Frequently Asked Questions?
Where will I be staying while on safari?
Tanzania offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly camping to luxury lodges and exclusive tented camps. Depending on your safari package, you can choose between:
• Camping Safaris: Simple campsites or budget lodges.
• Mid-Range Safaris: Comfortable lodges with a good balance of amenities.
• Luxury Safaris: High-end lodges and exclusive safari camps offering luxurious accommodations and gourmet dining.
At Sema Africa Tours, we offer a variety of Tanzania safari packages to suit your preferences, including options for all budgets. Feel free to ask our team any questions for more clarifcation on lodging for your safari.
Is it safe to travel in Tanzania?
Yes, Tanzania is considered a safe country for tourists. Millions of travelers visit Tanzania annually to explore its national parks and the vast majority leave with nothing but positive experiences. While in the safari parks, you’ll be guided by experienced and well-trained guides, ensuring your safety. As with any international travel, it’s important to take standard precautions in case of theft, but overall, Tanzania is a welcoming and safe destination.
What is included in a Sema Africa Tour?
All our safaris include excellent safari car adapted for the best safari experience with pop-up roof and unlimited mileage, all national parks entrances fees, camping fees and permits, unlimited water during the safaris, accommodation as agreed (on full board or all inclusive basis), and donations to the local communities.
What is not included in a Sema Africa Tour?
We do not include the country visas, travel insurance, and items of personal interest like souvenirs or extra services/tours not agreed beforehand. Tips are not included (we recommend a guideline of 5-10% of the total safari cost or around $15 per person per day). Additionally, if after you book your tour, the government decides to apply increases in park fees, camping fees, concession fees or others, these shall be added to your contract as well. If applicable, local infrastructure taxes in Zanzibar are not included as they must be paid on-site by the traveler.
Do you have a cancellation policy?
Yes, we apply a 10% penalty if you cancel 30 to 60 days before your tour, a penalty of 50% if you cancel with 15 to 30 days notice, a 75% penalty if you cancel with 7 to 14 days notice, and a penalty of 100% if you cancel with less than a week notice.
What payment methods do you accept? What is the local currency?
We welcome payments via wire transfer, money transfer and credit card. We recommend use of the app Wise as it is an easy way to transfer money from a foreign bank account to a Tanzanian bank account. We do not cover any charges during transfer of payment. The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the local currency, though US dollars are accepted in most tourist areas, including national parks. Be sure to carry a combination of cash and cards for convenience.
• ATMs are available in cities and towns, but we recommend bringing cash when traveling to remote safari areas.
• Tipping is customary for safari guides, we recommend a guideline of 5-10% of the total safari cost or around $15 per person per day.
Where should I fly to?
We recommend flying into the Arusha or Kilimanjaro (JRO) airport. We can service you if you fly into a different airport although more fees may apply for car fees and gas. If you do a fly in safari, then you can start from any point in the country. What are visa requirements? It is possible to issue your visa online (visa.immigration.go.tz) or on arrival. Do note the e-visa can take up to 3 weeks to be processed so if you will arrive soon we recommend getting it on arrival. The visa costs are $50 USD per person except for U.S Citizens who pay $100 USD per person. Some countries do require a referral VISA in advance, there are also countries whose nationals do not require VISA. Please check list here: https://visa.immigration.go.tz/guidelines In any case, please do keep in mind your passport needs to have at least 6 months of validity.
Are there any vaccination requirements?
It is very important to set an appointment with a doctor in your home country before you come. Depending on the situation, you might need vaccination for yellow fever and may need prophylaxis pills to protect you against malaria. You will also need a WHO vaccination card upon entrance.