Frequently Asked Question

Edit Content

Tanzania is located in East Africa between longitude, 29 degrees and 41 degrees east and latitude 1 degree and 12 degrees south. Tanzania borders Kenya to the north, Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west, and Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique to the south, and is the largest country in East Africa (943,000 sq km), comprising both the mainland and the Zanzibar Archipelago.

A large central plateau makes up most of the mainland (at between 900m and 1800m) and the mountain ranges of the Eastern Arc and the Southern and Northern Highlands cut across the country to form part of the Great Rift Valley.

Tanzania is a land of geographical extremes having the highest peak Mount Kilimanjaro, the lowest point Lake Tanganyika, and the largest Lake Victoria, on the continent.

Edit Content

As Tanzania lies just south of the equator, there is little seasonal variation in temperature, but it is slightly cooler in June/July and warmer in January and February. There is much more variation between the coastal and low lying regions and the high plains and mountainous regions. There are two rainy seasons – the long rains during late March and late May and the short rains in November. The rest months are categorized as dry season. In practice the rainfall pattern is neither regular nor predictable.

The Great Northern Parks lie at an altitude of 5,000 to 19.340 feet, Kilimanjaro being the highest to have a pleasant climate with warm days and cooler evenings year round.

Between June and October, temperatures range from around 10°C in the northern highlands to about 23°C on the coast. On the plains and the lower-altitude game reserves, the temperatures from June to October are warm and mild. On the coast, these months are some of the most pleasant to visit, with balmy, sunny weather much of the day and cooling ocean breezes at night. From December to March, the days are hot and sunny with often no even a cloud in the sky. Temperatures range from the mid-twenties to the low thirties throughout the country while visitors flock to the parks and beaches to escape the dreariness of late winter in colder climes.

Edit Content

3 hrs + GMT

Edit Content

The local unit of currency in Tanzania is Tanzanian Shilling (TSh) which is convertible freely for US Dollar, Euro and other currencies within Tanzania. There are several places in Tanzania you can exchange your money/traveller’s cheques but it is advisable that you exchange your money only in hotels, banks, bureau de change and your tour operator to avoid inconveniences and being coned

It is illegal to export more than a small amount of Tanzanian Shilling. Many items or services are priced and paid for in US Dollar, so do not convert more funds into the local currency than you may need for incidental expenses.

Edit Content

Tanzania is one of the safest countries to travel in. Tanzanians are kind and generous people and are eager to help visitors get the most out of their stay. Tanzania is a true example of tolerance and cooperation in our modern world, with an evidenced multicultural diversity that has co-existed for centuries and has a lot to offer the world by its example.

However, as in all countries in the world, a little common sense goes a long way and rational precautions should still be taken, such as locking valuables in the hotel safe, which frees your mind to soak up the natural beauty and incredible insights.

Edit Content

Today, there are a number of ATM machines around and banks are widely expanding the service. However, it may be not very reliable to expect a certain ATM as sometimes they are not working especially when you are in remoter area. In cities there is a good number of ATM machines and here is where you should draw your money before starting your safari. Be careful as in some small towns you may find there are no ATM machines so get well prepared with enough cash as needed before you move. Note that when drawing money from ATM machines you will get the money in Tanzanian Shilling and not otherwise.

Edit Content

The power supply is at the UK/European standard voltage of 220/240, and most of power sockets are the U.K. square pin type. If you want to use U.S. appliances you will need a voltage converter as well as a plug converter. Power supply is also subject to cuts and voltage fluctuation.

On safari most lodges’/tented camps power supplies are from solar system and others generators and these using generators are often turned off during parts of the day and night to reduce noise and fuel consumption. On Safari, you will be able to charge your batteries/cameras/cellphones in our vehicles equiped with Inverters for that purpose. In beach hotels you will be able to charge your batteries easily but it may be difficult on mountain trek.

Edit Content

There are mosquitoes in Tanzania so travelers should be well prepared. You will need to bring repellent for mosquitoes and other insects. In coastal area and in the area around Rift valley you will encounter possibly a lot of mosquitoes. Make you take Malaria prevention before and during your travel to Tanzania. It is also recommended that you vaccinations against hepatitis, Yellow fever, polio and typhoid. Refer to your local health authorities to finalize your immunization recommendations and requirements. 

Edit Content

British Airways fly direct to Dar es Salaam from Heathrow, three times weekly.  KLM fly from Zurich to Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro and Swiss Air from Zurich to Dar es Salaam. Air India flies to Dar es Salaam via Mumbai, Emirates flies via Dubai and Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa. Check with your local travel agent for other airlines that operate to Tanzania via Europe and the Middle East.

Regional carriers into Tanzania include Air Tanzania, Kenya Airways, Precision Air and South African Airways. Domestic carriers include Air Tanzania and Coastal Aviation. Precision Air, Regional Air Services and ZanAir link the major cities, tourist attractions and game parks in Tanzania. Air Tanzania, Precision Air, Coastal Aviation and ZanAir fly between the mainland and Zanzibar. International flights serve Dar es Salaam International Airport (DAR) recently named “Julius Nyerere International Airport” which is eight miles from Dar es Salaam city centre and Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), just 31 miles from the main town center of Arusha.  Zanzibar Kisuani Airport (ZNZ) is just five miles from Kisauni.

Matukio Adventures can help you book or hire regional/local flights and charters in Tanzania.

