What to be careful about in Tanzania?
While in Tanzania, you need to be careful about petty crimes like muggings, pick-pocketing, and theft, which are relatively common in the urban centers, especially in Dar es Salaam. Tanzania is very safe to visit; it is one of the safest countries in Africa, to be exact. Nonetheless, just as you would be cautious in any other country that is not your home, there are a couple of things to be careful about in Tanzania. It is important to take some precautions to ensure a safe Tanzania safari trip.
Overall safety in Tanzania is good, as mentioned earlier. Approximately 1 million tourists visit Tanzania yearly, and most of the trips have reported no instances whatsoever. Travelers ought to avoid walking alone in the city, and move at night even more so alone. Travelers are also recommended to stay in reputable lodgings in urban centers. Below are some of the things one ought to be careful about in Tanzania:
- Safety and Crime
Urban scams should be expected. Do not accept unsolicited rides or help carrying your luggage. You will be charged for the rendered services. Pickpocketing, bag snatching, or even phone grabbing is a common occurrence in urban areas. These criminals usually move on motorbikes, and it is a common occurrence in Dar es Salaam. The Mtwara region, which is near the border with Mozambique, receives militant threats every other time; be sure to stay clear of the area, or be cautious while in the area.
Don’t wear your valuables like very expensive jewelry, expensive watches, or money belts visibly, for they shall attract petty thugs. Only carry valuables you need for that particular day, leaving everything else in the safe box at your hotel, lodge, or camp of stay in Tanzania. This includes your passport and bank cards; only carry with you copies of your passport. Have a reasonable amount of cash with you for small purchases. Best to have your safari guide or host with you while out and about in urban centers.
- Health and Medical
One ought to be careful of their health in Tanzania. Malaria is endemic in Tanzania. Take prophylactic medication as prescribed by your doctor, use DEET-based insect repellent, and make sure your accommodation has mosquito nets. Be sure to visit your physician for the best advice regarding travel to Africa, and Tanzania in particular.
Water is another major health concern when in Tanzania. Tap water in Tanzania is not safe for drinking: drink only bottled water. You can also choose to purify your own water should you have the tools for the same. Brush your teeth with bottled water as well to safeguard from accidental swallows.
Proof of Yellow fever is required at immigration if you are coming from high-risk countries or transiting from them. It is also safe to take vaccinations for Hepatitis A, B, typhoid, and tetanus. You may want to consider taking up travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage.
- Local Laws and Cultural Etiquette
Tanzania is a conservative country and society. While travelers are given liberty to dress as they will on safari, it is only right that they are considerate of the country’s local norms and cultural etiquette. Dressing modestly, especially in public, is very important.
Public displays of affection should be kept to a minimum; it is almost unheard of to see local Tanzanians holding hands between a man and a woman. It can draw unnecessary attention. Same sex contact, like holding hands, is common because no romantic connotation is perceived from it; it is a sign of friendship.
You will see amazing scenes including the locals going about their business. Nevertheless, photographing people should only be done after seeking permission. The Maasai often expect a payment of the sort to take their pictures. Do not at any point photograph military installations, government buildings, or military personnel. When out on walks and meeting the locals, it is important to remember that a slight bow of the head is a sign of respect when greeting an elder.
- Wildlife Viewing Safety
For an unforgettable Africa wildlife safari, Tanzania tops the list of many. Tanzania is famous for the incredible wildlife and game viewing opportunities: all the big five animals, the great wildebeest migration, and so many other unique safari occurrences are in Tanzania. When on a safari, be sure to follow your guide’s instructions and guidelines. Stay inside the safari car during game drives, except in designated areas where you can get off, such as picnic sites.
Do not stand up in the car, hand out of the windows, sit on the roof, or feed animals. Don’t drive too close to animals if you are on self-drive. Back off if you notice the animals are disturbed. Never run while in the park; do not walk between a hippo and water. If camping (pitch-your-own tent), do not leave food in your tent, for the animals may come for it with or without you in the tent.
- Solo Female Travellers – Special Considerations
Tanzania is safe for solo female travelers. Regardless, certain precautions are good to have. Tanzania is predominantly a Muslim country and, as such, dressing modestly for females is paramount to reduce unwanted attention. Clothes covering shoulders and knees, and not tight, are good options. Whilst on walks in towns, female travelers may receive persistent but non-threatening attention from men ranging from marriage proposals to contact information requests. A firm and yet unemotional no thank you delivered without anger and yet clearly drawing no invitation is sufficient.
Do not walk alone in towns and cities; always have your guide with you, or a host. Focus East Africa Tours has had many solo female travelers over the years, and all of them have had nothing but beautiful memories: be sure to book a Tanzania safari tour with a reputable tour operator and be given a good guide solely for you.
- Zanzibar and Beach Safety
The beautiful Zanzibar island and its beaches are idyllic and perfect for relaxation. They do not come without risks as well, however. Travelers are advised to swim at beaches protected by the reef only. These include Nungwi and Kendwa, whose waters are calm and deep enough throughout the tide. The East coast islands of Paje and Jambiani have tides receding dramatically, which exposes razor-sharp coral reefs and sea urchins. Be sure to have a good pair of water shoes whilst here.
The sun in Zanzibar can be ferocious: please carry a good sunscreen with SPF 50 and above for your skin protection. Do not leave your valuables unattended on the beach. Plan to have a waterproof bag that you can carry with you even whilst swimming.
- Practical Financial Precautions – Money, ATMs and Currency
The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the country’s local currency. US dollars are widely accepted in Tanzania. Souvenir shops, coffee shops, safari operators and more widely accept US dollars. Note that US dollar bills from 2009 to date that are not torn, written on, or marked are the only ones accepted in Tanzania: any other could be rejected or attract a lower exchange rate.
You can carry a mix of cash and cards. There are several ATMs you can make use of. Be sure to use an ATM that is inside a bank or shopping center for safety reasons. Always shield your PIN while transacting at an ATM. ATMs are plentiful in the urban towns and cities.
Take time to notify your bank of your intended travel lest your card is blocked for suspicious activity; also, be mindful of your card limit per day and plan accordingly for your expenses as they arise. At the hotels and lodges/camps, cards are widely accepted.
Conclusively, Tanzania is a safe country that travelers need not fear. Simply prepare for it. Many of the risks that pose a threat to your stay can be mitigated with a number of common-sense habits. Carry only what you need per day, keep your valuables safe, book a Tanzania safari with a reputable tour operator, respect local customs, and always listen to your safari guide. Tanzanians are very kind people; you will experience this while on your Tanzania safari and stay. Book your Tanzania safari with us now.
