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Tanzania and Zanzibar
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Tanzania and Zanzibar Arusha - Tarangire National Park - Karatu - Central Serengeti - Northern Serengeti - Stone Town - Kendwa 16 Days / 15 Nights
Reference: 200102S Date of Issue: 15 January 2020
Click here to view your Digital Itinerary
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Introduction A fifteen night safari in Tanzania including experiences in:
Tarangire Lake Manayara Ngorongoro Crater Ndutu Plains Serengeti (Seronera) Timed to optimise the probability of viewing the massed herds of The Great Migration Northern Serengeti Ancient Stone Town on Zanzibar Finish with three lazy days at a luxury beach resort on Zanzibar
Start Accommodation Destination Basis Duration
Day 1 Arusha Planet Lodge Arusha D,B&B 1 Night
Day 2 Tarangire Simba Lodge Tarangire National Park HB+ 2 Nights
Day 4 Karatu Simba Lodge Karatu FB+ 2 Nights
Day 6 Serengeti Osupuko Camp Central Serengeti FB+ 2 Nights
Day 8 Mara River Kati Kati Northern Serengeti FB+ 3 Nights
Day 11 Jafferji House & Spa Stone Town B&B 2 Nights
Day 13 Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa Kendwa D,B&B 3 Nights
Key B&B: Bed and Breakfast D,B&B: Dinner, Bed and Breakfast HB+: Half Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Activities FB+: Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Price AUD9989 per person
Included - Domestic flight Kogatende / Zanzibar - Ground transportation in 4x4 vehicle on safari with pop-up roof - Game drives & private safari experience - Accommodation in lodges specified subject to availability - All meals during the safari - All park fees, government taxes and service charges
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- 1.5 litres bottled water per person per day on safari - 1 pair of binoculars and 2 photography bean bags in the vehicle - Services of an experienced English-speaking driver-guide - Custom safari map of Tanzania per group - Lake Manyara Treetop Walkway -Return airport transfers in Zanzibar - 2 nights in Stone Town - 3 nights stay at a beach resort on half board meal plan
Excluded - All international flights - Any flights, transfers or other services not mentioned - Laundry - Tips and gratuities - Drinks (soft or hard) - Visas and Travel insurance - Any items of a personal nature - Any costs listed as optional services - Hot-air balloon flight in Serengeti, Excursions in Zanzibar
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Day 1 Arusha Planet Lodge, Arusha
Arusha Resting at the foot of Mount Meru, the sprawling city of Arusha is known as the safari capital of northern Tanzania. It serves as an excellent base from which to explore the remarkably scenic surrounding area which includes majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, as well as the Manyara, Tarangire and Ngorongoro National Parks. Arusha is a good spot to take a day or two off from the safari circuit as it features a temperate climate and lush surrounds. Visitors can look forward to exploring the wildlife-abundant Serengeti National Park; the magnificent Arusha National Park; and taking on the challenge of climbing Mount Meru, Africa’s fifth highest mountain.
Day Itinerary Transfer from Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha
Transfers Date Company Pick Up Drop Off Time Vehicle
Kilimanjaro International Airport Arusha Planet Lodge Transfer [JRO]
Overnight: Arusha Planet Lodge Nestled in the heart of Arusha, Planet Lodge will captivate you with the natural beauty of the Tanzanian landscape... Each chalet is tastefully decorated with native African decor creating a peaceful immersion in the colors and culture of Africa. Distinctive guest rooms feature oversized panoramic windows to allow the Tanzanian sunshine to greet you each morning.
We are delighted to provide each guest room with electricity, keyed entry, beautiful artisan bedding, mosquito net, desk and chair, telephone, alarm clock, free Wi-Fi, private bath with shower, and hot and cold running water. Our friendly housekeepers and room service staff keep your room tidy and stocked with fresh linens daily.
