Is Tanzania Safe for Tourists?

Yes—Tanzania is generally safe for tourists when you follow basic travel precautions and book with a reputable tour operator. The country’s tourism infrastructure is well-developed, and national parks are secure, with trained guides and strict park regulations.

Most travelers enjoy trouble-free holidays, whether on safari, climbing Kilimanjaro, or relaxing on Zanzibar’s beaches.

🔒 What Are the Safety Risks in Tanzania?

Like any travel destination, Tanzania has its risks, but most are avoidable. Here’s what you need to be aware of:

1. Petty Crime in Cities

In areas like Arusha, Dar es Salaam, or Stone Town, pickpocketing or bag-snatching can occasionally occur—especially in crowded markets or at bus stations.

Tip: Keep valuables secure, avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics, don’t walk alone at night, and use your hotel’s safe for important items like passports and extra cash.

2. Road Travel

Road conditions in remote areas can be poor, with unpaved or pothole-ridden roads, especially during the rainy season. Traffic laws are not always strictly followed, and public transport is not recommended for tourists.

That’s why most travelers choose experienced tour operators like Kale Voyage, who use licensed drivers, 4×4 safari vehicles, and maintain strict safety protocols on every trip.

3. Health Concerns

Malaria Risk
Tanzania is a malaria zone, especially in coastal and lowland areas. To stay safe:
- Use mosquito repellents containing DEET.
- Sleep under insecticide-treated nets, which are provided in most lodges and camps.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants in the evenings.
- Consult your doctor about antimalarial medication before traveling.
Water Safety
It’s recommended not to drink tap water in Tanzania. Stick to bottled water, or use filtered or boiled water for drinking and brushing teeth. Most safari camps and hotels provide clean drinking water for guests.
Vaccinations
Required and recommended vaccinations include:
- Yellow Fever (mandatory if arriving from a Yellow Fever endemic country)
- Hepatitis A and B
- Typhoid
- Tetanus
- COVID-19 (depending on your home country’s requirements)
Medical Insurance
Always travel with comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation. At Kale Voyage, we include Flying Doctors emergency air evacuation to ensure peace of mind on remote safaris.

🦓 Is It Safe to Go on Safari in Tanzania?

Absolutely! Tanzania’s national parks—like the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara—are among the safest places for wildlife experiences in Africa.

All safaris are guided by professional driver-guides who are trained in both animal behavior and safety protocols. Rangers in the parks enforce strict rules to ensure your safety and conservation of wildlife.

Our Kale Voyage safari vehicles are:

GPS-equipped
Stocked with first-aid kits, fire extinguishers, and extra fuel
Fitted with radios for real-time communication
Operated by trained, multilingual guides with emergency training

🌴 Is Zanzibar Safe for Tourists?

Yes, Zanzibar is peaceful and safe for tourists. It’s a favorite destination for beach holidays, historical tours in Stone Town, and snorkeling or diving adventures.

Just keep these tips in mind:

Dress modestly when walking through local villages, especially away from the beach.
Avoid isolated beaches or walking alone at night.
Be cautious with valuables in public markets.

Locals are very welcoming and accustomed to tourists, and crime rates are low in tourist areas.

🧭 Tips for Staying Safe in Tanzania

✅ Book through trusted companies
Avoid unknown street vendors or unregistered guides. Always confirm your bookings through licensed operators like Kale Voyage, with a traceable online presence and physical office.

✅ Use licensed guides
Our guides are not only certified by Tanzania’s Tourism Board but also trained in first-aid, customer care, and emergency response. They know every corner of the parks and are skilled in safe animal viewing.

✅ Stay updated on travel advisories
Before you travel, check your home country’s foreign travel advisory for Tanzania. Register with your embassy if required, especially for long stays or during political seasons.

✅ Keep emergency contacts handy
We provide clients with:

24/7 customer support numbers
Local emergency services contact
A copy of your travel itinerary and contact for each lodge

✅ Respect local laws and customs
Tanzanians value respect, humility, and cultural etiquette. A warm greeting (like “Jambo” or “Habari”) goes a long way. It’s also important not to take photos of people without asking for permission.

💼 Financial Safety and Booking Security

Booking online? We understand it can feel risky, especially for first-time travelers. Here’s how Kale Voyage keeps your investment safe:

Secure Payment Options: We accept credit cards, bank transfers, and secure payment gateways with transaction receipts.
Service Vouchers & Invoices: You’ll receive official documentation for every booking.
Licensed & Insured: Kale Voyage is a fully licensed tour operator registered in Tanzania.
Transparent Communication: From your first email to the end of your tour, we maintain open, honest, and prompt communication. You’ll never feel left in the dark.
Client Reviews: ⭐ “We felt safe and supported throughout our journey. The communication from Kale Voyage was excellent, and our guides were fantastic.”
—

👋 Final Thoughts: Should You Be Worried?

Not at all.

Tanzania is one of Africa’s safest safari destinations, especially when you travel with experienced operators. Whether you’re exploring the vast plains of Serengeti, learning Maasai traditions, or enjoying fresh seafood in Zanzibar, you’ll find the Tanzanian people to be some of the most hospitable and welcoming in the world.

Travel smart, stay informed, and choose a reputable partner like Kale Voyage—and you’re set for the adventure of a lifetime.

Is Tanzania Safe for Tourists?