How Does Electricity & Plugs Work in Tanzania?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Africa & Oceania
1The Quick Answer
Tanzania uses Type G (British 3-pin) sockets at 230V/50Hz, and power cuts are common — a power bank is essential for safaris.
2What You Need to Know
The standard socket type is the British Type G (three large rectangular pins), the same as Kenya and the UK. Some older buildings also have Type D (large round 3-pin Indian style) outlets. The voltage is 230V/50Hz, compatible with all modern European and Australian appliances without an adapter; US/Canadian devices (110V) need a voltage converter unless they are dual-voltage. Power outages (load shedding) are frequent outside the major cities, and remote lodges and camps rely on solar panels and diesel generators — charge all devices during generator hours which are typically limited to evenings. A high-capacity power bank is essential for keeping camera batteries and phones charged on multi-day safaris.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Bring a Type G (UK) plug adapter if your devices use EU, US, or any other plug type — these are the most common sockets throughout Tanzania.
- 2Charge all camera batteries, phones, and power banks during the evening generator hours at your lodge — morning drives depart before sunrise with no charging opportunity.
- 3A 20,000mAh or larger power bank is a worthwhile investment for multi-day Kilimanjaro treks or remote fly-camps with no electricity.
Important Warning
Do not rely on USB charging in safari vehicles — voltage from vehicle sockets can be inconsistent and may damage sensitive electronics; use a power bank instead.
How does this compare?
Electricity & Plugs rules in nearby and similar countries:
South Africa uses Type M (large 3-pin round) plugs at 230V/50Hz — unique to South Africa and hard to find elsewhere; buy an adapter at the airport on arrival.
New Zealand uses Type I plugs (three flat angled pins, same as Australia) at 230V/50Hz — UK and US visitors need an adapter.
The Maldives uses 230V/50Hz — socket types are primarily Type D (Indian 3-pin) and Type G (British 3-pin), so bring an adapter.
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