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TRAVEL
TIPS
Language:
English is widely spoken but a few words of Swahili will be appreciated.
Money:
Major foreign currencies - particularly US$- and travelers cheques are accepted and are convertible at banks and
bureau de changes in the main town and tourist areas. The local currency is Tanzania Shillings' available at fluctuating
exchange rate of between Tshs. 850/= to Tshs. l,000/= per one US Dollar. All
convertible currencies arc widely acceptable. Credit cards are not widely accepted and carry poor exchange rates. Banks usually don't offer ATM facilities. Visitors may be expected to pay in foreign currency for game parks. Don't change money in the street.
Health:
Please check with your doctor to ensure you are fully aware of the dangers of climbing mountain at higher altitude. It is also advisable to take anti malarial precautions before departure or consult your doctor or Travel clinic before you plan your journey to East Africa.
Climate:
Generally dry and hot with cool nights/mornings June-October, short rains November to mid-December, long rains March-May but the season can vary. The coastal strip is hot and humid all year round. Temperatures on Mount
Kilimanjaro and Meru drop to below freezing.
Cloths:
Pack lightweight, washable cloths plus a sweater for early morning game drives, a sunhat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Long sleeves and trousers in
light-colored fabrics help discourage insect bites. Shorts for women are acceptable (but not too short). Women should carry a wrap to cover legs in the village and towns as revealing cloths can cause offence, especially in Zanzibar and Muslim areas. On the beach and within the confines of beach hotels normal swim wear (but not nudity) is acceptable. For climbing on
Kilimanjaro and Meru, take thermal underwear, light layers, sweater, rain jacket, good socks and sturdy boots.
Baggage:
Baggage on safari is limited to one soft sided bag, plus one small piece of hang baggage per person (excluding a camera bag). In total this should not weight more then 15kg. Suitcases and other heavier items can be stored in city hotels whilst clients are on safari.
Photography:
Bring film and batteries for your camera with you. Protect your camera from dust and keep equipment and film cool. It is courteous to ask permission before photographing local people. If you intend to take a lot of people pictures, be sure to bring an instant camera with you so that you can leave a picture with people you photograph.
Liabilities and Insurance:
Masumin Tours and Safaris acts only as an agent of the passenger in all matters relating to tours and it accepts no responsibility for any personal illness, injury, accident, death, delay, any kind of loss, damage or irregularity of any kind, which may be occasioned by reason of any act or omission beyond its control, including without limitation, any act of negligence or breach of contract of any third party such as a hotel or airline, who is to, or does supply, any goods or services for Business etc. Take out fully comprehensive travel insurance to cover you for loss of baggage or valuables, personnel accident and medical expenses or and kind of loss.
Tipping:
Not obligatory, but a tip for exceptional service (max 10%) will be appreciated, $10-$15 per day for driver or tour guide.
Time:
3/2 hrs+GMT.
Electricity:
230v, but power failures, surges and troughs are common. Bring a universal adaptor and a torch (flashlight) or headlamp.
Travel With Children:
Tanzanians love children and are especially helpful to mothers. However, canned baby foods, powered milk and disposable nappies may not be available outside major towns or to the parks hotel.
Visas:
Check current requirements with nearest Tanzanian High Commission, embassy or consulate.
Security:
Tanzania is a generally safe country but don't invite temptation. Keep your eye on your belongings. Don't walk in the towns or cites at night - take a taxi. Don't carry cameras or large amounts of cash, beware of pickpockets and hawkers. Use hotel safety deposit boxes to safeguard valuables and obtain a receipt. Leave valuable
jeweler at home.
Shopping:
The Tourist areas and hotels sell a wide range of souvenirs, jeweler and trinkets. Don't be afraid to haggle at roadside stalls( Your driver/ guide will guide you were to shop and advice you on the right price) the best known souvenirs are wood carvings, curios, and famous love stove which is a well known gem stone Tanzanite available widely at souvenirs shops.
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