Is Tanzania Safe for Travelers in 2025? An Honest Safety Guide (From 7 Visits) - Xplrverse

The Reality of Tanzania Safety: What I’ve Learned After Multiple Visits

The first time I arrived at Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam back in 2017, I was clutching my bag tightly, overly suspicious of everyone who approached me. Fast forward to my seventh visit this past March, and I was confidently greeting taxi drivers in Swahili and navigating the bustling streets with ease. The transformation in my confidence levels speaks volumes about the actual safety situation in Tanzania versus the often exaggerated fears many travelers bring with them.

Tanzania is generally safe for travelers in 2025, provided you exercise the same common-sense precautions you would in any unfamiliar country. During my cumulative 8+ months spent exploring this East African gem, I’ve encountered far more kindness and hospitality than trouble. That said, certain areas require specific safety considerations, and understanding local customs goes a long way toward ensuring a smooth journey.

In this guide, I’ll share the unfiltered reality of traveling safely in Tanzania—including mistakes I’ve made, money-saving security tips, and practical advice based on firsthand experience rather than hypotheticals. Let’s dive into what you actually need to know before your Tanzanian adventure.

General Safety Overview: What’s Changed in 2025

Tanzania has made significant strides in tourism safety over recent years. The government has invested heavily in tourist police units in major destinations, established clearer regulations for tour operators, and improved infrastructure in key travel corridors. Here’s what you need to know about the current safety landscape:

Current Safety Rating and Statistics

According to the U.S. Department of State, Tanzania currently maintains a Level 2 travel advisory (Exercise Increased Caution), the same rating given to many popular European destinations. The Global Peace Index ranks Tanzania as the 7th safest country in Africa as of their latest report.

The most common safety concerns for tourists remain:

Petty theft (particularly in crowded urban areas)
Traffic accidents (road safety standards differ from Western countries)
Wildlife encounters (if proper safari guidelines aren’t followed)
Health concerns (malaria and other tropical diseases)

Violent crime specifically targeting tourists remains rare, with most incidents being opportunistic rather than planned. New for 2025, the Tanzanian Tourism Board has implemented a tourist emergency response system in major destinations like Zanzibar, Arusha, and Dar es Salaam.

Post-Pandemic Changes

Since the pandemic, several important safety changes have been implemented:

Enhanced health screening procedures remain at international entry points
Many accommodations maintain rigorous sanitation protocols
Digital payment options have expanded significantly, reducing the need to carry cash
The recent implementation of the Tanzania Electronic Travel Authorization system has improved border security

Insider Tip: The new e-visa process for Tanzania can be completed online, but allow at least 10 business days for processing. In 2025, the official fee is $50 for a single-entry tourist visa. Avoid third-party visa services charging premiums unless you’re truly in a rush—I paid an unnecessary $35 extra my first time!

Regional Safety Breakdown: Where to Exercise Extra Caution

Tanzania is diverse, with varying safety considerations depending on where you visit. Here’s a breakdown of safety by region:

Urban Centers: Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Moshi

Tanzania’s cities require the most vigilance, particularly Dar es Salaam. During my last visit, I noticed an increased police presence in tourist areas compared to previous years, but petty theft remains common.

In Dar es Salaam, exercise particular caution in:

Kariakoo Market (especially during crowded hours)
The ferry terminal to Zanzibar (keep valuables secured)
Certain areas of Kinondoni district at night

Arusha and Moshi are generally safer but still experience pickpocketing around bus stations and crowded markets. In 2025, both cities have implemented more street lighting and security cameras in main tourist areas.

My personal safety mishap: During my second visit, I left my phone visible on an outdoor café table in Dar es Salaam while reaching into my bag—it was snatched within seconds. Now I always keep valuables out of sight, even in seemingly relaxed settings.

Northern Safari Circuit: Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire

The northern safari parks are exceptionally safe from a crime perspective—your biggest concerns here are wildlife safety and vehicle reliability. The roads within the conservation areas deteriorated during the pandemic due to reduced maintenance but have seen significant improvements in 2024-2025.

Key safety considerations for safari areas:

Always follow guide instructions regarding wildlife distance
Never exit vehicles except at designated areas
Ensure your tour operator has proper licenses and safety equipment
Carry basic medical supplies for minor injuries

Money-Saving Safety Tip: When booking safaris, the cheapest operators often cut corners on vehicle maintenance. Instead of going with the absolute lowest price, look for mid-range operators with solid reviews. I recommend Tanzania Paradise Adventures for reliable vehicles with proper safety equipment—they’re typically just 10-15% more than the budget operators but significantly more reliable, saving you potential rescue costs.

