Tanzania Safari Asked Questions
WHY CHOOSE ABAKOMBE TOURS
If you are looking for private and “boutique” safaris, Abakombe Tours is what we specialized in and you will be traveling with a purpose as by booking with us you help the community. We tailor-make your holiday experience to suit your dream Africa experience by taking you to the less visited remote areas of Tanzania & Kenya with an authentic beach of Zanzibar, Pemba, and Mafia island.
TANZANIA SAFARI FAQ’S
What makes Tanzania and Kenya the best safari destination in Africa is the awe-inspiring range of flora and fauna. This East African country is blessed with an incredible wealth of wildlife, arresting natural wonders, imposing mountains, lush rainforests and so much more. You will have the best time of your life in Tanzania Safari Tours. We receive many queries regarding traveling to these amazing destinations some of which we have tried to answer in our Tanzania Safari Faqs below:
FOOD ON SAFARI
Is it okay to eat salads, and fruits and drink water?
The tap water in Tanzania is not safe for drinking directly. You can surely eat salads and eat fruits in Tanzania. A healthy diet will keep you away from any medical ailments. You can eat all kinds of fruits here as they are generally safe.
Can special diets be accommodated?
In most of the Tanzania Safari Faqs, we are asked about special diets in Tanzania and whether it is offered by Lifetime Safaris. For availing of the special diets, our clients are asked to inform us about their food requirements well in advance. Whether you are a vegetarian, or vegan, or require gluten-free or diabetic-friendly meals we can easily arrange them for you at your convenience. Making us aware of your food requirements during the booking of your safari itself will be of great help.
Are there a lot of bugs in Tanzania?
Yes, like any other tropical Country, Tanzania also hosts many bugs, insects, and mosquitoes. To safeguard our clients from these unfriendly hosts all hotels and tented camp rooms are sprayed with insect repellents. It is advisable to carry insect repellents along with you while traveling to Tanzania.
What’s the food like on the safari?
The delicious cuisines of Tanzania are a tasty yet amazing blend of the best of Swahili flavors with the best western, Arabic, and Indian cuisines. With the many foreign rulers and travelers who visited this country in the past (as the country was part of the Silk-route), the taste of almost every culture is experienced in Tanzanian food. We will provide you with a personalized taste of Vegetarian, Vegan, Dairy-free, Gluten-free, and other special dietary needs that can be accommodated with advance intimation.
What can I expect to eat & drink on safari?
In Tanzania Safari Tours the breakfasts are usually buffet “British” breakfasts. You will get omelets, potatoes, bacon/sausage (which is more like a hot dog), toast, cereals, etc. The Lunch in Tanzania would include cold chicken, yogurt, juice, hard-boiled eggs, raw veggies, and some kind of baked cake/cookie. For your Dinner meat, potatoes/rice and vegetarian food are served.
WILDLIFE VIEWING
Where is the best place to go for wildlife viewing in Africa?
Numerous tourists especially wildlife lovers visit this wild continent to witness its best wildlife views and unique flora and fauna. We are mostly asked in the Tanzania Safari Faqs about the best place to go for wildlife viewing in Africa.
Maasai Mara hosts thousands of zebras, wildebeest, and gazelle that make their annual pilgrimage from the Serengeti, following the green grasses that pop up after the rains.
The Kalahari Desert, Botswana is a photographer’s delight with unrestrained rust-colored valleys, sand dunes, and an array of wildlife.
Etosha is another wildlife lover’s paradise in Africa with the most beautiful and accessible wildlife sanctuaries, hosting 114 mammal species and 340 bird species.
The Kruger National Park has the maximum population of the Big 5 (elephant, lion, rhino, leopard, and buffalo) in Africa
Lastly, do not miss the Great Wildebeest Migration of Serengeti on your treasured visit to Tanzania.
What kinds of wildlife will I see on safari in Tanzania?
The varieties of wildlife are quite similar in most of the national parks in Tanzania. It vastly depends on the Tanzania Safari Packages that you choose with Lifetime Safaris.
Wildebeests and Elephants: The major attraction of Tanzania is the Wildebeests in this country which are extensively found in the Serengeti National Park.
Lions: Here you will find lions roaming in the parks in search of prey or shade throughout the year. The country offers a significantly healthy population of lions, lionesses, and cubs.
Giraffes: You will be amazed to see the incredible number of Giraffes that are spotted in Tanzania. Interestingly, this country has the largest Giraffe population in the world.
Hippopotamus: A part of the Big Five club in Tanzania is Hippopotamus which are found in enormous numbers in Tanzania throughout the year.
Zebra: This country has a huge density of Zebra population. You will get a beautiful opportunity to watch these stripped animals closely, drinking water and roaming on the lush green lands of Tanzanian national Parks.
What is the Great Migration?
The most attractive activity in Tanzania is the Great Wildebeest Migration which is an annual migration of giant herds of grazers across Northern Tanzania and Kenya.
