Language
English is widely spoken but a few words of Swahili will be appreciated
Money
The Tanzanian currency is the Shilling and convertible to major foreign currencies - especially US$. Travellers cheques are acceptable and can be converted at banks and bureaux de changes in the main towns and tourist areas. Credit cards are not widely accepted and carry poor exchange rates. However some banks have now installed ATM facilities for local banks. Visitors may be expected to pay in foreign currency for game parks.
Health
Yellow fever vaccination is no longer compulsory except for people coming from region confirmed to be affected. Malaria is endemic but is preventable: Use insect repellent, cover up after sunset, sleep under a mosquito net and take anti-malaria prophylactics as advised by your doctor. Bring prescription medicines, spare glasses, contact lenses and solution as well as ultra violet (UV) treated sunglasses, a first aid kit, cream for bites/stings and diarrhoea remedy. Drink only boiled or bottled water, bottled or canned drinks, avoid ice cubes and salads. HIV/AIDS is widespread, especially in the main tourist areas.
Climate
Generally dry and cooler in the hinterlands with cooler nights and mornings. As one approaches the coastal areas gets hotter and humid.
June-October has scattered rains, November to mid-December has a shy rains, March-May is the period for heavy and longer rains. however the seasons can vary. Temperatures on Mount Kilimanjaro and Meru drop to below freezing.
Clothes
Pack lightweight, washable clothes plus a sweater for early morning game drives, a sunhat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Long sleeves and trousers in light-coloured fabrics help discourage insect bites.
On Safari
Distances in Tanzania are vast and travel by road can be wearing. Plan to spend more time in fewer parks. You'll see more and won't return home exhausted.
Keep your distance from animals and be quiet to avoid distressing the wildlife. Follow instructions of rangers or guides. Don't leave your vehicle in the parts except in designated places. Keep to recognised tracks to avoid damaging vegetation.
Photography
Bring film (especially slide film) and batteries for your camera with you. Protect your cameras from dust and keep equipment and film cool. It is courteous to ask permission before photographing local people. If you intend to take a lot of people pictures, be sure to bring an instant camera with you so that you can leave a picture with the people you photograph.
