I have twice gotten my Tanzania Visa ahead of time, but was told that it is easier to just get it processed at the airport and cost the same $50. As with other countries, I assume this is simple, but I forget why I started getting it done beforehand to begin with.... What is everybody else doing these days? Thanks!

The nearest Tanz consulate is all the way on the other side of Canada from me, so I got my VISA at the airport on arrival in DAR. Don_G and I were near the end of the line for our flight and it took most of an hour to get our VISA's issued...it was very frustrating to wait that long when its already 11 PM and you know your charter is at 7 AM the next morning and you still have the 1/2 hr drive to the SeaCliff, check-in, etc, etc. Its even worse when you can see your gun cases and luggage sitting beside the baggage carousels on the other side of the immigration wicket!!!

If we knew what we were in for and were quicker as a result, and got to the head of the line I figure it would only take about 10 to 15 minutes to get processed.

If its easy for you to get your VISA in advance (ie. if you have a consulate near you that you can visit in person), thats what I'd recommend. Otherwise, walk like heck from the arrival gate when you arrive at DAR and beat the rest of the guys to the VISA administration booth!!

Cheers,
Canuck

Bill, I was advised by more than one experienced person to get my visa ahead of time and like you have done so. I have used an expediter and it was worth it.

In my experience, the airport in Dar is a chaos of seemingly mindless activity and noise, with long lines everywhere.

Upon arrival - at some time close to midnight - just retrieving our luggage, clearing customs with rifles and getting to the hotel before 1 A.M. has been more than challenging enough!

On both my trips to TZN I got my visa prior to departing the US. I have family in DC and the last time I was preparing for a trip, I paid a visit to the TZN embassy and made my application in person. However, I needed one additional piece of paperwork which I mailed to them later and then received my visa and passport by Fedex. They were very pleasant people to deal with and I had the comfort of knowing I had what I needed when I got off the plane in Dar. There's enough other crap to deal with then also have to worry about getting the visa upon arrival.

Bull1

There are plenty of services that can get your visa in advance for a fee. I had Gracy travel do mine when I booked and I think it was $100 total. TZ embassy then mailed it to me. No problem. I get nervous dealing with incompetant/corrupt bureaucrats on site, much better to have all official paperwork done in advance!

Thank you gentleman!