TANZANIA TRAVEL TIPS courtsey of Mbali Mbali Lodges & Camps Tanzania
___________________________
LANGUAGE
English is widely spoken but a few words of Swahili can be useful and will be appreciated by locals.

MONEY
Major foreign currencies – particularly US$ - and travelers cheques are accepted and are convertible at banks
and bureaux de changes in the main towns and tourist areas. Credit cards are not widely accepted and carry
poor exchange rates. Some banks in Arusha, Dar es Salaam and Moshi offer ATM facilities against international credit cards, but ATMs are not available elsewhere. Don’t change money in the street.

HEALTH
Yellow fever vaccination is no longer compulsory. Malaria is endemic but is preventable; use insect repellent,
cover up at sundown, sleep under a mosquito net and take anti-malaria prophylactics as advised by your doctor. Bring prescription medicines, spare glasses, contact lenses and solution, sunscreen as well as a small first aid
kit with cream for insect bites and diarrhea remedy. Drink only bottled or boiled water.

CLIMATE
Generally dry and hot with cool nights/mornings June to October; short rains November to mid December;
long rains March to May but the seasons may vary. The coastal strip is hot and humid all year around.
Temperatures on Mount Kilimanjaro and Meru drop to below freezing.

ON SAFARI
Keep you distance from animals and be quiet to avoid distressing the wildlife.
Follow instructions of rangers and guides.

PHOTOGRAPHY
Bring film and batteries for your camera with you. Protect your cameras from dust and keep equipment
and film cool. It is courteous to ask permission before photographing local people.

INSURANCE
Take out travel insurance as well as emergency medical evacuation insurance to cover loss of baggage
or valuables, personal accident and medical expenses.

TIPPING
Not obligatory, but a tip for exceptional service will be appreciated. An excessive tip can make it difficult
for the next guest/customer.

TIME
3 hrs + GMT

ELECTRICITY
230V, but power failures, surges and toughs are common. Bring a universal adaptor and a torch (flashlight)
or headlamp.

DRIVING
On the left. An international license is required.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN
Tanzanians love children and are especially helpful to mothers. However canned baby foods, powdered milk
and disposable nappies may not be available outside major towns.

VISAS
Check current requirements with the nearest Tanzanian High Commission, embassy or consulate, or your travel agent. Visas, if required can be bought on arrival at all international airports and overland borders.

SECURITY
Tanzania is a generally safe country, but don’t invite temptation. Keep an eye on your belongings. Leave valuable jewelry at home.

GIFTS
Don’t discriminately hand out pens, money and sweets as it just encourages begging. As anywhere, gifts should be given as a true expression of friendship, appreciation or thanks.

SHOPPING
The tourist areas and hotels sell a wide range of souvenirs, jewelry and trinkets. Don’t be afraid to haggle
at roadside curio stalls.
____________________________
WHAT TO BRING...
______________________
While on safari in Tanzania with Mbali Mbali we want all our guests to be comfortable and to ensure this we advise you to pack as light as possible, remembering that the charter flights have a maximum baggage allowance of 15kg per person in soft bags. Please note that all our lodges have a laundry service.
For everyday use we suggest you pack shorts, t-shirts, lightweight trousers, short & long sleeved shirts, good
walking shoes, and casual evening wear for open-air dinners.
For the cooler months of June, July and August it is also advisable to bring a jacket or fleece.
For chimpanzee tracking or other walking activities please bring good lightweight boots/shoes as well as a small
day pack to carry water and other necessary items.
For water activities at Gombe and Mahale don’t forget swimwear, sarongs, and flip flops or sandals.
Shampoo, conditioner and soap are provided in the rooms so please bring other cosmetics and medical items that are required.
Cameras and binoculars are a must. Please note that flash photography is not allowed while chimpanzee tracking.
Last but not least don’t forget to bring sunscreen, lip balm, insect repellent, sunglasses, and a wide brimmed hat.
Lodge&CampsLodge&Camps