Basis Dinner, Bed and Breakfast
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Day 2 Tarangire Simba Lodge, Tarangire National Park
Tarangire National Park Tarangire National Park, situated within Tanzania’s spectacular Manyara Region, is an awe-inspiring national park comprising of granite ridges, river valleys, mixed vegetative landscapes, and free-roaming wildlife. During the annual dry season the Tarangire River is a magnet for thirsty wildlife. Large herds of elephants and migratory wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, impala, gazelle, hartebeest and eland gather and not surprisingly the predators follow. With lion being among the most commonly spotted animal, it is a rare day that a visitor does not spot this majestic animal prowling or grazing. Tarangire is also the one place in Tanzania where dry-country antelope such as oryx and gerenuk are seen regularly. This expansive area is also known for its spectacular baobab trees, its breathtaking views of the Masaai Steppe and the wondrous mountains to the south.
Day Itinerary Depart from Arusha for Tarangire National Park with picnic lunch.
The name Tarangire is derived from the Tarangire River which provides permanent water for wildlife. In addition to a wide variety of mammals, over 300 species of birdlife have been recorded in this park.
After noon game drive.
Transfers Date Company Pick Up Drop Off Time Vehicle
Arusha Planet Lodge Tarangire Simba Lodge Transfer
Overnight: Tarangire Simba Lodge Tarangire Simba Lodge opened in July 2015 with eight classic tents under thatch, and eight more anticipated being ready by early 2016. Resident wildlife includes lion, zebra, bushbuck, impala, porcupine, monkeys, warthog, mongoose and more. Elephant, buffalo, ostrich and giraffe frequently pass through while the bird life is prolific and vibrant.
Located near the fully functional Sangaiwe Gate to Tarangire National Park, the lodge grounds border the park and a Wildlife Management Area.
Accommodation is in spacious classic canvas safari tents constructed on platforms with wooden floors. Tents are en- suite with attached dressing room, toilet and shower. Additionally there is an outdoor shower and each tent has a private veranda with views to the bush. The entire structure is under a permanent roof topped with thatch. Furnishings are handcrafted from African hardwood complimented with tastefully selected fabrics. Both twin and queen tents are available; electricity and hot water are solar powered. Full amenities are provided.
Facilities include a dedicated reception area and separate lounge and dining room—all constructed out of canvas on raised platforms—created with relaxation and enjoyment in mind. Common areas are connected with wooden walkways and there is a deck for outdoor dining adjacent to the dining tent. Wi-Fi is available in the common areas. In addition to a large swimming pool there is a ‘tree-top’ viewing platform built in a stately acacia tree to facilitate wildlife watching and star gazing.
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Service is our main focus. On arrival guests receive a warm welcome from the lodge staff, a refreshing drink and a towel to rinse away the journey’s dust. Afternoon tea is on hand from 3:30 pm and there is a fully stocked bar with wine list featuring South African wines.
Food: As at all our lodges, continental food is served, using the finest local ingredients available with an emphasis on healthy food including lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Fresh bread is baked daily. At breakfast coffee, tea, hot chocolate and herbal teas, cereals, a selection of fruits and muffins or pancakes are on the buffet. Oatmeal, toast, eggs, bacon and sausage are cooked to order. We provide butter, honey, jam, marmalade and peanut butter on the table. We’ve tried hard to develop a lunch box that’s different from the rest.
Lunch at the lodge is a selection of quiche, pizza and salads, spaghetti or curry and rice. Dinner is a four course buffet― soup (always vegetarian) with bread or rolls, salad, two main courses plus rice and/or potatoes and fresh steamed vegetables. Our main courses alternate between fish, beef, pork, lamb and chicken dishes. We can cater to special diets such as gluten free, vegetarians and vegans with prior notice and substitute non-animal protein dishes at every meal such as lentils, nut roast, beans or cheese. We avoid fatty, oily and fried foods. At tea-time (3:30 – 6:00 pm) there is tea (normal and herbal) coffee, hot chocolate and cake or cookies.
Laundry is available at reasonable rates for guests staying two or more nights.
