ANSWERS TO SOME QUESTIONS
Q: Do I need a visa to enter Tanzania?
A: Guests from [UK, EU countries, etc.] typically require a visa. SADC member countries are Visa free. You can apply for an eVisa online at Immigration Website. We recommend applying at least 2 weeks in advance.
Q: Can I drink the tap water?
A: NOPE! We recommend drinking bottled or filtered water during your stay.
Q: Are there any cultural considerations?
A: Tanzanians are very welcoming! Something to note is that although English is a national language, majority speak limited to no English. It might get you a few points/discounts if you learn a few basic Swahili words! With service providers you will be fine. Also, more Muslim areas tend to be conservative with dress code, but feel free to wear whatever on beaches and "tourist areas". We can inform you accordingly. Also, act the way you would in your home country, i.e. please do not take photos of random people and/or children unless you get consent. xox
Q: What currency is used, and can I use cards?
A: The local currency is Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). Major hotels, supermarkets & restaurants accept cards, but cash is preferred in craft markets, for taxis and smaller shops. ATMs are widely available
Q: How much should I expect to spend?
A: It all depends on how long you stay and where you choose to stay but in terms of the activities we have planned, here is a rough budget of what you may want to bring to be comfortable.
Q: What areas should I look at for accommodation?
A: Most events will be happening around the Mbezi area and so we recommended hotels near here. However the Peninsula and surrounding areas are also comfortable and central so you can also look for well rated properties in Masaki, Oyster Bay, Mikocheni and Msasani.
Q: Is Dar es Salaam safe?
A: Most urban areas are safe with usual precautions.
Q: Do I need vaccinations or health precautions?
A: We recommend checking with your GP or travel clinic. Common recommendations include Yellow Fever (if travelling from certain regions) and Malaria precautions (perhaps a dose of anti-malaria). However for malaria, using repellent should be ok. Do what makes you most comfortable!
Q: What’s the local weather like?
A: Believe it or not, July/August is our "winter", but this just means that temperatures will be between 25-30 degrees celsius. It will be mostly warm, with some cooler nights and possibly (but hopefully not) some light rain. Pack light layers, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent!
Q: What plugs/sockets are used?
A: The same ones as the UK (3 pin flat plugs)! So Bring relevant adapters (SA people with the round plugs especially)
Q: Can I bring my children?
A: Children are very welcome to the trip but not to the ceremony. Please check with us and we can help with baby sitting arrangements for the evening of the ceremony.
Q: Who should I contact if I have questions while travelling?
A: We’ll share local contacts and a WhatsApp group link ahead of time to keep everyone connected.
Q: Can I come to Zanzibar?
A: YES! This is just an extra leg of the trip we are organising. It is a loose plan but we will be doing some group bookings for water activities/tours. If you are interested please contact us ASAP. We will be staying around the Nungwi/Kendwa region from the 4th Aug until the 8th/9th. Feel free to start looking for accommodation around there (some good options on Airbnb and Booking.com to fit any sort of budget!)
