Tanzania is the 6th safest country to visit in Africa according to the 2022 Global Peace Index. Therefore, the country is considered very safe for both locals and international travelers who have to take common-sense safety precautions while traveling from one place to another.
Tanzania is found in the Great Lakes region of the African continent in East Africa. It’s renowned for its high density of wildlife and being home to Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain. Important hominid fossils have also been found in Tanzania dating to the Pliocene period.
Tanzania is the 23rd largest country in Africa and ranks 31st largest in the world. The country borders Kenya, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia, Comoro Islands, and the Indian Ocean.
Due to its size, the climate varies from highlands, coast, and lowlands. The country mainly receives two main dry seasons and two wet seasons annually.
There are 22 national parks found in Tanzania, with conservation areas covering about 38% of the country’s land area. Tanzania boasts 20% of Africa’s warm-blooded mammal population.
Is Tanzania Safe?
Tanzania receives millions of tourists every year who come to explore different parts of the country. The country has been considered as one of the safest tourism destinations on earth. Nonetheless, every traveler must be cautious while traveling away from home and should take several safety measures to ensure their unregrettable journey.
There are limited medical facilities in Tanzania, and often times, medication is not available. However, common diseases can be treated at private clinics and government health facilities, but in case of any serious health issues, you might have to evacuate the country.
Most tourists come to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, which is the highest mountain in Africa. But at the same time, most individuals are affected by altitude sickness that can bring about serious conditions. Though the climb to Kilimanjaro is not strenuous, you need to be physically fit and in good health to rule out any complications during the climb. You can talk to your doctor to give you some health guidelines before you start climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.
HIV/AIDS is still widely spread in Tanzania. Travelers who would love to take part in sexual activities should ensure that they use protection or take medication afterward, as guided by their doctor, to avoid HIV/AIDS infections.
Tanzania experiences an equatorial climate; therefore, you are at a high risk of contracting tropical diseases. Ensure to get all vaccinations needed before you travel to the country and don’t also forget to carry some insect repellent.
During the rainy seasons, roads to some parts of the country can get flooded and in poor condition, making it hard to travel. The hiking and climbing trails also get muddy and slippery, making it difficult and dangerous to do mountain climbing. It’s advisable to visit the country during the drier months of June to August and December to February. During this time, the roads and hiking trails are not only in good condition but the vegetation is also not thick, making it easy to see wildlife.
It’s also important for all locals to check with the local security of the area before traveling, just to be sure of where you’re going. Sometimes strikes and demonstrations may occur, although it’s rare, but when it happens, always depart that place, avoid congested crowds, and do not take pictures during demonstrations.
Avoid some areas where terrorist attacks may occur, like the Tanzania-Mozambique border. Fortunately, it’s not in the path or close to tourism destinations of Tanzania. It’s also important for tourists to use registered taxis. Some unregistered taxis target foreign travelers who use taxis to rob hand luggage.
In big cities like Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, and others, petty theft, violent armed robbery, pickpocketing, carjacking, bag and phone snatching are common, just like in any other city in the world. Keep your valuables with the hotel and avoid moving alone, especially in dark places at night. If you’re going out at night, then ask your hotel manager or guide for directions and details of the place you want to go to.
Always keep car doors locked and windows rolled up while in busy places like Dar es Salaam. Do not also allow free rides or lifts from strangers at any time. In case of any accident, drive to the nearest police station to get help.
While in the national parks, keep up with your travel group, don’t wander from established routes in the bush, don’t get close to wildlife, and make sure you follow all the park rules and regulations.
