The Filmmaker's Guide to Tanzania: Permits, Locations, and Drone Laws for Epic Shots

You have your camera ready, your drone is charged and you dream of filming lions on the Serengeti or getting a bird's-eye view of Mount Kilimanjaro. It would be the perfect shot for your documentary, your brand, or your YouTube channel.

But here is the truth: if you try to fly that drone in Tanzania without the right papers, officials will take it from you. You could face a large fine and your entire trip could be ruined.

Tanzania has very strict rules about filming and drones. They are in place to protect the animals and keep the parks peaceful for everyone. It might seem complicated, but with the correct information and help, you can film legally and get the amazing footage you came for.

Serengeti N

This guide explains everything in simple steps: the permits you need, the costs, and how to make sure your filming adventure is a success, not a mistake. The Golden Rule: Personal vs. Professional Filming

First, understand where you stand. The rules differ greatly based on your goal.

Personal/Amateur Filming (No Special Permit Needed): If you are a tourist using your smartphone, a small GoPro, or a handheld camera for personal memories and social media, you generally do not need a special filming permit. Enjoy your safari and snap away!

Professional Filming (Permits REQUIRED): If you are a journalist, filmmaker, content creator for a brand, or using large equipment (like tripods, sound gear, or multiple cameras), you are considered "professional." This also includes anyone using a drone, regardless of purpose. For this, you must obtain permits.

Shots at Kili

The 4 Keys to the Kingdom: Your Required Permits

To film professionally, especially with a drone you need approval from four different Tanzanian authorities. Think of them as four keys needed to unlock your project.

Tanzania Film Board (TFB) Permit: The Master Key. This is your official permission to film in the country. You must submit an application with a synopsis, crew list, dates, the names of any Tanzanians you plan to interview, and locations. Cost: $1,000 (processed in 30-90 days) or $3,000 (expedited in 7 days). To obtain a permit from the Film Board, download it here Important extra details:

1. Your crew needs Business Visas, not Tourist Visas. A Business Visa lets you stay for 3 months and requires an invitation letter from a registered Tanzanian company (like Travel Wise Safari).

2. You must take your application form to a Tanzanian Embassy in your home country to get it stamped before you send it to the Tanzania Film Board.

3. Cost: $1,000 if you apply 30-90 days, or $3,000 for a faster 7-day process.

4. The permit is valid for 3 months. If you need more time, you will need to reapply.

5. When your film is finished, you must give a free copy to the Tanzania Film Board.

Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) Permit: The Sky Key. This allows you to import and operate a drone in Tanzanian airspace. You apply online via their portal (drones@tcaa.go.tz). Cost: Varies by drone weight ($100-$300 registration, plus daily/monthly permit fees).

Ministry of Defense Permit: The Security Key. Due to national security, you must write to the Ministry for clearance. There’s no fee, but they will assign a military officer to accompany your crew during all drone operations. You cover their costs (approx. $100/day allowance, plus meals and accommodation).

Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) Permit: The Wilderness Key. This final permit allows filming inside parks like the Serengeti or Kilimanjaro. You must submit all three permits above to get it. Cost: $250-$300 per filming day, per park.