Is Tanzania a Safe Country to Visit?
Famously home to Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National Park, the tropical island of Zanzibar and ancient Maasai culture, Tanzania is an incredible destination for travellers. Where else can you climb one of the seven summits, spot incredible big game and unwind on a Pacific island afterwards?!
Over 3 million visitors a year journey to this vibrant East African country, many exploring Africa for the first time. It’s no wonder that one of the main questions we’re asked is, ‘is Tanzania safe?’.
Answering this requires thorough research and a good understanding of African culture to plan an adventure that is both epic and safe. Official travel advice is a vital first resource to investigate. Swatting up on the current economic, political and cultural climate of the destination you’re about to visit will ensure the adventure you’re planning is a good idea!
We’re here to enlighten you on what makes Tanzania such a magical place to experience, as well as factors to be aware of when visiting Africa for the first time.
Is Tanzania safe to visit? Let’s find out.
Quick Summary
Venturing to foreign cultures is super exciting, and delving into the unknown is what makes adventure travel so thrilling. How safe a destination is will always depend on where and when you visit. Here’s a quick summary of the following article.
1. Always check up-to-date official travel advice before booking a trip.
2. Consider prophylactic medication as Tanzania is a malarial country.
3. Respect cultural norms as Tanzania is a conservative country.
4. Be travel aware and follow our savvy advice for staying safe whilst travelling.
5. Prepare properly if you plan on climbing Kilimanjaro.
6. Respect local wildlife to avoid putting yourself in danger.
7. Note that same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Tanzania.
8. Book with a reputable travel company like Kandoo to ensure a safe experience from start to finish.
It’s normal to feel apprehensive about visiting a new place so remember to be smart, do your research and follow official advice. Let us fill in the gaps and give a glimpse into how this fascinating country works.
Political Stability in Tanzania
Since its independence from British rule in 1961, Tanzania has been a politically stable and peaceful country. Transfers of leadership have been typically cordial and there is no history of civil war, making it one of the most stable countries in East Africa.
After winning the election to remain in office with allegedly 98% of the votes, protests took place throughout the country. During this period, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FDCO) advised against all but necessary travel to Tanzania.
After this unusually turbulent period, the political uncertainty surrounding the recent presidential elections has abated and travel restrictions lifted.
Tanzania is an established visitor destination and world-famous for its legendary wildlife and stunning natural landscapes. National parks, the areas around Kilimanjaro, and other popular hotspots are generally well protected as they are vital to the tourism industry in Tanzania.
Awareness of the political stability of a destination is always a good idea when visiting somewhere new. Remember to check your government travel advice for the latest updates, news and restrictions before booking your adventure.
Health and Medical Preparation
Travelling to Africa for the first time is an eye-opening experience! The sights, sounds and smells are totally unique and it’s easy to immerse yourself in this colourful culture.
To ensure your experience is healthy and safe, remember to take a few precautions before getting stuck in.
✔️ Consult your doctor or medical professional before travelling to Tanzania. You may need certain vaccinations to enter the country and a health certificate confirming your immunisation.
✔️ Malaria is a disease carried by certain mosquitoes which are found in Tanzania. Consider taking antimalarial medication with you and prepare well in advance, as some prophylactics need administering before departure to build immunity. Insect repellent spray is also a must.
✔️ Drinking water from taps is not safe so buy bottled water, or to avoid plastic waste, invest in a Life Straw water bottle with built-in water filter.
✔️ Take antibacterial hand sanitiser for when hand washing facilities aren’t available.
✔️ Use high-protection SPF sunscreen to protect you from the hot sun. A sunhat with a wide brim is also a good idea.
✔️ Take sensible precautions with food and drink in Tanzania. Ensure food is piping hot and meat is fully cooked. Drink from sealed containers and avoid salad and fruit that might have been washed in unsafe water. Avoid ice in drinks unless made from bottled water.
✔️ Make sure you have prescriptions for any medication you take to Tanzania and check that its use is not prohibited. British citizens can find more information about travelling with medication here.
✔️ Arrange appropriate travel insurance that will cover illness abroad and any activities you plan to try.
If you feel unwell whilst travelling, or when you get home, seek medical attention to identify and treat illnesses quickly.
Personal Security
We often get asked, ‘is Tanzania safe for tourists?’. Looking out for yourself when travelling is mostly common sense, and the usual measures apply for trips to Tanzania. Trust your instincts and make sensible choices, just as you would at home.
Don’t travel to unfamiliar or unsavoury areas alone, avoid walking through cities at night, keep your personal possessions close and don’t flash your cash. All these are common practices for staying safe abroad.
A money belt will keep your passport, money and valuables hidden, or invest in a lockable bag. Stay vigilant but don’t forget to remain open to the possibilities offered by this enchanting country. Travelling with a guide or a group is an excellent way to understand the local area and its customs.
Practice respect when buying goods, talking to vendors or visiting attractions. Tanzania has a rich cultural heritage which is fascinating to explore, and local people love teaching you about their traditions. Share a few words of Swahili and a cup of chai and get to know the people who make Tanzania such a special place.
Transport and Road Safety
The roads and driving conditions in Tanzania are very different from those we see in the UK or US. Periodic heavy rain means tarmac roads are dotted with potholes and dirt roads, most commonly found in the national parks, become treacherous during the wet seasons. Driving standards are a lot more relaxed and fuel stations are sporadic.
For these reasons, we’d recommend avoiding renting cars. Hiring taxis, travelling with a tour operator or using public transportation makes getting around much easier.Local drivers are familiar with road conditions, service stops and diversions.