Guides and drivers are accommodated near our near our staff quarters. Each room has two beds, fresh sheets, clean towels and warm blankets with toilet paper and soap provided. Guides can eat with the guests or can eat at a designated driver’s table. There is no charge for guide accommodation or meals but drinks are to their own account at resident rates. Tour leaders stay in guest accommodation with prior arrangement. In the event of both a guide and translator accompanying a group we need to be advised ahead of time; there is a charge for a second bed and meals.
Tipping Policy: For guests who wish to tip our staff there is a tip box. We ask that no individuals be tipped (except perhaps in cases of exceptional service of a personal nature). All staff members share equally in the tips.
• 8 classic luxury tents • Outdoor showers • Ample wildlife • Views to Lake Burunge • Beautiful, tranquil site bordering Tarangire NP • Near the new Sangaiwe Gate • Large swimming pool • Reception, dining, lounge • Tree house for views and sundowners
Basis Half Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Activities
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Day 3 Tarangire Simba Lodge, Tarangire National Park
Day Itinerary Enjoy a full day safari, game viewing with a picnic lunch.
Basis Half Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Activities
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Day 4 Karatu Simba Lodge, Karatu
Karatu Travellers heading for the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater will inevitably pass through the town of Karatu in the green hills of Tanzania’s northern highlands. Presided over by the towering Ol Deani Volcano, this small, colourful town serves as a popular overnight stop for visitors exploring the area’s many game parks. The town offers a variety of activities including browsing the bustling marketplace, sampling beer at a local brewery, visiting a traditional Iraqw homestead, or taking a guided walk through the Ngorongoro Forest in search of waterfalls and elephants caves. Whether you are looking for cultural tours, hiking and biking opportunities, a chance to enjoy an authentic rural Tanzania experience, or simply a break between safari game drives, this underrated town has plenty to offer.
Day Itinerary Depart for Lake Manyara, driving via Makuyuni and Mto wa Mbu village. Apart from its abundant bird life, Lake Manyara National Park is also famous for its tree-climbing lions.
Enjoy a visit to Tanzania's first treetop walkway, a great activity for adventure seekers and nature lovers, and continue game drive with picnic lunch.
Depart for Karatu, you will pass the village of Mto wa Mbu enroute, before climbing up the great rift valley, passing through the town of Karatu
Transfers Date Company Pick Up Drop Off Time Vehicle
Tarangire Simba Lodge Karatu Simba Lodge Transfer
Overnight: Karatu Simba Lodge Karatu Simba Lodge offers a slice of life only to be found in rural Tanzania. Located about a thirty-minute drive from the gate of Lake Manyara National Park, approximately four kilometres off the main road to the entry of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the lodge is situated next to the Ngorongoro Forest. Accommodation is in individual twin, double or triple cottages or rondavels with canvas walls and solid attached bathroom and shower, tastefully and simply decorated with hand made furniture of African hardwood. Each unit has its own deck with safari chairs for relaxing and viewing the pastoral setting. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi in the common areas, an evening campfire and pool with views onto the forest. The lodge is eco-friendly with solar power and hot water and there is a well stocked bar and dining room serving food and coffee fresh from nearby plantations.
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Basis Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Day 5 Karatu Simba Lodge, Karatu
Day Itinerary After breakfast, descend into the crater for full day game viewing with picnic lunch. Here you can see a spectacular concentration of wildlife, including the big five. Drive across the dense forest and near the soda lake and enjoy viewing a variety of bird life. Ascend to the camp from the 2000ft deep crater.
Basis Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
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Day 6 Serengeti Osupuko Camp, Central Serengeti
Central Serengeti Situated in the heart of Tanzania, the Central Serengeti encompasses the world-famous Seronera Valley which is known for its prime wildlife-viewing opportunities. This picture-perfect landscape is characterised by endless stretches of savannah-covered open plains, interspersed by rocky outcrops of granite, scattered with acacia woodlands and covered in a network of rivers and streams. The Central Serengeti forms part of the great wildebeest and zebra migration and provides an ideal habitat for a variety of wildlife such as giraffe, impala, waterbuck, hippo, elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, hyena, jackal, serval and much more. Popular activities include: game viewing, cultural tours, horse riding safaris, and hot air ballooning over the spectacularly scenic terrain.
