Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where Tanzania located?

Tanzania found in East Africa between longitude, 29 degrees and 41 degrees east and latitude 1 degree and 12 degrees south. Comprising the mainland and Zanzibar islands, Tanzania is the largest country in East Africa covering 945,000 sq km. The country borders with Kenya to the north, Rwanda, Burundi and Democratic Republic of Congo to the west and Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique to the south.

Tanzania is a wonderful land surrounded by great lakes includes Lake Victoria, Lake Tanganyika, Lake Nyasa, highest peak in Africa, Romantic Beaches of Zanzibar and Endless plains of Serengeti.

What is the climate condition in Tanzania?

Tanzania lies south of equator, hence there is little seasonal variation in temperature. The coolest months are from June to July and warmer months are from January and February.
There are two major rainy seasons – the long rainy season begins March to June while short rainy season begin November to December. The rest months categorized as dry season.

What the time in Tanzania?

Tanzania time is 3 hours + GMT

Does foreign currency acceptable?

Tanzania local currency is Tanzanian Shilling (TSh) which is convertible freely for US Dollar, Euro and other currencies. There are places you can able to exchange your money but it is advisable to exchange your money only in hotels, banks, bureau de change and your tour operator to avoid inconveniences and being coned. Many services especially in tourist destinations priced and paid in US dollar hence do not convert your funds into local currency than you can require for local expenses.

Is Tanzania a safe country?

Tanzania is a safest country to travel in Africa. Despite of ethnic’s diversity Tanzania is a peaceful country in the world with political stability and warm Tanzania people who always ready to welcome everyone with a great smile and tender caring.

Can I able to use ATM to draw money?

There are numbers of ATM machines around destinations operated by various banks. Most of the ATMs accept cards include visa, master card and debit. Though note that when drawing money from ATM machines you get the money in Tanzanian Shillings only.

What is electricity currency?

Electricity supply in Tanzania is at UK/Europe standard of 220/240 voltage. The power sockets applied is UK pin type. You will need voltage converter if you use US appliance. Most of lodges, camps and hotels in wilderness area use generators and also solar power. During safari, you can be able to charge your batteries/cameras/mobile phones in our vehicles as it equipped with inverter.

What about Health?

Mosquitoes found in great area in Tanzania hence ensure bringing repellent for mosquitoes and other insects. Take Anti malaria dose and ensure prevention measures during Safari. Also it is recommended that you take vaccinations against hepatitis A, polio and typhoid. Refer your health authorities to finalize your immunization recommendations and requirements before traveling.

How can I travel to Tanzania?

British Airways fly direct to Dar es Salaam from Heathrow, three times a week. KLM fly from Zurich to Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) and Dar es Salaam. Swiss Air fly from Zurich to Dar es Salaam. Air India flies to Dar es Salaam via Mumbai, Emirates flies via Dubai. Ethiopian Airlines fly via Addis Ababa.
The regional carriers in Tanzania include Air Tanzania, Kenya Airways, Precision Air and South African Airways while Domestic carriers include Air Tanzania, Coastal Aviation. Precision Air, Regional Air, Zan Air links major cities, the tourist attractions national parks mainland and Zanzibar.
We can help you to book or hire regional/local flights and charters cross Tanzania mainland and Zanzibar. We can advise you to book your International flights.

Does Paragon Safari Club pay for travel/health insurances?

We Paragon Safaris Club does not process travel insurances. It is very important that you get travel insurance to cover health costs, your properties, and other things during travel period. We only issue evacuation insurance cards of AMREF Flying doctors to clients before the start of safari. The AMREF Flying doctors is based in Nairobi with branch in Arusha. What AMREF Flying Doctors offers is light aircraft with skilled doctors for pickup from isolated airstrips within national parks, game reserves and other places. The service covers only evacuation to the hospital and does not replace your medical Insurance. Medical bills have to be settled directly by the patient.

Airport Taxes included with flight fares?

An airport tax of US$50 is levied (this is not fixed), which may be included in the price of air ticket. Note that this may change and should be confirmed while booking your flight.
Do I require visa?
All visitors to Tanzania with valid passport also require visas with exception of citizens of commonwealth and Scandinavian countries. Visa obtained from any Tanzania’s diplomatic mission or consulate abroad or at country entry point.

Which is the best time for wildebeest migration?

Wildebeest migration varies hence between December to March is the calving period. The calving takes place in southern Serengeti especially February. After calving wildebeest migration depart to western Serengeti then proceeding to north till Masai Mara Kenya in September and October.

Which language used in Tanzania?

The official language of Tanzania is Kiswahili and English. Kiswahili is spoken by the majority which also speaks local languages over 125 local ethnics. English is second language spoken and understood by many across the country. Our guides are fluent in English, German, French, Spanish and Italian language.

Can I Travel with children?

You can travel with children in Tanzania. However, canned baby foods, powdered milk and disposable nappies may not be available outside major towns. However, it is not recommended to travel with baby on safari as the roads are bumpy with dust.

Can I hire a car?

Self-drive vehicles are available mainly for local running or tarmac use. 4×4 vehicles for safaris usually have to be hired with a driver but where necessary self-drive is also accepted.

How do I Tip?

Tip is not obligatory, but to tip for exceptional service is appreciated. We suggest the following to be used as a guideline but not a rule as tipping depends on the discretion of each client.

During trekking:

  • Trekking Guide: US$ 30 per day from the group
  • Assistant Guide: US$ 20 per day from the group
  • Porter: US$ 10 per day from the group
  • Chef: US$ 20 per day from the group

During safari:

  • Driver Guide: US$ 30 per day from the group
  • Chef (for camping option): US$ 20 per day from the group
  • Other Camping Staff: US$ 15 per day from the group

Tipping in lodges/hotels/camps

You can leave US$1.00 – US$2.00 on the table per meal and not per person.