Planning a safari in Tanzania and wondering how to apply for a Tanzania visa, whether you need an eVisa, how much the visa costs, what documents you need, or how long the process takes?

Getting your visa and travel documents right is an important part of planning a successful Tanzania safari. Whether you are visiting the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro or Zanzibar, understanding the applicable immigration requirements can help you avoid unnecessary delays before your trip.

For travelers combining Tanzania with Uganda, Kenya or Rwanda, immigration planning is even more important because each country has its own entry requirements.

Tanzania operates an official online visa system through the Tanzania Immigration Services Department. The system allows eligible travelers to complete their visa application online, make the required payment and track their application. The system covers travel to both Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar.

At Mambo Gorilla Safaris Uganda, we help travelers experience the best of East Africa through gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, wildlife safaris and customized multi-country adventures. Tanzania is also among the destinations served by Mambo, making it possible to plan a wider East African safari around your interests and available travel time.

This guide explains everything you should know about the Tanzania visa application process, including visa requirements, costs, eVisa application steps, visa-on-arrival information and practical advice for travelers planning a Tanzania safari.

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Quick Answer: Do You Need a Visa for Tanzania?

Whether you need a Tanzania visa depends mainly on your nationality and passport.

Tanzania maintains a list of countries whose citizens do not require a visa. The current official list includes Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Ghana, Malaysia, Singapore and several other countries.

If your nationality is not visa-exempt, you may need to apply for a Tanzania visa.

For eligible travelers, Tanzania provides an official eVisa application system where you can complete the application before traveling. Tanzania also provides visa-on-arrival arrangements for eligible travelers at designated entry points.

Because immigration requirements can change, always check the current requirements applicable to the passport you will use for your journey.

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Tanzania Visa Requirements at a Glance

Requirement	Information
Official application	Tanzania Immigration eVisa system
Visa-exempt travelers	Yes, depending on nationality
Ordinary tourist visa	Available for eligible travelers
Ordinary visa fee	US$50
Ordinary visa validity	Up to 90 days
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Blank passport pages	At least 1 unused visa page
Tanzania Mainland	Covered by the eVisa system
Zanzibar	Covered by the eVisa system
Online application tracking	Available
Visa on arrival	Available for eligible travelers
Referral visa category	Additional approval may be required

Tanzania’s official visa terms require applicants to have a passport with at least six months’ validity and at least one unused visa page. Applicants must also select the correct visa category and upload the required supporting documents.

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What Is a Tanzania eVisa?

A Tanzania eVisa is an electronic visa application processed through the official Tanzania Immigration online system.

Instead of relying entirely on an embassy visit, eligible travelers can submit their application online.

The official system allows applicants to:

• Start a new visa application
• Enter passport and personal information
• Upload supporting documents
• Pay the applicable visa fee
• Submit the application
• Receive application notifications by email
• Track the application online

Tanzania’s official eVisa platform confirms that online applications are reviewed and processed internally and that applicants can be notified by email when their application is accepted or rejected.

Important

Use the official Tanzania Immigration website when applying.

Do not assume that a third-party website is an official government visa portal simply because it appears at the top of an internet search.

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Do Ugandans Need a Visa for Tanzania?

No. Ugandan citizens are currently listed among the nationalities that do not require a visa to enter Tanzania. Tanzania’s official visa-exempt list specifically includes Uganda.

This is useful for Ugandan travelers planning holidays in Tanzania, including trips to:

• Serengeti National Park
• Ngorongoro Crater
• Tarangire National Park
• Mount Kilimanjaro
• Zanzibar
• Arusha
• Dar es Salaam

However, being visa-exempt does not mean that travelers should ignore immigration requirements.

You should still travel with the appropriate valid passport or travel document and comply with the requirements at the border or airport.

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Do Kenyan and Rwandan Citizens Need a Tanzania Visa?

Kenya and Rwanda are also currently included on Tanzania’s official list of countries whose nationals do not require a visa.

