Tanzania Safari FAQs

What are the accommodations like?

In Tanzania, we offer a wide range of accommodations, from camping on Mt. Kilimanjaro to super luxury safari lodges and beach resorts. Speak with your trip planner to choose the right option for your tour.

Are meals included?

We have tried to balance flexibility and convenience regarding meal options. For this reason, we include all breakfasts and meals when there are limited options in the area. In the major cities, where there are a wide variety of restaurants, we generally do not include meals, to allow our travelers the flexibility of choosing their own food preferences. Your tour leader will always recommend some great restaurant options and will usually offer to join and group members who would like to go out to eat together. Your hotel will also provide a light continental breakfast on these days. Included meals are listed in parenthesis next to the tour itinerary on each tour page. An estimated meal budget can also be found under Personal Budgeting toward the bottom of the itinerary on the tour pages.

What are the tour leaders like?

All of our tour leaders are exceptional! They are fluent in English and local languages. They are from the locals areas where they guide, and are among the very best guides available in each region. Our tour leaders treat our travelers like friends, showing visitors both the major highlights and the local treasures.

What type of transportation is used?

We use regular and extended Land Cruisers, with pop-up roofs and extra-large windows. All of our vehicles are maintained to be in exceptional condition...

Do I need a converter/adapter for the electricity?

Tanzania uses 230 volts electricity and requires a 3-pin (square) socket (like that of Great Britain or Hong Kong). Travellers will need a voltage converter for 110 volt devices. Is it best to travel with your own adapters.

What is the climate like?

Tanzania has a varied geographical terrain, which creates regional variations in temperature. The coastal climate is tropical and humid, whereas the northwestern highlands are cooler and temperate. Due to its proximity to the equator, the region is not characterized by the extremes of winter and summer, but rather dry and wet seasons. Tanzania experiences two rainy seasons: a short rainy season from October to December and a long rainy season from March to May. The dry season, and the best weather, lasts from June thru September, when the wildebeest begin their great migration from the south Serengeti to Kenya's Masai Mara. Mount Kilimanjaro is best visited from June-October and December-February. The summit is extremely cold at its higher elevations year-round. Take along a heavy sweater of jacket when visiting higher elevations or northern game reserves.

What is the typical age range for these tours?

Our Africa tours tend to attract all ages. The more adventurous trekking tours tend to attract a slightly younger group (mostly 20s-40s), but we've also had active 70 year-olds do great on these treks, so don't let age discourage you if you are fit and healthy. Expect a wide range of ages and ask your trip planner if you are curious about the demographics for a particular departure.

Are these trips suitable for kids?

Safari options are definitely suitable for children as young as 6. Please note that this depends on the child and it is the responsibility of the parents to determine whether this type of program is suitable for their child. There are long drives on Safari (sometimes lasting 6-8 hours) and the roads can be very rough.

Are these trips a good choice for solo travelers?

Yes. A solo traveler is welcome to join any set departure date for the safaris. The nature of the programs creates an environment where travelers are coming and going from lodges, but there is always a group activity to participate in.

Do the rates include international flights?

Tour rates do not include international flights. We find that it is usually less expensive for travelers to book these separately, and this also allows you the flexibility to choose the schedule and routing that is most convenient for you. You can purchase international flights on your own, or we can certainly help you arrange these flights with an airfare consolidator who specializes in international flights to Africa.

How do I get to the hotel from the airport when I arrive?

You will be met by a safari representative once you clear customs and baggage claim. They will transfer you to the first lodge or hotel.

How far in advance should I book?

You can book your Tanzania tour at any time and, generally, the earlier you book, the better. Booking early (10-12 months or more recommended) is especially important for travelers visiting during the Great Wildebeest Migration, as many of these departures fill up months in advance. Travelers visiting outside of these busy months can often book a bit more last minute, though a 4-6 month notice is still recommended.

Further, we usually recommend that you wait to book your international flights until after your tour is confirmed. The sooner that we arrange your tour, the sooner you can take advantage of flight deals as they become available.

Are tour dates flexible?

YES. Please contact us if you are not able to travel on the set departure dates listed online. Most tours can be arranged on alternative departure dates for a minimum of two travellers as long as lodges/hotels are available.

What should I pack?

You will receive a detailed packing list specific to your tour after you book. On safari, luggage should be limited to two items of baggage per person. If you are climbing, you will be responsible for your personal climbing gear, including but limited to: hiking boots, cold weather gear, hiking poles, etc.

How safe is Tanzania?

Generally speaking, Tanzania is a safe country to travel in. Don't wear expensive accessories or watched, and don't carry large sums of cash. Take particular care with your passport. Travelers should take the same precautions as they would in a major US city. Pay attention to the advice of your tour leader and hotel reception, and take common-sense precautions such as not going into unfamiliar areas alone, especially at night. Guides will monitor your safety in cities and in the game areas. From time to time, generalizes travel statements are issues concerning travel conditions in the area. For more information and current announcements visit the Department of State travel site.

Do I need a visa/passport?

All travellers will need a passport valid for at least 6 months after they depart Tanzania, and have at least 2 consecutive blank pages. Currently, Tanzania does require a tourist visa for travellers from the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, however, visas can be obtained upon arrival. The fee is currently US $100 for a multi-entry visa for Americans. Travellers from other nationalities should check with the Tanzanian Embassy for visa information. We recommend obtaining any visas prior to arrival.

Entry requirements change with surprising frequency. It is each traveller’s responsibility to check with the consulate for the most up-to-date visa information.

Is travel insurance recommended?

It is a condition of booking that all clients must have, and must demonstrate to Adventure Life prior to their departure, adequate insurance for the duration of the tour. Such insurance should fully cover personal injury; medical expenses; repartition in the event of accident, illness, or death; cancellation or curtailment of the tour by the company or the client; and loss of, damage to, or theft of the client's personal property. Activities with a greater inherent risk, such as mountaineering, animal tracking on food and white-water rafting should be covered. Theft, personal injury or any disruption to arrangements should be reported immediately to the company and to the nearest police station.