Travel Tips and Pre Departure Information

Climate:

Tanzania experiences a predominantly tropical climate. Coastal regions are typically hot and humid, with a refreshing sea breeze on the beaches. The average daytime temperature is around 30°C. The country has two rainy seasons—the long rains from late March to June and the short rains from November to January. While the long rains bring heavy downpours and occasional storms, the short rains are generally less severe. The hottest period is from December to March, preceding the long rains, while the coolest months are June, July, and August, often characterized by overcast weather. In high-altitude areas like Kilimanjaro and the Ngorongoro highlands, temperatures can drop below freezing.

 

Credit Cards:

Major credit cards are widely accepted, though some places may add a surcharge for this service. ATMs and 24-hour cash machines are available in branches of major banks.

 

Entry Requirements:

All visitors to Tanzania require a visa for entry. Tourist visas with a validity of three months for single entry can be obtained from Tanzanian embassies in your home country. The current fee is $50 for non-USA passport holders and $100 for USA passport holders.

 

Health:

Before traveling to Tanzania, it’s advisable to consult your physician for the latest health information. While the advice provided here can offer some guidance, it is not a substitute for professional medical consultation. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended, with options such as Doxycycline, Lariam, or Malarone. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry into Tanzania. Passengers arriving from or traveling through yellow fever endemic countries may be required to present a valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate.

 

Photography Guidelines:

Taking pictures of military installations, border posts, or uniformed police or military personnel is strictly prohibited. Exercise caution when photographing local people, and obtain permission, especially with communities like the Masai, who are sensitive about photography. Visiting a local Masai Village by paying a fee allows unlimited picture-taking and video coverage at no extra charge.

 

Transport:

Trackbeat Africa Safaris utilizes fully equipped, customized vehicles with comfortable seating, large windows for game viewing, and pop-up roofs. None of the vehicles are air-conditioned, as the rough and dusty conditions in national parks render air conditioning impractical.

 

Travel Times and Distances:

Travel times are influenced by road conditions, border crossings, detours, and weather conditions. On certain days, travel times may exceed expectations, especially when covering long distances. The unique landscapes of Africa are best enjoyed by relaxing and savoring the breathtaking scenery.

 

Spending Money:

Clients are advised to bring extra funds to cover tips for guides, hotel staff, and additional entertainment. US Dollars, Kenya Shillings, and Tanzanian Shillings are recommended currencies. Most hotels accept credit card payments.

 

First Aid:

Guides are trained in basic first aid, and the safari vehicles are equipped with medical aid kits. Travelers should take preventative malaria medication throughout the trip and seek advice from a doctor before departure.

 

Luggage:

Trackbeat Africa Safaris doesn’t impose luggage limitations, but for itineraries involving domestic flights, be aware that the maximum baggage allowance is 15 kg, excluding hand luggage. Soft-sided luggage, like backpacks or soft barrel bags, is recommended for easier packing in safari vehicles.

 

Insurance:

It is mandatory for all travelers to have insurance covering personal requirements, medical expenses, and personal possessions. Travelers must arrange this insurance before departing from their home country. The responsibility lies with the traveler to obtain medical advice on medication, immunization, and fitness for the trip before departure.

 

Visas:

Clients are responsible for organizing all required visas for Kenya and Tanzania before departure. Visas are available upon arrival at entry points, with a valid passport required, expiring no sooner than six months from the departure date. Queue lengths may vary, especially during busy flight arrivals.

Be aware that Kenya does not accept visas application on arrival. One has to purchase visas online before arrival

 

Consent:

Any complaints during travel should be promptly reported to the company’s representative or agent for resolution. The company remains committed to ensuring satisfaction beyond emails and phone conversations. If further complaints arise, they must be submitted in writing to the company within one month of the tour end date for investigation.

 

Additional Information:

Itineraries may be adjusted or accommodations changed in case of non-availability. Prices for domestic flights, airport taxes, or park fees may be subject to change without prior notice, beyond the company’s control. Passengers arriving in Kenya and Tanzania may need to provide proof of yellow fever vaccination.