From the airport to the city centre Tanzania
Throughout Tanzania, there are several options for getting from the airport to the city center. The simplest is a private transfer with an agency that will have pre-arranged your entire stay in the country and will be included in your package. If you're traveling on your own, there are always cabs (more expensive at the airport than elsewhere), and the Uber option is about half the price, but only in Dar es Salaam. For backpackers, there's often the bajaj option or the more adventurous piki piki (motorcycle cabs). To find out about all the different connections, see the corresponding cities.
Arrival by train Tanzania
A train links Zambia to Tanzania, departing from Dar es Salaam and passing through the Selous and Mbeya reserves. It's an unusual, off-the-beaten-track journey operated by the national Tazara company. For more information, visit www.tazarasite.com. Another line links Dar es Salaam to Kigoma on the shores of Tanganyika and Mwanza on those of Lake Victoria, via Dodoma and Tabora. See the Tanzania Railways Corporation website (www.trc.co.tz).
Arrival by boat Tanzania
The boat is one of two options for reaching Zanzibar, Pemba and Mafia from mainland Tanzania by air. We don't recommend it for Mafia, as it's a real crossroads on the outward journey from Dar es Salaam or elsewhere. For Zanzibar, on the other hand, speedboats from Dar take only 1h30 to cross, and they're cheap. Likewise, the boat from Zanzibar to Pemba is much more affordable than flying. There is also a boat service from Tanga to Pemba, but it's very hectic and infrequent. Private speedboats also make this crossing.
Public transport Tanzania
Taking a dala-dala is, as everywhere else in Africa, a bit complex for the uninitiated white tourist. First of all, there is no map referencing the lines, they are invisible and you have to ask before getting into a dala-dala (the collective minivans in Tanzania). You're squeezed in like sardines - people are squeezed in here! If you want more room, buy two seats... There are buses connecting major cities and covering long distances. Between Arusha and Dar es Salaam, some companies offer a rather luxurious service, with air-conditioning, etc. Finally, you can hire the services of a bajaj in the cities, which is practical and inexpensive for short distances. And to reach certain villages that are difficult to access or to go faster, piki piki (or boda boda) are motorcycle cabs.
Bike, scooters & co Tanzania
In Unguja's coastal villages, it's easy to hire bikes or scooters. Some lodges offer to rent wide-wheeled mountain bikes that can roll over hard sand. Very practical! One company also offers motorcycle rental (with sidecar available) in both Arusha and Zanzibar.
With a driver Tanzania
For private cab transfers, you'll need to contact the receptive agencies or independent cab drivers directly to arrange them.
Safaris. The services of a driver are compulsorily hired to drive the huge 4x4 safari vehicles. Often, the driver is also a guide, and has the necessary experience to flush out the animals to be spotted in the bush. Some drivers are self-employed.
By car Tanzania
Car rental. This is undoubtedly the best way to discover Zanzibar off the beaten track, and to get around frequently. You'll need an international or national driver's license, as well as official papers issued by the local police (which the agency will take care of for you the day before you rent the car - just stop by before you pick it up). Given the state of the island's roads and tracks, a small 4x4 is more appropriate (around US$50 per day), but you'll find cars locally, such as in Jambiani or Matemwe, for US$25 per day. For the rest of the country, we don't recommend renting a car, as the roads are dangerous and there are many accidents, especially with trucks and buses, and an experienced driver is much more appropriate. However, you can hire a car in Dar es Salaam or Arusha to get to Karatu, for example, at the gateway to the northern parks, where there are lodges that organize safaris.