Day Itinerary Depart for the Serengeti National Park, famed for its annual migration, when some six million hooves pound the open plains, as more than 200,000 zebra and 300,000 Thomson's gazelle join the wildebeest's trek for fresh grazing. Yet even when the migration is quiet, the Serengeti offers arguably the most scintillating game-viewing in Africa: great herds of buffalo, elephant and giraffe, and thousands upon thousands of eland, topi, kongoni, impala and Grant's gazelle. Golden-maned lion prides feast on the abundance of plain grazers. Solitary leopards haunt the acacia trees lining the Seronera River, while a high density of cheetahs prowl the southeastern plains.
There is more to Serengeti than large mammals. There are over 500 species of birds, and your guide will also introduce you to the small five'.
Enroute to Serengeti, you will drive through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the Ndutu Plains.
Transit through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area
After noon game drive with picnic lunch.
Transfers Date Company Pick Up Drop Off Time Vehicle
Karatu Simba Lodge Serengeti Osupuko Camp Transfer
Overnight: Serengeti Osupuko Camp The Serengeti Osupuko Camp is located in the central Serengeti on the slopes of Rongai Hills. Guests can enjoy a beautiful scenic view over the Seronera Valley in the Serengeti which is known for its cat population.
Early morning game drives can also be an ideal opportunity to spot some of the most dangerous predators and their prey running around in the Serengeti National Park.
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Basis Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Day 7 Serengeti Osupuko Camp, Central Serengeti
Day Itinerary Enjoy a full day safari with a picnic lunch in the Serengeti exploring the local ecosystem.
Basis Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
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Day 8 Mara River Kati Kati, Northern Serengeti
Northern Serengeti The vast, rolling savannah of the Northern Serengeti, is known as the hub of the great migration. The landscape is characterised by vast stretches of savannah interspersed with acacia trees and riverine woodlands. Wildlife can be seen along the banks of the Mara River and visitors can view the annual spectacle of the half a million migrating wildebeest. Commonly spotted wildlife include: a multitude of plains game such as buffalo, zebra, gazelles, impala, giraffe as well as lion and leopard. Visitors can look forward to bird watching, hot air ballooning, game safaris and guided bush walks.
Day Itinerary Enjoy a full day safari with a picnic lunch in the Serengeti exploring the local ecosystem heading towards the North Serengeti
Transfers Date Company Pick Up Drop Off Time Vehicle
Serengeti Osupuko Camp Mara River Kati Kati Transfer
Overnight: Mara River Kati Kati View iBrochure The camp offers comfortable accommodation and a unique opportunity to enjoy a real safari camp experience. The camp is located in the North of Serengeti only 10 minutes drive from Mara River.
A cosy mess tent islocated in the centre of the camp where meals are served. The campfire is ready every evening for appetizers and snacks before dinner.
Ten double tents with en suite facilities and one family tent that can host a family of two adults and two children.
There are several airstrips in the National Park that receive schedule flights from Arusha as well as charter flights.
Basis Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Day 9 Mara River Kati Kati, Northern Serengeti
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Day Itinerary Enjoy a full day safari with a picnic lunch in the Serengeti exploring the local ecosystem
Basis Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Day 10 Mara River Kati Kati, Northern Serengeti
Day Itinerary Enjoy a full day safari with a picnic lunch in the Serengeti exploring the local ecosystem
Basis Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
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Day 11 Jafferji House & Spa, Stone Town
Stone Town Situated on the beautiful island of Zanzibar, Stone Town is the old city and cultural heart of the island and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town is famous for its winding alleys fringed by grand architecture, bustling bazaars, sultan’s palace, mosques, the House of Wonders, gardens and the extravagant merchants’ houses with their remarkably ornate doors. Stone Town is home to over fifty mosques, six Hindu Temples, a Catholic and an Anglican Cathedral. Visitors can also look forward to visiting the Old Fort along the waterfront, pay a visit to the Palace Museum, and sampling local cuisine at Forodhani Gardens a local seaside market. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a sunset dhow cruise.
