Travel Tips
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Safaris are relaxed, casual vacations—so dress comfortably and pack light! Since most of your time will be spent in the safari vehicle, loose-fitting, cotton clothing in light, neutral colours like khaki or green is best. Avoid dark colours like black or navy, as they can attract bugs like the tsetse fly. White clothes can also stand out too much in the bush. Keep airline baggage limits in mind when packing.
Packing List
Lightweight, neutral-colored clothes (khaki, green, beige)
Light jacket or sweater (for mornings/evenings)
Comfortable walking shoes/hiking boots for walking
Sun hat, sunblock with high SPF & sunglasses
Insect repellent
Toiletries
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A passport and visa are required when travelling to Tanzania. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months past your arrival date. Additionally, please make sure that you have a minimum 2 blank pages in your passport. Some countries do not require a visa to enter. You can also apply in person upon arrival or online.
Go to: https://visa.immigration.go.tz/
Photo Recommendation
A quality camera with zoom capabilities is essential for wildlife photography—300mm lenses work well for capturing animals up close. Don't forget to pack extra batteries, chargers, an adapter, and additional memory cards. A dustproof bag will keep your camera safe from the elements while on safari.
It’s also useful to bring a small flashlight, though one will be provided in your suite. A good pair of binoculars can really enhance your game viewing experience. Lastly, always ask for permission before photographing residents, as there may be a fee involved.
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The official language in Tanzania is Swahili, which also has hundreds of other local dialects. As English is the second official language, you will find that the majority of the people you encounter are fairly fluent in English. Here are some fun phrases to practice your Swahili:
Jambo – “Hello”
Habari – “Hello/Good morning” (commonly used when speaking with older people)
Asante – “Thank you”
Asante sana – “Thank you very much”
Pole – “Sorry”
Karibu – interchangeably used as “Welcome” or “You’re Welcome”
Are there any health requirements for safari?
Tanzania is considered a malaria-risk area, so it is highly recommended that you consult your doctor or a travel clinic before your trip to receive advice on suitable antimalarial medication. Additionally, travelers are strongly encouraged to check the most up-to-date information regarding required and recommended vaccinations for visiting Tanzania.
What’s the climate like?
East Africa has a tropical climate throughout the year. The short rains occur from mid-November to early December, while the dry season lasts from June to mid-November. The long rains typically fall between April and May, and the climate is pleasant from December to March. Rain patterns may vary.
What’s the typical temperature in the Serengeti like?
Daytime highs range from 80°F to 84°F (27°C to 29°C) year-round.
Nighttime lows typically fall between 60°F and 65°F (15°C to 18°C).
Wildlife Viewing Recommendations
Tanzania’s great weather means you can enjoy wildlife viewing all day long, but for the best chances of seeing animals, it’s a good idea to start your game drives early, around 6 AM to 9 AM, when the animals are most active. The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are especially fantastic in the mornings. Remember, patience pays off in the wild! Sometimes sticking with one animal for a while can teach you a lot about their behavior and you might even get to see exciting hunts!
Gratuity Guidelines
On safari, it's customary to tip your safari driver guide directly. Other staff members, such as chefs, kitchen teams, and housekeeping, are typically included in the "general staff tip box," where the tips are evenly distributed among them. This ensures that everyone who works behind the scenes to make your trip successful benefits from the gratuity.