Planning a visit to Tanzania – whether for safari, mountain climbing, or Zanzibar beaches – the first step is securing the right visa. Here’s everything you need to know to make the process easy and stress-free.

🌍 1. Do You Need a Visa?

Most international travelers do need a visa to enter Tanzania. However, citizens of some East African countries (like Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda) are visa-exempt. Be sure to check the current list of exempt countries before travel.

🧾 2. Types of Visas & Fees

• e‑Visa (recommended):

  • Single-entry (up to 90 days): Around $50 USD

  • Multiple-entry (valid 12 months): Around $100 USD

• Visa on Arrival:

  • Available at major airports for most nationalities

  • Cost: $50 for most travelers; $100 for U.S. citizens

• Referral Visa:

  • Required for citizens of certain countries (e.g., Afghanistan, Iraq, Somalia, Yemen)

  • Must be approved by Tanzanian immigration before travel

📅 3. e‑Visa vs. Visa on Arrival

As of 2025, Tanzania encourages travelers to apply for an e‑Visa before arrival, but visa-on-arrival is still available for most nationalities.
Tip: To avoid delays and queues at the airport, apply for your visa online at least 2–4 weeks before your trip.

🛠️ 4. What You Need for an e‑Visa

• Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity and one blank page)

• Digital passport photo

• Proof of accommodation or invitation letter

• Proof of return or onward travel

• Visa fee (payable online by credit/debit card)

Processing time: Typically 2–10 business days

🛬 5. Visa on Arrival Tips

If you choose visa on arrival:

• Be prepared for long queues at the airport

• Bring USD in cash, preferably small bills

• Have all documents ready (passport, return flight, accommodation details)

✈️ 6. Visiting Zanzibar?

Zanzibar shares Tanzania’s visa policy, so you don’t need a separate visa.
However, upon arrival, you may be required to purchase a local travel insurance (about $44 USD) — even if you already have international insurance.

💉 7. Health Requirements

• Yellow Fever Certificate: Required if traveling from or transiting through a country with a risk of yellow fever

• Malaria prevention: Strongly recommended

• COVID-19: No testing or vaccination currently required as of 2025, but always double-check closer to your travel date

💬 8. Real Traveler Tips

Many travelers report smooth experiences with visa-on-arrival, especially at major airports like Kilimanjaro (JRO), Dar es Salaam (DAR), and Zanzibar (ZNZ). However, some say the e‑Visa line can be slower, while others prefer it for peace of mind.

✅ 9. Final Visa Checklist

• Confirm visa requirements for your nationality

• Passport valid for at least 6 months

• Apply for e‑Visa 2–4 weeks before travel

• Prepare digital documents for e‑Visa application

• Bring printed e‑Visa and travel documents

• Carry USD cash if opting for visa on arrival

• Have Yellow Fever certificate (if needed)

• Budget for Zanzibar’s local insurance fee (~$44)

✨ Need Help Planning Your Safari?

At Kilipath African Safaris, we don’t just create unforgettable adventures — we also help ensure your entry and travel process is smooth. From visa guidance to airport transfers and trip planning, we’ve got you covered.

📩 Contact us today to start your stress-free Tanzania journey!