Day Itinerary Morning game drive en-route to Kogatende Airstrip.
Flight by light aircraft: Serengeti / Kogatende - Zanzibar.
Transfer from Zanzibar Airport to Stone Town
Evening at leisure, transfer to Emerson Spice to enjoy dinner at Rooftop Tea House Restaurant, after dinner transfer back to your hotel.
Flight Information Date Flight Airline Departure Time Arrival Airport Time Class Ref Airport
Scheduled Kogatende Abeid Amani Karume Airstrip International Airport [ZNZ]
Transfers Date Company Pick Up Drop Off Time Vehicle
Mara River Kati Kati Kogatende Airstrip Transfer
Abeid Amani Karume International Jafferji House & Spa Transfer Airport [ZNZ]
Overnight: Jafferji House & Spa Located deep in the heart of Zanzibar’s historical Stone Town, Jafferji House is an elegant boutique hotel. Recapturing the romance of travel, it beautifully combines modern luxury with the mesmerizing heritage that has shaped Zanzibar’s history. Taking its name from its owner who once used the building as his family home, Jafferji House has been lovingly restored and styled to reflect its original splendor.
Personal attention to detail is apparent throughout the hotel, and just as easily as it embraces the charm of the ancient world, it also proudly pays homage to the comfort, luxury and hospitality of the modern world. They say that when you travel, the magic of your experience starts with your hotel. Javed Jafferji and his wife Kulsum warmly
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Basis Bed and Breakfast
Day 12 Jafferji House & Spa, Stone Town
Day Itinerary Day at leisure.
Optional / Extra Cost Excursion: Stone Town Tour and Spice Tour
Activities Stone Town City Tour (Gallery Tours)
Spice Tour (Gallery Tours)
Stone Town City Tour (Gallery Tours) Stone Town City Tour (Gallery Tours) offers visitors a tour following the trail of the sultans, slaves and explorers in the winding streets of Stone Town in Tanzania. Visitors will learn about events which shaped Zanzibar via a knowledgeable guide while walking through the buildings where it all happened. These historic buildings include the former Slave Market, the Anglican Cathedral, the House of Wonders, the Sultans’ Palace Museum, and the Old Arab Fort and Dispensary. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the markets, and the residential areas. An optional stop is available to rest from the heat at The Zanzibar Coffee House, where visitors can enjoy a selection of drinks, local sweets and seasonal fruits. The tour is flexible and can be adapted according to visitors' interests and time frame. Visitors can also shop for antiques and souvenirs.
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Spice Tour (Gallery Tours) Located in Zanzibar, Tanzania, Spice Tour (Gallery Tours) offers visitors a unique experience. Zanzibar was known as a spice island, exporting a variety of spices across the world which were brought over from Asia and South America, but today the plantations are a tribute to the island’s past. A knowledgeable guide takes visitors through the spice farm where they can feel, smell and taste different spices and tropical fruit. These spices and fruit include vanilla, cardamom, cinnamon, and many others. Next, visitors can shop for spices at a local market and partake in a Swahili cookery lesson from skilled chefs.
Basis Bed and Breakfast
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Day 13 Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa, Kendwa
Kendwa Situated on the tropical island of Unguja, just off the Tanzanian coast, Kendwa is a village along the northwest coast of this beautiful island. It is renowned for its powder-fine white-sand beaches lapped by crystal-clear turquoise waters boasting an untouched underwater wonderland and fringed by an array of tourist resorts. Visitors can enjoy snorkelling excursions to explore the abundant marine life living in these azure waters or jumping on a local wooden dhow boat for a picturesque sunset trip. For those looking for some evening entertainment, the full moon party is a definite must. Don't miss the opportunity to give back to the community and learn about local Zanzibari culture on a fascinating village tour, great for those looking to go beyond the usual resort activities. Other popular activities include: parasailing, banana boating, scuba diving, and jet skiing.
Day Itinerary Transfer from Stone Town to beach hotel.