Police checkpoints are a regular occurrence and nothing to worry about. Officers may ask to check your passport and vehicle to assess potential risk. Although this might seem intimidating, a friendly ‘Jambo’, meaning hello, will endear even the grumpiest inspectors. They’re there for your protection.
Cultural and Legal Considerations
Tanzania has over 120 different ethnic groups and 100 languages are spoken, making it the most culturally diverse country in Africa. Swahili is the main language, and English is commonly used in trade, politics and education. Christianity and Islam are the majority religions in Tanzania and as such, it’s considered a conservative country.
Respecting cultural customs and traditions is key to integrating into any foreign culture and it’s no different in Tanzania.
- Avoid getting drunk or lewd in public
- Be polite to country officials and park authorities
- Dress modestly
- Try not to swear
- Learn a few words of Swahili
- Dispose of litter properly
All these measures will ensure you don’t cause offence whilst exploring Tanzania. Travelling with a guide or a group may involve cultural experiences such as visiting a Maasai village, learning local crafts or volunteering at a community project. Take cues from those you encounter, and you’ll be delighted by the warmth and hospitality the fascinating people of Tanzania display.
It’s worth noting that homosexuality is illegal in Tanzania and carries severe consequences. Public displays of affection should be avoided so as not to risk prosecution.
Wildlife and Safari Safety
One of the top draws for visitors to Tanzania is the awesome wildlife. In addition to the annual Great Migration in Tanzania that sees millions of mammals cross the Serengeti and Maasai Mara, rare black rhino can be found in the wild, and there are over 1,100 species of birds. A wildlife safari is an unmissable experience in Tanzania and there are plenty of places to find the BIG 5.
Tracking elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards and rhino on a Tanzanian safari takes you deep into the savannah to find these big game, plus so many more animals besides, is super exciting. When spotting large wildlife, it’s particularly important to follow safety guidelines for the protection of yourself, and the animals.
Maintain a safe distance, respect the natural habitat, avoid contact or feeding the animals and listen to the advice of your travel guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable Tanzania safari.
Climbing Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Tanzania and Africa. At a mighty 5,895m high, summiting this iconic peak takes you to the top of the continent, the roof of Africa. With plenty of training and mental fortitude, climbing Kilimanjaro is totally achievable. The hike up Kilimanjaro is non-technical, and the biggest risk factor is the altitude.
At higher altitudes on peaks such as Kilimanjaro, there is less oxygen in the air the further you ascend. This lack of oxygen can result in headaches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and fatigue. Altitude sickness or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can make it difficult to sleep, reduces appetite and causes shortness of breath.
If these symptoms do not abate or get worse, it’s vital to retreat to lower altitudes to recover. In severe cases, symptoms can get far worse and may even be fatal if not treated quickly.
Experienced mountain guides will carry out daily health checks when trekking, monitor your condition whilst walking, and ensure you are safe throughout your journey. Climbing Kilimanjaro with a reliable and responsible travel company will guarantee there are stringent safety management systems in place for all eventualities.
Your safety whilst trekking is more important than summiting. Awareness of what to expect, the possible side effects of altitude sickness, proper training and a good level of fitness are integral to a successful climb.
Read more about staying safe on Kilimanjaro.
Official Travel Advice
Below are links to official travel advice organisations for UK and US citizens. These resources will help you answer that important question - is it safe to travel to Tanzania?
UK travel advice - Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
US travel advice – US Department of State
Travellers coming from other countries should check their government’s official advice for the most up-to-date information.
Top Tips for Safe Adventures in Tanzania
When considering, how safe is Tanzania, use our top tips below for the best possible experience.
- Keep travel documents with you at all times
A copy of your passport, travel insurance, visa, vaccination certificates and emergency contact details are always handy when travelling anywhere. You could also leave copies at home with loved ones as a back-up.
- Book with a reputable travel company
To ensure a safe experience from the moment you book through to the minute you land back
home, find a tour operator with an excellent reputation. Check out online reviews, on platforms like Trustpilot, ask for recommendations from your network and look out for accreditation that ensures safety and accountability.
- Respect culture and customs
Tanzania is a conservative country that relies on tourism. Remember to respect their values and customs by behaving appropriately, showing courtesy and cherishing the natural landscapes.
- Learn the language
Learning some local words or phrases will get you far in most destinations you visit. Local people love hearing foreigners greet them in their own language and being able to thank someone in their native tongue will delight all those you meet.
Why Booking Adventures with Kandoo is a Safe Bet
So, is Tanzania a safe country to visit?
Tanzania is a warm and welcoming place, and a truly unique country to visit. Whether climbing to the roof of Africa, or nearby Mera Peak, exploring the coast or national parks, intrepid travellers LOVE the adventures they find here.
While independent travel is totally achievable, navigating the social and cultural norms takes patience and awareness. That’s why many first-time travellers choose a reputable travel company such as Kandoo Adventures to facilitate initial Tanzania trips.
Our experienced, local travel guides take you on adventures jam-packed with incredible sights, sounds and journeys in the safety of small groups with like-minded people. Choosing a tour operator to guide you through Tanzania maximises your time and takes the stress out of planning every element of your itinerary.
We consider your enjoyment, the local communities we visit and the sustainability of our adventures as our highest priorities. Your safety is paramount for an unforgettable experience, and the reassurance group travel offers is key for visitors.
Get in touch with our friendly team at Kandoo HQ to discuss any concerns or worries you have about travelling to Tanzania. We can’t wait to introduce you to this incredible country and are confident your first trip here won't be your last!