Essential legal and practical advice for traveling to Tanzania: online e-visa instructions, US dollar cash rules, strict drone bans, and the national single-use plastic ban.
Planning a smooth, hassle-free journey to Tanzania requires understanding key local laws, immigration procedures, and banking requirements. Here is the official traveler guidance from Dyna Kilimanjaro Safari.
1. Tanzania Visa Requirements: Most international travelers require a tourist visa. We strongly advise applying online for an official e-Visa via the immigration portal (https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa/) at least 3 weeks prior to departure. Standard single-entry tourist visa is $50 USD for most nationalities and $100 USD for citizens of the United States. Visas on arrival are also issued at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
2. Strictly Enforced Single-Use Plastic Bag Ban: Tanzania enforces a strict nationwide prohibition on all single-use plastic carrier bags at all air and land borders. Do not bring disposable plastic grocery bags. Instead, use reusable fabric packing cubes, canvas tote bags, or heavy-duty ziplock bags intended strictly for travel toiletries.
3. Drone Laws in National Parks: Drones are strictly prohibited in all Tanzanian National Parks, Game Reserves, and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area without prior written authorization from both the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) and TANAPA / NCAA. Unauthorized drones will be confiscated at customs or park gate security checkpoints.
4. US Dollar Currency Rule (2009 or Newer): While the official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), US Dollars (USD) are standard for park fees, hotel bills, and crew gratuities. However, all USD banknotes MUST be issued in 2009 or newer, crisp, uncreased, and free of stamps or tears. Older pre-2009 bills are strictly rejected by all banks and lodges across Tanzania.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are pre-2009 US Dollar bills not accepted?
Tanzanian banks and government agencies reject USD banknotes printed before 2009 due to international anti-counterfeiting security regulations.
Can I use credit cards in Tanzania?
Major credit cards (Visa and MasterCard) are accepted at established safari lodges and our Moshi office (subject to 3–5% merchant processing fees). Cash is recommended for market purchases and crew tips.
Questions About This Route?
Our local Moshi mountain & safari team is available 24/7 to answer your gear, route, and booking questions.
