Heading off to Tanzania soon? Don’t leave without knowing a bit about where you’re going! Read All You Ever Wanted To Know About Tanzania and All you ever wanted to know about Mount Kilimanjaro and follow these tips to stay in the know;
Requirements – All visitors to Tanzania (except for Commonwealth citizens and other specified countries) will need a valid up to date passport and visa to enter the country. Visas can be obtained from any Tanzania Diplomatic Mission or consulate or from the main Tanzania entry points. Applicants can also write to the Principal Immigration Officer, PO Box 512, Dar es Salaam and request the required documents. Visitors who are entering Tanzania through a point where no immigration officer is on duty must report to the nearest immigration office within 24 hours of entry.
Customs – Personal possessions such as binoculars, cameras and film may be imported temporarily free of duty. A customs bond may be required from those travelers to Tanzania bringing in video or filming equipment, radios, tape recorders and musical instruments to ensure that the goods are re-exported. Firearms require a special permit. Liquor (1 pint) tobacco (200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 250 grams) are tax free for individuals of 16 years and older. Visitors buying valuable gems, skin articles, makonde carvings and other local handcrafts must keep their cash sales receipts for presentation to customs officials on departure.
Travel Fees – An airport tax in convertible foreign currency is levied on all visitors departing from Tanzania. Baggage is weighed at check-in counters and is subject to inspection by customs officials.
Health – Visitors which originate from countries with possible exposure to cholera and yellow fever should travel with valid vaccination certificates. Mosquito control efforts and the high altitude of Northern Tanzania greatly reduce the risks of contracting Malaria. It is recommended that visitors consult with their medical professional before traveling. A preventative treatment plan may be necessary before, during and after the trip.
Clothing – Informal attire is appropriate on safari and on the coast of Tanzania. Clothing should be light-weight and light in color on safari. Warm clothing is recommended in the evenings and particularly in higher altitudes. Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha, Mount Kilimanjaro areas, Usambara and the Southern Highlands are areas where warmer clothing may be needed. Low-heeled walking shoes are recommended. Other accessories like a hat, sunglasses, swimsuits, flashlight, and insect repellent will be useful.
