Tanzania All-Inclusive Travel Guide
Zanzibar is the dream pin on the map: a spice-scented island off Tanzania with talcum-soft sand, dhows on a glassy sea, and the labyrinth of Stone Town. The all-inclusives cluster along the north and east coasts, and it pairs perfectly with a mainland safari – beach to bush in one trip.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Always confirm entry and safety details with official government sources before you travel.
Do you need a passport or visa for Tanzania?
U.S. citizens need a visa. The simplest route is the eVisa at the official immigration site before you travel; Americans are issued a multiple-entry tourist visa costing about $100. A passport valid six months with blank pages is required.
A visa on arrival is available at Zanzibar's airport, but it can mean queues – we'd apply online ahead. Verify current fees and rules on travel.state.gov.
Is Tanzania safe?
The U.S. State Department raised Tanzania to Level 3, 'Reconsider Travel,' citing crime, terrorism, unrest, and the targeting of LGB travelers. That's a country-wide rating; Zanzibar's tourist areas and Stone Town are generally lower-risk and heavily touristed.
Take it seriously without panicking: watch valuables, avoid demonstrations, use arranged transport at night, and read the full advisory on travel.state.gov before booking.
Currency and tipping
The Tanzanian shilling is local, but U.S. dollars are widely accepted at resorts and for tours – bring newer bills (2018 or later). Cards work at larger hotels; carry cash for markets and small vendors.
Tipping is expected: roughly 10% in restaurants, a few dollars a day for guides and drivers, and small notes for porters and housekeeping.
When to visit
The best weather is the long dry season, roughly June to October, plus a drier window in January and February – sunny, with calmer seas.
Avoid the 'long rains' from late March through May, when heavy downpours are common. The 'short rains' in November are lighter and more hit-or-miss.
Getting there & around
Fly into Abeid Amani Karume International (ZNZ), usually connecting through the Gulf, Europe, Nairobi or Dar es Salaam. Many travelers add a mainland safari via Kilimanjaro (JRO) first.
On the island, resort transfers and taxis cover most needs – agree fares up front. Tanzania drives on the left.
What to do beyond the resort
Wander Stone Town's UNESCO alleys, tour a spice farm, and snorkel or dive the reefs off Mnemba Atoll. Sunset dhow cruises are a Zanzibar rite of passage.
Day trips reach Jozani Forest's red colobus monkeys, the sandbank at Nakupenda, and Prison Island's giant tortoises. The mainland's Serengeti and Ngorongoro are an easy add-on.
Good to know
Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous, majority-Muslim island. Resorts are relaxed, but off the property – in Stone Town and villages – dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and be discreet during Ramadan.
Power is 230V with UK-style Type G plugs. Malaria precautions apply; drink bottled water; a yellow fever certificate may be required if arriving from a risk country.
The best all-inclusive resorts in Tanzania
The Tanzania properties we'd actually book — tap through for photos, real guest ratings, and what's included.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa for Zanzibar / Tanzania?
Yes. U.S. citizens get a multiple-entry tourist visa, around $100, ideally via the official eVisa site before travel. Visa on arrival exists at Zanzibar's airport but can mean queues.
Is Zanzibar safe?
Tanzania is Level 3, 'Reconsider Travel,' country-wide. Zanzibar's tourist areas are generally lower-risk and well-touristed, but take precautions and read the advisory on travel.state.gov.
What currency is used, and can I pay in dollars?
The Tanzanian shilling, but U.S. dollars are widely accepted at resorts and tours – bring newer bills (2018+). Carry some shillings for markets and small vendors.
Do I tip in Tanzania?
Yes – about 10% in restaurants, a few dollars a day for guides and drivers, and small notes for porters and housekeeping.
When is the best time to visit Zanzibar?
June to October (the long dry season) and January–February. Avoid the heavy 'long rains' from late March through May.
What should I wear off the resort?
Zanzibar is majority-Muslim, so cover shoulders and knees in Stone Town and villages. Resort areas are relaxed, but modest dress off-property is respectful.
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