Tanzania essentials

Currency and Money Handling

The Tanzanian shilling is the official currency of Tanzania, though some hotels in major cities may accept U.S. dollars. Banks and foreign exchange bureaus will usually offer the best exchange rate. Whatever the case, to avoid scams, never exchange money on the street.
Credit cards (American Express, MasterCard, Visa, etc.) are only accepted at more upscale locations, so carry at least some cash with you at all times. ATMs are fairly common in major cities, but it has been warned that some machines will “eat” user cards, so use them with caution. Also beware of the steep $2-4 service charge for each transaction.

Language
Swahili is the official language of the social and political sphere in Tanzania, and is the primary language used in primary education. Still, English is used in secondary schools and universities; though less prevalent than it used to be, you may find that English is fairly wide spoken. Indian, Portuguese and French are also commonly heard throughout the country.

Water
While in Tanzania, drink only bottled water, or purified water, to avoid infection.

Vaccinations
The following vaccinations are recommended when traveling in Tanzania:
• Yellow fever
• Typhoid
• Hepatitis A and B
• Diptheria
• Rabies
• Malaria

Visitors may also consider getting a booster for tetanus, polio, and measles. Talk to your travel doctor before going on your trip to ensure you have all of the shots you need, and always check your home country’s Center for Disease Control website for any last-minute outbreaks or updates.

Staying healthy
Though public hospitals in Tanzania tend to be under-sourced, private hospitals do offer quality care if you should become sick during your trip. To be on the safe side, talk to your insurance carrier before your trip to make sure you fully understand your coverage while overseas, and always take preventative measures to stay safe and healthy throughout your stay. For instance, always wear insect repellent, always wash your hands before eating, stay hydrated, and carry a first aid kit if traveling to remote areas. These simple measures will go a long way in helping you avoid common ailments throughout your journey.

Malaria is a common concern in Tanzania. In addition to wearing repellent, always take special cautions, such as sleeping under a tent, and wearing long pants and closed shoes. You might also consider taking anti-malarial medicine, before, during or after your trip, just to be safe.
Also worth noting is that HIV/AIDS infection is prevalent in Tanzania, as in other countries throughout Africa. Do not have unprotected sex or share needles during your trip.

Staying safe
As you travel through Tanzania, you’ll likely come to love the friendly and generally laid-back personality of most Tanzanian people. Still, keep the following precautions in mind when traveling

• Carry as few valuables and cash with you as possible, and try to dress conservatively so as not to attract too much attention.
• Never walk alone at night, especially in unlit areas, or beaches that cannot be seen from the roadway.
• Beware that some thieves will pose as official Tanzanian police in order to steal your passport of money. Make a copy of your passport in case it gets stolen. Better yet, don’t carry it with you unless you need to.
• Be careful when using taxi service at night; use a registered taxi driver you trust or one recommended by a trusted source.
• Note that the Tanzanian police themselves may be susceptible to corruption. Always be alert and stay on the right side of the law to avoid altercations.
• Always request a receipt if storing luggage or other belongings.
• Take special consideration when traveling on buses, as theft is common.

Telephone
Public telephones are available in most major cities, and can usually be accessed at the local post office in more rural areas. The country code in Tanzania is 255. Pay-as-you-go cell service might also be available if you are staying in an urban area.

Tipping
In general, gratuities are expected in Tanzania, especially for safari, hotel, and restaurant staff. In high-end hotels, you might find a tip box at the main reception desk. You can tip the staff individually, via tip box, or both if you’re feeling generous. For trekking tips, it’s generally recommended that you budget 10-15 percent of your climb cost for tips. Sample tips would be $5-10 per day for a personal driver or guide; $5 to $20 per day for a personal chef or cook; and $5 to $10 per day for a porter. In general, tips are per day, not per person.
If taking pictures of locals, you might also consider paying them for the opportunity.

Driving
Tanzanians drive on the left side of the road, and car rentals can be organized through some hotels. Be aware of aggressive taxi drivers, potholes and uncovered man holes. Though car-jacking is not a common problem, thievery is. Beware that thieves may stop your car when at traffic lights. Keep your windows closed and doors locked at all times.

Clothing
Especially in the primarily Muslim island of Zanzibar, wear conservative or modest attire. “Kangas,” or wrapping cloths, are available throughout the region and can help travelers stay discreet during their journey.