Tanzania to Zanzibar: White Sands & the Wilderness - 9 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this tour?

  The main highlights include tracking the "big five" across the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater, getting close to nature by camping in the wilderness, relaxing on the white-sand beaches of Zanzibar, and experiencing the hustle-and-bustle of Stone Town.

• What is the typical age range and group size for this tour?

  This tour is designed for young travellers aged 18 to 39 years. The maximum group size is 20, with an average of 17 participants.

• What types of accommodation are included in this tour?

  The tour includes 5 nights in basic hotels (single or twin-share), 1 night in Beach Bandas, and 2 nights of full-service camping. Please note that electricity for medical devices like CPAP machines cannot be guaranteed at public campsites.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  Yes, 8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners are included. For other meals, your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) can suggest local restaurants. Vegetarian and other dietary requirements should be specified prior to arrival.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation includes private 7-seat 4x4 safari vehicles (Land Cruisers with sliding windows and pop-up roofs), private shuttle, walking, a public ferry to Zanzibar, and minibuses on Zanzibar.

• Who will be leading our group on this tour?

  You will be accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO), certified safari guides/drivers, and local guides. A camp cook will also be with the group during the camping portion.

• Is tipping expected on this trip?

  Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of your tour. Guidelines suggest $5 USD per day for the CEO and Driver, $2-5 USD per day for the supply crew, $1 USD per couple of hours for local guides (or $2 USD per day for Zanzibar local guides), $1 USD for hotel porters in Zanzibar, and 10% of the bill for restaurant/café servers.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travellers?

  No, solo travellers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the group trip, so there is no single supplement.

• What optional activities are available during the tour?

  Optional activities include a Serengeti Balloon Safari, the Zanzibar Express (a scenic flight to Zanzibar from Arusha), and in Stone Town: Christ Church Cathedral & Old Slave Market, Sultan's Palace Museum, and a Stone Town Walking Tour. Other options include a Jozani Forest Tour and various swimming, diving, snorkeling, or sailing activities in Jambiani.

• What health considerations should I be aware of before traveling?

  We recommend contacting your family physician or local travel clinic at least one month prior for health information and inoculations. A Yellow Fever certificate may be required. Malaria is present in some regions, so prophylactic medication and insect repellent are recommended. Medical facilities are basic, and you should advise your tour leader of any medical conditions.

• What is the local currency and how should I manage money?

  The local currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TSH or TZS). Visa/Plus system cards are widely accepted, but Mastercard/Cirrus cards can be harder to use. Credit cards are accepted in major cities but should not be relied upon as the sole payment method, and may incur a 5-10% fee. ATMs can be unreliable due to occasional power outages or running out of cash. A combination of foreign currency (USD recommended) and debit/credit cards for cash advances is best.

• Is there an emergency fund recommendation?

  Yes, it is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances that may require changes to the planned route.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Hand washing of clothes is possible at campsites, which typically have simple facilities. It is recommended to bring a non-polluting/biodegradable soap. Please note that clothes may not completely dry if you arrive late or during poor weather.

• What cultural considerations should I be aware of in Zanzibar?

  Zanzibar is a Muslim society. Modestly dressed women and men (covering knees and shoulders) are encouraged, especially in Stone Town, to show respect for local customs. Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during Ramadan.

• Are there any specific rules regarding behavior on the trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, and possessing or using them is grounds for expulsion. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also completely contrary to the tour philosophy.

• Is travel insurance mandatory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. It must cover medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD 200,000. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage/personal effects is strongly recommended.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  The tour has a physical rating of 2, meaning an average level of fitness and mobility is required. Travelers should be able to walk unaided, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage.

• What travel documentation is required for Tanzania and Zanzibar?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. You are responsible for obtaining the correct visa documentation. A Yellow Fever certificate may also be required upon entry to Tanzania. For Zanzibar, a new mandatory Inbound Travel Insurance from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC) will be required for all travelers to the island as of October 1st, 2024.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  The main highlights include tracking the 'big five' across the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater, experiencing nature by camping in the wilderness, relaxing on the white-sand beaches of Zanzibar, and exploring the lively Stone Town.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 20 travelers, with an average of 17.

• What is the minimum age requirement for this trip?

  The minimum age to join this trip is 18 years.

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

  Accommodation includes 5 nights in basic hotels (single or twin-share), 1 night in Beach Bandas, and 2 nights of full-service camping. All camping equipment, except your sleeping bag, is provided, including tents, camp mattresses, pillows, and a light sleeping sheet. Tents are pitched for you. Campsites in Serengeti and Ngorongoro are basic with long-drop latrines, simple cold showers, and no electricity. In Zanzibar, you will stay in standard, twin-share hotel accommodation.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  Eight breakfasts, three lunches, and three dinners are included. Meals not included offer opportunities to explore local cuisine. All included meals are prepared from fresh local produce. Vegetarian and other dietary requirements must be specified prior to arrival. Bottled drinking water is at your own expense.

• What modes of transportation are used during the trip?

