CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT
Clothes for safari should be light, comfortable and not too brightly colored. There is little or no requirement for anything formal. A light jacket or sweater may be needed in the evenings at higher altitudes, comfortable walking shoes are an essential, as is a hat to keep off the sun, and sunglasses. Don’t forget a swimming costume for use at the lodge pools. Most people bring binoculars and/ or cameras and video equipment with plenty of tape or film. Zoom or telephoto lenses are likely to be useful. Film is available at the lodges. Most of the better hotels and lodges will spray rooms and provide mosquito nets, but do bring your own insect repellent sprays. A flashlight is always useful. There will be no television or radio in most places, so you might want to bring a little short-wave radio or Walkman if you want to keep up with world events or listen to some music. Remember that safari vehicles and light aircraft have tight limits on the size and weight of luggage carried. Depending on your itinerary it may be possible to leave some luggage in your hotel for the duration of your safari.
CURRENCY AND EXCHANGE
The local unit of currency is the Tanzanian Shilling which these days is freely convertible within Tanzania for the U.S.$ and other currencies. There are numerous banks and bureau de change in towns, and most lodges and hotels will exchange currencys at reasonable rates. It is not possible to obtain Tanzanian Shillings outside the country. Many items or services are priced and paid for in US dollars so do not convert more funds into the local currency than you need for incidental expenses. Credit cards are accepted at an increasing number of establishments in Tanzania but not everywhere. It is not generally possible to obtain cash on a credit card in Tanzania, so it is recommended that visitors carry sufficient funds in the form of travelers cheques.
SHOPPING
The Tourist areas and hotels sell a wide range of souvenirs, jeweler and trinkets. Don’t be afraid to haggle at roadside stalls( Your driver/ guide will guide you were to shop and advice you on the right price) the best known souvenirs are wood carvings, curios, and famous love stove which is a well known gem stone Tanzanite available widely at souvenirs shops.