Travel Tips and Recommendations
Africa With Comfort along with our previous travelers have put together these tips and recommendations to help you in planning your adventure. You can also download the printable Before You Go checklist at the link on the right.
U.S. passport holders need a visa to enter Tanzania. Americans traveling for tourism need to obtain a Multiple Entry Visa, even for a one-time vacation. Apply online before your trip through the official Tanzania Immigration Services website. Tanzania Immigration specifically advises travelers to use its official site rather than third-party visa websites. The turnaround time should be 10 days or less
1. Pack light
Safari vehicles and bush flights have limited luggage space. Soft-sided duffel bags work best.
2. Dress in layers
Mornings can be cool and afternoons warm, so bring light layers and neutral colors.
3. Bring a warm jacket
Sunrise drives, especially around Ngorongoro, can feel chilly.
4. Bring good binoculars
Personal binoculars make wildlife viewing much better.
5. Protect yourself from the sun
Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and lip balm with SPF.
6. Prepare for dust
Protect cameras and electronics and bring a light scarf or face covering.
7. Don’t forget insect protection
Pack repellent and ask your healthcare provider about malaria prevention.
8. See a travel-health professional
Discuss vaccinations and health advice before departure.
9. Drink safe water
Use sealed bottled or properly treated water, including for brushing your teeth.
10. Bring your medications
Carry enough for the trip plus extra days, and keep essentials in your carry-on.
11. Consider travel and medical-evacuation insurance
Remote safari areas make suitable coverage especially important.
12. Bring some U.S. dollars
Cash remains useful for tips, small purchases and remote areas.
13. Bring a power bank
Charging may be limited at some tented camps.
14. Download what you need before entering the bush
Save travel documents, maps and entertainment for offline use.
15. Expect long but rewarding game drives
Wildlife moves freely, so patience is part of the experience.
16. Listen to your safari guide
Your guide knows the animals, roads and safety rules.
17. Never approach or feed wildlife
Stay safe and respect the animals and park rules.
18. Don’t pressure your driver to go off-road
Off-road driving can damage vegetation and disturb wildlife.
19. Give animals room
Good sightings do not require crowding an animal.
20. Put the camera down occasionally
Make time to experience the safari without a screen.
21. Consider a Serengeti balloon safari
A sunrise balloon flight can be a memorable optional experience.
22. Understand the Great Migration
The herds move through the ecosystem throughout the year.
23. Don’t make the trip only about the migration
The Serengeti offers remarkable wildlife in every season.
24. Learn a few Swahili words
Jambo, Asante, Karibu, Pole pole and Safari njema go a long way.
25. Ask before photographing people
Always request permission, especially in villages and communities.
26. Be prepared for an “African massage”
Safari roads can be rough and bumpy—that is part of the adventure.
27. Don’t over-schedule your safari
Fewer locations with more time can be more enjoyable.
28. Stay several nights in the Serengeti
Extra time gives you more chances for wildlife viewing and less rushed travel.
29. Choose a reputable safari operator
Look for established companies with trained guides and proper licensing.
30. Remember: this isn’t just a vacation
Leave time to enjoy the sunsets, people, stars and extraordinary landscapes.
