Safety conditions can change. Before you book and again before you fly, read your own government's latest travel advice for Tanzania — for example the US State Department, the UK Foreign Office or your country's equivalent — and register your trip with your embassy if that service is offered.
Safety on safari
The national parks and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area are protected, regulated areas, and on safari you are with your guide whenever you leave the lodge. Our guides are trained in wildlife behaviour, first aid and safe driving, and we brief every guest on the rules:
- Stay inside the vehicle during game drives unless your guide says it is safe to get out.
- Keep arms and cameras inside the vehicle near big animals, and stay quiet and still.
- Never walk alone in unfenced camps after dark — ask staff to escort you to your tent.
- Do not leave food in your tent or room, and keep zips and doors closed.
- On walking safaris, follow the armed ranger and your guide exactly.
In towns and cities
Arusha, Moshi, Dar es Salaam and Stone Town are busy, friendly places. As in any city, petty theft such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching can happen in crowded areas. Simple habits help:
- Keep phones and cameras out of sight in the street, and carry only the cash you need.
- Use taxis arranged by your hotel or by us, rather than hailing cars in the street at night.
- Avoid walking alone after dark, especially in quiet areas and on beaches.
- Leave passports and valuables in the hotel safe; carry a copy.
- Politely decline street sellers and "guides" offering safaris or tours.
Health
- Malaria is present in most safari areas and on the coast. Ask a travel clinic about antimalarial tablets, use repellent and sleep under a net where one is provided.
- Vaccinations: routine vaccines, plus hepatitis A and typhoid are commonly advised. A yellow fever certificate is needed only on some routes — see travel requirements.
- Water: drink bottled or filtered water, which we provide on safari, and avoid ice of unknown origin.
- Sun: Tanzania is close to the equator — use high-factor sunscreen, a hat and plenty of water.
- Altitude: Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru and the Ngorongoro highlands are high; climb slowly and listen to your guide.
- Insurance: make sure it covers medical evacuation — see travel insurance.
Roads and driving
Roads between parks can be long, rough and dusty. Our guides know these routes well, and safari vehicles are built for them. Avoid self-driving at night anywhere in Tanzania, when livestock, cyclists and unlit vehicles make the roads dangerous.
Zanzibar and the coast
Zanzibar is relaxed and welcoming. Respect local customs, especially in Stone Town and villages: cover shoulders and knees away from the beach. Swim only where it is safe — tides on the east coast go out a long way and come back quickly — and use licensed operators for boat trips and diving.
Respect and the law
Ask before you photograph people, and never photograph the military, police, airports or government buildings. Same-sex relationships are illegal in Tanzania, and public displays of affection are frowned upon for everyone. Drug laws are strict. Read more in our guides to culture and travel advice.