This makes regional travel within East Africa considerably easier for eligible citizens.

For example, an eligible traveler could plan:

Kenya → Tanzania

or:

Rwanda → Tanzania → Uganda

without applying for the standard Tanzania tourist visa.

Nevertheless, travelers should verify the latest official requirements before departure because immigration policies can be updated.

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Who Needs a Tanzania Tourist Visa?

Travelers whose nationalities are not on Tanzania’s visa-exempt list generally need to obtain the appropriate visa before or upon arrival, depending on their nationality and the applicable immigration rules.

The most common visa for a normal holiday or safari is the Ordinary Visa.

This is generally used for tourism and other permitted short-term purposes.

Tanzania’s current guidelines state that the Ordinary Visa costs US$50 and can be valid for up to 90 days.

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Tanzania Tourist Visa Cost

The current fee for the Ordinary Visa is:

US$50

Other visa categories have different fees.

For example, Tanzania’s official visa guidelines list:

• Ordinary Visa: US$50
• Multiple Entry Visa: US$100
• Transit Visa: US$30
• Business Visa: US$250

The correct fee depends on your nationality, purpose of travel and visa category.

Important exception for U.S. citizens

U.S. passport holders travelling to Tanzania for tourism are required to apply for a Multiple Entry Visa, rather than the standard Ordinary Visa.

The current fee for this category is US$100.

Always check the visa category applicable to your nationality before making payment.

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Tanzania Visa Requirements for Tourists

If you need a Tanzania visa, prepare your documents before beginning the application.

1. A Valid Passport

Your passport should have:

• At least six months’ validity
• At least one unused visa page
• Accurate personal information
• A clear and readable biodata page

These are requirements stated in Tanzania’s current eVisa terms and conditions.

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2. Passport Biodata Page

You may be required to upload a copy of your passport biodata page during the online application.

Make sure the document is:

• Clear
• Legible
• Not cropped incorrectly
• Free from excessive glare
• Uploaded in the required format

Your name and passport number should be clearly visible.

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3. Passport Photograph

The application requires a suitable passport-style photograph where applicable.

Use a recent photograph that follows Tanzania Immigration’s specifications.

Avoid:

• Blurry photographs
• Very dark photographs
• Heavily edited photographs
• Photos with your face covered
• Poor-quality scans

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4. Return or Onward Travel Information

Safari travelers should have clear information about how they will leave Tanzania.

This could be:

Kilimanjaro → Entebbe

or:

Arusha → Nairobi

or:

Zanzibar → International departure

Having a clear itinerary is especially important when you are combining several East African countries.

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5. Accommodation Information

You may need to provide information about where you will stay in Tanzania.

This could include:

• Hotel
• Safari lodge
• Camp
• Resort
• Other approved accommodation

If you are booking a safari through a tour operator, your safari itinerary can help organize this information.

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How to Apply for a Tanzania Visa Online

The Tanzania eVisa application process is straightforward when you prepare your information before starting.

Step 1: Confirm Whether You Need a Visa

First, check Tanzania’s current visa-exempt list.

If your nationality is exempt, you may not need to submit a visa application.

Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda are currently included on the official visa-exempt list.

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Step 2: Visit the Official Tanzania eVisa Website

Use Tanzania Immigration’s official online visa system.

Official Tanzania eVisa Application Portal

The official system is operated by the Tanzania Immigration Services Department and provides online visa applications for Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar.

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Step 3: Start a New Application

Select the option to apply for a new visa.

The system asks for basic information such as:

• Email address
• Passport number
• Passport issuing country
• Security question
• Security answer

An application ID is then generated for future reference.

Keep this information safely.

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Step 4: Select the Correct Visa Type

Choose the visa category that matches your:

• Nationality
• Purpose of travel
• Intended stay
• Travel circumstances

Do not select a visa category simply because another traveler used it.

