Tanzania Travel Advisory, Requirements Safety & Security

Major governments maintain a Level 3 (Reconsider Travel) or advisory to exercise a high degree of caution for Tanzania due to violent crime, regional terrorism risks, and past political unrest. Most users on Reddit agree that standard tourist routes like national parks and Kilimanjaro are operating normally, but specific regional and health precautions remain active.

Safety and Regional Risks

  • Border Areas: Avoid travel within 20km to 30km of the Mozambique border in the Mtwara region due to extremist attacks and cross-border tension.
  • Crime: Violent crime, muggings, and armed robberies happen in urban centers like Dar es Salaam and Arusha.
  • Local Laws: Avoid public displays of affection for same-sex couples, as LGBTQ+ individuals face heightened targeting and legal risks. Do not share graphic or politically sensitive media online.

Health and Entry Requirements

  • Screening: Health screenings and temperature checks are mandatory upon arrival, with extra surveillance forms required for travelers arriving from Uganda or the Democratic Republic of Congo.
  • Visas: Secure an e-visa ahead of time via official portals or confirm single-entry visa availability at main ports of entry.
  • Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is vital, and travel to Zanzibar specifically requires mandatory local insurance through the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation.

If you decide to travel to Tanzania:

  • See the U.S. Embassy’s web page regarding COVID-19.
  • Visit the CDC’s webpage on Travel and COVID-19.
  • Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa and keep original documents in a secure location.
  • Be aware of your surroundings.
  • Do not leave your food or drink unattended.
  • Stay alert in all locations, especially those frequented by Westerners.
  • Avoid public displays of affection particularly between same-sex couples.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter
  • Review the Crime and Safety Report for Tanzania.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

Reconsider Travel To:

  • Mtwara Region in southern Tanzania due to the threat of terrorism.

Country Summary: Violent crime, such as assault, sexual assault, robberies, mugging, and carjacking, is common. Local police may lack the resources to respond effectively to serious crime.

Terrorist groups could attack in Tanzania with little or no warning, targeting embassies, police stations, mosques, and other places frequented by Westerners. Please see the additional information below regarding the increased threat of terrorism in Mtwara Region.

Members of the LGBTI community have been arrested, targeted, harassed, and/or charged with unrelated offenses. Individuals detained under suspicion of same-sex sexual conduct could be subject to forced anal examinations. (Tanzania Travel Advisory Tanzania Travel Information Covid-19)

Read the country information page.