Digital Resources: Arusha

Essential Apps for Your Trip

Navigation & Ride-Sharing

Google Maps:
Download offline areas of Arusha and Northern Tanzania for navigation without internet.
Maps.me:
Offers detailed offline maps for walking and driving, useful with limited connectivity.
Uber:
Available in Arusha for convenient and transparent taxi services.
Bolt:
Another popular ride-sharing app in Arusha.
Xe Currency:
Provides real-time exchange rates, valuable for budgeting and calculations.

Language & Wildlife

Google Translate:
Download the Swahili offline language pack for basic communication.
Wildlife ID Apps:
Search for African mammal guides or bird identification apps for species you encounter.
Tanzania Immigration Department:
Visit eservices.immigration.go.tz for official e-Visa applications and entry information.
Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA):
Www.tanzaniaparks.go.tz presents information on all national parks, fees, and regulations.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA):
Www.ngorongorocrater.go.tz for specific information for this area.

Online Connections & Content

Official Tourism Board

Search for the Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB) website for general tourism information and promotions.

Visit TTB

Social Media Accounts

Follow official tourism accounts or reputable safari operators on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or X for updates and inspiration.

Podcasts & Digital Content

Search for podcasts focused on African safaris, Tanzanian culture, history, or wildlife.

Offline Preparation

Critical Downloads

Download all necessary offline maps for navigation.
Download language packs for translation apps (e.g., Swahili).
This ensures access to important information even without reliable internet access.
This is especially useful in remote safari areas.

Online Resources

Official e-Visa portal: eservices.immigration.go.tz.
National Parks information: www.tanzaniaparks.go.tz.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area details: www.ngorongorocrater.go.tz.
Tanzania Tourist Board for general information: tanzaniatourism.go.tz.

Packing Considerations

Essential Items

Insect repellent
Sunscreen
Hat
Reusable water bottle

Clothing Essentials

Lightweight, breathable clothes
Long sleeves and pants for evenings
Swimsuit (if applicable)
Comfortable walking shoes

Personal Medical Kit

Prescription medications
Basic first-aid supplies
Anti-diarrhea medication
Malaria prophylaxis (if prescribed)

Emergency & Medical Information

Critical Contacts & Procedures

Emergency Numbers

Police: 112
Ambulance/Fire: 112 (direct hospital contact may be faster)
Hospital: Arusha Lutheran Medical Centre (ALMC)
Hospital: Selian Lutheran Hospital

Embassy & Consulate

Most foreign embassies are in Dar es Salaam.
Some countries may have honorary consulates in Arusha.
Keep your embassy's emergency contact information readily available.
They assist with lost passports, legal issues, or serious emergencies.

Lost Document & Disaster Protocols

Report lost passports/documents to local police immediately for a report.
Contact your embassy or consulate for emergency travel documents.
Natural disaster protocols: Follow advice from local authorities or tour operator.
Be aware of local safety instructions.

Health & Safety Preparations

Vaccinations & Prophylaxis

Consult a Travel Health Clinic before your trip.
Discuss required and recommended vaccinations (Yellow Fever, Hepatitis, Typhoid).
Address malaria prophylaxis if recommended.

Comprehensive Travel Insurance

Purchase Comprehensive Travel Insurance.
Ensure coverage for medical emergencies and emergency medical evacuation. (World Nomads)
Confirm trip cancellation coverage and verify coverage for planned activities.

Pre-Trip Preparation Timeline

-6+ Months Before

Book International Flights.
Book Safari and/or Kilimanjaro/Meru Trek.
Apply for Tanzanian e-Visa (eservices.immigration.go.tz).

-2 Months Before

Confirm All Bookings.
Start Purchasing Gear, including hiking boots.
Make Physical and Digital Document Copies.

Final Week & Home Preparations

Week Before Departure

Reconfirm Flights and Airport Transfers.
Pack Your Bags, ensuring all medications are in original containers.
Download Offline Maps and Apps.
Arrange Home Preparations.
Finalize Local Currency.

Home Preparation Checklist

Secure your home.
Arrange for mail/deliveries to be held.
Arrange for pet care.
Ensure bills are paid.
Notify trusted contacts of your itinerary.

Smart Financials & Security

Bank Notification

Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates to avoid security holds on your cards. (Capital One Travel)

Digital Security

Consider using a VPN for public Wi-Fi connections to secure your data. (NordVPN)

Packing Efficiency

Utilize packing organizers for a more efficient luggage system. (Eagle Creek)

Important Note on Refunds

VAT refunds for tourists are generally not common or easily processed in Tanzania. Do not expect to claim VAT refunds on purchases.

Print Resources & Further Reading

Recommended Guidebooks & Maps

Reference Materials

Bradt Tanzania Guide:
Known for its depth, practical information, and focus on sustainable travel.
ITM Tanzania Travel Map:
A detailed map for overall orientation, road conditions, and geographical context.
"A Taste of Tanzania" by D. K. Mcha:
A Swahili cookbook offering traditional Tanzanian recipes.

Wildlife & Cultural Books

National Geographic Field Guide to the Mammals of Africa:
A comprehensive guide for identifying wildlife encountered on safari.
"Birds of East Africa" by Terry Stevenson and John Fanshawe:
An excellent bird identification guide for birdwatchers.
Fiction or Non-Fiction:
Books set in Tanzania offer cultural context and personal stories.

Music, Art & Online Communities

Local Music Genres

Explore Tanzanian music genres like Bongo Flava, Taarab (from Zanzibar), or traditional tribal music (e.g., Maasai chants).

Tanzanian Art Styles

Research Tinga Tinga painting (distinctive, colorful Tanzanian art) and Makonde carvings (intricate wood sculptures).

Online Traveler Forums

Join online travel communities, like TripAdvisor forums or Facebook groups dedicated to travel in Tanzania.

Language Learning Resources

Swahili Language Acquisition

If you wish to learn more Swahili, resources exist.
Consider apps like Duolingo or Memrise (Babbel).
Local Swahili language schools (for long-term stays) are an option.

Essential Swahili Phrases

"Asante sana" (thank you very much) is a polite expression.
"Shikamoo" is a greeting to an elder, showing respect.
"Tafadhali" (please) is a simple, appreciated word.
Using basic phrases receives high appreciation from locals.

Local Publications & Pre-Departure Reading

Newspapers for Local Insights

English language newspapers like "The Citizen" or "Daily News" are available.
They present local news, perspectives, and sometimes information on events.
Picking them up in Arusha can connect you to the local pulse.
Look for event listings.

Prioritize Print Guidebooks

Purchase your guidebook before you leave.
Use it for initial planning and jotting down notes.
It serves as a reliable reference when you are offline.
Especially beneficial in areas with limited digital connectivity.

Offline Access Insight

Before your journey, download all necessary offline maps and language packs. This secures access to important information even without reliable internet, notably in remote safari areas.

Digital Resources