15 essential insights for visiting Tanzania

With its islands in the Indian Ocean, diverse wildlife, vibrant mountains, and friendly locals, Tanzania is a must-visit on nearly everyone's African travel list. If you get the chance to explore this country, embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself in a lifestyle that harmonizes with ancient traditions and the rhythms of nature.

Having spent over 20 years living in and exploring Tanzania, my key advice for travelers includes: pick up some Swahili, enjoy time with the wildlife, and use your mosquito net. Additionally, learn how to secure the best bus seats and understand the best months for trekking or safaris. Read on for more tips to enhance your experience and ensure smooth travels.

1. Avoid shortening your stay too much

To truly enjoy Tanzania's wildlife parks – even just a couple – you need time. Don’t forget about beach hopping along the coast, hiking in the highlands, trekking up Kilimanjaro, visiting local markets, and much more. A week barely scratches the surface, but you’ll find a more fulfilling experience with at least two weeks, ideally three or more.

2. Wildebeest follow their own schedules

Wildlife sightings are almost guaranteed. However, if you want to witness a specific event like the wildebeest migration's peak, be aware that logistics can become complicated. Camps along the migration path tend to fill up quickly, and the wildebeest move according to natural patterns and their internal rhythms. To catch the action, plan ahead and consult the camps for advice; their guides will monitor rainfall and animal movements. If the wildebeest don’t cooperate, embrace the Tanzanian spirit: hakuna matata ('no worries') – there’s plenty of other wildlife to enjoy.

3. Customize your journey

Tanzania is a destination you can visit year-round, but it's important to consider the seasons. Refer to LP’s Tanzania guidebook for specifics, but generally, plan your trip during the dry months from June to September for the best wildlife viewing, hiking, and Kilimanjaro climbs. For birdwatching, lower prices, and fewer tourists, consider visiting during the wet months from February to May. Keep in mind that even though March to May are the rainiest months, you'll still enjoy plenty of sunshine.

4. Budget for gratuities

While safaris and treks can be expensive, the fees paid do not fully cover the drivers, guides, cooks, and porters who contribute significantly to your experience. Tipping is a customary practice, and generous tips for great service are greatly appreciated, especially by those relying on this income. Your safari or trekking company can offer you guidance on appropriate amounts.

5. Bring a credit card for park fees and ATMs, and cash for everywhere else

Visa and MasterCard are accepted for national park fees and at major tourist spots, but you will need cash for other locations. Since change is often hard to come by, it's wise to carry some smaller bills.

6. Understanding Tanzanian time

It's not just the wildebeest that operate on their own schedule; Tanzania does as well. When looking up hours for attractions or transport, make sure to check if the times are listed in Western time or Tanzanian time. The Tanzanian system is based on a 12-hour clock starting at 1 o'clock just after sunrise (7am), moving to 12 o'clock at sunset (6pm), and continuing through the night.

7. A safari offers much more than just the chance to see the 'Big 5'

Spend ample time in wildlife and birding areas. Ideally, plan for several nights in one park to truly appreciate the subtle rhythms of the bush and the rich diversity of local wildlife. At times, you might need to ask your guide to switch off the motor and simply sit quietly, waiting to see what unfolds around you.

8. Make time for greetings

In Tanzania, greetings play a crucial role in daily interactions, reflecting a strong sense of community. From casual street exchanges like Mambo vipi? ('How are things?') to more formal greetings such as Habari za asubuhi, Habari za leo ('Good morning, good day'), these interactions are never rushed or overlooked. When speaking to an elder, always begin with the respectful Shikamoo (literally, 'I clasp your feet'). If you forget, some older Tanzanians may remind you by saying marahaba (the customary reply). Handshakes are also leisurely, with many people holding hands throughout the conversation.

9. Learn a bit of Swahili

You'll likely pick up some Swahili naturally, as you’ll frequently hear words like karibu ('welcome'), pole pole ('slowly'), and asante ('thank you'). Swahili is a beautiful, inclusive language, and your efforts to learn even a few simple phrases will be warmly received, enhancing cultural exchanges and making your travels smoother.

10. The significance of the right hand

In Tanzanian culture, the left hand is traditionally associated with hygiene and is not used for eating or passing items. Always use your right hand for these purposes. When receiving gifts, accept them with both hands or with your right hand while your left hand touches your right elbow.

11. Understand the dining customs

Receiving an invitation to a local home is a memorable experience. Before the meal, a host will bring a basin, soap, a pitcher of water, and a towel for hand washing. Meals are usually served from communal dishes and will always include ugali (a thick dish made from maize or cassava flour) along with a sauce. To eat, take a piece of ugali, form it into a ball, and use it to scoop up some sauce with your right hand. Don’t worry about getting sticky—the hand washing ritual will be repeated after the meal. Leaving a small amount on your plate signals to your host that you’re not still hungry.

12. Dress modestly, particularly on the coast

Tanzania has a conservative culture, especially along the Muslim Swahili coast. As a general rule, opt for loose-fitting clothing that covers your shoulders and knees to ensure everyone feels comfortable. Additionally, it’s best to refrain from public displays of affection.

13. Be cautious at bus stations

Avoid accepting open drinks and stay alert. While touts may approach you, it's beneficial to know which bus company you intend to use (ask your hotel for recommendations) and only buy tickets at a clearly marked bus office or directly from the driver.

14. Seek the shaded side of the bus

For lengthy trips, sitting on the cooler side away from the sun enhances comfort. Choosing the right seat is essential; front seats on the shady side are ideal. 'Luxury' buses are worth the extra cost, as they usually feature two seats per row on each side and enforce a no-standing policy. However, on rural routes, you may encounter buses with two seats on one side, three on the other, and a jump seat in the middle. The most comfortable spots are by the front windows, away from the crowd. Since many travelers will vie for these seats, it’s advisable to book in advance or arrive early at the bus station.

15. Secure your mosquito net

Malaria is prevalent in many regions of Tanzania, and most hotels provide either mosquito nets or air conditioning (mosquitoes tend to avoid cold environments). It’s beneficial to utilize the nets, especially during the rainy season and in coastal areas; make sure to tuck in all the edges to ensure a peaceful, bite-free night.