Tanzania and Zanzibar : Travel costs, and what to Bring

Preparing for a trip to Tanzania and Zanzibar can be as exciting as it is daunting. These beautiful destinations offer a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and exotic wildlife, making them top picks for adventurers and honeymooners alike. Whether you’re planning to explore the vast plains of the Serengeti or relax on the pristine beaches of Zanzibar, packing right is essential to enjoy everything these locations have to offer comfortably and safely.

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This comprehensive guide provides you with all the necessary information and packing tips to prepare for your journey across these two spectacular locations. We’ll cover everything from necessary travel documents to the right type of clothing and gadgets you should bring along. So, buckle up and get ready to make your African adventure as smooth and enjoyable as possible!

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Essential Travel Documents

🛂 Ensure you have all your travel documents ready:

Valid passport.
Airline tickets and booking confirmations.
Comprehensive travel insurance with medical coverage.

Transportation

🚖 Transfers are included in your itinerary. For additional travel, local taxis or ride-sharing services can be used.

Currency

💵 The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling. US dollars are also accepted. Carry some cash for small expenses, as credit cards are not always accepted everywhere.

Health and Safety

💉 Consult a doctor for recommended vaccinations and have insurance that covers medical care abroad.

Electricity

🔌 Electrical sockets in Tanzania are generally type D and G. A universal adapter is recommended.

Consider purchasing a local SIM card for better connectivity.

Safety Tips

🔒 Be vigilant with your personal belongings, especially in public places and during safaris. Use bags with secure closures.

👗 As Zanzibar is predominantly a Muslim society, opt for modest attire in public. Avoid overly short or tight-fitting clothing.

Climate

🌍 The climate can vary significantly:

Tanzania 🇹🇿: Ranges from hot in the plains to cooler in the mountainous areas.
Zanzibar 🇹🇿: Tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round.

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Travel Costs Overview

For Tanzania 🇹🇿

In Tanzania, especially in tourist areas and safari lodges, prices may include a service charge, but this is not considered a tip.

TYPICAL PRICES:

Lunch: $10-20 USD
Dinner: $15-30 USD
Beer: $1.50-3 USD
Water: $0.50-1 USD

For Zanzibar 🇹🇿

Zanzibar's restaurants often include service charges similar to mainland Tanzania, but tipping for exceptional service is appreciated.

TYPICAL PRICES:

Lunch: $10-25 USD
Dinner: $20-40 USD
Beer: $2-4 USD
Water: $0.50-1.50 USD

Tipping

Tipping is not compulsory in Tanzania and Zanzibar, but it is customary to tip service staff and safari guides for good service. It is a significant part of their income.

Safari guides and drivers: $10-15 USD per person per day
Hotel service staff: $1-2 USD per day
Restaurant staff: 10% of the bill is appreciated if a service charge is not included.

Local crew

Although tipping is voluntary, it is a recognized part of life in the tourism and service industry in Tanzania and Zanzibar. Some local staff may look to group members for personal recognition of particular services provided.

Group tipping for drivers and local guides: It's often easier to organize a group tip at the end of the service, which can be around $20-25 USD per person for the duration of their service.

For all non-included services and meals during your trip, tipping is at your discretion, depending on the level of service provided.

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DETAILED PACKING LIST AND TIPS

💼 Clothing and Footwear

Waterproof/breathable jacket: Light and easy to pack for cool evenings or sudden rainfall.
Trekking pants: Two pairs of quick-dry pants that can convert to shorts are ideal.
Sandals: For the beach and relaxed days in Zanzibar.
Light walking shoes: For safaris and day excursions.
Shorts/swimwear: Several opportunities to swim will be present.
Sarongs or beach cover-ups: For covering up when out of the water.
Elegant evening wear: Light shirts, dresses for dinners at the hotel or in town.
A sweater or fleece: For cooler evenings at higher altitudes.
Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses: Essential sun protection.

📷 Photography and Electronics

Camera/smartphone: To capture the unforgettable moments of your journey.
Waterproof phone case: To protect your phone during water activities.
Power bank/charger: To keep your devices charged.
Adapters and chargers: Check compatibility with local sockets.

🎒 Bags and Storage

Waterproof pouch: To protect important documents and electronics.
Daypack (20/25 liters): For day trips and short treks.
Backpack (55/65 liters) or suitcase: Depending on your preference for the rest of the trip.
Travel towel/small towel: If you have space.

🌡️ Health and Safety

Sunscreen and insect repellent: Essential for protection against the sun and mosquitoes.
Hand sanitizer: To maintain good hygiene.
Motion sickness medication: For boat trips or winding roads.