Tanzania’s official terms specifically warn that applying for the wrong type of visa may result in rejection.

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Step 5: Complete Your Personal Information

Enter your information exactly as it appears on your passport.

Check:

• Full name
• Date of birth
• Nationality
• Passport number
• Passport issue date
• Passport expiry date
• Place of birth
• Contact details

Even a small passport-number error can create problems.

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Step 6: Enter Your Travel Information

Provide the information requested about your trip.

This can include:

• Intended arrival date
• Destination
• Accommodation
• Purpose of visit
• Travel itinerary
• Return or onward travel

If you are planning a Tanzania safari followed by Uganda gorilla trekking, organize your itinerary before completing the application.

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Step 7: Upload Supporting Documents

Upload all documents requested by the application system.

Depending on your visa category and circumstances, these can include:

• Passport copy
• Passport photograph
• Travel information
• Return or onward ticket
• Accommodation information
• Other supporting documentation

Tanzania’s official terms require applicants to upload the supporting documents applicable to their visa category.

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Step 8: Pay the Visa Fee

If your nationality requires a visa, pay the applicable fee through the official application system.

For an Ordinary Visa, the current fee is US$50.

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Step 9: Submit the Application

Before submitting, carefully check everything.

Pay particular attention to:

Name → Passport number → Nationality → Visa category → Travel dates

Tanzania’s official terms state that applicants cannot modify the application after submission in the normal process, so reviewing your information beforehand is extremely important.

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Step 10: Track Your Tanzania Visa Application

After submission, keep your application identification details.

Tanzania’s online system allows applicants to track their application status.

Applicants can also receive notifications through email.

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How Long Does Tanzania Visa Processing Take?

Do not wait until the day before your safari to begin your visa application.

Tanzania’s official visa terms advise applicants to lodge their visa applications 10 days before the expected travel date.

Applicants under the referral visa category are advised to allow approximately two months.

For this reason, travelers should start the process well before departure, particularly if their safari includes several countries.

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What Is a Referral Visa for Tanzania?

Some nationalities fall under Tanzania’s referral visa category.

These travelers require additional approval before they can travel.

If you are in this category, you should not assume that you can simply arrive at the airport and obtain a visa.

The application should be submitted well in advance.

Tanzania advises referral visa applicants to allow approximately two months for the process.

If you are unsure whether your nationality falls into this category, check the official Tanzania Immigration requirements before booking non-refundable travel arrangements.

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Can You Get a Tanzania Visa on Arrival?

Tanzania provides visa-on-arrival arrangements for eligible travelers at designated entry points.

However, the official immigration system recommends applying online where possible.

For safari travelers, applying in advance can make the arrival process more predictable.

Do not assume visa on arrival applies to everyone.

Nationality-specific restrictions can apply, particularly to travelers who fall under the referral visa category.

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Tanzania Visa on Arrival vs eVisa

Feature	eVisa	Visa on Arrival
Application before travel	Yes	No
Online application	Yes	No
Application tracking	Yes	No pre-arrival application
Recommended	Yes	Only where applicable
Suitable for referral nationals	Approval required	Not a substitute
Planning convenience	Higher	Lower

For an organized safari, we recommend checking your eligibility and immigration requirements before traveling rather than relying on assumptions at the border.

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Is the Tanzania Visa Valid for Zanzibar?

Yes.

Tanzania’s official electronic visa system covers both Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar.

This is important because many travelers combine a wildlife safari with a beach holiday.

For example:

Serengeti → Ngorongoro → Zanzibar

or:

Kilimanjaro → Serengeti → Zanzibar

The same Tanzania visa system applies because Zanzibar is part of the United Republic of Tanzania.

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Can You Visit Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar on the Same Visa?

Yes, for travelers who require a Tanzania visa, the official system covers both destinations.

Tanzania Immigration specifically states that travelers can apply for an online visa to visit the United Republic of Tanzania, including both Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar.

