White sandy beaches, palm fringed shores, the Indian Ocean at your feet and Mount Kilimanjaro looming on the horizon – Tanzania offers visitors some of the most spectacular sights in the world.
If you are looking to touch down in the most exciting part of Africa then Tanzania will certainly spark your senses, watch the big five roam on the vast plains of the Serengeti, dive down to explore the bright coral beds and bathe in the azure waters of the Lazy Lagoon.
OBTAINING A VISA
Traveling to Tanzania is a relatively easy feat if you are from the UK, the US, Canada, Australia and other countries from the EU. You will need to apply for a tourist visa before entering Tanzania, all the forms and up to date information can be found on the Tanzanian Embassy Website.
COST AND VALIDITY
The Visa Application will cost you approximately $50 USD and can take up to three days to process. Tanzanian visas are valid for a time period of 6 months after the date it is issued, so be wary if you have decided to pick it up early as it may expire before you have arrived. The embassy will issue a single entry visa or a double entry visa upon request. This is great for travelers who are hoping to explore Africa and cross over to the neighboring parts of Kenya or Malawi. However please remember that the embassy will not issue you a visa for more than two entries in one visit.
AT THE BORDER
You can also obtain your visa at the airport or at the border crossing but you are advised to get your visa issued before you travel to Tanzania in case of any unforeseen problems. To be eligible for a Tanzanian Visa you need to prove that you will be leaving Tanzania within three months of arriving.
WHAT YOU CAN BRING TO TANZANIA
Importing firearms, narcotics and pornography is illegal in Tanzania and can land you in big trouble. There are no restrictions on foreign currency but the Tanzanian shilling cannot be taken in and out of the country. Duty free shoppers are limited to bringing in 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars and 250 grams of tobacco. If you are of legal age you can also bring 1 liter of liquor or 2l of wine.
WHAT YOU CAN TAKE OUT OF TANZANIA
It is strictly prohibited to export animal skins and elephant ivory out of Tanzania. Exporting game trophies, diamonds and gold is also illegal unless purchased from authorized government sources. So be careful when selecting souvenirs to bring home.