First-Timers Guide to a Perfect Tanzania Vacation

Tanzania is a great place for travel lovers to visit, as it offers an experience that tourists can never forget. The breathtaking region allows visitors to have fun, relax, learn about culture and history, try different foods, and enjoy stunning views of nature, and gorgeous flora and fauna. Here is a guide for first time visitors so they can enjoy the perfect vacation!

1. The People

The people of Tanzania are friendly and down-to-earth. They are welcoming towards tourists and always willing to provide help. It is important for tourists to respect their customs, and not offend or insult them in any way. It is considered disrespectful to take pictures without consent, or offer food or any items to children getting permission from their parents. People should not approach locals without a mask on, or stand in close proximity, to protect them from the risk of coronavirus.

1. The Language

Many locals know English, especially in popular tourist spots. The official national language is Swahili, while there are many other major ethnic languages such as Makonde, Gogo, Haya, Nyamwezi, and Sukuma. It is a good idea to learn a few basic phrases of Swahili, and learn the common Salam greeting. 

1. The Food

The cuisine is unique and special, as it is influenced by a blend of Indian, Swahili, Arabic, Turkish, and Portugese cuisines. The food is flavored with spices such as pepper, vanilla, nutmeg, cinammon, cardamom, turmeric, lemongrass, and cumin. Some popular dishes that tourists must try are Mandazi (doughnuts), Mshikaki (meat skewers), Nyama Choma (grilled meat), Kuku Paka (spicy curry), Samaki (fried fish), and Biryani (spiced rice).

1. Best Timing

The best time to visit Tanzania is during the dry season from June to October, when tours are least likely to be disturbed by rain or thunderstorms, and wildlife viewing is ideals. Tourists should witness the extraordinary Great Migration of two million wildebeests, which can be seen from January to March when the infants are born, and calving season is at its peak. This is also a great time for climbing the glorious Mount Kilimanjaro, and enjoying discounts as less tourists visit in the rainy season,

1. Top attractions

These are the top locations that first time visitors must not miss during their vacation in Tanzania!

• Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in East Africa and is home to extraordinary flora and fauna, Tourists can enjoy an adventurous trekking experience here

• The Serengeti is famous for the Great Migration and its scenic views of the vast savannah, Tourists can enjoy unforgettable safaris, spotting amazing wildlife. 
• Lake Manyara is a tranquil and serene location where one can spot amazing birds such as herons, hornbills, doves, kingfishers, weavers, woodpeckers, and flamingos.
• At Arusha National Park, tourists can enjoy cycling tours and spot animals such as giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, dik diks, colobus monkeys, red duikers, and blue monkeys. 
• At Gombe National Park, travellers can find chimpanzees and learn about Jane Goodall who studied them for years!
• Tarangire National Park is known for its huge elephant herds. Visitors can witness the elephant migration here!
• Dar es Salaam is a vibrant bustling city that can provide an insight into the lifestyle of Tanzania’s urban side!

1. Clothing

A trip to Tanzania requires comfortable clothing, as tours often include walking around. Tourists must have comfortable shoes like sandals, as well as shoes suitable for walking. They should wear lightweight breathable fabrics that do not attract much attention, especially during safaris. It is advisable to carry an extra layer, such as a fleece or a jacket. They must also keep materials to protect from the sun, such as a hat, sunglasses, a scarf, and sunscreen. During the pandemic, they should also wear gloves and masks. To respect local customs, they should dress modestly and avoid clothing that may be seen as too revealing. Full sleeves and pants are a good idea, as they also protect from mosquitoes and insect bites.

These are some important pieces of information that first time visitors must know so they can have a great trip to Tanzania!