Kenya | Tanzania

CLIMATE

Elevation and distance from the sea control the climate of Tanzania. On the mainland coastal strip along the Indian Ocean, the climate is warm and tropical, with temperatures averaging 27°C (80°F) and rainfall varying from 750 to 1,400 mm (30 to 55 in). The inland plateau is hot and dry, with annual rainfall averaging as little as 500 mm (20 in). The semi temperate highlands in the southwest are better watered.

The climate on the islands is generally tropical, but the heat is tempered by a sea breeze throughout the year. The annual mean temperature for the city of Zanzibar is 29°C (85°F) maximum, and 25°C (77°F) minimum; for Wete in Pemba, 30°C (86°F) maximum and 24°C (76°F) minimum. Most rain falls from December through May. Tanzania also can experience substantial fluctuations in rain amounts from one year to the next.

HEALTH
Visitors to Tanzania are advised to take anti-malaria prophylactics before and when on safari, this is due to the fact that the disease is rampant in the hot and humid areas of the country.
As precautionary measure visitors are advised to apply insect repellants, wear full covering clothes and utilize mosquito nets over their beds.

VISA
Visas are mandatory except for citizens of some countries of the commonwealth. It is easier to check if your country qualifies for an exemption from the Tanzania embassies and consular offices in your country.
Visas can also be obtained from major entry points in the country such as Dar es salaam, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar International Airports as well as Namanga, Tunduma, Sirari, Horohoro and Taveta entry points.

CURRENCY EXCHANGE -Tshs
Money may be changed at commercial banks or at Beareaux de change. Visa cardholders can have an access to local currency 24hours a day through standard chartered ATM’s. Master card are accepted at Barclays Bank. Traveler’s cheques and other credit cards have limited acceptance.
Banking Hours:
08:30 am- 15:00 Monday to Friday.
08:30 am – 12:00 Saturdays.

RELIGION.
Most of the population is either Christians or Muslims with a minority as Hindu’s, while a minority of people still practice the traditional forms of worship. Religious harmony is the key to peace and stability in Tanzania.

PEOPLE.
Tanzanians are a warm friendly people. The population is mostly Bantu. The largest being the Sukuma and Nyamwezi. There are about 125 recognised tribes whose diverse Bantu, Nilotic and haminic vernacular languages, traditions and customs have great cultural appeal. This diversity also manifests in the unique ways of dressing, hairstyles, local dancers, paintings e.t.c.
The population also includes the pastrolist Masai and the Barbaigs around Lake Eyasi.