Tanzania Safe to Visit? Is It Worth The Risk

Tanzania, a country located in East Africa, has been a popular tourist destination for many years. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals, it’s no wonder that many travelers flock to this beautiful country. However, with any travel destination, there are always concerns about safety and security. In recent years, Tanzania has faced some challenges, including political unrest and terrorist attacks, which have led some travelers to question whether it’s safe to visit.

As a responsible traveler, it’s essential to be aware of the current situation in Tanzania and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. In this article, we’ll explore the current state of safety and security in Tanzania, highlighting the areas that are considered safe and those that are not. We’ll also provide tips and advice on how to stay safe while traveling in Tanzania, from avoiding certain areas to taking necessary precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Political Unrest and Terrorism

Tanzania has faced some political unrest in recent years, particularly in the wake of the 2015 general elections. While the situation has largely stabilized, there are still areas that are considered volatile and travelers should exercise caution when visiting these regions.

One of the main concerns is the presence of terrorist groups, such as al-Shabaab, which has been known to target tourist areas. In 2017, a terrorist attack on a popular tourist spot in Dar es Salaam left several people injured. While the attack was not fatal, it highlighted the risk of terrorism in Tanzania.

However, it’s worth noting that the Tanzanian government has taken steps to improve security and prevent further attacks. The country has increased its military presence in key areas, and there are now more police patrols on the streets. Additionally, many tourist areas have increased security measures, such as metal detectors and security cameras.

Areas to Avoid

While the overall situation in Tanzania is considered safe, there are some areas that travelers should avoid. These include: (See Also: Is Moscow Safe To Visit Now? Truth Revealed)

• Areas near the border with Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Rwanda, which are considered volatile and have a high risk of violence.
• Areas with a high crime rate, such as the city of Dar es Salaam, which has a reputation for pickpocketing and petty theft.
• Areas with a history of political unrest, such as the city of Zanzibar, which has seen protests and violence in the past.

Crime and Petty Theft

Crime and petty theft are a common problem in Tanzania, particularly in tourist areas. Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft of valuables are all common, and travelers should take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.

Some tips for avoiding crime and petty theft include:

• Keeping valuables secure and out of sight.
• Using a money belt or a secure bag to carry your belongings.
• Staying in well-lit and populated areas, particularly at night.
• Avoiding carrying large amounts of cash and using credit cards instead.

Health and Medical Care

Tanzania has a relatively low standard of living, and medical care is not always readily available. Travelers should take necessary precautions to stay healthy, including:

• Getting vaccinated against common diseases such as yellow fever, hepatitis, and typhoid.
• Taking malaria medication, as the disease is prevalent in Tanzania.
• Staying hydrated and avoiding dehydration.
• Wearing protective clothing and applying insect repellent to prevent insect-borne diseases.

What to Do in Case of an Emergency

In the event of an emergency, it’s essential to know what to do. Here are some tips:

• Stay calm and assess the situation.
• Call the local authorities or emergency services, such as the police or ambulance.
• Seek medical attention if necessary.
• Report any incidents to your government’s travel advisory department.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Tanzania has faced some challenges in recent years, it’s still a safe and enjoyable destination for travelers. By taking necessary precautions and being aware of the current situation, you can minimize your risk of encountering any problems and have a successful and enjoyable trip. (See Also: Is It Safe To Visit Mombasa? Discover The Truth)

Remember to stay informed, stay safe, and enjoy your time in Tanzania!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Tanzania Safe to Visit?

Tanzania is generally a safe country to visit, but as with any travel destination, there are areas that are considered volatile and travelers should exercise caution when visiting these regions. The country has faced some political unrest and terrorist attacks in recent years, but the government has taken steps to improve security and prevent further attacks.

What Areas Should I Avoid in Tanzania?

Travelers should avoid areas near the border with Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Rwanda, which are considered volatile and have a high risk of violence. They should also avoid areas with a high crime rate, such as the city of Dar es Salaam, and areas with a history of political unrest, such as the city of Zanzibar.

How Can I Stay Safe in Tanzania?

To stay safe in Tanzania, travelers should take necessary precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and out of sight, using a money belt or a secure bag to carry their belongings, staying in well-lit and populated areas, particularly at night, and avoiding carrying large amounts of cash and using credit cards instead.

What Should I Do in Case of an Emergency?

In the event of an emergency, travelers should stay calm and assess the situation, call the local authorities or emergency services, seek medical attention if necessary, and report any incidents to their government’s travel advisory department. (See Also: Is Prague Safe to Visit Right Now Ukraine? The Latest Travel Advisory)

Are There Any Vaccinations I Need to Get Before Visiting Tanzania?

Yes, travelers should get vaccinated against common diseases such as yellow fever, hepatitis, and typhoid before visiting Tanzania. They should also take malaria medication, as the disease is prevalent in the country.

Is the Water Safe to Drink in Tanzania?

No, the water is not safe to drink in Tanzania. Travelers should drink bottled or filtered water to avoid getting sick.