Zanzibar and Coastal Areas

Zanzibar’s security situation has improved markedly in recent years. Stone Town was once known for occasional muggings, but increased tourism police patrols have made a significant difference. Beach areas are generally safe, though isolated beaches can still present risks, particularly at night.

In 2025, there’s been increased awareness about beach safety, with more beaches implementing warning flag systems for swimming conditions. Riptides remain a serious concern at certain beaches.

Safety precautions for Zanzibar:

Avoid isolated beaches after dark
In Stone Town, stick to well-lit areas at night
Be respectful of local conservative dress codes, especially during Ramadan
Use reef shoes when swimming to avoid sea urchins (a painful lesson I learned!)

Border Regions

The areas near Tanzania’s borders with Mozambique, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo generally experience fewer tourists and might have different security considerations. In 2025, the northeastern border with Kenya has seen improved security, but the western regions bordering Burundi and DRC still warrant extra precautions.

Border Region	Current Safety Status (2025)	Special Considerations
Tanzania-Kenya (North)	Generally safe	Check road conditions; some routes still experience occasional banditry
Tanzania-Uganda (Northwest)	Moderate caution	Improved in recent years; stick to main roads
Tanzania-Rwanda/Burundi (West)	Exercise caution	Political situations in neighboring countries can affect border security
Tanzania-DRC (West)	Higher caution advised	Research current conditions; some areas best avoided
Tanzania-Zambia (Southwest)	Generally safe	Remote areas have limited emergency services
Tanzania-Mozambique (South)	Moderate caution	Improved since 2023; monitor local news

Common Safety Concerns for Travelers

Petty Theft and Scams

Like most tourist destinations worldwide, Tanzania has its share of petty theft and scams. During my visits, I’ve noticed certain patterns:

Common Scams to Watch For

Unofficial guides: Individuals at popular tourist sites claiming to be “official guides” who demand payment later. Always arrange guides through your accommodation or registered tour companies.
Currency exchange tricks: Some money changers use sleight of hand to remove bills during counting. Count your money carefully, and preferably use official banks or forex bureaus.
Overcharging for taxi services: Always agree on a price before getting in a taxi or use ride-share apps like Uber (available in major cities) or the local equivalent, Ping.
“Friendship bracelets”: Particularly in Stone Town and busy areas of Dar es Salaam, someone may tie a bracelet to your wrist then demand payment.

My most embarrassing scam experience was falling for the “your taxi is waiting for you” trick outside a restaurant in Arusha. A man approached saying my pre-arranged taxi had arrived, but it wasn’t the driver I’d booked. I realized too late and ended up paying twice for the same journey.

Insider Tip: When using ATMs in Tanzania, choose those attached to major banks during daylight hours. Shield your PIN, check for any unusual card readers, and immediately put away your money. I prefer the ATMs inside Stanbic Bank and NMB branches, which typically have security guards present.

Transportation Safety

Road accidents remain one of the biggest risks to travelers in Tanzania. Road conditions have improved on major highways since my first visit, but rural roads can still be challenging, especially during the rainy seasons (March-May and November-December).

Road Safety Tips:

Avoid overnight bus travel when possible—daylight journeys are significantly safer
For intercity travel, consider reputable bus companies like Dar Express or Modern Coast
For short distances within cities, ride-sharing apps provide more accountability than hailing taxis
If renting a vehicle, choose a 4WD for rural areas and check tire condition carefully

Money-Saving Safety Tip: Instead of expensive airport taxis, use the “Ping” app (Tanzania’s local ride-share service). It’s typically 30-40% cheaper than airport taxis and provides driver information and trip tracking. Download it before arrival as airport WiFi can be unreliable.

Health and Medical Safety

Tanzania presents several health considerations that travelers should prepare for:

Essential Health Precautions:

Malaria prevention: Tanzania remains a malaria zone, and the disease is present year-round in most regions. Consult your doctor about appropriate prophylaxis before travel.
Water safety: Tap water is not safe for drinking. I use a LifeStraw bottle to save money on bottled water and reduce plastic waste.
Food safety: Street food in Tanzania can be delicious but choose busy stalls where food is cooked fresh in front of you.
Sun protection: The equatorial sun is intense, especially at altitude and on safari vehicles.

The medical infrastructure in Tanzania has improved since the pandemic, but comprehensive facilities are still limited to major cities. In 2025, Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Zanzibar City have the best medical facilities. For serious medical emergencies, medical evacuation insurance is essential.

