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PREPARING FOR YOUR JOURNEY
Everything You Need to Know Before Your Adventure Begins
Whether you're just beginning to dream about a safari or already planning your adventure, we've gathered the information we wish every traveler had before visiting Tanzania.
Drawing on years of experience — and the questions our travelers ask most often — we're sharing the practical advice, local insights, and travel tips our guests have found most valuable.
Tanzania is a welcoming and inspiring place where a little preparation goes a long way. We hope the guidelines that follow help you travel with confidence, so you can relax and fully enjoy the extraordinary moments that await.
PREPARING FOR YOUR JOURNEY
1. Before You Leave Home
SIX IMPORTANT THINGS TO DO BEFORE YOU LEAVE HOME
1. PASSPORT
Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of your entry into Tanzania.Check the expiration date now so you have plenty of time if it needs renewal.
3. TRAVEL
INSURANCE
Purchase travel insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage. It's an essential investment in your piece of mind.
4. VACCINATIONS
Recommended vaccinations, and other immunizations may be advised for travel. Consult your healthcare provider or travel clinic well in advance of your trip.
5. CREDIT CARDS
Notify your credit card company of your international travel plans to avoid any interruptions when using your card abroad.
6. CASH & BANKING
Plan to carry a small amount of cash for tips and small purchases. Check with your bank about international card use and ATM fees before you go.
A little preparation at home helps you travel with confidence and allows you to be fully present for the unforgettable moments ahead.
PREPARING FOR YOUR JOURNEY
2. Packing for Your Safari
A well-packed bag makes your safari more comfortable and enjoyable. The right clothing, essentials, and travel documents will help you feel prepared for every adventure.
CLOTHING
For comfort throughout your safari, a few practical choices make all the difference.
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Neutral-colored clothing, (khaki, olive, tan, or gray)
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Lightweight layers
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Light fleece or jacket for cool mornings
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Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
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SAFARI ESSENTIALS
The right essentials will help you capture memories and make the most of every moment.
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Binoculars
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Camera
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Extra memory cards
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Portable power bank
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Charging cables
PERSONAL CARE
Pack what you need to feel fresh, protected, and prepared.
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Prescription medicatios
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Sunscreen
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Insect repellent
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Lip balm
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Hand sanitizer
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
Keep important documents easily accessible throughout your journey.
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Passport
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Printed or digital visa (if obtained online)
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Travel insurance information
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Flight itinerary
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Emergency contacts
TOUCHSTONE TRAVEL TIPS
MIND THE PLASTIC BAG REGULATIONS
Tanzania prohibits most single-use plastic bags. Choose reusable packing cubes or cloth bags to stay organized and eco-friendly.
LOCK IT & KEEP IT SAFE
Use TSA-approved luggage locks to secure your bags. Keep valuables, electronics, medications, and documents in your carry-on luggage.
PREPARING FOR YOUR JOURNEY
3. Electronics & Staying Connected
STAY POWERED AND CONNECTED THROUGHOUT YOUR JOURNEY
Staying connected in Tanzania is easier than many travelers expect. A few simple preparations will keep your devices charged, your photos protected, and communication easy throughout your safari.
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ELECTRICAL OUTLETS
Tanzania uses Type G (British-style) and Type D electric outlets with 230-240V / 50 Hz power.
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Type G plug adapter
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Voltage usually compatible with modern chargers
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Check older devices before travel
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CHARGING YOUR DEVICES
Most modern phones, tablets, laptops, and careras charge without difficulty.
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Bring charging cables
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Camera battery charger
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Spare camera battery
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Charge devices overnight
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PORTABLE POWER BANK
A reliable power bank is one of the most useful items you can bring.
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10,000 — 20,000 mAh recommended
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Helpful during long game drives
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Keep phones and cameras ready
SIM CARD, INTERNET & WI-FI
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Staying connected is simple if you plan ahead.
