Can You Bring a Drone to Tanzania?  

Tanzania is a beautiful country located in East Africa. It is home to Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa. Tanzania is also home to the Serengeti National Park, which is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Africa.

If you are planning a trip to Tanzania, you will most likely want to photograph or video record your trip – perhaps with a drone.

Luckily, Tanzania legally allows you to bring in a drone, as well as allowing you to fly your drone there. You will be able to capture some stunning aerial shots with a drone, as long as it meets certain requirements and has a permit.

What are the size restrictions for drones in Tanzania? #

The size restrictions for drones in Tanzania are as follows:

• It must weigh less than 15.5 pounds
• You must have a special permit if the drone is heavier than 15.5 pounds.

What are the laws regulating drones in Tanzania? #

The current legal framework governing the use of drones in Tanzania is the National Aviation Policy (NAP), which was approved in 2015. You can’t fly any drones without the prior approval of the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA).

Before flying your drone in Tanzania, you must register it at the TCAA regional office or headquarters. The fee is $100.

The form for registering your drone in Tanzania can be found here. It’s a good idea to complete this form and submit it before trying to enter the country with your drone.

If approved, the applicant will be issued a permit that outlines the conditions under which the drone can be operated.

The conditions include maintaining a certain distance from populated areas and flying within a visual line of sight at all times.

What happens in customs? #

Customs regulations in Tanzania state that all drones must be declared upon arrival.

Drones that are brought into the country without a permit may be confiscated by authorities.

Do I need drone insurance? #

Yes, you are required to have drone insurance if you plan to operate a drone in Tanzania. The amount of coverage you will need will depend on the value of your drone and the risks associated with its use.

How to use a drone while traveling in Tanzania #

While drones are now commonly used for photography and videography, they can also be an invaluable tool for travelers in Tanzania.

For example, drones can be used to get a bird’s eye view of the terrain, helping to plan the best route for your journey.

They can also be used to spot wildlife and track their movements, ensuring that you don’t miss any key sightings. In addition, drones can be used to monitor weather conditions, giving you early warning of any dangerous storms or flash floods.

With a drone by your side, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in Tanzania.

When you register your drone, it will fall under certain categories.

Drone classes in Tanzania #

Class 1 = less than 5kg

Class 2 = between 5kg and 25kg

Class 3 = 25g and higher

If your drone is only for leisure and sport, it falls under Category 1.

Category 2 is for private use that doesn’t include sports.

If it’s for business purposes, it’s a Category 3, which requires a different set of permits.

Are there any places you cannot fly a drone in Tanzania? #

Drones are a relatively new technology, and the laws governing their use are still being developed. In Tanzania, drones can be used for both commercial and personal purposes.

However, there are some restrictions on where they can be flown and under what conditions:

• Drones are not allowed to fly within 2 miles of a domestic airport or within 3 miles of an international one.
• Drones must not be flown above 400 feet or at night. These restrictions are designed to protect both the drone operator and the general public.
• Anyone who wants to use a drone in Tanzania must first obtain a permit from the Civil Aviation Authority. Failure to do so could result in a fine or even imprisonment.
• As a foreigner, you must also have permission from your home country to use a drone in Tanzania. So bring your drone certificate or license from your native country with you.

While Tanzania boasts some of the most stunning national parks in Africa, there are currently no drones allowed in any of them. This is to protect the wildlife from disturbance and to maintain the peace and quiet of the wilderness areas.

If you’re hoping to get some incredible aerial shots of Tanzania’s landscapes, you’ll need to find a spot outside of the national parks.

What are the dangers of flying a drone in Tanzania #

Anyone caught flying a drone in Tanzania without a permit could face up to two years in prison or a fine of $3,000. That’s according to a law that went into effect in February 2019.

The regulation covers all drones weighing more than two kilograms (about 4.4 pounds). It requires operators to obtain a license from the Ministry of Works, Transport, and Communication and to follow strict guidelines, such as not flying near airports or over military sites. Violators could also have their drones confiscated.

The government says the law is necessary to protect national security and prevent accidents. However, some Tanzanians are worried that it will stifle creativity and innovation, especially in the film and photography industries.

There are also concerns that the law could be used to target journalists and other members of the media. In any case, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks before operating a drone in Tanzania.

What kind of drone should I bring to Tanzania? #

If you’re planning a trip to Tanzania and want to bring a drone with you, make sure that your drone is registered and that you have all the necessary permits.

Second, be aware of the local regulations regarding drones. In Tanzania, drones are regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority, and you will need to obtain a permit before flying your drone.

Consider the type of drone you will need for your trip. If you’re just looking to take pictures or videos of the landscape, a small, lightweight drone would be sufficient.

Our Verdict – 8.3/10 (Great)

However, if you’re interested in doing more advanced photography or videography, you might want to consider a more powerful drone. Whatever one you choose, remember the size restrictions – it must weigh less than 15.5 pounds.

Finally, make sure to pack your drone carefully to avoid any damage during transport. With these considerations in mind, you’ll be able to choose the perfect drone for your trip to Tanzania.

» MORE: Can You Bring a Drone on a Plane?

Tips for flying your drone safely in Tanzania #

Drones are not allowed in national parks or protected areas. This is to avoid disturbing wildlife or damaging the environment.

Out of respect for the privacy of others, don’t fly your drone over people or properties without permission. You need special permission to fly one over a crowd.

Always be aware of your surroundings and avoid flying near airports or any other airspace that could be restricted.

By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience when flying your drone in Tanzania.