7 Tips for Tanzania Safari First-Timers

Tanzania safari first-timers will find this article extremely helpful! Tanzania has a lot to offer with numerous national parks and an abundance of wildlife. But there are a few things you should know before going on your first safari trip to Tanzania. In this blog post, we’ll give you 7 tips that will make your experience as smooth as possible!

7 Tips for Tanzania Safari First-Timers

1. Learn what to pack for a safari

Going on safari in Tanzania is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and the best way to make sure you have the most amazing experience is to pack properly!

The key to a great safari experience is packing the right items. It can be difficult to know what to bring, but with this list, you’ll be ready for anything:

  1. light material, breathable clothing of neutral colors (the clothes should perform well in safari conditions)
  2. a good camera with batteries and a memory card
  3. a first-aid kit
  4. sunscreen
  5. a water bottle and a mess kit
  6. a lightweight bag and backpack
  7. binoculars
  8. a comfortable pair of shoes
  9. a swimming suit

2. Prepare the required documents

Visiting a foreign country has always been connected with the need to arrange numerous required documents.

You’d have to make sure that your passport will remain valid throughout the trip, if not renew it, and most likely you’d need a visa.

But now, the list of required documents needed for the trip has been extended. And that is because of the ongoing pandemic and the additional safety measures that many countries introduce to make traveling possible.

Before heading to Tanzania, make sure that you have checked off the following of your list:

  1. Tanzania Health Surveillance Form (must be completed online within 24 hours of arrival on https://afyamsafiri.moh.go.tz/#/home
  2. Tanzania eVisa
  3. A valid passport
  4. A negative Covid-19 test result

Please note that Tanzania eVisa applications must be submitted no later than 10 business days before one’s arrival to the country.

You can easily apply online using any working device with an internet connection on https://tanzanianvisa.com and receive your Tanzania eVisa via email within 10 business days!

3. Understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to wildlife sightings

When you’re on safari, it’s important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to wildlife sightings.

The animals are wild, after all! However, by knowing where to look and what times of day are the best for viewing certain animals, you can maximize your chances of seeing some of Africa’s amazing creatures. The best way to do just that is by touring the safari with an experienced guide.

Tanzania Safari Lion

Although certain species are more common than others, there’s no guarantee that you’ll get lucky and spot them.

So if you’re hoping to catch sight of all exotic creatures during your travels, don’t get your hopes up too high and instead just enjoy whatever nature has in store for you.

4. Prepare for the heat

What can you expect from the weather in Tanzania? In general, it’s fairly hot and humid all year round. The coolest time of year is between May and August when temperatures range from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius during the day.

November and February mark the hottest period, with temperatures reaching up 31 degrees Celsius.

The climate can also differ between the different parts of the country but it’s also important to keep in mind the fact that Tanzania has rainy seasons.

The rainy seasons runfrom March to May and again from October to December (bi-modal) and October to April (uni-modal).

You have to be prepared for the climate. Make sure to have:

  1. a high-quality, high-protection sunscreen
  2. a hat or any other head coverage

While exploring Tanzania outdoors, stay hydrated at all times!

5. Keep some emergency supplies with you at all times

When you’re on the go, it’s always important to be prepared for the unexpected.

That’s why it’s a good idea to keep some emergency supplies with you at all times. By doing this, you’ll be able to handle most minor emergencies that may come up.

Here are some of the things you should consider packing in your emergency kit:

  1. water purification tablets
  2. a first aid kit
  3. sunblock
  4. hand sanitizer
  5. water bottle
  6. a hat

6. Get travel insurance

Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, don’t forget to protect yourself with travel insurance. Travel insurance gives us peace of mind in case of unexpected events, like canceled flights or lost luggage.

Especially now with the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and the quarantine, insurance with Covid coverage is a must!

7. Don’t forget your camera! The best way to remember your trip is through photos

Is there anything better than coming home from a great trip and being able to relive all of the amazing memories through photos? Of course not!

That’s why it’s so important to remember to pack your camera before you head out on your next adventure.

Tanzania Safari Zebra

With the right equipment, you’ll be able to capture all of the best moments of your trip – from breathtaking sunsets to unforgettable landmarks to exciting wildlife animals you’ll spot.

Pack an additional set of batteries and a memory card to be prepared for everything!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip?

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully.
Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times.
Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

4 comments

  1. These are really great tips!
    It’s always best to be prepared, like you say! Especially on a trip like this where you may not be overly close to a shop whilst on a safari!

    Thanks for the tips, we can’t wait to go back!

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