Entry Requirements – Tanzania
- Visitors must have a valid passport with at least six months validity.
- Most nationalities require a visa, obtainable on arrival or through online e-visa application.
- Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory if arriving from an endemic country.
- Tourist visas are typically valid for up to 90 days.
Climate – Tanzania
- Coastal areas are hot and humid; the central plateau is dry and arid.
- Cooler in the highlands (Arusha, Kilimanjaro) with chilly mornings and evenings.
- Long rains: March–May; Short rains: November–December.
- Best wildlife viewing: June–October (dry season).
Practicalities – Tanzania
- Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS); USD is widely accepted in tourism areas.
- Health: Malaria risk exists; bring insect repellent and consult doctor for prophylactics.
- Voltage: 230 volts, UK-type plug (three square pins).
- Language: Swahili and English are widely spoken.
- Communications: Mobile networks are strong; Wi-Fi available in most lodges and hotels.
- Shopping: Look for Tinga Tinga paintings, wood carvings, Maasai jewelry, spices, and khangas.
- Airports: Julius Nyerere International (Dar), Kilimanjaro International (JRO), and Zanzibar (ZNZ).
Entry Requirements – Uganda
- A valid passport is required with at least 6 months validity.
- Visas can be obtained online (e-visa) or on arrival for most nationalities.
- Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory and proof must be shown at entry.
- Multiple-entry East Africa Tourist Visa available for Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
Climate – Uganda
- Tropical climate, cooler in highland areas (Kampala, Fort Portal, Bwindi).
- Rainy seasons: March–May and September–November; drier from December–February and June–August.
- Best time for gorilla trekking: June–September and December–February.
- Light clothing for the day and a warm layer for evenings in highlands recommended.
Practicalities – Uganda
- Currency: Ugandan Shilling (UGX); USD accepted in tourist areas (notes must be recent).
- Health: Malaria precautions essential; bottled water recommended.
- Voltage: 240 volts, British-style three-pin plug.
- Language: English is the official language; Swahili and Luganda also common.
- Security: Use hotel safes and avoid isolated areas after dark.
- Shopping: Hand-woven baskets, bark cloth, wood carvings, coffee, and vanilla beans.
- Major Airports: Entebbe International Airport (EBB).
