TIN TIN TOURSTOURISM COMPANY IN TANZANIA

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR TOUR TO TANZANIA

TANZANIA’S CLIMATE

Tanzania is the land of Mount Kilimanjaro and the Serengeti and Zanzibar plains. Tanzania has a tropical climate but has regional variations due to topography. In the highlands, temperatures range from 10 to 20 °C (50 and 68 °F) during cold and hot seasons respectively. The rest of the country has temperatures rarely falling lower than 20 °C (68 °F). The hottest period extends between November and February (25–31 °C or 77.0–87.8 °F) while the coldest period occurs from May to August (15–20 °C or 59–68 °F).Seasonal rainfall is driven mainly by the migration of the inter tropical convergence zone. The rainfall moves southwards through Tanzania in October to December, reaching the south of the country in January and February, and returning northwards in March, April, and May. This causes the north and east of Tanzania to experience two distinct wet periods – the short rains (or "Vuli") in October to December and the long rains (or "Masika") from March to May – while the southern, western, and central parts of the country experience one wet season that continues October through to April or May.The onset of the long rains averages 25 March and the cessation averages 21 May. A warmer-than-normal South Atlantic Ocean coupled with a cooler-than-normal Eastern Indian Ocean often causes the onset to be delayed.

TANZANIA’S GEOGRAPHY

Tanzania, covering 947,300km2, borders Kenya and Uganda to the north, DRC, Rwanda and Burundi to the west, Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique to the south, and the Indian Ocean to the east. Formerly called Tanganyika, the United Republic of Tanzania was formed when the mainland joined with the islands of Zanzibar, Pemba and Mafia. Tanzania hosts the greatest extreme of topographical relief in Africa: from its palm-fringed beaches to the snow-capped summit of Mount Kilimanjaro at 5,895 meters above sea-level. From the forested mountains in the North and South, through the rich, brown savanna grass of the central plateau to the tropical coastline, Tanzania's geography is home to a diversity of plants and animals equally as diverse.

TANZANIA’S LANGUAGE

The national language is Kiswahili; although Kiswahili is the second tongue of most Tanzanians as Tanzania is home to over 120 different ethnic groups each with its own tongue. In addition to Kiswahili, the Tanzanian education system has maintained English as the medium of instruction in secondary schools from the times of British imperialism; for this, most people have a good working knowledge of English.

CLOTHINGLight, washable summer clothes are suitable all year round; however you may want to bring an extra layer or two if you plan to stay in the more elevated regions around Kilimanjaro, Ngorongoro or the Usambara Mountains. A wide-brimmed hat, suntan oil and sunglasses are recommended for any type of holiday as the equatorial sun has no mercy. A rain coat and insect repellent are also recommended for all regions, all seasons.

CURRENCYThe unit of currency is the Tanzania Shilling (TShs or Tsz) which is divided into 100 cents. Visitors can bring with them any amount of foreign currency. Foreign currency in cash or in travelers cheques may be exchanged at the commercial banks, authorized dealers, or at the bureau de changes operating at the international airports, major towns and border posts. The second currency - the currency for safaris and Treks is in US dollars. In-country ATM’s are also available in many built-up areas. It is a good idea to inform your bank before you use any foreign ATM, however.

CUSTOMS POLICIESPersonal items including binoculars, still cameras, and film may be imported (temporarily) free of duty. A customs bond may be demanded from visitors bringing in video/filming equipment, radios, tape recorders and musical instruments to ensure the goods are re-exported. Firearms require a special permit. Liquor (1 pint), tobacco (200 cigarettes or 50 cigars) is tax-free for individuals over 16 years. Visitors buying local handicrafts must keep cash sales receipts for presentation to customs officials on departure.

FLEXIBILITYAfrica is a unique travel destination for the adventurous at heart. Please bear in mind that Tin Tin Tours will do everything possible to ensure that your trip runs smoothly and is a resounding success. However, occasionally problems do occur and changes may be required that are completely out of our control. We will endeavor to do so as economically and efficiently as we possibly can. Therefore, we also recommend you pack some extra patience in your bag as it is certain to come in handy!

FOOD

Food is generally continental with a remaining British influence but with the added luxury of tropical fruits and excellent curries and cold buffets. Please make us aware of any specific dietary preferences or restrictions.

CONTACT US

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STREET ADDRESS : PHONE NO :

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Viwanda Street, Moshi, Kilimanjaro

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