This makes it possible to create an itinerary combining:

• Arusha
• Serengeti
• Ngorongoro
• Tarangire
• Kilimanjaro
• Zanzibar

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Tanzania Visa for a Serengeti Safari

The Serengeti is one of Tanzania’s most famous safari destinations and is often the highlight of a first Tanzania safari.

A typical itinerary can combine:

Arusha

The starting point for many northern Tanzania safaris.

Tarangire National Park

Known for its wildlife, large elephant populations and iconic baobab landscapes.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

A spectacular wildlife destination and one of the most famous safari landscapes in Tanzania.

Serengeti National Park

A vast ecosystem famous for its wildlife and the Great Migration.

Zanzibar

A relaxing coastal extension after your safari.

Before traveling, make sure your immigration documents correspond with the passport you will actually use throughout the journey.

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Tanzania Visa for Mount Kilimanjaro Travelers

If you are climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, visa planning should be completed before your arrival.

Many travelers combine Kilimanjaro with a wildlife safari.

For example:

Kilimanjaro + Serengeti + Ngorongoro

Another option is to continue your East African journey into Uganda.

Kilimanjaro + Tanzania Safari + Uganda Gorilla Trekking

This creates a much more diverse African holiday.

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Tanzania Safari and Uganda Gorilla Trekking

One of the most exciting ways to extend a Tanzania safari is by adding Uganda gorilla trekking.

Tanzania offers spectacular savannah wildlife.

Uganda offers a completely different rainforest experience.

Imagine beginning your journey among:

• Lions
• Elephants
• Buffaloes
• Giraffes
• Leopards
• Wildebeest
• Zebras

Then continuing to Uganda to trek through the misty forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in search of mountain gorillas.

It is one of the most rewarding combinations available to travelers exploring East Africa.

Mambo Gorilla Safaris Uganda specializes in Uganda gorilla and wildlife experiences and operates safari programs across Uganda and neighboring East African destinations.

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Why Combine Tanzania and Uganda?

Tanzania and Uganda complement one another exceptionally well.

Tanzania offers classic savannah safari experiences

Travelers can explore destinations such as:

• Serengeti National Park
• Ngorongoro
• Tarangire
• Mount Kilimanjaro
• Zanzibar

Uganda offers rainforest and primate experiences

Travelers can explore:

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
• Kibale Forest
• Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Murchison Falls National Park
• Lake Mburo National Park
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

This combination is ideal for travelers who want more than a traditional Big Five safari.

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Tanzania to Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari

A Tanzania–Uganda itinerary can be customized according to your interests, budget and available time.

A sample journey could look like this:

Days 1–2: Arusha

Arrive and prepare for your Tanzania safari.

Days 3–4: Serengeti

Enjoy game drives and search for lions, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes and other wildlife.

Day 5: Ngorongoro

Explore the Ngorongoro area and surrounding landscapes.

Day 6: Travel Toward Uganda

Depending on your international and regional flight arrangements, continue toward Uganda.

Days 7–8: Queen Elizabeth National Park

Enjoy game drives and a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel.

Day 9: Bwindi

Travel into southwestern Uganda.

Day 10: Gorilla Trekking

Enter Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for your mountain gorilla trekking experience.

Day 11: Departure

Transfer toward Entebbe for your departure flight or extend the safari.

This is only an example. Mambo can customize the itinerary around your preferred destinations, travel dates and budget.

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Add Uganda Gorilla Trekking to Your East African Safari

If you have already planned a Tanzania safari, you do not necessarily have to end your trip in Tanzania.

Adding Uganda can transform your holiday into a broader East African adventure.

Mambo Gorilla Safaris Uganda offers a range of Uganda safari experiences, including gorilla trekking, wildlife viewing, chimpanzee trekking and cultural encounters.

Its 3 Days Bwindi Gorilla Tour is designed for travelers who want a focused mountain gorilla experience in Bwindi.

