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Tanzania has a pleasant tropical climate. Hotter and humid along the coast (expect daytime temperatures of about 30 degrees C), it becomes more comfortable as you move inland. Some areas lying at altitudes above 1000m are quite cool, and even surprisingly chilly at night, so a warm fleece or jacket may be needed. July, August and September tend to be the cooler months, with February usually being the hottest.
Most of the rainfall occurs between November and May, split into two rainy seasons. The short rains start in November and last 4 to 6 weeks. Long rains usually begin in around March and continue through until the end of May. However the rains have been somewhat erratic in the past few years and therefore it is hard to predict.
Kilimanjaro does follow the general weather patterns of the country, but it also has it's own 'micro-climate' and you should be prepared for a potentially very wet and very cold experience!
Tanzania is one of the most spectacular and captivating countries in Africa, with scenery of unimaginable beauty and high cultural diversity. Although more than 25% of the land is afforded with some form of protection, (more than any other African country), it is an unfortunate reality that much of the remaining wilderness, particularly in the southern regions, do not receive an adequate level of protection and may soon cease to exist due to pressures of population and agriculture. It is our aim to draw attention to these areas and provide an economic reason for their protection.
Tanzania has 14 National Parks and numerous other conservation areas, ranging from the world famous Serengeti National Park and Selous Game Reserve to the more obscure Amani Nature Reserve and recently gazetted Kitulo Plateau National Park.
Tanzania is home to more than 80 large mammals, including the famous Big Five, and over a thousand species of birds!
You will be sent a list when you book. General advice is - "There is no such thing as Too Cold. There is only Wrong Clothes". A quote from an Estonian client who, needless to say was very well prepared for the blizzard he experienced!
There are several types of holiday options in Tanzania, ranging from a week or two relaxing on the idyllic beaches to an adventurous trek to climb Kilimanjaro. Basic items of clothing (such as t-shirts) can be bought in even the most remote villages, so you can afford to pack light. Below is a brief list of a few essential items:
The clothes you need depend on what you intend to do. For hiking activities you'll need good quality trousers, a shirt or t-shirt and maybe even a jumper or fleece if you are heading up where it may be cold. Shorts are not always practical for hiking as there may be rough grasses which can irritate your skin. You will need specialist gear if you intend to climb Kilimanjaro, which can be hired for the trip.
On game drives you can wear whatever you feel comfortable in. It is best to stick to subtle lighter colours. If you have fair skin it is a good idea to always have a long sleeved shirt at hand for sun protection. It can be surprisingly cool on the mornings, especially when you are perched on top of your safari vehicle moving through the bush, so a light windbreak jacket or fleece will be useful.
If you are venturing out on an extended camping safari then you will need to bring along several changes of clothes. It will usually be possible to get laundry done along the way, but it helps if your clothes are made from quick drying fabrics, denim should be avoided. Camping shops are now full of hi-spec gear that is designed to keep you cool and dries in minutes. In some locations long sleeves and trousers are recommended for evening wear to avoid insect bites.
Mountain Kingdom will supply all camping equipment. You may want to bring your own sleeping bag or sheet.
Tanzania's large Muslim population mainly live around the coastal regions and on the islands. However it is still important to dress decently when in any town or village, even inland. Women should cover their knees and shoulders and avoid low revealing tops. Skirts are considered more conventional than trousers. It is also more respectable for a man to wear trousers rather than shorts, and it is not acceptable to walk around in public without a shirt. When staying in a National Park or Reserve, at a lodge or campsite, it is acceptable to wear shorts and sleeveless tops.
To avoid any extra attention dress sensibly, following the guidelines above. This cannot be stressed enough for places like Zanzibar and Pemba. You will notice that many of the women in Tanzania secure a Kanga (sarong) over whatever they are wearing. This usually serves to keep their clothes clean but you may find a Kanga very useful, and easier than changing from shorts to long skirt all the time. You can also throw a light scarf around your shoulders when walking around town.
On the beaches topless or nude sunbathing is prohibited, and ignoring this rule could find you being harassed by the authorities. Bikinis are OK, but avoid the tiny string bikinis, and again keep a sarong to hand.
Sanitary supplies are usually available in bigger towns, but you should bring enough with you. You may also find a travel pack of baby wipes very useful on camping trips and game drives.
If this is the first time you are venturing into the tropics, then you should definitely consult your doctor. They can advise you on what is best to pack into your personal medical kit and what precautions you should take for the various risks. Most drugs are available without prescription in Tanzania, but you may not have time to reach a pharmacy, and therefore you should carry some basic supplies. Ask for the best advice on Malaria Prophylactics. You MUST inform us in advance if you are allergic to any foods or medicines or have any other medical needs.
The tap water is not safe to drink. In remote bush lodges and tented camps you will be fine brushing your teeth in the tap water, but in big towns such as Dar and Stone Town we recommend you use bottle water for teeth brushing and avoid getting water in your mouth when showering. Bottled water is widely available and will be provided on all Mountain Kingdom' Safaris.
Please Contact Us for more information.
