Do I need to tip my safari guide?

Yes. It is standard to tip $20-30 USD per day for the guide, and $10-15 USD per day for the camp staff, pooled.

Is it safe to drink the tap water?

No. Only drink bottled or filtered water provided by your lodge or tour operator.

Can I do a safari on a budget?

Yes, by joining group tours and camping rather than staying in lodges, you can lower costs to about $250/day, but you lose the flexibility of a private vehicle.

Planning a Tanzania Safari

To plan a successful safari, decide between the Northern and Southern circuits, book your camps at least 8 months in advance, and fly into Kilimanjaro or Dar es Salaam. Focus your budget on high-quality guides and private game drives rather than luxury lodges to get the best wildlife experience.

Choose your circuit. Choose the Northern Circuit (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire) for the classic 'Big Five' experience and high animal density. Choose the Southern Circuit (Selous/Nyerere, Ruaha) for a more rugged, remote, and less crowded experience.
Select the right season. Target the dry season from June to October. Grass is shorter and animals gather around water holes, making them significantly easier to spot.
Book a reputable local operator. Avoid giant international agencies. Search for Tanzania-based operators with TATO (Tanzania Association of Tour Operators) membership. Request a custom itinerary that specifies 'private game drives' to avoid being stuck on someone else's schedule.
Get the right medical prep. Visit a travel clinic 3 months before departure. You will need Yellow Fever proof if coming from an endemic country and must start malaria prophylaxis (like Malarone) before you arrive.
Finalize your park permits. Ensure your tour operator has secured your Ngorongoro Crater entry permit in advance. Daily visitor limits apply, and they sell out during peak season.

Do I need to tip my safari guide?: Yes. It is standard to tip $20-30 USD per day for the guide, and $10-15 USD per day for the camp staff, pooled.
Is it safe to drink the tap water?: No. Only drink bottled or filtered water provided by your lodge or tour operator.
Can I do a safari on a budget?: Yes, by joining group tours and camping rather than staying in lodges, you can lower costs to about $250/day, but you lose the flexibility of a private vehicle.