Useful info
Practical tips.
eye problems
The combination of dust and glare may create problems for those with sensitive eyes. Sunglasses afford some protection. And if you anticipate problems of this sort then do not forget to pack eye drops. To avoid suffering in these dusty conditions it is a good idea to wear glasses or bring a soothing eyebath on long drives.
sun and heat
Give some thought of packing sun cream. The incidence of skin cancer is rocketing as Caucasians are travelling and spending more time exposing themselves to the sun. Keep out of the sun during the middle of the day and if you must expose yourself to the sun, build up gradually from 20 minutes per day and wear a hat if you can. Sun exposure ages the skin, makes people prematurely wrinkly and increases the risk of skin cancer.
insect bites
The prevalence of malaria means it is crucial to avoid mosquito bites between dusk and dawn. Paying particular attention to your ankles since Malaria carrying Mosquitoes often hunt at ground level. As the sun is setting wear long clothes and socks and apply repellent to your ankles and to any other exposed flesh. On day time during safari remember to always carry your repellent along with you as Tse tse flies may be aggressively waiting for any passing by to bite. It may not be the permanent prevention but it reduces the risks.
malaria
Tanzania is not a particularly unhealthy country for tourists. Malaria is the greatest health risk to travelers in East Africa and it is present in most parts of the region. With the highest risk being along the coast and other low lying areas during the rainy season. All visitors should thus take preventative measures against Malaria, regardless of their itinerary and should also be alert to potential symptoms both during their trip and after they return home. Ideally sleep under a treated bed net or in an air-conditioned room. If that is not possible, burning a mosquito coil or mat will hugely reduce mosquito activity. In an area where mosquitoes seem common it is advisable to close all windows at night or any time you have the lights on.
health
Preparations to ensure a healthy trip require checks on your immunization status. It is wise to make sure you are up to date on Tetanus, Polio and Diphtheria (Now given as an all in one vaccine, Revaxis, that lasts for ten years), and a Hepatitis A. Immunization against Meningococcus and Rabies may also be recommended. Proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever is needed for entry into East African countries for all travelers over one year of age.
travel insurance
Before you travel, make sure that you have adequate medical insurance. Choose a policy with comprehensive cover for hospitalization as well as for repatriation in an emergency. Nowadays the range of cover available is very wide. Choose whatever suits your method of travel. Be aware if you plan to use cycles or motorbike or taxis, that not all policies cover you for this form of transport. Remember to take all the details with you, particularly your policy number and the telephone number that you have to contact in the event of a claim.
clothes
Pack lightweight, washable clothes and do not forget a sweater for early morning game drives. Sun hat, sun glasses. Long sleeves and trousers in light colored fabrics help discourage insect bites. Shorts for women are acceptable but should carry a wrap to cover legs in the villages and towns as revealing clothes can cause offence especially in Zanzibar and Muslims areas. On beaches and hotels swimming pools normal swimwear are acceptable. And as for hikers especially Kilimanjaro and Meru hikers should bring with them thermal underwear, light layers, rain jacket, proper socks and sturdy boots and any others climbing equipment.
currency
Tanzania currency is Tanzanian shilling. The symbol for TZS can be written Tsh. It is subdivided into 100 cents with Banknotes of 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10,000 and Coins from 50, 100, 200, 500.
The exchange rate for the Tanzania Shilling varies accordingly with daily new updates. Bureau can be found at Airport or in cities each with its exchange rates. Like in India Dollars dating back from 1999 are being rejected in Tanzania or exchanged by a very low rate which is almost equivalent to T/shilling value.
Popular Currency Profiles roughly.
• USD – US Dollar US$1 = Tsh 2000
• EUR – Euro €1 = Tsh 2500
• GBP – British Pound £1 = Tsh 3000.
The exchange rate for the Tanzania Shilling varies accordingly with daily new updates. Bureau can be found at Airport or in cities each with its exchange rates. Like in India Dollars dating back from 1999 are being rejected in Tanzania or exchanged by a very low rate which is almost equivalent to T/shilling value.
Popular Currency Profiles roughly.
• USD – US Dollar US$1 = Tsh 2000
• EUR – Euro €1 = Tsh 2500
• GBP – British Pound £1 = Tsh 3000.
climate
Tanzania has a tropical type of climate. In the highlands, temperatures range between 10°C and 20°C during cold and hot seasons respectively. The rest of the country has a temperatures never falling lower than 20°C. The hottest period spreads between November and February 25°C and 35°C while the coldest period occurs between May and August 15°C and 20°C.
Two rainfalls regimes exist over Tanzania. One is unimodal December – April and the other is bimodal October, December, March May. The former is experienced in southern, south west, central and western parts of the country and later is found to the north and northern coast.
In the bimodal regime the March May rains are referred to as long rains or Masika, whereas the October – December rains are generally kwon as short rains or Vuli (Swahili).
Two rainfalls regimes exist over Tanzania. One is unimodal December – April and the other is bimodal October, December, March May. The former is experienced in southern, south west, central and western parts of the country and later is found to the north and northern coast.
In the bimodal regime the March May rains are referred to as long rains or Masika, whereas the October – December rains are generally kwon as short rains or Vuli (Swahili).
visas
Tanzania visa is available at airport and borders during your arrival for only $50 for non-American citizens and $100 for American Citizens. Otherwise consult or check current requirements with the nearest Tanzanian High Commission or Embassy.
travel with children
Tanzania safety is another reason why to travel with children. However canned baby food, powdered milk and disposable nappies may not be available outside major towns.
photography
Protect your camera from dust, it is wise to ask for permission before photographing local people. And if you intend to take people pictures, please bring an instant printer with you so that you can leave a picture with the people you photograph.
religions
With large communities of both Muslims and Christians, it’s not uncommon for towns to have a mosque and a church. And festivals/holidays of both religions are given equal recognition. Both playing a major contribution to Tanzania`s Education and Health, building schools and hospitals in remote areas as in towns.
security
Tanzania is by far a safe country, but keep an eye on your belongings. Do not walk in the towns or cities at night, take a private transport or taxi instead. If you are carrying a Camera remember to hold it firmly during town walking and if it has a belt it is wise to have it on your neck all the time. Avoid carrying large amount of cash or exposing it on crowd and beware of pickpockets. Leave valuable jewelry at home.