From the white sand shores of Pemba to the iconic game reserves Tanzania safaris tours are a top pick for many Africa safari travelers because of the numerous treasures in the vast country. With the increasing need for Tanzania safaris so is the need for knowledge on how to enjoy holiday trips within the country. Just like any other nation, Tanzania too has its own cut of problems that make the tourist vulnerable to any kind of crime. Apart from crime, to enjoy a Tanzania safari, travelers also need to know of several tips and here are useful Tanzania travel tips for travelers to the country;
Tanzania is home to Africa’s highest point which is on Mount Kilimanjaro. alongside the several Tanzania wildlife safaris or birding safaris in Tanzania, to the vast Serengeti National Park or any other destination Mountaineering is a top activity and here are tips for travelers planning to hike;
Mountain climbers or hikers should be reasonably fit and without heart or lung problems. This is because hiking is a rigorous activity and requires use of energy to get to the peak. And also remember the higher you go the cooler it becomes therefore health can be at risk with the temperatures and no good housing since you camp on the mountain during the hike.
At 3,000m above sea level, hikers may not feel hungry but they should always try to eat because you require energy to get to the peak and return. Carbohydrates and fruits are recommended whereas rich or fatty foods are discouraged since they are harder to digest.
Throughout the hike, always keep hydrated. Take at least three litters of water daily since dehydration is one of the major reasons for failure to complete the climb. You will definitely lose some water during the hike when you get sweaty.
While starting the hike, you have a lot of strength however, don’t hike for so many meters because you may lose it all. Hike to an advisable height then relax and wait for the next day to continue with the hike.
Crime-wise, Tanzania’s big cities are by far the most dangerous places to be because of the population that is high in these areas. How stay safe in the Tanzania cities includes;
A traveler should ensure that their Tanzania safari accommodation is booked early and within affluent areas. Avoid slum areas unless if you are traveling in an organized group or else on a tour with a knowledgeable guide.
Make sure you do not walk alone at night within the cities since this attracts petty thieves.
If you plan on taking a self-drive safari in Tanzania, ensure to always keep the doors and windows closed especially at the traffic light junctions.
Never leave valuables visible inside the car when you park or even leave any cash seen while walking on the streets.
Leave your flashy jewelry at home, carry cash in a concealed money belt and be discreet with expensive camera equipment. It’s a good idea to keep spare cash or cards and a copy of your passport in the safe at your hotel so that you have a backup in case of emergencies.
Never accept lifts from strangers and be cautious of anyone trying to help you hail a taxi on the street. The safest bet is to arrange official taxis through a reputable source such as your hotel or Tanzania tour operator.
Generally, crime is not an issue in Tanzania’s game parks and reserves. Although the bush is home to plenty of dangerous animals, it’s easy to stay safe by simply following park rules and regulations and always listening to your Tanzania wildlife safari guide. Basic tips include;
Stay in the safari vehicle at all times (unless you’re told by your guide that it’s safe to get out).
Always check your shoes for venomous spiders if you have walked in the bush
If you decide to camp when you safari Tanzania, don’t ever feed wild animals when they approach your camp site because you are only encouraging aggressive behavior.
If hiking Kilimanjaro is part of your safari to Tanzania then don’t forget to ensure that the equipment used is up to standard and ensure that you are cautious about altitude sickness and consulted a doctor earlier.
If you’re headed to the coast, avoid walking on secluded beaches alone, especially in Pemba and Zanzibar. Even if you walk in a group, consider leaving your valuables at home.
If you are a solo female traveler, you may want to take extra precautions when you tour Tanzania. To avoid being made to feel uncomfortable by unwanted sexual attention, consider dressing conservatively, trousers are a good option. This is especially true in the Islamic areas of Tanzania, which include Zanzibar and much of the Swahili Coast.
Make sure to research hotels carefully and always stay in a safe area.
If you’re backpacking, book a private room or a bed in a girls-only dorm rather than a unisex one.
If traveling alone seems intimidating, an organized tour can be a great way to stay safe and meet new people. You can join a group of tourists also heading for a Tanzania wildlife tour. Your tour operator can help tailor it.
Precautions are good to know before you go to any destination just to make sure your trip doesn’t get messy in any way. These tips are so much applicable in all of the Great Lakes region be it on a Uganda safari, Uganda tour, safari in Uganda, Kenya safari, tour Kenya, Rwanda safari or Congo tour. Its wise to remember these tips and consider them not only how to stay safe in Tanzania but then how to stay safe on safari anywhere in the continent.