Travel Information

Preparing for a longer stay in Tanzania is different from preparing for a short holiday. This guide provides practical information to help you plan your stay at GreenNest, including travel documents, health, climate, packing, arrival, payments, communication and local customs.

Whether you’re visiting for a few weeks or several months, a little preparation will help you settle in comfortably and enjoy your experience.

Passport & Visa

Most international visitors need a valid passport and, in many cases, a visa to enter Tanzania. We recommend checking the official Tanzania eVisa website and the travel advice issued by your country’s government well before departure.

Please ensure that your passport meets the required validity period and that your visa is appropriate for the purpose and length of your stay. While GreenNest cannot influence visa decisions, we are happy to provide general information about your accommodation if it is needed during your travel planning.

Health & Vaccinations

Before travelling to Tanzania, we recommend consulting your doctor or a travel health clinic for personalised advice on vaccinations, malaria prevention and any medication you may need during your stay.

Health recommendations vary depending on your medical history, travel plans and length of stay, so professional advice before departure is always the best approach. If you take prescription medication, bring enough for your stay along with a copy of your prescription where appropriate.

Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance for the entire duration of your stay. Your policy should ideally cover medical treatment, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, lost luggage and personal belongings.

Please review your insurance carefully before travelling to ensure it provides suitable coverage for your planned activities in Tanzania.

Climate & What to Pack

The Arusha region enjoys a pleasant climate throughout much of the year, although temperatures can vary between daytime and evening and across different seasons.

We recommend packing:

• Comfortable lightweight clothing

• A warm sweater or light jacket for cooler evenings

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Sun protection, including a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen

• Personal medication and toiletries

• Chargers, adapters and any electronics you use regularly

If you’re staying for an extended period, consider bringing the everyday items that help you feel at home and maintain your normal routine.

Arrival & Transfers

Most international guests arrive through Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) before continuing to Arusha.

Please share your arrival details with us before travelling so we can advise you on the most practical transport options. Transfer arrangements can be discussed before your arrival, helping you begin your stay as smoothly as possible.

Money & Payments

The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the local currency.

Credit and debit cards are accepted at many hotels, restaurants and larger businesses, while cash is often preferred for smaller shops and local purchases. ATMs are widely available in Arusha.

Before travelling, it is a good idea to inform your bank of your trip, confirm that your cards can be used internationally and carry an additional payment method in case of unexpected situations.

Internet & Communication

Mobile networks and internet services are available throughout much of Tanzania, although connection quality may vary depending on location and network conditions.

If reliable internet is important for remote work, video meetings or other online activities, please let us know before confirming your stay so we can provide realistic guidance based on current conditions.

Many guests also enjoy using their time at GreenNest to disconnect from busy routines and embrace a slower pace of life.

Safety & Common Sense

Tanzania is a welcoming destination for visitors, and many travellers enjoy safe and rewarding experiences each year.

As with travel anywhere in the world, we encourage guests to take sensible precautions by using trusted transport services, keeping valuables secure, respecting local laws and customs, and following current travel advice from their home country’s government.

Local Culture & Respect

Tanzania is known for its warm hospitality, rich cultural heritage and strong sense of community.

We encourage guests to approach their stay with respect, patience and curiosity. Simple gestures such as greeting people politely, dressing appropriately for local settings and showing consideration for local customs help create positive experiences for both visitors and the communities they visit.

To learn more about travelling sustainably, we also invite you to read our Responsible Travel page.

Plastic Bags & Responsible Packing

Tanzania has restrictions on plastic carrier bags. To help comply with local regulations and support environmental protection, we recommend packing reusable shopping bags instead of disposable plastic bags.

If you are unsure about current regulations, please check the latest official travel guidance before your departure.