Frequently Asked Questions About Tanzania
What kind of weather can I expect on safari?
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The climate of Tanzania is tropical, so warm and generally comfortable weather throughout the year is standard, with the coast experiencing higher levels of humidity than other areas. However, November into early December have the short rains. April and May have the long rains. However weather patterns are not completely predictable. You can climb Kilimanjaro and go on safari year-round, but it is preferable to avoid these rainy times.
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Is Zanzibar a part of Tanzania?
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Although Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous region, it does fall under Tanzania. Zanzibar is made up of the islands of Unguja (commonly referred to as Zanzibar) and Pemba, along with several smaller islets, including Mnemba.
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How safe is the water and food in Tanzania?
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It is best to drink bottled water when travelling through Tanzania – numerous brands are widely available and served in all restaurants and lodges. Steer clear of ice, raw vegetables, and salads when eating at street restaurants. High-end lodges and restaurants will clean their produce in antiseptic solution, but to be on the safe side, fruit and vegetables should always be washed and peeled. Try to avoid eating in empty restaurants – the food may have been sitting out for some time – and order your meat well done. On the coast, seafood and fish are usually fresh, but make sure everything is well-cooked.
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How safe is it to travel in Tanzania?
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Tanzania is a safe country to travel in. Tanzanians are warm-hearted and generous people and are eager to help and assist visitors. As in all countries, a little common sense goes a long way and reasonable precautions should still be taken, such as locking valuables in the hotel safe, do not carry a lot of camera equipment especially in the major cities, do not wear too much jewelery, do not carry large amounts of cash on your person etc.
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When and where can I see the Great Migration?
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The millions of wildebeest and zebras are always somewhere, but they are not always in large herds and on the move. Their location is largely dependent on the weather, which can vary considerably from year to year. The Great Migration traditionally follows the rain as animals migrate towards better pastures. Therefore it is difficult to determine precisely when it will happen. Working on the assumption of a "normal" year, the migration generally begins in early April, May and June, when the calves are strong enough and the journey north begins. From June to July the wildebeest gather in the Western Corridor of the Serengeti National Park and in August to September they cross the Grumeti River and head towards the Masai Mara in Kenya. From October to December the animals begin to move back into the Serengeti.
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When should I climb Mount Kilimanjaro and how fit should I be?
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The best months to climb Mount Kilimanjaro are considered to be from August to October and from January to March. Despite its awesome height and fearsome size, Kilimanjaro is a gentle hike that usually takes place over five days. It is important to be physically fit. Guides recommend basic fitness, as the main challenge is posed by the altitude. There are six different routes up the mountain and more advanced hikers and full-on climbers will be able to consider those, as they are more scenic. People of all fitness levels and experience levels climb Mount Kilimanjaro and it's helpful to have hiking and camping experience.
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Is Tanzania a good birding destination?
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Tanzania is an excellent all-year-round birding destination. It boasts over 1000 bird species, with Lake Manyara alone being home to more than 400. Thousands of flamingos on the lake make for a spectacular sight and photographic opportunity. At the height of the northern winter, some 160 species of migrants make their way south, adding to the local birdlife.
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