  Transportation involves 4x4 safari vehicles (7-seat Land Cruisers with sliding windows and pop-up roofs for wildlife viewing), private shuttle, walking, a public ferry to Zanzibar, and minibuses on Zanzibar. Be prepared for long drives and potentially poor road conditions, especially during the safari portion.

• Who will be leading the group on this trip?

  You will be accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO), certified safari guides/drivers, and local guides. The CEO will act as the group leader, providing information, suggestions, and handling logistics. Safari drivers are skilled and experienced guides, and camp cooks prepare meals during camping. On Zanzibar, a CEO will provide local insights.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Solo travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex.

• What optional activities are available?

  Optional activities include a Serengeti Balloon Safari, Zanzibar Express (a scenic flight from Arusha to Zanzibar), a Christ Church Cathedral & Old Slave Market visit (5USD), Sultan's Palace Museum (3USD), a Stone Town Walking Tour (15USD), a Jozani Forest Tour (36-160USD), and swimming in Jambiani.

• Is tipping customary or expected on this trip?

  Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, part of the tour as an appreciation for exceptional service and supports the local economy. Suggested guidelines per person: CEO: $5 USD/day; Driver: $5 USD/day; Supply crew: $2-5 USD/day; Local guides: $1 USD/couple of hours (mainland) or $2 USD/day (Zanzibar); Hotel porters (Zanzibar): $1 USD; Restaurant/café servers: 10% of the bill.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have coverage for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation (minimum USD200,000). Personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and lost luggage coverage are strongly recommended. Ensure your policy covers all included adventure activities.

• Are there any health considerations or required vaccinations?

  Contact your physician or local travel clinic at least one month before departure for up-to-date health information and recommended inoculations. A basic first-aid kit and hand sanitizers are advisable. Medical facilities are basic. A valid Yellow Fever Certificate is compulsory if traveling from or transiting through a Yellow Fever endemic country for over 12 hours. Malaria is present; discuss prophylaxis with your doctor and use insect repellent.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for Tanzania and Zanzibar?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements. As of October 1st, 2024, Zanzibar will require mandatory Inbound Travel Insurance from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC). A Yellow Fever certificate may also be required upon entry.

• What should I know about currency and money exchange in Tanzania?

  The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TSH or TZS). Traveler's cheques are not recommended. Visa/Plus system cards are most widely accepted debit cards; carrying both Visa and Mastercard is highly recommended. Credit cards are accepted only in major cities and towns, often with a 5%-10% fee. Do not rely solely on cards, as power outages and out-of-order ATMs can affect cash access. A combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards is best, and always bring more funds than you anticipate needing.

• What is the recommended amount for spending money and an emergency fund?

  Spending money requirements vary based on individual habits for drinks, shopping, and additional tipping. You should also have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund for unforeseen circumstances outside of the tour operator's control, such as route changes due to natural disasters.

• Are there any specific cultural considerations or important notes for travelers?

  During Ramadan (Feb 28 - Mar 29, 2025, and Feb 17 - Mar 19, 2026), please display increased cultural sensitivity: wear loose-fitting clothes covering knees and shoulders, and avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours. In Zanzibar, a Muslim society, modest dress is important in Stone Town to avoid offense. Never take photographs without asking permission. Camps are open to the natural environment, so caution is needed, especially at night with a flashlight. Electricity for Sleep Apnea/CPAP machines cannot be guaranteed at public campsites. Illegal drugs are not tolerated, and exploitation in the sex trade is strictly against the tour's philosophy.

• What is the Planeterra Foundation?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating a positive impact through travel by helping local communities earn income from tourism. They develop and support community-owned businesses that empower Indigenous people, women, and youth, and protect the environment. The tour operator is Planeterra's largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation directly supports their projects.

• What rules should I be aware of regarding conduct on the trip?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated on any trips, as they contravene local laws and put the group at risk. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also completely contrary to our travel philosophy. Group leaders have the right to expel any member if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers.

• What should LGBTQ+ travelers know about safety and travel considerations?

  The safety and well-being of all travelers, including those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. Resources and information are available on the tour operator's LGBTQ+ page to help travelers feel safe and comfortable, including the Equaldex tool for destination-specific information.

• Who should I contact in case of an emergency during the trip?

  For dire needs, it is best to first call the local representative (Tanzania: +255 754 400 141; Zanzibar: +255 773 258 773 - Mr Salum Muhidin) or the local office (Nairobi, Kenya: +254 727 208 832). If an immediate answer is not received, leave a detailed message. If you are unable to contact local offices, call the sales team numbers provided in your pre-departure information.

• What is included in this tour?

  This tour includes a Mto wa Mbu Community Visit and Lunch (G for Good Moment), a First Night Out Moment to connect with new friends, a Welcome Moment with your CEO and Group in Arusha. It also covers entrances and wildlife safari drives in Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, the ferry to Zanzibar, a Stone Town orientation walk, beach time in Zanzibar, and all transport between destinations and to/from included activities.