeti National Park – Famous for the Great Migration.

Ngorongoro Crater – Big 5 sightings in a stunning setting.

Tarangire National Park – Large elephant herds, baobabs.

Lake Manyara – Tree-climbing lions, flamingos.

Selous & Ruaha – Remote, pristine wilderness.

Most safaris start in Arusha, with options ranging from luxury lodges to more reasonably priced mobile safaris.

Yes, but physical preparation is essential. Kilimanjaro is a non-technical climb, meaning no climbing skills are required, but the high altitude makes it challenging. Acclimatization, fitness, and route selection are key to success. The Marangu and Rongai routes are easier, while Machame and Lemosho offer better scenery. The trek takes 5–9 days, with longer routes improving summit chances. Guides and porters are mandatory, and weather varies, with freezing temperatures at higher altitudes.

Altitude sickness is the biggest challenge—ascend slowly, stay hydrated, and take precautions. Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking is recommended. Training boosts your summit success rate. Kilimanjaro is a major commitment, and skipping training reduces your chances of reaching the top. Since the trip is costly, proper preparation ensures you don’t waste time, money, or effort on an unsuccessful climb.