Preparing for your experience
VACCINATIONS
A yellow fever vaccination is only required to enter Tanzania if you are arriving from, or have transited through, a yellow fever-endemic area in South America or Africa – including East African countries such as Kenya and Uganda. This means that if your itinerary includes visits to both Kenya and Tanzania, you may be asked to show proof of yellow fever vaccination when entering either country. The CDC and WHO each provide a current list of all affected countries. If vaccination for yellow fever is necessary, you must carry an International Certificate of Vaccination provided by your physician; you may be denied entry without it. If your physician advises against receiving the vaccination because of your personal medical history, he or she can provide you with the necessary documentation for the country/countries you are visiting.
STAY HEALTHY ON THE ROAD
In accordance with local regulations, face masks must be worn during internal air flights aboard light aircraft. To protect all guests on JSL small group journeys, wearing a mask is required in vehicles, indoor spaces, and any outdoor spaces where physical distancing is not possible. On Tailor Made journeys, masks must be worn in accordance with local regulations. We encourage you to bring your own masks; a supply will be on hand where needed. Note all protocols are subject to change in accordance with relevant guidelines, local regulations and conditions.
CASH & CREDIT CARDS
- Tanzania has a cash-based economy. Cash transactions can be made in either U.S. dollars or local currency. U.S. dollars should be recently issued bills in smaller denominations. Major credit cards are accepted on a very limited basis, mainly in the largest shops, hotels and lodges. Access to ATM machines is available in large cities such as Arusha and Dar es Salaam, but limited in rural areas.
OF SPECIAL NOTE: PLASTIC BAGS IN TANZANIA
- The government of Tanzania has implemented a ban on plastic bags. The ban applies to “carrier and flat bags,” primarily targeting bags from shops and grocery stores, but also extending to duty- free bags and bubble wrap. If tourists have those types of bags visible while in the airport, they are likely to be confiscated. Bags designed for multiple use, such as zippered cosmetic bags, are not included in the ban.
PACKING LIST & BAGGAGE RESTRICTIONS
- On flights within East Africa, each passenger is limited to a maximum baggage weight of 33 pounds (15 kilograms). This includes the weight of purses and camera equipment in addition to regular luggage. Luggage restrictions are adhered to very strictly and passengers should pack their bags accordingly. Soft-sided luggage or duffels are preferable to hard luggage for storage on safari vehicles and also on aircraft used throughout East Africa. Dimensions should not exceed 23 inches (58 centimeters) long x 13 inches (33 centimeters) high x 10 inches (25 centimeters) wide. Due to COVID-19, JSL will not be providing safari guests with a complimentary, custom-designed JSL Duffels.
- Flights aboard light aircraft within East Africa may not be direct. Multiple stops may be made to offload passengers at safari camp landing strips. A change of aircraft may be required.
- Please use the provided JSL luggage tags, even if your bags already have ID tags. This makes it easier for JSL staff to collect and manage your luggage for you.
Safe Travel Essentials
- Be sure to bring personal protective equipment (PPE), including face masks, travel-sized hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, facial tissues and disinfecting wipes or spray.
Clothing
- Choose comfortable and casual clothing in natural, "breathable" fabrics and versatile styles that can be layered, as temperatures may vary considerably in the course of the day. For game viewing, wear neutral colors (though not camouflage, which is illegal in most national parks and reserves). Black, navy or other dark colors tend to attract insects. Smart casual attire is appropriate for evenings. Formal clothing is not necessary.
- Casual slacks
- Polo shirts, casual short-sleeve shirts or blouses
Clothing (Continued)
- Comfortable walking shoes with traction
- A pair of rubber beach sandals to use as slippers.
- Brimmed hat for sun protection
- Personal garments
- Sleepwear
- Sunglasses / Sun block
- Walking shorts
- Long sleeve shirts or blouses
- Swimwear/cover-up
- Sports bra for women for bumpy roads
- Socks
- Insect repellent with high % of DEET to protect against mosquitos and tsetse flies
- Prescriptions and medications (in their original bottles and/or packaging)
- Extra eyeglasses/contact lenses
- Charging cables for electronics
- Simple first-aid kit
- Smartphone
- Global travel adapter
- Foldable walking stick
- Small daypack or fanny pack
- Low-suds detergent for washing small items of personal laundry
- Small LED flashlight
- Lightweight binoculars
- Inflatable pillow or stadium cushion can make bumpy roads more comfortable
*Note: many properties provide insect repellent in rooms/tents. However, you may wish to bring your own preferred brand.
- Laundry Service is available at most hotels, lodges and camps. Because some laundries in Africa do not accept any underclothing, be prepared to wash your own smalls. Laundry techniques may not be suitable for delicate and/or synthetic fabrics. Check costs and return times before using these services.
TIPPING GUIDELINES
- While decisions regarding tipping rest entirely with you, we suggest the following gratuities (noted in U.S. dollars) depending on the type of experience.
- Safari Guide/Tour Guide: $10 Per Adult/Per Day
- Hot Air Balloon Pilots: $10 Per Adult
- Airport Transfer Drivers/Hotel Porters: $10 Per Family
- Restaurants or Room Service on Own: 10%
