In our ninth installment of our Wazimba Travel Tanzania series, let’s tackle the practical side of your East African adventure. While Tanzania’s landscapes and wildlife rightfully capture your imagination, understanding the logistics of getting around, finding comfortable places to stay, and keeping safe will ensure your dream trip unfolds smoothly. As a local tour operator with years of experience guiding visitors through Tanzania, we’re sharing our insider knowledge to help you navigate this remarkable country with confidence.
Getting Around Tanzania
Tanzania’s vast size—nearly twice that of California—means transportation planning is essential to maximize your time and experiences. Here’s how to navigate this diverse country:
Domestic Flights: The Time-Saver
Tanzania’s domestic air network has expanded significantly in recent years, making it easier to connect distant destinations:
- Major carriers like Air Tanzania, Precision Air, and Coastal Aviation link key tourism hubs
- Scheduled flights connect Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Zanzibar, and most significant safari gateways
- Smaller airstrips serve remote parks like Katavi, Ruaha, and Mahale
- Charter flights offer flexibility for custom itineraries and access to the most remote locations
Flying dramatically reduces travel time between destinations—what might take 8-10 hours by road can often be accomplished in under 90 minutes by air. For travelers with limited time, flights are worth the additional cost to maximize time spent enjoying destinations rather than traveling between them.
Road Journeys: The Scenic Route
Tanzania’s road network varies dramatically from excellent highways to challenging dirt tracks:
- The northern safari circuit (Arusha to Serengeti) features relatively good roads and reasonable drive times
- The southern circuit involves longer distances and more variable road conditions
- Coastal routes generally offer smooth driving with occasional rough sections
- Remote destinations often require 4WD vehicles and experienced drivers
Road journeys, while sometimes lengthy, offer unparalleled opportunities to witness everyday Tanzanian life, stop at viewpoints, and enjoy the changing landscapes. Many travelers combine strategic flights with scenic road sections for the best of both worlds.
Public Transportation: The Local Experience
For budget travelers or those seeking authentic local experiences:
- Long-distance buses connect major cities and towns with varying levels of comfort
- The TAZARA railway offers a fascinating multi-day journey between Dar es Salaam and the Zambian border
- Ferry services link Zanzibar, Pemba, and Mafia islands with the mainland
- Daladalas (local minibuses) and bajajis (three-wheeled taxis) provide affordable transportation within towns
While public transportation requires patience and flexibility, it offers unfiltered cultural experiences and significant cost savings.
Our Wazimba Approach:
Our team helps tailor transportation choices to match your priorities, whether that’s maximizing time in key destinations, enjoying scenic routes, or finding the right balance between comfort and authenticity. We coordinate seamless transitions between vehicles, flights, and boat transfers so you can focus on the experience rather than logistics. Our experienced drivers know the routes intimately—including where to stop for the best views, cleanest restrooms, and most interesting local markets.
Accommodation Options
Tanzania offers lodging options from world-class luxury to simple homestays, each providing distinct experiences:
Luxury Lodges and Tented Camps
At the premium end of Tanzania’s accommodation spectrum:
- Exclusive safari lodges offer spacious rooms, gourmet dining, spa services, and infinity pools overlooking wildlife-rich landscapes
- Luxury tented camps combine authentic canvas accommodations with surprising amenities like four-poster beds, ensuite bathrooms, and personalized butler service
- Boutique hotels in Stone Town and along the coast blend historical architecture with contemporary comfort
- Private villas on Zanzibar provide ultimate seclusion and personalized service
These high-end options typically include expert guides, exceptional food, and thoughtfully curated experiences that justify their premium rates.
Mid-Range Comfort
Perfect for travelers seeking comfort without extravagance:
- Comfortable lodges and permanent tented camps with private bathrooms and reliable amenities
- Small, owner-operated guesthouses with personal service and home-cooked meals
- Beach resorts with good facilities at reasonable rates
- City hotels offering clean, air-conditioned rooms and decent dining options
This sweet spot balances quality experiences with value, often delivering the best cost-to-experience ratio for many travelers.
