Visa Policy
Most travelers can obtain a Tourist Visa on arrival or apply online via the Tanzania Immigration e-Visa portal.
Tourist Visa:
Valid for 90 days.
Cost: USD 50 (USD 100 for U.S. citizens, multiple-entry).
Paid online or in cash (USD) upon arrival.
Required Documents:
Valid passport (minimum 6 months before expiry).
Return/onward ticket.
Proof of accommodation or tour confirmation.
Entry Points:
Airports: Kilimanjaro (JRO), Dar es Salaam (DAR), Zanzibar (ZNZ).
Land Borders: Namanga (Kenya), Tunduma (Zambia), Rusumo (Rwanda).
Tip:
Blacksand can assist with visa guidance and invitation letters upon booking.

Yellow Fever
A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory if arriving from or transiting through endemic countries.
Recommended Vaccines
Typhoid
Hepatitis A & B
Tetanus
Rabies (for rural travelers or long stays)
Malaria
Tanzania is a malaria zone. Consult your doctor about antimalarial prophylaxis (Malarone, Doxycycline, or Lariam). Mosquito repellent, long-sleeved clothes, and treated nets are also advised.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel and health insurance is required for all Blacksand travelers. It should cover medical evacuation — we work closely with AMREF Flying Doctors for emergency support.
Blacksand Assurance:
We carry first-aid kits, satellite phones, and trained wilderness first responders on all expeditions.

Currency
The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). U.S. dollars are widely accepted in lodges and tourist areas. Only notes printed after 2006 are valid for exchange.
Payment Methods
Cash: TZS or USD.
Cards: Visa and MasterCard accepted at hotels, not always in rural areas.
Mobile money: M-Pesa, Airtel Money, and Tigo Pesa available for locals.
Tipping Guidelines
Tipping is not mandatory, but it’s an important way to show appreciation for excellent service.
Service | Recommended Tip
Safari Guide | $15–25 per day (per group)
Mountain Guide | $20 per day
Porters | $10–15 per porter per day
Camp Staff / Chef | $10–20 per group per day
Hotel / Lodge Staff | $2–5 per service
Blacksand Practice:
All tips are pooled and distributed fairly to ensure every crew member benefits.

Tanzania’s climate is tropical at the coast, temperate in the highlands, and cool on the mountains.
Region | Temperature Range | Best Clothing
Coastal (Zanzibar, Dar, Mafia) | 25–33°C | Light cotton, swimwear, sandals
Northern Safari (Serengeti, Ngorongoro) | 15–30°C | Neutral safari wear, hat, sunglasses
Highlands (Arusha, Usambara) | 10–25°C | Light jacket, fleece evenings
Mountains (Kilimanjaro, Meru) | -10–20°C | Layered technical gear, gloves, thermal base
Packing Essentials:
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Hat & sunglasses
Insect repellent (DEET-based)
Reusable water bottle
Binoculars & camera
Power bank / travel adapter (Type G plug)
Flashlight / headlamp
Blacksand Bonus:
Each traveler receives a detailed packing checklist upon booking, tailored to their route and activities.

Tanzania is among the safest countries in Africa for travelers, especially with a registered operator like Blacksand. Still, respect and awareness are key to a harmonious journey.
Safety Guidelines
Always follow your guide’s instructions during safaris.
Don’t feed or approach wild animals.
Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
Respect cultural norms — modest clothing in towns and villages.
Avoid walking alone at night in cities or beaches.
Responsible Travel
Support local businesses and artisans.
Reduce single-use plastics — carry a refillable bottle.
Respect wildlife by maintaining distance and silence.
Ask permission before photographing people.
Participate in community projects Blacksand supports.
Blacksand Ethos:
“Adventure means respect — for nature, culture, and the road beneath your feet.”

Language
Swahili is the national language, English is widely spoken in tourism and business.
Useful Swahili Words:
Jambo! – Hello
Asante sana – Thank you very much
Karibu – Welcome
Safari njema – Safe journey
Pole pole – Slowly, slowly (the mantra of Africa)
Connectivity:
4G coverage is strong in cities and main roads. Rural areas and parks rely on satellite or radio. Local SIM cards (Airtel, Vodacom, Halotel) available at airports.

Required Documents
Passport (valid 6+ months)
Visa (or e-Visa approval)
Travel insurance proof
Yellow fever certificate (if required)
COVID-19 vaccination (depending on origin)
Booking confirmation from Blacksand Adventures
Photography Drones
Drone use requires a permit from the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority. Permits can be arranged for professional projects through Blacksand upon request.

Voltage: 230V
Plug Type: G (same as UK)
Power cuts can occur in rural areas — lodges use generators or solar backup.
Blacksand provides portable inverters and charging stations in vehicles and camps.

Time Zone
GMT +3 (East Africa Time). Tanzania does not observe daylight savings.
Religion & Culture
A blend of Christianity, Islam, and traditional beliefs. Zanzibar leans more Islamic — dress modestly when walking in town.
Social Etiquette
Always greet before asking questions.
Handshakes are common; use the right hand.
Avoid public displays of affection in rural or conservative areas.

Arrival: Immigration and customs are efficient; baggage screening on entry.
Departure: Airport security checks can be thorough — allow extra time.
Airport Tax: Usually included in your ticket.
Souvenirs: Avoid buying coral, shells, ivory, or wildlife products.