Visas, Vaccinations & Essentials for Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania & Zanzibar
Exploring East Africa in 2025 offers breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and world-renowned wildlife safaris. Gascheery Safaris ensures a seamless travel experience across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Zanzibar. To help you prepare, here’s everything you need to know about travel requirements and essentials.
1. Passport Validity
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. This is a mandatory requirement for entry into Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Zanzibar.
2. Visa Requirements
- Kenya: Kenya has introduced a new online visa system, requiring travelers to apply through the official eVisa portal before arrival. African citizens enjoy visa-free entry, but non-African travelers must apply in advance.
- Uganda: Most travelers require an eVisa, which can be obtained through Uganda’s official immigration website. Some African nationals may enter visa-free.
- Tanzania & Zanzibar: Tanzania has suspended visa-on-arrival services. All travelers must now apply for an eVisa before arrival via the official Tanzanian immigration website.
- East Africa Tourist Visa: This multiple-entry visa allows seamless travel across Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda for up to 90 days. It must be applied for in advance through any of the three countries’ immigration websites.
- You can apply for single entry and transit visas on the following links; Kenyan Visa , Tanzanian Visas , Uganda Visa,Rwanda Visa
3. Health & Vaccination Requirements
- Yellow Fever Vaccination: Mandatory for travelers coming from yellow fever-endemic countries. A valid vaccination certificate is required.
- COVID-19 Requirements: Travelers may need proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before travel. Requirements may change, so check with Gascheery Safaris for updates.
- Recommended Vaccinations: Hepatitis A & B, typhoid, rabies, and routine immunizations such as measles and tetanus.
- Malaria Prevention: East Africa has malaria-prone areas, so carry anti-malarial medication and use insect repellent.
4. Currency & Financial Declarations
- Kenya & Uganda: Major international currencies can be exchanged, and credit/debit cards are widely accepted.
- Tanzania & Zanzibar: Declare amounts over $10,000 upon entry and exit. Foreign travelers cannot import or export Tanzanian Shillings.
5. Travel Insurance
Starting in 2024, Zanzibar requires all visitors to pay a mandatory insurance fee, covering health emergencies, lost baggage, and evacuation services. Gascheery Safaris recommends purchasing comprehensive travel insurance for all East African destinations.
6. Cultural Considerations & Local Customs
- Dress Code: Modest dressing is advised in conservative areas, especially in Zanzibar. Casual wear is acceptable in tourist resorts.
- Language: Swahili is the main language, but English is widely spoken.
- Etiquette: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people and respect local traditions.
7. Safety & Security
- Follow the guidance of Gascheery Safaris guides for wildlife safety.
- Keep personal belongings secure in crowded areas.
- Use insect repellent to prevent mosquito-borne diseases.
- Drink bottled or purified water to avoid waterborne illnesses.
8. Connectivity & Communication
- SIM Cards: Local SIM cards offer affordable internet and call rates. Ensure your phone is unlocked before purchasing one.
- Wi-Fi: Available in most lodges, hotels, and safari camps, though connectivity may be limited in remote areas.
9. Environmental Responsibility
- Plastic Ban: Kenya and Tanzania have banned single-use plastics. Travelers should use eco-friendly alternatives.
- Wildlife Conservation: Support conservation efforts by respecting park regulations and avoiding disruptive behavior near wildlife.
10. Final Travel Preparations with Gascherry Safaris
Gascheery Safaris ensures a smooth, enjoyable, and hassle-free adventure across East Africa. With expert guides, personalized tour packages, and insider knowledge, we help you navigate visas, health requirements, and travel logistics with ease.
For updated travel advisories and tailored safari experiences, book your East African adventure with Gascheery Safaris today!
