Tanzania has two official languages: English and Kiswahili. Several local languages are spoken.
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The official currency is the Tanzanian shilling. The preferred form of currency is US dollars, which is what most prices are listed in. Money can be exchanged in major towns. If you have traveller’s cheques, the best rates are at exchange bureaus. Only major cities have ATMs. Some places like hotels and major lodges will accept credit cards, but they’ll add on a 10 per cent charge.
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The international country code is 255. To call another country from Tanzania, dial 000 followed by the appropriate country code - 000 44 for the UK for example. Hotels have very high surcharges for telephone calls. Main resorts and towns usually have Internet cafes.
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Tip waiters 10 per cent for their service. Tips are expected by guides, porters and cooks on safari or in the wildlife parks. The amount depends on the number of people in your party and the quality of service.
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There is a threat of terrorism in Tanzania, so remain cautious in public places and tourist sites, especially in Zanzibar’s Stone Town. Street crime is also a problem, especially in Dar es Salaam.
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It’s a good idea to get vaccinations for hepatitis A, yellow fever, polio and typhoid. If you’re arriving from a country affected with yellow fever, you’ll need a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Malaria is also a problem. Protect yourself against tsetse fly bites, which can cause African sleeping sickness. There is a high rate of HIV/AIDS, and cholera outbreaks are common. Make sure you are up to date with measles, mumps and rubella vaccinations as well; there have been reports of measles outbreaks. Medical facilities are limited and scarce outside of towns. Make sure you bring plenty of any needed medication and are covered by health insurance. Stick to bottled water.
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The electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz (round, three-pinned plugs).
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