Tanzania Travel Guide by Andrew Urbaniak of Massachusetts

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Visit Africa in confidence after reading Andrew Urbaniak’s guide for traveling to Tanzania.

Tanzania, located in the continent of Africa, is home to friendly people and breathtaking landscapes. It is a popular travel destination for tourists who like to spend time outdoors. Visitors can enjoy hiking, safari rides, biking, and boating on Lake Victoria. Spotting rare wildlife is the most popular reason for traveling to the African country.

One of the most amazing places to ses and to be is of course the most magnificent Mt. Kilimanjaro.Although it’s being considered as quite tough to reach the peak without any prior preparations many people give a try and they succeed. Plan at least 5 to 7 days for reaching the top (called Uhuru). You will not be disappointed. I truly recommend a bit of training and some cardio-workout in order to be fully fit for this task. No matter what, it is worth it!! You will also get some help from local porters  as they look forward to some income. You will be amazed how strong and friendly they are. Be prepared to budget around $2000 to $3000 for Kilmanjaro project. There are many agencies that will work with you, however I suggest to make most of the plans ahead of time as you want your trip and climb to be one less trouble on your mind. Do not worry about the equipment or even proper clothes as you can rent or even buy all you need at Arusha or Moshi (towns near the Volcano). 

Another gorgeous place to be is of course Zanzibar. This one of kind island and port comes as a place where you will feel like in Arabia, Africa and tropical Island all in one!. Very old and historical city creates atmosphere of unique and exotic culture. You just cannot pass on Zanzibar if you ever come to Tanzania. My only suggestion is to leave valuable belongs in a safe place if you want to discover a bit of nightlife or local pubs. People are very friendly but they also seem to notice things that they may sell later for a bit of profit. SO please be careful. 

Experienced traveler, Andrew Urbaniak of Massachusetts, lists some important things to know when planning for your next trip to Tanzania.

Although English is known in most places, it never hurts to brush up on a few Swahili terms. Locals will appreciate your efforts, and it may be useful to those who are not familiar with English. Andrew Urbaniak of Massachusetts recommends learning:

Habari: Hello.

Asante: Thank you.

Chakula: Food.

Ndio: Yes.

Hapana: No.

Rafiki – Friend

Jambo – Hi

 

Tanzania thrives off its tourism industry and provides visitors with high-quality meals. Although you will most likely be able to find popular food dishes from back home, Andrew Urbaniak of Massachusetts suggests trying local cuisine. Plates usually feature large portions of meat, rice, and vegetables.

Additionally, seafood is a very popular dining choice. For those with a preference for the sea, Andrew Urbaniak recommends visiting Zanzibar, known for its freshly caught fish and shrimp. Vegetarians will also find plenty of options since Tanzania grows fresh fruit, including mangos, coconuts, and pineapples.

While most things are safe to eat, Andrew Urbaniak recommends avoiding cold, pre-prepared foods. Tap water is also very unsafe to drink in Tanzania. Always drink bottled or filtered water, and do not use the tap for brushing your teeth or changing contacts. Restaurants and hotels will have plenty of bottled water available for guests.

The US dollar is widely accepted. However, Andrew Urbaniak of Massachusetts recommends carrying Tanzanian Shilling. All USD must be fully intact. Dollars that are torn, or even too wrinkled, will not be accepted by most local businesses. Tanzanian natives have had trouble with counterfeit money in the past and take extra precautions. Tourists should expect to pay 16% in taxes.

To protect your health, Andrew Urbaniak of Massachusetts recommends speaking with your physician for information on vaccinations. Travelers should take shots for typhoid, hepatitis A & B, meningitis, rabies, MMR, polio, chickenpox, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, and the flu.

About Andrew Urbaniak

As a world traveler, Andrew Urbaniak of Massachusetts has explored countries in Africa, Europe, North America, and Asia. He is passionate about history and enjoys studying World War II and eastern politics. As a hobby, Andrew Urbaniak of Massachusetts collects movies, documentaries, and popular film series from 1980-2000.

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