Your First Safari in Tanzania

Tanzania is home to a number of popular safari trips. Even though they can be considered tourist attractions, these trips are not like a day at the city zoo. Safaris are serious expeditions that send you straight into Africa’s wildlife, so follow these tips to get the most out of your adventure.

Learn Swahili

It’s always good to learn at least a few phrases in your destination’s language. In this case, knowing some key phrases of Swahili could get you out of a tight situation if you ever get lost. Otherwise, you’re able to offer a friendly, “Jambo!”

Dress smart

Lightweight clothes with light colors will keep you cool in the heat, but high altitude places like Ngorongoro Crater will require a jacket, especially if you’re camping overnight. Also, remember to pack a hat with a chinstrap and a good pair of binoculars for the classic safari look. Wearing mosquito repellent is also a good idea to stay bite-free and prevent malaria transmission.

Stay alert

Remember you are in the middle of the wild, so pay attention to your guide at all times and do not exit vehicles until it is stated it is safe to do so. Your safari program should also give you plenty of bottled water to stay hydrated, as the tap water in Tanzania is not purified.

Be prepared

Travel insurance is strongly recommended, especially policies that have medical coverage abroad, should anything happen while out in the wild. A short-term membership with Flying Doctors is also a good idea, providing air evacuations out of the remote regions of East Africa.