Do I need to take malaria pills?

Yes, Tanzania is a high-risk area for malaria. Consult your doctor or a travel clinic at least 6 weeks before you leave to get a prescription for Malarone or Doxycycline.

Can I charge my camera and phone in the bush?

Most permanent tented camps and lodges have solar power or generators that run in the mornings and evenings. Bring a portable power bank just in case, but you shouldn't have issues.

How much should I tip my guide?

It is customary to tip between $15 and $20 USD per day for your guide. Tip at the very end of the trip, not daily.

Planning your first safari in Tanzania

To plan a successful safari, focus your trip on the Northern Circuit (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire) and book through a licensed local operator at least 6 months in advance. You will need to fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and plan for a minimum of 7 days to cover the main parks without spending your entire vacation in a jeep.

Decide on your route. Most first-timers should stick to the Northern Circuit. It has the highest density of wildlife and the shortest transit times between parks. If you have less than 6 days, choose only two parks to avoid constant driving.
Book your operator. Do not book a 'package' through a global travel agency if you can avoid it. Find a Tanzania-based operator registered with TATO (Tanzania Association of Tour Operators). They handle the vehicle, guide, park permits, and accommodation bookings as a single package.
Time your visit for the weather. Visit during the dry season, from June to October. The grass is short, making animals easier to spot, and they congregate around permanent water sources. Avoid April and May, which are the peak of the 'long rains' and can make some roads impassable.
Get the right gear. A safari is not a fashion show. Pack neutral-colored (khaki, olive, tan) breathable layers. You need a high-quality pair of binoculars and a camera with at least a 300mm lens, as you are not allowed to get out of the vehicle in the parks.

Do I need to take malaria pills?: Yes, Tanzania is a high-risk area for malaria. Consult your doctor or a travel clinic at least 6 weeks before you leave to get a prescription for Malarone or Doxycycline.
Can I charge my camera and phone in the bush?: Most permanent tented camps and lodges have solar power or generators that run in the mornings and evenings. Bring a portable power bank just in case, but you shouldn't have issues.
How much should I tip my guide?: It is customary to tip between $15 and $20 USD per day for your guide. Tip at the very end of the trip, not daily.