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Everything you need to know
Seasons, packing, health and practical tips for travelling in Tanzania.
Tanzania through the year
| Months | Season | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Jan – Mar | Short dry season | Migration calving in Ndutu & southern Serengeti; great Kilimanjaro climbing; Zanzibar is hot and sunny. |
| Apr – May | Long rains | Green, quiet parks and the lowest prices. Some southern camps close. |
| Jun – Oct | Long dry season | Peak game viewing everywhere; Mara River crossings (Jul–Sep); best for the southern parks and chimp trekking. |
| Nov – Dec | Short rains | Migratory birds arrive; herds return south; beautiful light and fewer vehicles. |
What to bring on safari
- Neutral-coloured clothing (khaki, olive, beige)
- Light long-sleeved shirts & trousers for evenings
- Warm fleece or jacket for early drives & Ngorongoro
- Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
- Comfortable closed walking shoes
- Swimwear for lodges and Zanzibar
- Binoculars (one pair per person is ideal)
- Camera with zoom lens, spare batteries & cards
- Sunscreen, lip balm and insect repellent (DEET)
- Personal medication & a small first-aid kit
- Soft-sided duffel bag (for light-aircraft limits)
- Universal adapter (Tanzania uses type D & G)
- Passport, visa, yellow fever card & insurance copy
- Reusable water bottle
What to bring on the mountain
- Waterproof hiking boots, broken in
- Gaiters and trekking poles
- Thermal base layers (top & bottom)
- Insulated down jacket
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Warm hat, balaclava & buff
- Liner gloves plus insulated mittens
- Four-season sleeping bag (−10 °C or below)
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- 30–35 L daypack with rain cover
- Water bladder & bottles (3 L total)
- Water-purification tablets
- Personal first-aid & altitude medication (consult a doctor)
- Snacks & electrolytes
Missing something? We rent out quality, well-maintained mountain gear in Arusha and Moshi. Ask us for the rental price list.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time for a Tanzania safari?
June to October (the long dry season) is the classic time: animals gather at water, and the Mara River crossings happen in the northern Serengeti. January to March is calving season in Ndutu and the southern Serengeti. April and May are wet but green, quiet and lower priced.
Are your safaris private?
Yes. Every itinerary is tailor-made and runs privately in our own custom pop-up-roof Toyota Land Cruisers, with a dedicated guide. Small-group options are available if you'd like to share costs.
What budget levels do you offer?
We design budget, mid-range and luxury versions of every trip. Your choice of accommodation is the main thing that changes the price; the guiding and vehicles stay the same.
Do I need a visa and vaccinations?
Most visitors need a Tanzania visa, which you can apply for online before travel (eVisa). A yellow fever certificate is required if you arrive from, or transit through, a country with yellow fever risk. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended. Please check current rules with your embassy and a travel clinic.
How fit do I need to be for Kilimanjaro?
You don't need climbing experience, but you should be comfortable walking 5–7 hours a day for several days. The main challenge is altitude. Choosing a longer route (7–9 days) improves your chance of reaching the summit.
Can you combine a safari with Zanzibar?
Absolutely. Most of our guests end with a few days on Zanzibar. A short flight from Arusha or the Serengeti airstrips takes you straight to the beach.
How do I book and pay?
Send us an enquiry with your dates and interests. A travel consultant will design a draft itinerary and quote, which we refine together. Once you're happy, a deposit confirms your booking.
Entry rules and health requirements change. Always confirm the latest visa and vaccination guidance with official sources before you travel.
Still have questions?
Our team is happy to help. Message us on WhatsApp or send an enquiry.