Day at leisure
Transfers Date Company Pick Up Drop Off Time Vehicle
Jafferji House & Spa Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Transfer Spa
Overnight: Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa The Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa offers an oasis of luxury and elegance, where guests can regenerate body and spirit. The hotel is located on the beach of Kendwa, about a 50 minute drive away from the international airport. Accommodation options include elegant rooms, suites and lavish villas, as well as deluxe retreats. Guests can indulge in pure pleasure at the wellness and health club, House of harmony. Be pampered with an incredible array of personalized treatments in a relaxing ambiance. Discover stunning locations and historical sights departing from the beach house resort. The hotel’s excursion desk offers a variety of tours and water sport activities.
Basis Dinner, Bed and Breakfast
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Day 14 Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa, Kendwa
Day Itinerary Day at leisure
Basis Dinner, Bed and Breakfast
Day 15 Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa, Kendwa
Day Itinerary Day at leisure
Basis Dinner, Bed and Breakfast
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Day 16 End of Itinerary
Transfers Date Company Pick Up Drop Off Time Vehicle
Gold Zanzibar Beach Abeid Amani Karume International Transfer House & Spa Airport [ZNZ]
Urgent Contact Numbers Company Name Telephone Email Address Contact Person
Experiential Travel +61 418 325 812 [email protected] Neville Jones
Experiential Travel - Emergency +61 416 371 178 Contact
Service Provider Directory Service Ref. Telephone Address Provider Number
Arusha Planet +255 686 141 Physical address: Plot 2271, Moshono Village Arusha, Tanzania (At Lodge 670 the junction of Nelson Mandela and Lokii Road i.e. the road to the small town of Kiserian. Our entrace is opposite the St. Monica school). P.O. Box 1115, Arusha.
Gold Zanzibar +255 779 700 Beach House & 005 Spa
Karatu Simba +255 783 914 Located 4 kilometres from the village of Rhotia in the Karatu district Lodge 200 between Lake Manyara National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Mara River Kati +255 736 502 Kati 471
Serengeti +255 27 254 Arusha, Tanzania Osupuko Camp 5318
Tarangire Simba +255 27 275 3º 55’ 48.8” S x 35º 53’ 10.9” E Lodge 3001
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Travel Information The information in this document is provided by the operators and other parties. It may not accurately reflect your experience.
The name Tanzania conjures up images of wildebeest stampeding across vast savannah, rain forests teeming with monkeys and birdlife, and great plains brimming with legions of game. All of these natural wonders and more are on offer in this exceptionally diverse African nation. Visitors typically visit Tanzania to partake in at least one of the four well known Tanzanian tourist experiences: a relaxing seaside vacation on the picturesque island paradise of Zanzibar, an underwater tour of some of the world’s most renowned dive sites around the gorgeous Spice Islands, a safari adventure in some of Africa’s most impressive game reserves, or a hiking excursion around Mount Kilimanjaro National Park. Whichever of these incredible holidays you choose, you will undoubtedly be welcomed by some fabulously friendly and peaceful inhabitants who, despite being divided into 120 different ethnic groups and cultures, live in harmony with one another and provide some of the most wonderfully exotic local cuisine you could imagine. With all of this diversity on offer, the most difficult part of your Tanzanian holiday experience is likely to be deciding where to go!
Banking and Currency Currency
In Tanzania, the unit of currency is the Tanzanian Shilling, which is divided into 100 Cents. Notes are issued in denominations of 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, and 10000 Shillings. Coins are issued in denominations of 50, 100 and 200 Shillings.
Banking
Banks are open from 9:00am to 3:00pm Monday to Friday. Many banks are equipped with 24 hour ATM machines.
Credit cards and travellers checks are not widely accepted in Tanzania. Where they are accepted can high service fees and poor exchange rates be expected. Major foreign currencies - particularly US $ - are accepted in Tanzania and are convertible at banks and bureau de changes in the main towns and tourist areas. If bringing cash in US $, please make sure bank notes are in good condition, with no cuts or damage and are not older than 2006. Most banks offer higher exchange rates for US $ 100 / US $ 50 bank notes compared to US $ 20 / US $ 10 or US $ 5 bank notes.
