🐾 Traveling to Tanzania with Pets
Pet-Friendly Tanzania
Tanzania offers unique opportunities for pet travel, particularly in urban areas like Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar. While wildlife safaris generally prohibit pets for safety reasons, beaches, cultural sites, and city explorations are accessible. Many hotels and resorts welcome well-behaved pets, but always confirm policies in advance.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Import Permit
All pets require an import permit from Tanzania's Department of Veterinary Services, applied for at least 14 days before travel.
Include microchip details, vaccination records, and health certificate; processing fee around 50,000 TZS.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days before entry and valid for the stay.
Vaccination certificate must be endorsed by a government veterinarian in the country of origin.
Microchip Requirements
Pets must have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before vaccination.
Bring proof of microchip implantation and ensure the number matches all documents.
Health Certificate
International health certificate issued by an official veterinarian within 10 days of arrival.
Certificate must confirm pet is free from infectious diseases; quarantine (up to 30 days) possible if non-compliant.
Restricted Areas
Pets prohibited in national parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro due to wildlife protection.
Some breeds may face restrictions; contact authorities for guidance on exotic or fighting breeds.
Other Pets
Birds and small mammals require similar health checks; exotic species need CITES permits.
Reptiles and amphibians have strict quarantine rules; consult Tanzanian wildlife authorities.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Tanzania on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like walking areas and bowls.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Dar es Salaam & Arusha): Urban hotels like Radisson Blu and Protea welcome pets for 20,000-50,000 TZS/night, with nearby parks and beaches for walks.
- Beach Resorts (Zanzibar): Coastal lodges such as Sea Cliff Resort allow pets in garden areas at no extra charge, ideal for relaxed seaside stays.
- Vacation Rentals & Villas: Airbnb listings in Stone Town and Nungwi often permit pets, providing space for animals to roam in private compounds.
- Safari Lodges (Limited): Select lodges outside parks like those near Arusha accept small pets; avoid core safari zones for wildlife safety.
- Campsites & Eco-Lodges: Many coastal and lakeside campsites are pet-friendly with designated areas; Lake Manyara sites popular for pet owners.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end resorts like Serena Zanzibar offer pet amenities including fresh water stations and guided walks for premium stays.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Beaches & Coastal Walks
Zanzibar's white-sand beaches like Nungwi allow leashed pets in designated areas.
Early morning walks are best; respect local rules and keep pets away from nesting turtles.
Urban Parks & Gardens
Dar es Salaam's Botanical Gardens and Arusha's cultural sites welcome leashed dogs.
Outdoor markets and waterfront promenades provide pet-friendly strolling opportunities.
Cities & Historical Sites
Stone Town's alleys permit leashed pets; outdoor spice tours in Zanzibar are accessible.
Avoid crowded indoor sites; focus on open-air explorations with well-behaved animals.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Coastal cafés in Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar often have outdoor seating for pets.
Water bowls are common; inquire before seating to ensure comfort for all.
Cultural Walking Tours
Guided walks in Arusha and Stone Town allow leashed pets on outdoor routes.
Focus on family-friendly cultural experiences; skip wildlife-focused tours with pets.
Ferries & Boat Trips
Ferries to Zanzibar may allow small pets in carriers for 10,000-20,000 TZS extra.
Check Azam Marine policies; calm coastal cruises can be pet-inclusive.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Buses (Urban & Intercity): Companies like Dar Express allow small pets in carriers free; larger dogs 5,000-10,000 TZS with leash/muzzle. Avoid long-haul trips during heat.
- Dala-Dalas (Minibuses): Local transport in cities permits pets if space allows; 2,000-5,000 TZS fare, but crowded—best for short urban trips.
- Taxis & Ride-Shares: Uber and local taxis accept pets with driver approval; tip extra for cleanup. Select pet-friendly options in apps.
- Rental Cars: Agencies like Budget allow pets with deposit (50,000-100,000 TZS); 4x4s recommended for rough roads and pet comfort.
- Flights to Tanzania: Check airline policies; Ethiopian Airlines and Qatar Airways allow cabin pets under 8kg. Book early and review requirements. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Precision Air and Air Tanzania accept small pets in cabin for 30,000-70,000 TZS each way. Larger pets in hold with health certificate.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
Clinics like Veterinary Centre in Dar es Salaam offer 24-hour care; Arusha has mobile vets.
Travel insurance recommended; consultations cost 20,000-50,000 TZS.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Pet shops in major cities stock food and basics; import specialized items if needed.
Pharmacies carry tick preventatives; bring prescriptions for chronic medications.
Grooming & Day Care
Limited services in Dar and Zanzibar for 10,000-30,000 TZS per session.
Hotels may arrange; book ahead in tourist areas.
Pet-Sitting Services
Local services in Arusha and Dar for day/overnight care; 15,000-40,000 TZS/day.
Resorts often provide in-house sitting; ask concierge for recommendations.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in cities, beaches, and public areas. Rural walks require caution around livestock and wildlife.
- Muzzle Requirements: Not mandatory but recommended for larger dogs on transport; carry one for compliance.
- Waste Disposal: Carry and dispose of waste properly; bins available in urban areas, fines up to 50,000 TZS for littering.
- Beach & Water Rules: Pets allowed on many Zanzibar beaches but not during turtle season (June-Oct); keep away from swimmers.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Outdoor seating common for pets; ensure quiet behavior and no begging.
- Protected Areas: Pets banned in national parks; respect cultural sites by keeping animals controlled.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Tanzania
Tanzania for Families
Tanzania captivates families with safaris, beaches, and cultural adventures. Safe urban areas, interactive wildlife experiences, and relaxed island vibes make it ideal. Many attractions offer child discounts, stroller access, and educational programs tailored for kids.
