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- Africa Travel Guidelines
Advice for African Travelers
Planning ahead helps make your trip enjoyable and low-stress! Here’s a quick guide to help you prepare for your African adventure — with a special focus on Tanzania.
- It is a good idea to inform your credit card company that you will be traveling – including locations of layovers. Additionally, be aware that many places in Africa only accept credit cards with a microchip imbedded in them, so if your card is not so-equipped it may be refused.
- Some merchants require a PIN with the card, so check if your card has one. Be sure you know if your card charges extra for foreign transactions.
- Cash: there will be occasional cash-only situations (generally small cafés or small vendors and the occasional public restroom) so having some cash on hand is wise.
- Currency Exchange: there is no need to change US dollars to Tanzania shillings, but smaller bills for souvenir purchases in more remote areas may be worthwhile.
- Always have a copy of your credit cards and passports with you – separate from your luggage and wallet. In case of loss or theft this makes life easier.
- Passport: Keep a photocopy or digital backup separate from the original in case of loss.
- Credit Cards: Copies of the front and back are helpful in emergencies.
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Keep copies of any important prescriptions with you.
- Insurance: Verify if your health insurance covers international travel or consider short-term travel insurance for peace of mind.
- The climate in Tanzania in September will be pleasant but with a chance of rain. We encourage you to pack lightly but include the option of wearing layers if the weather should cool off. A light rain jacket is helpful.
- Be aware that you will be exposed to sun and wind, so long sleeves may be preferred or at least bring sunscreen and sunglasses.
- Gratuities for guides and camp staff are a common part of the culture in Tanzania.
- Gratuities for the guides have been included in the price. Gratuities for the camp staff are not.
- There will be a ‘Tip Box’ in the camps where contributions can be made at the end of your stay.
- Gratuities are just that. If you feel the service is worth tipping the staff then your contribution will be much appreciated.
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Food and drink are reasons in themselves to travel – be adventurous and enjoy.
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Meals are included in the price of the trip. If you have questions about specific items please ask.
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Camps can easily accommodate vegetarian diets although vegan may be a bit more difficult.
- Voltage: Tanzania uses 220V (US is 110V). They also have a different prong design.
- Most phone and laptop chargers are dual-voltage (check the label to confirm).
- Plug Adapter: You will need a plug adapter to charge devices.
- Hairdryers & Appliances: Use hotel-provided units, as U.S. devices are often not compatible with the higher voltage.
- Phones: Check your carrier’s international plan or disable data roaming before departure to avoid high fees. Wi-Fi is available in the common areas of the camps.
- Download WhatsApp to your phone and anyone you wish to contact as this is a common means of texting from foreign countries.
Final Note
Bon voyage! If you have any questions before or during the trip, don’t hesitate to ask. Safe travels!