Travel, Transport and Getting Around If you are visiting a number of parks and reserves in Tanzania, you can either drive or fly between them. Roads in most of the wilderness areas are in poor condition and unmarked, and self-driving is not recommended. Operators will supply you with a driver who doubles as an informal guide; alternatively, you can arrange to fly to your destination and utilize a car and driver supplied by the lodgings. Elsewhere in Tanzania, towns and cities are linked by a steady stream of buses and dala-dalas (minibuses), and in the cities, there is public transport in the way of buses, dala-dalas, taxis, and, in some places, bicycles or tuk-tuks.
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Precision Air run regular services, mostly via Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro or Zanzibar, to all main towns and other destinations in East Africa and beyond. All national parks and some of the top-end luxury lodges have airstrips and Coastal Air operates between these and the main airports on the mainland and the islands of Zanzibar, Pemba and Mafia. ZanAir has frequent connections between Zanzibar, Pemba and the mainland.
Driving is on the left hand side of the road
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice Most camps, lodges or hotels cater specifically to tourists and serve Western-style food, ranging in standard, but generally are excellent. Game lodges tend to offer a daily set menu with a limited selection, so it is advisable to have your tour operator specify in advance if you are a vegetarian or have other specific dietary requirements. First-time visitors to Africa might take note that most game lodges in and around the national parks have isolated locations, and driving within the parks is neither permitted nor advisable after dark, so that there is no realistic alternative to eating at your lodge.
Tap water in Tanzania is generally not safe to drink, and most travellers try to stick to mineral water. Filtered and bottled water can be difficult to find you are travelling outside of main town and so it is advisable to stock up. Most camps, lodges and hotels have bottled water readily available.
Climate and Weather Just south of the equator, Tanzania is huge and its sheer size means that the climate varies considerably within it. However, generally the main rainy season, or the 'long rains', lasts during about March, April and May. Afternoon tropical downpours are the norm – which are heavier and more predictable beside the coast and on the islands. The humidity is high and daily temperatures reach the low-mid 30°s.
The long dry season lasts throughout June, July, August, September and October is when rainfall is unusual, even on the islands. Temperatures vary hugely with altitude and location, but it's usually a fine, clear sky and sunny weather – it's a great time to visit Tanzania. During November and December there's another rainy season: the 'short rains'. These are much lighter than the main rains and less reliable.
If it has rained during the short rains, then it normally dries up for a few months, January and February, which is Tanzania's 'short dry season', before starting to rain again in earnest in March.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations It never gets really cold in Tanzania so lightweight clothing, preferably cotton or linen, is recommended. While on a game viewing safari, avoid brightly coloured clothing, stick to whites, beiges, khakis and browns. There may be long days sitting in safari vehicles, so it is advisable to wear light comfortable clothing such as short sleeved shirts and cotton/linen trousers or shorts. Denim will become too hot and extremely uncomfortable. Walking shoes and socks will be required.
The evenings will be chilly, so long sleeved shirts and trousers should be worn. A sweater may be needed. These will also prevent you being bitten by insects. A hat should be worn at all times outside. The sun may sometimes not feel hot, but it can still easily burn, especially if it is cloudy and overcast.
If visiting Zanzibar or any coastal town don't forget to take a swimsuit, as it is invariably warm. Ladies are recommended to take cotton skirts, blouses and dresses. Sandals are a must for this environment! On the beaches and within the confines of hotels, normal swimwear is acceptable but nudity is not.
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As over a third of the population in Tanzania is Muslim, it is therefore not etiquette for ladies to walk around in public displaying their legs and shoulders. Remember to dress modestly as short shorts, miniskirts, vests and tank tops will be frowned upon.
Electricity and Plug Standards The electricity supply in Tanzania is 220/240 volts at 50Hz. Plugs are 3 point square (UK Type). Adapters are available at major airports.
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Terms and Conditions
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