Find Cheap Flights to Tanzania and Book Your Next African Adventure

This is the dry season, perfect for safaris and seeing the Great Migration. Expect higher prices and more crowds.

This time offers a mix of good weather and lower prices before the short rains start in November. Great for finding Tanzania flight deals.

The short rains bring lush greenery and the start of the calving season in the southern Serengeti. This is a great time for bird watching.

This is the main rainy season, meaning fewer tourists and the cheapest flights from US to Tanzania. Expect heavy afternoon showers, but green landscapes.

Yes, US citizens need a visa for entry into Tanzania. You can obtain a single-entry tourist visa upon arrival at major airports like Dar es Salaam (DAR) or Kilimanjaro (JRO), but applying for an e-visa online before you travel is highly recommended to save time at the airport. The e-visa process is straightforward and ensures you have all necessary documents ready before your flight.

Moving through Tanzania requires planning, especially between major cities and safari parks. Domestic flights are the fastest way to cover long distances, especially to Zanzibar or remote safari airstrips. For budget travel between cities like Dar es Salaam and Arusha, large buses are common but slow. Within cities, use ride-sharing apps, taxis, or local 'dala-dala' minibuses for short trips. Always agree on the fare before starting a taxi ride. Renting a car is possible but only advised for experienced drivers, especially outside main urban areas, due to varying road conditions. For safaris, transport is usually included in your tour package, utilizing 4x4 vehicles designed for rough terrain.

Accommodation in Tanzania ranges from luxury safari lodges and beach resorts to budget hostels and guesthouses. In major cities like Dar es Salaam, you will find international hotel chains. For safaris, options include tented camps offering a rustic but comfortable experience, and high-end lodges with all amenities. On Zanzibar, look for beachfront bungalows and resorts. Book your safari accommodation well in advance, especially if traveling during the peak dry season (June to October). For city stays, booking online through reputable sites provides the best selection and often lower prices. Always check reviews, especially regarding safety and cleanliness, before confirming your booking.

Tanzania is generally safe, but petty crime like pickpocketing can happen in crowded areas, especially in Dar es Salaam and Stone Town, Zanzibar. Keep valuables secure and avoid walking alone at night. Health-wise, yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from a country with risk of transmission. Malaria is a risk across the country, so consult your doctor about preventative medication. Drink only bottled or purified water. Be wary of overly helpful strangers offering unsolicited tours or services at airports or bus stations; these are often minor scams. Use official taxis or pre-arranged transport. Always carry a copy of your passport and visa, leaving the originals locked up safely at your lodging.

Tanzanians are warm and polite. The primary language is Swahili, and learning a few basic phrases like 'Jambo' (Hello) and 'Asante' (Thank you) is appreciated. When interacting with locals, especially outside major tourist areas, dress modestly. This is particularly important for women, who should cover their shoulders and knees. Public displays of affection should be kept minimal. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, particularly the Maasai people. Tipping is common practice for guides, drivers, and restaurant staff. A small gift or donation to local communities, if visiting, is a kind gesture. Respect for elders is highly valued in Tanzanian society.

Tanzanian food is hearty and filling. The staple food is 'ugali,' a thick porridge made from maize flour, often served with meat or vegetable stews. Try 'pilau' (spiced rice cooked with meat) or 'nyama choma' (grilled meat). On the coast and Zanzibar, seafood is abundant and fresh. Don't miss the street food, especially 'mishkaki' (marinated meat skewers) and 'mandazi' (sweet fried bread). Be cautious with street food, ensuring it is freshly cooked and served hot. For drinks, local beers are popular, as is fresh fruit juice. Avoid ice cubes unless you are sure they were made with purified water. Dining is often a communal and relaxed experience.

Tanzania offers three main travel experiences: safaris, beach relaxation, and cultural immersion. Most visitors combine a safari in the northern circuit (Serengeti, Ngorongoro) with a beach stay in Zanzibar. Allow at least five to seven days for a proper safari experience. If you are climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, plan for six to nine days just for the trek. Dar es Salaam and Arusha serve as good starting points for these trips. Book all major components—safari, internal flights, and key lodging—before you arrive, especially during peak season. Consider visiting Stone Town in Zanzibar for a deep dive into Swahili history and architecture. TICKETS.US suggests visiting the spice farms in Zanzibar for a unique sensory experience.

Packing for Tanzania requires considering both safari and beach environments. For safaris, pack neutral-colored, lightweight clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a warm layer for cool mornings and evenings. A good pair of walking shoes is essential. Remember insect repellent, high-SPF sunscreen, and a basic first-aid kit. If visiting Zanzibar, pack swimwear and light, breathable fabrics, but remember modest clothing for towns. Tanzania has banned plastic bags, so bring reusable bags. A universal adapter is useful, and a good camera with extra memory cards is a must for capturing the wildlife. Keep your luggage light, especially if taking small internal safari flights, which often have strict weight limits.