Drone Rules in Tanzania: Permits, Parks and Penalties

Drones can capture breathtaking views of Tanzania's landscapes, from the Serengeti plains to Zanzibar's coastline. It is no surprise that many visitors want to bring one along.

However, Tanzania regulates drones closely, and flying without permission can lead to confiscation and legal trouble. Here is what you need to know before packing a drone. Regulations change, so always confirm the current process with the relevant authorities well before travel.

Permits are required

Flying a drone in Tanzania requires prior permission. Approval is handled by the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority, and additional security clearance is generally required. The process involves submitting details of the drone, the operator and the planned flights, and it can take a considerable time.

Do not assume a hobby or small drone is exempt. Size and recreational use do not remove the need for permission.

National parks and protected areas

National parks and conservation areas have their own rules on top of national regulations. Flying drones is generally prohibited in parks without specific authorization from the relevant park authority. Drones can disturb wildlife, stress animals and disrupt other visitors' experience, which is why the rules are strict.

Even with a permit, park rangers may restrict where and when you can fly. Commercial filming in parks usually requires a separate filming permit and associated fees.

Arriving with a drone

Customs officers at airports and land borders may inspect bags and can hold or confiscate drones brought into the country without the necessary paperwork. Retrieval can be difficult, and you may not get your drone back before you leave.

If you do not have permits in place, our advice is simple: leave the drone at home.

If you do have approval, pack the drone and its batteries in your hand luggage as airlines require for lithium batteries, and keep printed copies of every permit with it. Declare the drone if asked, and be ready to show your approvals to customs officers. Check your airline's rules on spare batteries, including any limits on capacity and number, before you fly.

If you are a professional filmmaker

Professional crews should start the process months in advance.

• Contact the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority for current drone requirements.
• Ask about security clearance and the documents it requires.
• Apply for any park filming permits separately.
• Carry printed copies of all approvals while traveling.
• Work with a local operator who understands the process and park rules.

Alternatives for great aerial views

You can still enjoy Tanzania from above without a drone. A hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti offers a stunning perspective at sunrise. Scenic light aircraft flights between parks also give spectacular views, especially over the Ngorongoro highlands and the Rift Valley. For ground-level photography, a good telephoto lens and a beanbag for the vehicle window are far more useful on safari than a drone.

Many experienced wildlife photographers actually prefer this approach. A long lens lets you capture natural behavior without disturbing animals, and your guide can position the vehicle for the best light and angle. Ask us to plan early morning and late afternoon drives, when the light is softest and animals are most active.