01 · Before you fly
Start both of these six to eight weeks before you fly. Neither is difficult; both are slow if left late.
Nothing on this page is legal or medical advice, and requirements change without much notice. Check your own government’s travel advice and a travel clinic, and treat this as an orientation rather than an authority.
02 · Detail
What to sort, and when
Visa — most nationalities need one
Usually available online in advance or on arrival. Some nationalities must apply in advance and a few require referral, which takes considerably longer. Check yours early.
Passport validity
Six months beyond your return date is the usual requirement, with blank pages for stamps.
Yellow fever
Proof of vaccination is required if you are arriving from, or have recently transited, a country where yellow fever is endemic. This catches people routing through other African airports.
Routine and recommended vaccinations
A travel clinic will usually discuss hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus and rabies depending on where you are going and for how long.
Malaria prophylaxis
Tanzania, including Zanzibar and the parks, is a malaria area. Whether to take prophylaxis and which is a medical decision — make it with a clinician, six to eight weeks out.
Kilimanjaro and altitude medication
If you are climbing, discuss altitude with your doctor specifically, and check that your travel insurance covers you above 4,000 metres.
03 · Questions