For travelers with more time, Mambo also offers longer wildlife and primate itineraries combining destinations such as Murchison Falls, Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi and Lake Mburo.

This means your Tanzania safari can be extended into a customized Uganda adventure rather than ending after your final Tanzania game drive.

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Tanzania and Uganda Safari for First-Time Travelers

If this is your first East African safari, combining two countries can initially seem complicated.

The key is to organize the trip in logical stages.

First: Decide what you want to see

Do you want:

• Big Five wildlife?
• The Great Migration?
• Mount Kilimanjaro?
• Zanzibar?
• Mountain gorillas?
• Chimpanzees?
• Cultural experiences?

Second: Choose the countries

For example:

Tanzania + Uganda

is excellent for wildlife plus gorilla trekking.

Third: Check immigration requirements

Check the visa rules applicable to your nationality in every country you will enter.

Fourth: Check permit availability

Gorilla trekking requires advance planning because permits are limited.

Fifth: Build your transport route

Flights and road transfers should be planned together.

Finally: Book the safari

Once the major components are confirmed, your safari operator can organize the accommodation, transportation, activities and other logistics.

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Common Tanzania Visa Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: Using the Wrong Website

Always use the official Tanzania Immigration eVisa system.

Apply Through the Official Tanzania eVisa Portal

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Mistake 2: Paying for a Visa You Do Not Need

Check the current visa-exempt list before making payment.

Uganda is currently included among the visa-exempt countries.

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Mistake 3: Selecting the Wrong Visa Category

Tanzania warns that choosing the wrong visa type can result in rejection.

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Mistake 4: Entering the Wrong Passport Number

Double-check every passport detail before submitting your application.

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Mistake 5: Applying Too Late

Tanzania advises applicants to submit applications at least 10 days before expected travel and recommends considerably more time for referral visa cases.

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Mistake 6: Assuming Every Traveler Can Get a Visa on Arrival

Visa-on-arrival arrangements depend on eligibility.

Do not assume they apply to your nationality.

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Mistake 7: Forgetting About Other Countries

A Tanzania visa does not automatically give you permission to enter Uganda, Kenya or Rwanda.

If your itinerary includes several countries, check each country’s immigration requirements separately.

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Tanzania Safari Visa Checklist

Before traveling, use this checklist.

Passport

• Valid passport
• At least six months’ validity
• At least one unused visa page
• Clear passport biodata copy

Visa

• Confirm whether your nationality requires a visa
• Select the correct visa category
• Complete the online application where applicable
• Upload the required documents
• Pay the correct fee
• Keep your application number
• Monitor your application status

Safari

• Confirm accommodation
• Confirm return or onward travel
• Confirm safari itinerary
• Arrange airport transfers
• Arrange travel insurance
• Keep important travel documents accessible

Multi-country trip

• Tanzania requirements checked
• Uganda requirements checked
• Kenya requirements checked if applicable
• Rwanda requirements checked if applicable
• Flights and border arrangements confirmed
• Gorilla permit confirmed if trekking in Uganda or Rwanda

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Why Book Your Tanzania and Uganda Safari With Mambo Gorilla Safaris Uganda?

Planning a multi-country African safari requires more than simply choosing destinations.

You need to coordinate:

• Flights
• Road transfers
• Accommodation
• Park activities
• Gorilla permits
• Safari vehicles
• Guides
• Border crossings
• Travel dates
• Departure arrangements

Mambo Gorilla Safaris Uganda is an African safari company offering safari experiences in Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo and other neighboring destinations.

The company offers customized safari experiences ranging from short gorilla trekking trips to longer wildlife and primate adventures.

For example, Mambo’s 4-day Bwindi and Lake Mburo safari combines gorilla trekking, cultural experiences, nature walks, game drives and a boat cruise.

This makes Mambo a suitable choice for travelers who want to extend their Tanzania safari with a Uganda wildlife or gorilla experience.

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