Edit Content

Matukio Adventures does not process travel insurances. We therefore advise that you consult your travel insurance broker when planning your trip. It is very important that you get travel insurance to cover health costs, your properties, and other things during the travel period. Matukio Adventures is a member of AMREF Flying doctors based in Nairobi with their branch in Arusha and through this we usually issue evacuation insurance cards to clients before the start of safari.

This includes light aircraft with skilled doctors for pickup from isolated airstrips in the national parks, game reserves and anywhere else. This service covers only evacuation to the hospital and does not replace your medical Insurance. Medical bills have to be settled directly by the patient.

Edit Content

An airport tax of US$50 is levied (this is not fixed), which may be included in the price of air ticket. Note that this may change and should be confirmed while booking your flight.

Edit Content

Visitors to Tanzania apart from valid passport require visas with the exception of citizens of the commonwealth and Scandinavian countries. Visa can be obtained from any Tanzania’s diplomatic mission or consulate abroad, at main entry points or by writing to the principal immigration officer (P.O. Box 512, Dar es Salaam-Tanzania).

Edit Content

The official language of Tanzania is Kiswahili, which is spoken by the majority of the population who also speak tribal languages (about 120). English is also spoken and understood by many especially in towns.  Our guides are fluent in English and other languages like French, Spanish, Italian, and German (guides will be available by special arrangement)

Edit Content

Northern Tanzania! Ngorongoro Crater, a World Heritage Site, has one of the greatest concentrations of wildlife in the world. The vast plains of Serengeti National Park also host a myriad of wildlife, especially during the wildebeest migration

Edit Content

All kinds! You will see the animals you’ve always dreamed of encountering on safari—zebra, elephant, hippo, giraffe, lion, warthog, wildebeest, and so much more. 

Edit Content

Tanzania has the best year-round wildlife viewing, and we adjust our itineraries, departure dates, and accommodations based on wildlife migration patterns. In Tanzania, any time is a wonderful time to be on safari. Of course, there are seasonal variations, but you’ll always see a lot of animals. 

Edit Content

The Great Migration is a year-round phenomenon where vast herds of mammals, mainly wildebeest, gazelle, and zebra, move around the Serengeti in search of food and water. The driving force of the migration is rain, making it difficult to predict.

Edit Content

Hakuna matata! No worries! Plenty of awe-inspiring moments present themselves whenever you travel in Tanzania. Even if you don’t happen to see the Great Migration, you’ll still see an abundance of wildlife. 

Edit Content

Don’t indiscriminately hand out pens, money and sweets like a wealthy Western Santa Claus along the way except at particular premises like schools etc as otherwise it may just encourage begging. As anywhere, gifts should be given as a true expression of friendship, thanks. There are Orphan centers and schools in need where you may provide gifts and children will very much appreciate. Please contact us if you want to know where these institutions are and what could be appropriate gifts.

Edit Content

You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the quality and variety of food on our safaris. In most lodges, meals are served buffet-style. The food is often prepared with western palates in mind (some local dishes are included). At the Bush Camps, chefs prepare fresh soups, breads, entrees, and desserts daily. 

Edit Content

With advanced notice, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and diabetic-friendly meals can easily be arranged. Make sure to inform us when booking your trip. 

Edit Content

The tourist areas and hotels sell a wide range of souvenirs, jewellery and trinkets. Don’t be afraid to haggle at roadside curio stalls.

Itineraries

Edit Content

Many of our trips provide opportunities to visit local villages and interact with the people. However, if your itinerary does not include these visits, you’ll still gain valuable local insight from your expert guide, a native of Tanzania.

Edit Content

Absolutely. Just contact us to start the process. We’ll listen to your needs and give expert recommendations based on your interests, timeline, and budget. Leave the details to us! 

Edit Content

Of course! We think taking your whole family on safari is a wonderful way to learn and grow together. That’s why we offer family safaris designed for families traveling with kids six years of age and older.

Edit Content

At Matukio Safaris, we know how important choice is when planning a trip. That’s why we offer an array of accommodation options. Do you want to stay in all tents? All lodges? A combination of both? It’s completely up to you.

Edit Content

We specialize in small group travel, but the exact size varies trip to trip. One thing’s for sure: you’ll have plenty of elbow room, access to the pop-up roof hatch, and a guaranteed window seat.

Booking & Payment

Edit Content

We recommend booking as far in advance as possible to ensure your space.

Edit Content

We accept Visa and Master Card for your safari deposit. The remaining balance is due 90 days prior to departure and is payable by check, wire transfer, or money order.

Edit Content

Your safari land packages will include all accommodations, meals, bottled water with meals and on wildlife-viewing drives, airport transfers, park fees, and services of guides and drivers.

Additional costs not provided may include: tips for your guides/drivers/staff, bar beverages, laundry service, phone calls, passport and visa fees, souvenirs, and travel insurance (if you choose to purchase).

Edit Content

Not obligatory, but a tip for exceptional service will be appreciated. We suggest the following to be used as a guideline but not a rule as tipping depends on the discretion of each client. Matukio Adventures staff is service minded and always goes the extra measure above expectations.

On wildlife safari:
Driver Guide: US$ 30 per day from the group

Tipping in a lodge/hotel/Tented Camp

You can leave US$5.00 or US$10.00 on the table per meal and not per person.