Current costs depend on the route, dates, group size and arrangements selected. Ask Blue Mountain for a written quote and confirmation of the current inclusions before booking.
**1. Licensing**
Tanzania requires every operator to hold a TALA (Tour Operator) licence. Ask for the licence number — and check it against the Tanzania Tourist Board list. Unlicensed operators exist and cut corners on safety.
**3. Guide level**
Tanzania has three guide certification levels: Bronze, Silver, Gold. Silver and Gold guides can identify hundreds of bird species, understand big cat behaviour, and have first-aid training. Ask which level your guide is — and whether they will be the same throughout the trip.
**4. Lodge selection**
This is where most operators cut corners. A "4-star lodge" in Tanzania could mean:
- A genuine 4-star property (e.g., Seronera Wildlife Lodge)
- A 3-star property marketed as 4-star
- A tented camp with shared bathrooms
Ask for the exact lodge names and look them up on TripAdvisor before booking.
**6. Group vs private**
Group departures save money but you have no flexibility. Private safaris cost 30-50% more but you set the pace. For photographers or families, private is worth it.
**Our Tanzania operation**
Blue Mountain Safaris is Kenya-based but runs cross-border Tanzania safaris under partnership with a licensed Arusha operator. Our packages include all park fees, silver-level guides, and 4-star properties with named alternatives. We provide a complete written quote — no hidden extras.
**A practical checklist when evaluating any operator**
- [ ] TALA licence number provided
- [ ] Park fees itemised
- [ ] Named lodges with TripAdvisor links
- [ ] Guide certification level stated
- [ ] Vehicle type and age stated
- [ ] Cancellation policy in writing
- [ ] 24/7 contact number during trip
Message us to start the conversation — even if you end up booking elsewhere, we will give you honest questions to ask.