FAQ Tanzania & Kenya

Whether you’re travelling to Tanzania or Kenya, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry to the country. You can find out more information on entry requirements our Visa, Passport and Money Advice page.

Yes, British passport holders require a visa to enter Tanzania and to enter Kenya. You can apply for an e-visa before travelling and more details can be found on our Visa, Passport and Money Advice page.

Yes, we would always recommend taking out comprehensive travel insurance when travelling, especially overseas, that is suitable for your requirements and needs.

The seasons in Tanzania and Kenya are completely reversed from our own in the UK. From May-October we advise you to also bring some warm layers as it can cool down in the evening. November-April we advise you to take summer clothing plus some long and airy trousers, tops and skirts to protect against malaria. In addition, the most practical things to take are: anti-mosquito spray (DEET) and a lock for your suitcase/luggage.

It is always best to get the advice of a GP or travel nurse before travelling overseas to check which vaccinations you might need or if any boosters are required. The Fit for Travel website provides a comprehensive guide on all the vaccinations you should consider.

To enter Tanzania or Kenya you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination, but only if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk

We know heading off on holiday is always a little bit stressful, especially on the day you leave, so we would advise doing these things before you depart:

• Check you have all your necessary documentation, including your passport!
• Take a photo of your documents and email it to yourself and travelling partners. Having a copy on your phone always comes in handy too.
• Ensure you have all your chargers and converters for any phones, cameras, tablets you are taking. A portable battery pack is a handy item to have in your hand luggage.
• Take snacks and a big bottle of water for your flight.
• Get to the airport with plenty of time to spare, we advise arriving 3 hours prior to your flight departure.
• Pack a change of clothes in your hand luggage and take a photo of your checked bag in case it goes missing en route.
• Sit back and relax knowing we have your holiday sorted!

In both Tanzania and Kenya, the official language is Swahili (Kiswahili), which is spoken by nearly everyone across the country. English is also widely used, particularly in urban areas and tourist hotspots. Here are some key phrases in Swahili:

Swahili:

• Hello: Habari (general) / Jambo (common for tourists)
• Goodbye: Kwa heri (to one person) / Kwa herini (to more than one person)
• Yes: Ndiyo
• No: Hapana
• Thank you: Asante / Asante sana (thank you very much)
• Please: Tafadhali
• How are you?: Habari gani?
• I’m fine: Nzuri / Salama

The cuisine in Tanzania and Kenya is a reflection of the region’s rich culture and history. Maize, rice, beans and coconut feature heavily in daily meals. Below are some of the most popular and traditional dishes you may taste during your travels.

• Ugali: A staple dish made from maize or cassava flour, served with a variety of side dishes like vegetables, fish, or meat. It’s a fundamental part of most Tanzanian and Kenyan meals.
• Nyama Choma: Grilled meat, typically goat or beef, often served with side dishes like kachumbari (a fresh tomato and onion salad) or fried bananas.
• Zanzibar Pilau: A spiced rice dish infused with flavours like cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom, often served with chicken, fish, or vegetables.
• Chipsi Mayai: A popular street food consisting of French fries cooked in an omelet, sometimes served with a side of spicy sauce or kachumbari.
• Mandazi: Slightly sweet, fluffy doughnuts, usually eaten with tea for breakfast or as a snack.

While traditional Tanzanian and Kenyan cuisine is often meat-based, you’ll find an increasing variety of plant-based options in restaurants. Vegetable curries, often coconut-based, and vegetable pilaf are popular. In urban areas like Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Zanzibar, there’s a growing options for vegetarian and vegan preferences.

Both Tanzania and Kenya are culturally rich countries with various traditions and diverse communities. It’s respectful to dress modestly, especially in rural areas and in Zanzibar, which has a predominantly Muslim population. Public displays of affection are frowned upon. Always ask for permission before photographing people.

Both countries are generally safe and welcoming destinations. As with any destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and take sensible precautions. While the major cities are relatively safe, it’s always best to exercise caution and we recommend to avoid walking alone at night.

As with any travel, we advise being mindful of your belongings. Never leave valuables unattended in vehicles. Avoid wearing flashy jewellery, expensive watches, or displaying high-end camera equipment openly, as this can attract unwanted attention.

We are contactable in the UK during office hours and our local partners in the destination are available 24/7 for any support or help you might need. They are in the best position as they will be on the same time zone, they should be your first contact in a case of emergency.

In both Tanzania and Kenya, tipping is customary for guides, drivers, and in restaurants. We recommend tipping 10% of the bill in restaurants and suggest $10-$20 per guide per day for safari or tour guides. For drivers or camp staff, a tip of $5–$10 per day is appropriate.