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Local SIM card or eSIM
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Wi-Fi available at most lodges
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Speeds vary by location
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Remote parks may have limited service
TOUCHSTONE TRAVEL TIPS
Bring more memory cards and charging capacity than you think you'll need. Tanzania's wildlife, landscapes, and unforgettable moments have a way of filling both your camera and your heart.
PREPARING FOR YOUR JOURNEY
4. Enjoying the Journey
A FEW LOCAL CUSTOMS TO HELP YOU FEEL AT HOME
Tanzania is known for its warm hospitality and welcoming spirit. A few simple customs and practical tips will help you feel comfortable, show respect, and enjoy meaningful interactions throughout your journey.
GREETINGS & COURTESY
A warm greeting is an important part of Tanzanian culture.
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Take a moment to greet people before asking questions.
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Ask permission before photographing people.
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Dress modestly when visiting villages or communities.
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A smile goes a long way.
SAFARI ETTIQUETTE
Help protect Tanzania's remarkable wildlife.
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Speak quietly during wildlife sightings.
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Never feed or approach wildlife.
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A courtesy when recording. When someone in your vehicle is recording a wildlife sighting, please keep conversation to a minimum. A little quiet helps preserve the natural sounds of the bush—and makes for a much better memory to bring home.
TOUCHSTONE TRAVEL TIPS
The memories you'll treasure most are often the unexpected ones. Leave room in your itinerary—and in your expectations—for the surprises that make a Tanzania safari unforgettable.
TIPPING & APPRECIATION
Thoughtful tipping is always appreciated.
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At lodges and camps, please use the shared tip box rather than tipping individual staff members.
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Carry small denominations of Tanzanian shillings or another commonly accepted currency for tipping.
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Additional tipping for personal assistance, such as help with your luggage is always at your discretion.
Your safari team.
Touchstone often provides both a professional safari guide and a dedicated driver, allowing each to focus fully on your experience. For exceptional service, we suggest US$20—25 per guest, per day for your guide and US$10—15 per guest, per day for your driver.
Gratuities are always at your discretion and may be adjusted to reflect your experience.
HEALTH & COMFORT
Simple habits make for a more comfortable safari.
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Be mindful of food and water. When in doubt, choose bottled or purified water and ask whether ice has been made with purified water.
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Choose fruits and vegetables that have been peeled or thoroughly cooked.
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Pack a few electrolyte packets. They can be a welcome addition to your water bottle on hot days and long game drives.
PREPARING FOR YOUR JOURNEY
5. Insights Into Tanzania
RECOMMENDED READING & VIEWING
A safari introduces you to Tanzania's extraordinary wildlife. These books and films offer something equally valuable, a deeper understanding of the people, cultures, and everyday realities that shape life in East Africa. Several of these titles have also become favorites among students at the girls' school Touchstone Tanzania proudly supports, making them meaningful companions both before and after your journey.
Our Favorites
AFRICA IS NOT A COUNTRY
Dipo Falyolin
Why we love it.
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A thoughtful and engaging exploration that challenges common misconceptions, while revealing the richness and diversity of modern Africa.
(Book)
THE GIRL WITH THE LOUDING VOICE
Abi Daré
Why we love it.
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An inspiring novel celebrating determination, hope, and the life-changing impact education can have for young women.
(Book)
THE BOY WHO HARNESSED THE WIND
William Kwamkwamba
Why we love it.
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A remarkable true story of ingenuity, perseverence, and the power of education to transform a community.
(Book & Film)
QUEEN OF KATWE
Tim Crothers
Why we love it.
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An uplifting true story showing how opportunity, determination, and education can transform a young person's future.
(Book & Film)
TOUCHSTONE REFLECTION
The most meaningful journeys begin long before your plane takes off. We hope these stories deepen your appreciation for Tanzania's people, history, and cultures, adding another layer of meaning to your experience along the way.
We look forward to sharing Tanzania with you.