Tanzania Safari Visa and Entry Requirements: A 2025 Guide

Planning a safari to Tanzania in 2025? Whether you’re dreaming of the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater, or the exotic beaches of Zanzibar, understanding the visa and entry requirements is essential for a stress-free journey. At Traford Safaris Ltd, we want your safari adventure to start on the right foot—so we’ve created this comprehensive, up-to-date guide to help you prepare with confidence.

Why You Need a Visa to Visit Tanzania

Tanzania is a breathtaking destination that welcomes tourists from all over the world. However, like most countries, it requires foreign nationals to obtain a visa before or upon arrival. Whether you’re visiting for a short safari or combining it with beach relaxation, understanding your visa type, application process, and valid documentation will save time and avoid unnecessary travel complications.

Visa Options for Tourists in 2025

Tanzania offers several types of visas, but for tourists planning a safari, the following are the most relevant:

1. Ordinary (Single Entry) Tourist Visa

• Cost: $50 USD for most nationalities (except U.S. citizens who pay $100 USD)

• Validity: Up to 90 days

• Purpose: Tourism, leisure travel, family visits

2. Multiple Entry Visa

• Cost: $100 USD

• Validity: 12 months (not exceeding 90 days per visit)

• Best For: Frequent travelers to Tanzania, such as those on business or combined East Africa trips

3. East African Tourist Visa

• Cost: $100 USD

• Validity: 90 days

• Covers: Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda (not Tanzania)

• Note: This visa is not valid for Tanzania, despite some confusion. Ensure you have a separate Tanzanian visa.

4. Transit Visa

• Cost: $30 USD

• Validity: 7 days

• Use: For travelers passing through Tanzania en route to another destination

How to Apply: E-Visa vs Visa on Arrival

Option 1: Applying Online (E-Visa)

Tanzania introduced an e-Visa system to simplify the process for international travelers. It is recommended to apply at least 10 working days before travel.

• Website: https://visa.immigration.go.tz/

• Documents Required:

  • Passport (valid for at least 6 months)

  • Passport-size photo

  • Return flight ticket

  • Itinerary or invitation letter (for other visa types)

  • Payment via credit/debit card

• Option 2: Visa on Arrival

Tanzania also allows eligible nationals to obtain a visa upon arrival at major airports like Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), and Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) in Zanzibar.

Required:

• Valid passport

• Cash payment in USD (exact amount preferred)

• Return/onward ticket

• Accommodation proof or safari itinerary

Note: While convenient, this process can involve long queues. We at Traford Safaris recommend the e-Visa for faster entry.

Countries That Require a Referral Visa

Some nationalities are not eligible for visa on arrival or e-Visa and must apply through the Tanzanian embassy with additional clearance from the Immigration Department in Dar es Salaam. This is known as a “Referral Visa.”

Referral Visa Countries Include (as of 2025):

• Afghanistan

• Bangladesh

• Chad

• Iran

• Iraq

• Nigeria

• Pakistan

• Somalia

• Yemen

Important: If your nationality falls into this category, apply at least 6–8 weeks in advance to allow for processing and communication with Tanzanian authorities.

Entry Ports and Airports Accepting Visas

Whether you’re flying into Tanzania or arriving by land or sea, knowing the main entry points helps you plan effectively.

Major International Airports:

• Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) – Near Arusha; ideal for Northern Circuit safaris (Serengeti, Ngorongoro)

• Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) – Located in Dar es Salaam; good for southern parks like Selous and Ruaha

• Abeid Amani Karume Airport (ZNZ) – Entry point for Zanzibar’s beaches and Stone Town

Land Borders:

• Namanga (Kenya-Tanzania)

• Rusumo (Rwanda-Tanzania)

• Tunduma (Zambia-Tanzania)

Tip: Not all land borders accept e-Visas. Confirm with your tour operator (like us at Traford Safaris) before crossing by road.

Passport Requirements and Validity Rules

Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months from your date of entry into Tanzania. It should also have at least one blank page for the visa stamp.

Other rules to keep in mind:

• Damaged or nearly expired passports may lead to denied entry.

• Carry a physical copy of your visa approval letter (for e-Visa) to show immigration officials.

Health Requirements: Vaccinations and COVID-19 Rules

As of 2025, travelers entering Tanzania are required to comply with health regulations to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

1. Yellow Fever

• Mandatory if you’re arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission (including layovers of 12+ hours).

• Travelers must carry a valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate.

• This requirement does not apply to travelers from the U.S., Canada, or Europe, unless transiting through risk areas.

2. COVID-19 Regulations

• Tanzania has lifted mandatory COVID-19 testing for most visitors.

• However, proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test may still be required depending on global health advisories.

• Always check with your airline or Traford Safaris before travel for updates.

Traveling with Children: What Parents Should Know

Families traveling with minors should be aware of additional requirements:

• Children must have their own passport.

• If traveling with one parent or guardian, it is advisable to carry a notarized letter of consent from the other parent.

• Children under 18 typically follow the same visa process as adults.

Visa Extensions and Overstays: What to Avoid

While most safari-goers won’t need more than 90 days, it is possible to extend your visa at immigration offices in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, or Zanzibar.

Overstaying your visa can result in:

• Fines (typically $600+)

• Detention

• Travel bans or deportation

Always check your visa expiry date, especially if you’re combining Tanzania with neighboring destinations.

Common Questions Answered (FAQs)

Can I re-enter Tanzania with a single-entry visa?

No. A single-entry visa is valid for only one entry. If you leave Tanzania (e.g., to visit Kenya), you must apply for another visa to return.

Is it safe to apply for a visa online?

Yes—but only use the official government site: https://visa.immigration.go.tz/. Be cautious of third-party websites charging extra fees.

What if my visa is delayed?

Delays are rare but can happen. Always apply at least 10 business days in advance and follow up using your application reference number.

Recommended Entry Plan by Traford Safaris Ltd

For the smoothest safari experience, we recommend the following steps:

1. Apply for your e-Visa at least two weeks in advance.

2. Ensure your passport is valid for six months with at least one blank page.

3. Carry printed documents: visa approval, travel insurance, itinerary, and Yellow Fever certificate (if needed).

4. Arrive at one of Tanzania’s main international airports for the fastest processing.

5. Let Traford Safaris Ltd handle your itinerary, airport transfers, and accommodation so you can focus on the adventure.

Final Thoughts: Your Journey Starts Here

Tanzania is a safari paradise—and with proper planning, your entry process can be just as smooth as your game drive through the Serengeti. By understanding the visa types, entry rules, and documentation requirements, you’re well on your way to a hassle-free adventure.

At Traford Safaris Ltd, we offer personalized pre-travel support, including helping you navigate visa requirements and submitting the correct paperwork. Let us turn your travel dreams into unforgettable memories—starting with the visa process.