AcexNet | Web Hosting, Web Design, e-Commerce, Internet Access |

GENERAL TRAVEL INFORMATION
CREDIT CARDS: Credit cards are only accepted by the major airline companies and by most of the bigger hotels and lodges. Do not rely on credit cards as a source of cash while in Tanzania. In some cases a surcharge will be added to credit card payments. We suggest that you take sufficient travellers checks/cash and use the credit card as a back-up only.

CLIMATE: There are two seasons of rain in Tanzania: the long rainy period (monsoon) which runs from late March until June and a short rainy period, which runs from November until mid January. The long rains fall in heavy downpours, often accompanied by violent storms. The short rains tend to be much less severe.

CURRENCY: The Tanzanian Shilling is the local currency, but travellers checks and cash in US$ are recommended. The current exchange rate is approximately Tsh 980 (subject to change)= US$ 1. It is possible to change foreign currency at any Bureau de Change, which generally gives better rates than hotels and most banks.

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: A valid yellow fever vaccination certificate is compulsory and must be produced at the airport upon arrival. Malaria occurs below 1800 meters and you should use the recommended prophylactics. Please consult your doctor about these. Larium is very popular, but should be taken with care. Known side effects may lessen your chances of success on the mountain. Currently, other medication is also available which will be effective against the malaria strains currently found in Tanzania. Woman using oral contraceptives should consult their physicians before using prophylactics. The best way to prevent contracting Malaria is to try and avoid mosquito bites by using an effect insect repellent, by sleeping under mosquito nets and to wear proper clothing after sunset. Meningitis can be present during the dry seasons.

TAKE OUT ADEQUATE TRAVEL INSURANCE: Make sure the policy you choose provides adequate cover, in particular for all medical treatment and repatriation. Remember it not only protects you, but can also cover your family if there is a serious incident and they need to fly out to be with you. Be especially careful that your policy covers any adventurous activities that you are planning. Remember to extend cover if you prolong your trip. Do not assume you are fully covered by your credit card insurance.

KNOW YOUR DESTINATION: Find out about local laws and customs and take a guidebook. Talk to your travel agent or tour operator about possible risks and check the FCO's country-specific travel information to help you identify the key areas for research things that can change quickly and without warning so it is important you are properly informed. If you are travelling to areas where there may be conflict, wars or violence, it might just save your life.

MAKE SURE YOU HAVE ENOUGH MONEY: Take at least two forms of payment ideally traveller's cheques plus a credit card so that if you lose one, you have another as a stand-by. Check the expiry date and make a separate note of the numbers.

CHECK THAT YOUR PASSPORT IS STILL VALID: Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months, some countries will not let you enter if it isn't. Make sure you have filled in all the details including information n your next of kin, this will enable your family to be contacted if you are in an accident. Take another form ID, preferably with a photograph, and take a photocopy of your passport with you.

TELL FRIENDS/FAMILY WHERE YOU ARE GOING: It is important that people are able to contact you in an emergency. Make sure you leave others a way of contacting you.