Personal Experience: During my third visit, I developed a high fever in a remote area near Moshi. The small local clinic could only provide basic care, and I had to be transported to Arusha for proper treatment (which turned out to be typhoid). Now I always travel with a comprehensive medical kit including antibiotics prescribed by my doctor, and I’ve registered with the STEP program for emergency assistance.

Recommended Travel Insurance Options

Based on my experience, these insurance providers offer good coverage for Tanzania:

World Nomads – Good for adventure activities including safari and hiking
SafetyWing – More affordable for longer stays
International SOS – Premium option with extensive evacuation coverage

Cultural Awareness and Respecting Local Customs

Understanding and respecting Tanzanian customs isn’t just about being a considerate traveler—it significantly impacts your safety by helping you avoid unnecessary conflicts or misunderstandings.

Key Cultural Considerations

Tanzania is predominantly a conservative country with a mix of Christian, Muslim, and traditional beliefs. Here are essential cultural awareness points:

Dress Code

Modest dress is appreciated throughout Tanzania, but especially in:

Zanzibar and coastal areas with larger Muslim populations
Rural villages away from tourist centers
Religious sites and government buildings

For women, covering shoulders and knees is advisable in most public settings. On my second visit, I made the mistake of wearing shorts in Stone Town and received uncomfortable stares and comments. Beaches and resort areas are more relaxed, but still more conservative than many Western beach destinations.

Photography Etiquette

Always ask before photographing people, especially in rural areas and markets. Some Tanzanians hold traditional beliefs about photography capturing the spirit. The Maasai often expect a small payment for photographs (typically 5,000-10,000 TZS in 2025).

Essential Swahili Phrases for Safety

Learning a few key phrases shows respect and can help in challenging situations:

“Tafadhali nisaidie” (tah-fah-DAH-lee nee-sah-EE-dee) – Please help me
“Pole” (POH-leh) – Sorry (useful for accidental cultural missteps)
“Hapana asante” (hah-PAH-nah ah-SAN-teh) – No thank you (for declining services firmly but politely)

One of my most embarrassing moments was when I unknowingly entered a mosque in Zanzibar wearing inappropriate clothing. A gentle but firm “Pole sana” (very sorry) helped defuse the situation, but I should have researched proper etiquette beforehand.

Safety for Female Travelers

As a woman who has traveled solo in Tanzania multiple times, I’ve found the country manageable but requiring specific awareness:

Considerations for Women Travelers:

Dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention (long, loose clothing works well and protects from sun)
Be firm but polite in declining unwanted advances
Consider wearing a wedding ring (even if unmarried) to deter persistent attention
In shared transportation, sit next to other women when possible
Use women drivers through ride-sharing apps when available (both Uber and Ping allow you to see driver gender)

I’ve generally found that a confident demeanor and respecting local customs goes a long way toward ensuring comfortable interactions. The harassment level is typically lower than in some North African countries but still present, particularly in urban areas.

Money-Saving Insider Tip: For solo female travelers concerned about safety, consider booking accommodations through Booking.com with their “Women-Friendly Solo Traveler” filter. While not Tanzania-specific, it highlights properties with strong safety records for solo women. In budget category, I’ve found Tanzanite Executive Suites in Dar es Salaam and Arusha Backpackers to be particularly attentive to solo female travelers’ safety concerns.

Wildlife Safety in Tanzania

Tanzania’s magnificent wildlife is a major draw, but it also presents unique safety considerations that many first-time visitors underestimate. Having experienced several close encounters (including an elephant that nearly overturned our vehicle in Tarangire), I can’t emphasize enough the importance of proper wildlife safety.

Safari Safety Essentials

The majority of wildlife incidents occur when tourists or guides don’t follow proper protocols:

Key Safari Safety Rules:

Never exit the vehicle outside designated areas, even if it seems safe
Maintain silence around predators and larger mammals
Keep all body parts inside the vehicle
Follow your guide’s instructions without exception
Maintain the recommended distance from animals (generally 25 meters minimum)

One mistake I observed on my last safari: tourists insisting guides get dangerously close to a mother cheetah with cubs for better photos. This puts both humans and animals at risk. Remember that no photo is worth endangering yourself or wildlife.