Budget-Friendly Basics
For travelers prioritizing experiences over accommodations:
- Simple but clean guesthouses and hostels in major tourism centers
- Public campgrounds within many national parks
- Community tourism initiatives offering basic homestays
- Budget hotels in cities and towns with essential amenities
These options allow travelers to extend their stays or allocate more budget toward activities and experiences.
Our Wazimba Approach:
We maintain relationships with accommodations across all categories, visiting properties regularly to ensure they maintain standards and deliver good value. Rather than simply booking the most expensive options, we recommend places that offer the right balance for your preferences and budget. Through our local connections, we can often secure preferential rates, room upgrades when available, and special touches that elevate your stay.
Communication and Connectivity
Staying connected in Tanzania is easier than ever, though with some limitations:
- Mobile networks cover most populated areas and tourism centers
- Local SIM cards (Vodacom, Airtel, Tigo) provide affordable data and calling options
- Many accommodations offer WiFi, though speed and reliability vary significantly
- Remote national parks and wilderness areas may have limited or no connectivity
For those needing to stay connected, we recommend:
- Purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival (passport required for registration)
- Downloading offline maps, translation apps, and entertainment before reaching remote areas
- Bringing a portable power bank for device charging during long safari days
- Informing family and colleagues about potential communication gaps during wilderness stays
Our Wazimba Approach:
Our vehicles are equipped with long-range radios for emergency communication in remote areas, and we can arrange international SIM cards or portable WiFi devices for travelers who need consistent connectivity. We also help set proper expectations about where you’ll be fully connected and where you might enjoy a digital detox as part of your wilderness experience.
Safety Considerations
Tanzania ranks among Africa’s safer destinations for travelers, with political stability and a tourism-friendly atmosphere. However, sensible precautions enhance any international journey:
General Safety Tips
- Store valuables in hotel safes when available
- Be discreet with expensive cameras and jewelry, especially in urban areas
- Use registered taxis or transportation arranged by your accommodation/tour operator
- Keep copies of important documents (passport, visa, insurance) separate from originals
- Remain aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded markets and urban centers
Health Precautions
- Consult a travel health professional 4-8 weeks before your trip
- Consider appropriate vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis based on your itinerary
- Drink bottled or purified water and avoid raw, unpeeled fruits and vegetables in budget establishments
- Pack a basic medical kit including remedies for stomach upset, pain relief, and first aid supplies
- Obtain comprehensive travel insurance including medical evacuation coverage
Wildlife Safety
- Always follow guide instructions around wildlife
- Maintain appropriate distances from animals
- Stay inside vehicles during game drives unless explicitly permitted by qualified guides
- Keep tent/room doors closed in wilderness accommodations
- Use flashlights when walking through camps at night
Our Wazimba Approach:
Safety forms the foundation of every journey we arrange. Our guides receive regular safety training, our vehicles undergo rigorous maintenance, and we continuously monitor conditions in all regions where we operate. We maintain relationships with medical facilities throughout Tanzania and can quickly access assistance if needed. Most importantly, our extensive local knowledge helps prevent problems before they arise.
Money Matters
Understanding Tanzania’s financial landscape helps avoid unnecessary complications:
Currency Basics
- The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the official currency
- US Dollars are widely accepted at tourism businesses (bring clean, newer bills printed after 2009)
- Credit cards are accepted at higher-end establishments but often incur 3-5% surcharges
- ATMs are available in cities and larger towns but may have withdrawal limits
Budgeting Guidelines
- Safari costs typically range from $250-$1000+ per person per day depending on accommodation level and exclusivity
- Zanzibar accommodations range from $30 basic rooms to $1000+ luxury villas
- Budget travelers can manage on $50-75 daily outside of organized safaris
- Local meals cost $3-10, while international cuisine at tourism establishments ranges from $10-30
Tipping Practices
Tipping is customary in Tanzania’s tourism industry:
- Safari guides: $10-20 per person per day
- Porters: $1-2 per bag
- Restaurant service: 5-10% when not included
- Hotel staff: $1-2 per day for housekeeping
Our Wazimba Approach:
We provide clear information about what’s included in your arrangements and what additional costs you might expect. Our team can advise on reasonable budgets based on your travel style and offer guidance on appropriate tipping. For convenience, we can structure packages to include most expenses upfront, minimizing the need to carry large amounts of cash.