On average over two million wildebeests, zebras and gazelles move through the Serengeti and Masai Mara networks in search of food and water.
This Great Migration in Tanzania can be witnessed all year round as the wildlife migrates in a circular motion around the Serengeti National Park.
SAFARI WEAR
What clothes should I bring on the safari and what items are required for the safari?
In your Tanzania Safari Packing List, you must pack the right clothes, equipment, and necessary documents.
The Clothes required for Tanzania Safari are:
One light jacket
One fleece
Three pairs of safari pants (one of them zip-off)
One pair shorts
One long-sleeve shirt (light, breathable)
Four short-sleeve shirts
One dress (for nice dinners)
A set of pajamas
A pair of hiking boots
A pair of sandals (or Keens)
Underwear
Sports bra (for women)
Three pairs of socks
Sun hat
Swimsuit
Sunglasses
Vaccination card: You must take the necessary vaccinations and keep the vaccination cards for your destination a few months before the trip.
First-aid kit: It is very important to make your first aid or safety kit before you start your travel. This medical kit could include all the necessary medicines that you take regularly. Consult your personal physician for any other medical requirements before visiting Tanzania. Lifetime Safaris advises you to bring the basic medical requirements like Paracetamol, an antihistamine for reactions to insect bites, diarrhea medication for food poisoning, and cough drops.
Insect repellent: In Tanzania, you will not only be welcomed by varieties of insects but also bugs and mosquitoes if you are camping outside in any national park. Although we do spray insect repellents in the accommodations provided to our guests. You must still carry anti-malaria pills, and other necessities to stay safe here.
Electronics: Carry your Camera, portable power bank, binoculars, batteries, and solar torch. etc
Toiletries: Shampoo, toothpaste, shower gel, tampons for ladies, toilet papers, and other requirements
Cash: US dollars are accepted in most of Tanzanian restaurants and hotels some shops accept only Tanzanian Shillings. So you must exchange your currency for Tanzanian Shillings and carry some cash around in the country.
Other Travel Documents: Visa, Travel insurance, passport, and other travel documents
What to wear on safari in Tanzania?
Casual clothing is expected in Tanzania so you do not need to pack any extravagant clothes. Loose-fitting and lightweight clothes are the best choices for Tanzanian safari because they keep you cool and even dry quickly in case you get caught in a rain shower. Carry a good fleece or jacket for warding off the chilly cold mornings of game drive activities. You can wear long sleeves at night as there will usually be a campfire to keep you warm but you will need to protect yourself from mosquitoes.
SAFARI WEATHER
What’s the climate like?
Tanzania offers a tropical-type of climate on the Tanzanian mainland whereas the coastal areas are hot and humid. The climate of the northwestern highlands is cool and temperate. There are two rainy seasons one is a short season of rain generally from October to December, and the other is the long season of rain lasting from March to June. However, the central plateau tends to be dry and arid throughout the year.
When is the best time of year to go on a safari in Tanzania?
Lifetime Safaris suggest you experience Tanzania in all seasons. However, the Best Time for Safari In Tanzania or for trekking Kilimanjaro or other mountains is the dry season (late June-October) as the climatic conditions are the best excellent with clear skies and very little humidity.
When is the best time to see the migration?
To witness Africa’s biggest mass movement of wildebeests in Serengeti you must visit this spectacular country in August and September. During this period your chances of witnessing river crossing of various herds of different animals are quite high. From early October onwards due to the rainy season, the herds journey back to the Serengeti.
What kind of weather can I expect on safari?
Due to the closeness to the equator, a seasonal fluctuation of temperature is observed in Tanzania. The weather is generally warm here however the temperatures can drop significantly during and after rainy weather, and at night. The coastal region is hot and humid throughout the year.
MISCELLANEOUS
Can I make my own itinerary?
Yes! You can definitely plan your own personalized travel itinerary with Lifetime Safaris. We provide private Tanzania Safari Tours which are customized according to your needs. For planning a perfect Tanzania Safari itinerary, you can speak to our Travel experts who will guide you about the destinations of your choice. We also take utmost care of the safety, and hygiene of our clients. The Food will be of your choice requested as per your recommendations during the time of safari bookings.
Can I take my children on a safari?
Yes, you can surely bring your children on Safari. But you must be aware of the minimum age restrictions at various national parks and lodges which is about 4 and 12 years of age. As all safari activities are not open to children, you must check with our travel experts regarding the age criteria at the different destinations planned in your itinerary.
Will I stay in tents or lodges?
Whether you stay at tents or lodges depends on the type of packages you have purchased like luxury safaris, budget safaris or a standard Tanzania Safari where we will bring our own tents, camping, a cook to prepare your meals, food, and other cooking types of equipment.
You can choose to upgrade your accommodation, to enjoy a more comfortable and luxurious experience as well.
What size are your safari groups?