Top Family Attractions
Serengeti National Park
Iconic safari with Big Five sightings and migration views exciting for kids.
Game drives 100,000-200,000 TZS/day; family lodges with pools and kids' programs.
Ngorongoro Crater
Caldera with dense wildlife; short drives suitable for young children.
Entry 70,000 TZS/adult, 30,000 TZS/child; picnic lunches in scenic spots.
Zanzibar Beaches
Pristine sands for swimming, snorkeling, and building castles.
Resorts with kids' clubs; daily fees 5,000-10,000 TZS/person.
Stone Town (Zanzibar)
UNESCO site with spice tours, markets, and slave museum history lessons.
Guided tours 20,000 TZS/family; interactive for school-age kids.
Spice Tour (Zanzibar)
Hands-on farm visits tasting cloves, vanilla, and fruits.
30,000 TZS/person; engaging sensory experience for children.
Tarangire National Park
Elephant herds and baobab trees; easy wildlife spotting for families.
Entry 50,000 TZS/adult, 20,000 TZS/child; half-day safaris available.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Tanzania on Viator. From Zanzibar snorkeling to Arusha safaris, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Dar es Salaam & Arusha): Properties like DoubleTree offer interconnecting rooms for 150,000-300,000 TZS/night with kids' menus and pools.
- Beach Resorts (Zanzibar): All-inclusive family resorts like Zanzibar White Sand with kids' clubs and activities for 200,000-500,000 TZS/night.
- Safari Camps: Family tents at Serengeti Serena with guided walks and stargazing; 300,000+ TZS/night including meals.
- Vacation Villas: Private rentals in Zanzibar with kitchens and gardens for self-catering family stays at 100,000-250,000 TZS/night.
- Budget Guesthouses: Clean family rooms in Arusha for 50,000-100,000 TZS/night with shared facilities and local advice.
- Eco-Lodges: Sustainable stays like Gibb's Farm near Ngorongoro with farm activities for kids; 200,000 TZS/night.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Dar es Salaam with Kids
Village Museum, Kariakoo Market, and Bongoyo Island boat trips for beach fun.
National Museum dinosaurs and cultural shows engage young explorers.
Arusha with Kids
Arusha National Park canoe safaris, cultural villages, and hot air balloon rides (older kids).
Mount Meru treks and coffee plantation tours for family bonding.
Zanzibar with Kids
Snorkeling at Mnemba Atoll, Jozani Forest monkey spotting, and prison island tortoise feeding.
Beach kite-surfing lessons and dhow cruises for adventurous families.
Northern Tanzania (Serengeti)
Game drives, Maasai village visits, and crater descents with picnic adventures.
Easy trails and wildlife education programs suitable for children 5+.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Buses: Children under 5 free; 6-12 half fare (10,000-20,000 TZS). Family seating on intercity routes.
- City Transport: Dala-dalas and ferries offer family discounts; Zanzibar beaches accessible by tuk-tuk (5,000 TZS).
- Car Rentals: Child seats mandatory under 3 (10,000 TZS/day); book SUVs for safaris and family space.
- Stroller-Friendly: Urban areas and resorts have paths; safaris use 4x4s with space for gear.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Resorts offer simple meals like chipsi mayai for 5,000-10,000 TZS. High chairs available.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Beach shacks and hotel buffets welcome kids with play areas and Swahili favorites.
- Self-Catering: Markets like Kariakoo stock fresh fruits, ugali, and baby needs; resorts have kitchens.
- Snacks & Treats: Zanzibar sweets and coconut water keep kids happy on the go.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: In major hotels, airports, and malls with nursing areas.
- Pharmacies: Stock diapers, formula, and mosquito nets; English-speaking staff assist.
- Babysitting Services: Resorts arrange sitters for 20,000-40,000 TZS/hour; certified for safety.
- Medical Care: Clinics in Arusha and Dar; pediatric services at Aga Khan Hospital. Vaccinations advised.
♿ Accessibility in Tanzania
Accessible Travel
Tanzania is improving accessibility, especially in urban and resort areas. Wheelchair-friendly hotels, adapted transport, and select attractions cater to needs. Tourism operators offer inclusive options; plan with local guides for smooth experiences.
Transportation Accessibility
- Buses: Limited adapted vehicles; private transfers with ramps available for 50,000-100,000 TZS/day.
- City Transport: Tuk-tuks and taxis accommodate folding wheelchairs; Zanzibar ferries have basic access.
- Taxis: Wheelchair-adapted options in Dar via apps; advance booking recommended.
- Airports: Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar airports provide assistance, ramps, and priority services.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Sites: Stone Town has ramps at key spots; Village Museum in Dar offers guided accessible tours.
- Beaches & Resorts: Zanzibar resorts like Zuri feature wheelchair paths and beach mats.
- Nature Areas: Select safari lodges provide adapted vehicles; Arusha parks have viewing platforms.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for roll-in showers and wide doors.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (June-Oct) for safaris and beaches; wet season (Nov-May) for lush landscapes and birdwatching.
Shoulder months (May, Nov) balance weather, crowds, and costs.
Budget Tips
Family packages for safaris save 20-30%; Zanzibar day passes for beaches.
Self-catering in villas and market picnics keep costs down.
Language
Swahili official; English in tourist areas and with guides.
Basic phrases appreciated; locals welcoming to families.
Packing Essentials
Light clothes, sunscreen, hats for heat; rain gear for wet season.
Pet owners: tick treatments, vaccination proofs, portable bowls, and familiar toys.
Useful Apps
M-Pesa for payments, Google Maps offline, and safari booking apps.
Azam Marine for ferry schedules and local transport.
Health & Safety
Malaria precautions essential; bottled water advised. Safe for families with precautions.
Emergency: 112; travel insurance covers medical and evacuations.