The 7 Top Travel Tips For First Timer To Tanzania
Tanzania is one of the most beautiful countries to visit, but there are some tips that first-timers should know about. These tips will ensure that you have a good time in the country and that you know everything that you need to do.
Getting A Visa
Citizens of most European countries, the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia will need a visa to enter Tanzania. You will be able to find out more information about getting a visa from the Tanzanian Embassy websites. It is important to note that the tourist visa which is issued will be valid for 6 months from the date of issue. This means that you will not want to get the visa too far in advance.
The Risk Of Malaria
To enter Tanzania, you will not have to show proof of any immunization, but you need to be aware of the risk of malaria. Tanzania is home to a resistant strain of malaria and you need to be careful with this. It is important that you tell your doctor that you are going to be visiting Tanzania in particular so that you can get the right anti-malaria medication.
Follow Basic Safety Rules
Tanzania is known for the friendly and laid-back attitude of the people, but this does not mean that you should not follow basic safety rules. These rules will include not walking on your own at night in the cities or along an empty beach. You should also be careful with the cash that you carry. There have also been some instances of thieves posing as police officers so you need to be aware.
When You Should Visit The Country
Depending on what you want to experience in the country, you need to time your visit correctly. March to May and November to December is the rainy seasons and this causes roads to wash out and certain parks to close. However, this will be the best time for deals on safaris and enjoying the country with fewer tourists.
You should look at climbing Kilimanjaro in January, February or September when it is dry and warm. The annual migration will take place between February and March and during the dry season. The beaches are best enjoyed from July to October when there are fewer tourists.
Getting To Tanzania
There are a number of ways that you can get to Tanzania depending on where you are coming from. Most people will fly into the country with the best airport being Kilimanjaro International. There are daily KLM flights from Amsterdam. If you are heading to the southern and western parts of the country, you should fly to the capital which is possible with a range of different European airlines.
Getting Around Tanzania
To get around Tanzania, you can fly, take the train or take the bus. Flying will be the fastest option and you can choose from a range of different carriers. All major towns will have several scheduled flights, but smaller towns will not. If you are going to take the train, you should be aware that there are 2 railway lines that offer different classes. First and second class travel should be booked a few days in advance.
Renting A Car
It is possible to rent a car from all of the major car rental agencies. These agencies will generally provide you with a 4WD vehicle, but will not offer unlimited mileage. If you are going to be renting a car, you will have to carefully calculate your costs. It is also important to note that the roads in Tanzania are not always the best and they can be washed out in the rainy seasons.