Camping and Lodge Safety in Wildlife Areas

If staying within or near national parks, additional precautions apply:

Never leave food in tents or unsecured areas
Use escort services provided by camps when walking after dark
Keep tent zippers fully closed
Use designated pathways only
Keep noise levels low, especially at night

Personal Experience: During my stay at a tented camp in the Serengeti, I woke to the distinctive sound of heavy breathing outside my tent. Following the safety briefing instructions, I remained completely still and quiet rather than investigating. In the morning, huge hyena tracks surrounded the tent. The guide explained that making noise or shining lights might have triggered the animal’s predatory instincts.

Marine Wildlife Safety

Tanzania’s coastal areas and islands offer exceptional marine experiences, but ocean safety is equally important:

Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral ecosystems
Never touch or chase marine life, including dolphins and turtles
Be cautious of strong currents, particularly on Zanzibar’s east coast
When snorkeling or diving, maintain awareness of boat traffic
Watch for sea urchins in shallow reef areas (wear water shoes)

A painful lesson I learned while snorkeling near Mnemba Atoll was stepping on a sea urchin—the spines required medical removal and ruined three days of my trip. Now I always pack water shoes, even for seemingly sandy beaches.

Money, Documents, and Practical Safety Tips

Financial Safety

Managing money safely is crucial in Tanzania, where cash is still king in many situations:

Currency and Payment Tips:

Carry a mix of US dollars (post-2009 bills in excellent condition) and Tanzanian Shillings
Keep small denominations handy for daily purchases
Use a money belt or hidden pouch for larger sums
Inform your bank about travel plans to prevent card freezes
Take photos of important documents and cards (store in secure cloud storage)

As of 2025, mobile payment systems like M-Pesa are increasingly common in urban areas and tourist zones. Setting up M-Pesa on a local SIM can reduce the need to carry cash, especially for longer stays.

Money-Saving Insider Tip: Instead of exchanging money at the airport (worst rates) or using ATMs frequently (high fees), bring US dollars and exchange at UBA Bank branches in major cities. They consistently offer rates 3-5% better than street changers without the security risks, and don’t charge commission fees like many forex bureaus.

Document Security

Protecting your identification documents is essential:

Keep passport in hotel safe when possible, carrying only a photocopy
Register with your embassy’s traveler program if available
Have multiple copies of important documents (both digital and physical)
Record embassy contact information and insurance details

Tanzania law requires foreigners to carry identification. I’ve found that most police accept a high-quality color photocopy of your passport with visa page, allowing you to keep the original secure.

Digital Security

In 2025, digital security is increasingly important for travelers:

Use a VPN when connecting to public WiFi networks
Enable two-factor authentication for important accounts
Be cautious when using public charging stations (bring your own power bank)
Consider a temporary travel email for bookings and confirmations

I made the mistake of using unsecured WiFi at a café in Dar es Salaam during my second visit and had my social media account compromised. Now I always use a VPN like ExpressVPN or NordVPN when connecting to public networks.

Emergency Contacts and Resources

Save these important contacts before traveling to Tanzania:

Service	Contact Number	Notes
Emergency Police	112	General emergency number
Tourist Police (Dar es Salaam)	+255 22 2111747	Specialized unit for tourist assistance
Tourist Police (Arusha)	+255 27 2050607	Northern circuit assistance
Tourist Police (Zanzibar)	+255 24 2233290	Island assistance
TANAPA (Tanzania National Parks)	+255 27 2503471	For issues within national parks
Flying Doctors Service	+255 27 2508777	Medical evacuation service

I recommend storing these numbers in your phone and also keeping a physical copy in your wallet or daypack.

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Safety Action Plan for Tanzania

After seven visits to Tanzania and countless conversations with fellow travelers and locals, I’ve distilled the essentials of staying safe in this beautiful country into a practical action plan. Tanzania offers extraordinary experiences that far outweigh the risks when you’re properly prepared.

Your 5-Step Tanzania Safety Action Plan

Pre-Trip Preparation
- Complete the new e-visa application at least 10 days before travel
- Consult a travel doctor for appropriate vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis
- Purchase comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage
- Register with your embassy’s traveler program
- Download offline maps, translation apps, and M-Pesa/banking apps
Arrival Safety
- Use official transportation from airports (pre-book when possible)
- Exchange only small amounts at airports, seeking better rates in the city
- Purchase a local SIM card for reliable communications
- Share your accommodation details with a trusted contact
Daily Safety Habits
- Carry a photocopy of your passport rather than the original
- Use a money belt for larger sums and a decoy wallet for daily expenses
- Dress respectfully for local cultural norms
- Stay hydrated but only drink treated or bottled water
- Apply high-SPF sunscreen and insect repellent daily
Activity-Specific Safety
- Verify credentials for all tour operators and guides
- Follow wildlife viewing protocols without exception
- Research area-specific risks before visiting new regions
- Check tide and current information before swimming in ocean areas
Emergency Preparedness
- Carry a basic first aid kit with personal medications
- Save emergency contacts in your phone and on paper
- Know the location of the nearest medical facilities
- Keep digital and physical copies of insurance details
- Maintain a small emergency cash reserve in both USD and TZS

Remember that Tanzania is a country where relationships matter. Taking time to greet people properly with “Jambo” or “Habari”, learning basic Swahili phrases, and approaching situations with patience and respect will not only enrich your experience but significantly contribute to your safety.

