Passport and visa documents

Planning guide

Tanzania Safari Visa Guide — Everything You Need to Know

Visa requirements, costs, and how to get your paperwork sorted before your safari.

Who Needs a Visa?

Most visitors to Tanzania need a visa. Exceptions include citizens of certain African and Caribbean countries. Citizens of the USA, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, and most Asian countries all require visas.

The good news: Tanzania's visa process is straightforward and relatively fast. You have two options: eVisa (apply online before travel) or visa on arrival (obtain at the airport).

eVisa (Recommended)

The eVisa is the easiest option. Apply online at the official Tanzania Immigration website.

  • Cost: $50 for most nationalities (single entry). $100 for US citizens (multiple entry)
  • Processing: Usually 2-10 business days
  • Validity: 90 days from issue. Single entry (except US citizens)
  • Requirements: Passport copy, photo, flight details, and accommodation confirmation

Apply at least 3 weeks before travel to avoid last-minute stress.

Airport immigration in Tanzania

Visa on Arrival

Available at Kilimanjaro International Airport, Dar es Salaam International Airport, and major border crossings. You will need:

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months
  • Blank passport pages (at least 2)
  • Yellow fever certificate (if arriving from a yellow fever country)
  • Return flight ticket
  • Visa fee in cash (USD is preferred)

Queues can be long during peak season. eVisa is faster.

Yellow Fever Requirement

Tanzania requires a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. This includes most of sub-Saharan Africa and parts of South America.

If you are flying directly from Europe, North America, or Asia, you generally do not need yellow fever vaccination. But requirements change. Check with your travel health clinic before departure.

Zanzibar Note

Zanzibar is part of Tanzania. The same visa covers both mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar. You do not need a separate visa.

The Bottom Line

Apply for an eVisa 3-4 weeks before travel. Bring your passport, yellow fever certificate (if required), and cash for any unexpected fees. The visa process is simple — do not let it stress you.

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Plan Your Tanzania Safari

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Read our timing guide,cost guide, or planning guide.

Read our visa requirements guide,travel insurance guide,safety guide, or medications guide.

Browse our journal for more resources, or check travel resources.