Responsible Tourism
Traveling responsibly ensures Tanzania’s natural and cultural treasures remain intact for future generations:
- Support businesses with clear environmental policies and community involvement
- Minimize plastic usage by carrying reusable water bottles and shopping bags
- Respect wildlife by maintaining appropriate distances and following guide instructions
- Seek permission before photographing local people
- Learn basic Swahili greetings and cultural norms as a sign of respect
Our Wazimba Approach:
As a local operator, we’re deeply invested in Tanzania’s sustainable tourism development. We partner with accommodations and service providers who share our commitment to environmental protection and community benefit. Our guides are trained to model and encourage responsible practices throughout your journey, helping you make positive contributions through your travel choices.
Recommendations for Different Travelers
Family Travel
- Northern safari circuit offers shorter drive times between destinations
- Consider accommodations with family rooms, swimming pools, and dedicated children’s activities
- Zanzibar beaches provide perfect post-safari relaxation with safe swimming areas
- Schedule downtime and flexible activities to accommodate younger travelers’ needs
Solo Travelers
- Join small group departures to share costs and enjoy social connections
- Consider accommodations with communal dining to meet fellow travelers
- Utilize our local knowledge to identify safe, welcoming environments
- Take advantage of shoulder seasons when single supplements may be reduced
Extended Stays
- Explore slow travel options like week-long stays in the Usambara Mountains or Zanzibar
- Consider volunteering opportunities with legitimate local organizations
- Look into serviced apartments in Dar es Salaam or Arusha for longer-term bases
- Invest time in language learning and deeper cultural immersion
Our Wazimba Approach:
We recognize there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to Tanzanian travel. Our team takes time to understand your specific needs, constraints, and interests before recommending specific routes, accommodations, and experiences. Our suggested itineraries serve as starting points that we can customize completely based on your feedback and preferences.
When Things Don’t Go As Planned
Even with perfect planning, travel occasionally involves unexpected challenges:
- Flight delays and schedule changes can affect connections
- Seasonal weather patterns sometimes shift, affecting road conditions or wildlife movements
- Health issues may require itinerary adjustments
- Mechanical problems might necessitate vehicle replacement
Our Wazimba Approach:
Our extensive local network becomes especially valuable when plans need adjustment. We maintain 24/7 support for travelers, with team members who can quickly arrange alternative accommodations, transportation, or activities if needed. Our guides are empowered to make real-time decisions that protect your experience without unnecessary disruption. Most importantly, we communicate transparently throughout any changes, ensuring you remain informed and comfortable with adjusted arrangements.
Tanzania rewards travelers who arrive prepared but remain flexible. The country’s warmth—both in climate and in the genuine hospitality of its people—creates an environment where even unexpected detours often become cherished memories. With thoughtful preparation and the right local support, your Tanzanian journey will balance adventure with comfort, excitement with safety, and iconic experiences with personal discoveries.
In our final article in this series, we’ll bring everything together with sample itineraries showcasing how to combine Tanzania’s diverse highlights into perfectly balanced adventures. Until then, feel free to reach out with specific questions about planning your own Tanzanian journey. Our team at Wazimba Travel is always happy to share our local knowledge and help turn your East African dreams into reality.
Have questions about navigating Tanzania? Need advice on choosing the right accommodation for your travel style? Contact us for personalized recommendations based on our years of experience guiding travelers through this extraordinary country.
