Visiting Tanzania

 

Are there any 5 star accommodations in Tanzania?

There are 4 and 5 star hotels available in all the cities we travel to.  Whatever your housing desires are can be accommodated.

 

What is different about Tanzania compared to the US?

Everything.  One could not even begin to explain how the Swahili culture is different from Western culture.  Most people are humble, soft-spoken and never in a hurry, very different from our every day hustle and bustle.

 

Should I expect Tanzania to be just like Ohio/[my city, USA]?

No. They are two totally different cultures.  Many people experience culture shock when they have to turn on a switch 30 minutes in advance to warm up the water in the water tank before they can take a hot shower.  Or being places where there is no WiFi, your GPS won’t work, and no one speaks English. Hakuna Matata means no worries. So traveling to Tanzania can be an experience of a lifetime, but only if you leave all of your fears and preconceived expectations at home.

 

Will I be safe?

Tanzania overall is a safe country.  However, as in all parts of the world, thefts and muggings can occur.  Therefore, walking alone is not recommended, especially at night.

 

Will I have to dress conservatively due to local traditions?

There is no strictly enforced dress code.  However, revealing shoulders and thighs should be avoided, for modesty and to mitigate mosquito exposure.

 

How should I dress or act in Tanzania?

The mainland is predominantly Christian while Zanzibar has a large Muslim population.  In order to not offend local customs, dress modestly and no loud or vulgar language.

 

​Is the ferry from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar safe?

The ferry makes several successful trips each day. Each one-way trip is approximately 2 hours. The VIP ticket is preferred due to the availability of amenities like food/beverage service and air conditioning.

 

How much walking and riding?

Depends on the activities selected on the itinerary. There is little/no walking while on safari, however there is quite a bit of walking in Stonetown, Zanzibar. So it is recommended that comfortable shoes be worn.