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TANZANIA - TOURIST INFORMATION
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
All visitors to Tanzania must have a valid passport and United States citizens require a visa. Yellow fever vaccination is required if transitting to and from Kenya. Anti Malarial tablets are strongly urged; you should begin taking them prior to arrival.
CURRENCY
The Tanzanian shilling is the main unit of currency. It is very unstable with a current rate of approximately 300 to the dollar. You are not allowed to import or export shillings. (Note: It is technically illegal to use any currency other than the Tanzanian shilling; however, you will find that small denomination U.S. bills are useftil and accepted everywhere). We suggest you exchange a very limited amount of hard currency into Tanzanian shillings as you will not be able to exchange these back to U.S. dollars. Credit cards are not widely accepted.
WHAT TO WEAR
Dress is casual while on safari; Cotton is the most comfortable fabric to wear and a sweater and warm jacket should be taken for evenings. A few changes of shorts, long pants, T-shirts would be sufficient for the average week long safari. Tanzanians are offended by short shorts, revealing clothes, etc.
WHAT TO BUY
Bargain mg has developed into an art-form and is a way of life here. The wood carvings are especially good, the most famous being the Makonde Art made of ebony. Masai jewelry and baskets and bright fabrics are readily found in the market areas. Do not be tempted to buy any Ivory or elephant hair jewelry as it is illegal to sell these items in Tanzania, and you are not allowed to import them into the United States.
SHOPPING HOURS
Monday through Saturday from 8:30AM to Noon and from 2:00PM to 6:00PM. All lodges have small curio shops and most safaris include a stop at a local market.
LANGUAGE
Swahili is the official language. English is widely spoken.
VOLTAGE
240 volts - 50/60 cycles AC.
TIPPING
On safari the general rule is $2.50 to $5.00 per person per day to your guide. Hotel porters, laundry maids etc. are usually given a small amount - the equivalent of .50 cents (US).
EXIT REGULATIONS
There is a departure tax from the international airport of $20.00, payable in U.S. Dollars only. There is no tax if you are departing overland to Kenya.
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