Do I need to tip my safari guide?

Yes, tipping is standard. Expect to tip $20-$30 per day for your driver-guide, and around $10-$15 per day for camp staff.

Is it safe to drink the water?

No. Only drink bottled or filtered water provided by your safari operator. Use bottled water even for brushing your teeth.

Planning your first Tanzania safari

Focus on the Northern Circuit for your first trip to maximize wildlife sightings in a short window. You must book a licensed guide and vehicle at least 6 months in advance to secure prime campsite or lodge availability.

Choose your circuit. For a first-timer, stick to the Northern Circuit (Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Serengeti). It offers the highest density of wildlife and the best infrastructure. Avoid the Southern circuit unless you have more than 10 days.
Select your travel window. Target the dry season from late June to October. Grass is short, making animals easier to spot, and they congregate around permanent water holes. Avoid April and May, as the heavy rains make many roads impassable.
Book a reputable local operator. Don't book through international third-party aggregators if possible. Find a TATO (Tanzania Association of Tour Operators) registered company. Ask them for a 'private' rather than 'group' safari to control your own schedule.
Secure your vaccinations. Visit a travel clinic 8 weeks before departure. You will need proof of Yellow Fever vaccination if arriving from a country with risk of transmission, and you should start a malaria prophylaxis course before you arrive.

Do I need to tip my safari guide?: Yes, tipping is standard. Expect to tip $20-$30 per day for your driver-guide, and around $10-$15 per day for camp staff.
Is it safe to drink the water?: No. Only drink bottled or filtered water provided by your safari operator. Use bottled water even for brushing your teeth.