The warm spirit of “Karibu Tanzania” (Welcome to Tanzania) is genuine. While maintaining appropriate caution, allow yourself to experience the incredible hospitality and natural beauty that has drawn me back seven times and counting.

Frequently Asked Questions About Safety in Tanzania

Is Tanzania safe for solo female travelers?

Tanzania is generally manageable for solo female travelers who exercise appropriate caution. Urban areas require more vigilance than safari regions or established tourist zones. Dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees in most areas), be firm but polite in declining unwanted attention, and consider joining tours for certain activities rather than exploring completely alone. I’ve traveled solo in Tanzania multiple times and found that confidence, cultural respect, and basic safety precautions make for a rewarding experience.

Do I need special vaccinations for Tanzania?

Yes, several vaccinations are recommended or required. As of 2025, yellow fever vaccination is mandatory if arriving from or transiting through countries with yellow fever transmission. Other recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, tetanus-diphtheria, and meningitis. Malaria prophylaxis is strongly advised for all regions of Tanzania. Consult with a travel medicine specialist at least 6-8 weeks before your trip for the most current recommendations.

Is it safe to drink tap water in Tanzania?

No, tap water is not safe to drink anywhere in Tanzania. Stick to bottled water with sealed caps, use water purification tablets, or bring a reliable water filter. Ice in established restaurants and hotels is generally made from purified water, but when in doubt, skip it. I’ve used the LifeStraw water bottle throughout my travels and it’s both saved money and reduced plastic waste.

How safe is Zanzibar compared to mainland Tanzania?

Zanzibar generally experiences lower crime rates than urban areas of mainland Tanzania, but still requires basic precautions. Stone Town has more reported incidents of petty theft than beach areas. The main safety considerations unique to Zanzibar include strong ocean currents on some beaches, conservative cultural expectations (more modest dress is expected than on the mainland), and the presence of sea urchins and sharp coral in some swimming areas. Overall, Zanzibar feels noticeably safer than Dar es Salaam but requires similar caution to tourist areas in Arusha.

What’s the biggest safety mistake tourists make in Tanzania?

The most common serious safety mistake is underestimating wildlife dangers during safaris. This includes exiting vehicles in unpermitted areas, approaching animals too closely for photos, making loud noises around predators, or ignoring guide instructions. Other frequent mistakes include carrying valuables openly in urban areas, drinking tap water, and failing to secure proper travel insurance that covers medical evacuation. My personal observation is that travelers who approach Tanzania with overconfidence rather than respectful caution tend to experience the most problems.

Is Tanzania safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?

This requires careful consideration. Same-sex sexual activity remains illegal in Tanzania, with potential penalties including imprisonment. LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise significant discretion, as public displays of affection between same-sex couples can lead to harassment or worse. In practice, foreign tourists staying in international hotels and resort areas typically experience few issues if they’re discreet, but the legal and social environment remains hostile. Many LGBTQ+ travelers visit successfully by presenting as friends or travel companions in public spaces.

How does the safety situation compare between Tanzania and neighboring Kenya?

Tanzania and Kenya have somewhat similar safety profiles, with both countries experiencing occasional petty crime in urban areas but generally safe tourist circuits. Tanzania typically sees fewer terrorist incidents than Kenya but has slightly higher rates of opportunistic theft in some urban zones. Road safety is marginally better in Kenya, while Tanzania offers slightly better value for comparable services. Both countries require similar precautions regarding wildlife, health considerations, and cultural awareness.

What should I do if I experience a theft in Tanzania?

If you experience theft, first ensure your personal safety by moving to a secure location. Report the incident to the nearest police station or tourist police office, as a police report is essential for insurance claims. Contact your embassy or consulate if you’ve lost passport or identification documents. For credit cards or phone theft, immediately contact your bank or mobile provider to freeze accounts. While recovery of stolen items is uncommon, having proper documentation will facilitate replacing documents and processing insurance claims.