In a safari group in Tanzania, we take anywhere around 4-6 people in our vehicle depending on the type of safari you have chosen. In group tours, six people are taken at max. While for a private tour, less than three guests will accompany you in the safari vehicle.
What Kind of vehicles do you use?
The safari vehicle provided by Lifetime Safari is a 4×4 safari vehicle. Mostly we accommodate around six guests in throw rows of seating in our closed safari vehicles which have a pop-top roof hatch that will allow you to view wildlife from a height. These safari vehicles can also be minibusses or 4X4 Land Cruisers or 4X4 Land Rovers.
PROGRAMS
I am interested in a Tanzania safari… What is my next step?
It’s a great choice to choose Tanzania safari as your next travel or vacation destination. As you have already made up your mind for visiting this spectacular country, we suggest you call our Lifetime Safaris to travel experts to inquire about and book a suggested itinerary of your choice. You can accompany us in our group safari trips or even plan a personalized private Tanzania safari which offers flexible dates, locations, and safari durations. After selecting your package or travel itinerary you can proceed with booking the safari.
Will I have a chance to interact with the local people of Tanzania?
Tanzania for many years has been home to thousands of native tribes and people of different origins, and cultures. Tanzania is the home of 120 African ethnic groups and more than 26 million people live in this East African country. You will be amazed to encounter and closely interact with the Maasai people of Tanzania who will show you how to light a fire without any combustibles. Other lesser-known tribes like the Datoga and Chaga and their rich cultural tapestry can be explored in your Tanzania walking or cultural tours.
What additional costs can I expect when traveling in Tanzania?
In your Tanzania Safari Cost, the following expenses are not included in your safari package:
Airport departure taxes
Travel Insurance
Excess baggage fees
International Flight Travel expenses
Tanzania Visa or passport costs
Medical expenses, meals, or activities included in the safari package (upgradation of stay or additional activities included after travel bookings)
Tips to drivers/guides/tour leaders
BOOKING & PAYMENT
How far in advance should I book my safari?
It is advisable to book your international flight tickets at least three months in advance if you do not wish to face problems getting seats on British Airways or KLM. If you are planning your trip in the peak season, it is advisable to book your safari to Tanzania at least nine months before.
Can I use a credit card to pay?
Yes, you can use credit cards to pay your bills however these are only accepted in big hotels or restaurants. However, in other local markets, mostly Tanzanian Shillings are accepted. There are ATM machines in Arusha, Dar, and Zanzibar where you can get local currency with your Visa or MasterCard. Please note that at Abakombe Tours money transfers using social financial organizations like WU, MoneyGram, and WR may be declined due to ongoing fraud!
Should I bring some cash with me?
Yes, you can bring cash around in either Tanzania Shilling (TSh) or American dollars as cheques and cash are accepted in many places here around town.
What will my means of transport be?
Uber is the least expensive means of road transportation in the Tanzanian town as for a 30-40 min ride they charge a minimum of $3.50. There is affordable public bus transportation in Tanzania called Dallas-Dallas, which can be difficult to navigate in town, as the bus stations don’t have any names on it and you will have to ask around for directions. To go around the towns you can take the Rapid Transit System as well but these do not go into the peninsular areas.
What about Tanzania Safari Tips?
Tanzania Safari Tipping is not compulsory but customary. Lifetime Safaris recommends you tip moderately depending on the level of satisfaction you have received from the services.
Safari guide(s) US $10 per day;
Cook US $7,
Camp staff US $3 $5 per day.
VISA
Do I need a visa to enter Tanzania?
To enter this marvelous country of diverse wildlife and unique culture, some countries like USA, Australia, UK, require a Tanzania Visa which cost around $50 US cash for non-US citizens and $100 for US citizens. You can obtain this visa on arrival at the airport as well.
What Are The Entry Requirements?
The various documents needed to enter Tanzania are listed below in the Tanzania Travel Requirements :
Passport valid for at least 6 months
Two Blank Passport pages
A Tourist Travel Visa for entry
Yellow fever vaccinations are required if traveling from a yellow fever-endemic country. You can consult your physician for any other vaccine requirements.
Can I get a visa upon arrival?
Yes, you can purchase a Tanzanian Visa on arrival at the Airport upon entry by paying $50 after some document verifications (which is a 30 min procedure only). American citizens need to pay 100 US$ and get only a multiple entry Visa (since September 2007).
HEALTH & VACCINATIONS
What Vaccines And Medication Should I Take?
The following vaccinations are recommended under WHO guidelines before visiting Tanzania:
hepatitis A/hepatitis B,
typhoid,
cholera,
yellow fever,
rabies,
meningitis,
polio,
measles,
Mumps and rubella (MMR).
What immunizations/shots are required?
The following immunization/shots are required before you enter Tanzania:
Tetanus – is good for 10/years
Polio Booster
Malaria meds (tabs)
You can consult your personal physician for any other immunization that you may need as per your health conditions and requirements.
