How safe is it to travel in Tanzania?
Planning a (road)trip through Tanzania? Great choice! Tanzania is a country full of colour, contrast and wildlife, from the stunning Serengeti to Zanzibar’s beautiful beaches. But you might wonder: how safe is it to travel in Tanzania?
We’ve been exploring Tanzania for years - by car, on foot and with our local team on the ground. And here's our honest answer: Tanzania is a wonderful and safe destination for travellers. In this blog, we share practical safety tips to help you enjoy your adventure without worry.
General safety in Tanzania
Tanzania is politically stable and known for its peaceful people. Tourism is important to the country, and visitors are generally treated with warmth and respect. In general, the vibe in Tanzania is friendly and calm. Locals are happy to help and curious about visitors. You’ll be greeted with a smile more often than not.
Crime in Tanzania: stay smart and travel relaxed
Violent crime against tourists is almost unheard of in Tanzania. Petty crime - such as pickpocketing or bag snatching - is rare but can happen, mostly in urban areas. A few simple rules go a long way:
- Don’t wear flashy jewellery or show off valuables
- Keep bags and phones close to you in cities
- Use your hotel safe if available
- Park your 4x4 in a secure spot, especially overnight
- Be careful after dark, especially in city centres
Is it safe to drive in Tanzania?
Absolutely! Driving in Tanzania is a great way to discover the country: you can stop whenever you like, take the scenic route, and discover places off the beaten path. The roads can be rough in some areas, but with a solid 4x4 and some patience, you’ll be fine.
A few road safety tips:
- Avoid driving after dark. Visibility is low, and animals or people may be on the road
- Watch out for potholes and speed bumps
- Take it slow and avoid long driving days. Fatigue or rushing can lead to accidents, and covering too much ground in one trip isn’t worth the risk (nor is it enjoyable either)
- In towns, drive slowly as kids, goats and motorbikes are everywhere
All our travellers receive a pre-departure briefing, driving tips, and 24/7 support on the road.
For more information now, we advise you to check out our ‘Driving in Tanzania’ page. Prefer someone else to do the driving? Rent a car with a local driver-guide and enjoy the ride!
Staying healthy in Tanzania
Tanzania is a tropical country, so mosquitoes are part of the deal. Malaria is present, especially in coastal areas and national parks.
Protect yourself by:
- Sleeping under a mosquito net
- Using repellent (with DEET)
- Wearing long sleeves at night
- Talking to your doctor about anti-malaria pills before you travel
Also good to know:
- Tap water is not safe to drink. Stick to bottled or filtered water
- Avoid ice in drinks unless you’re sure it’s made with purified water
- Vaccinations for hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus are usually advised. Check with your doctor or health clinic before you go.
Is Tanzania safe for female travellers?
We know of many women who travel through Tanzania, even on their own, and feel safe doing so. Most locals are respectful, and tourism staff are used to hosting international guests. Still, some areas are more conservative, especially the Muslim coastal regions.
Tips for solo female travellers in Tanzania:
- Dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees) in rural or religious areas
- Avoid walking alone at night, especially in towns and cities
- Be cautious with strangers who are overly friendly or persistent
- Choose trusted, well-reviewed places to stay
If you are unsure about travelling solo, then consider hiring a driver-guide. This can offer great peace of mind, plus local insights along the way.
Rent your car with a local driver >
LGBTQ+ safety in Tanzania
Is Tanzania safe for LGBTQ+ tourists? This is something we want to be upfront about. Same-sex relationships are illegal in Tanzania, and public attitudes - particularly in rural and religious areas - can be conservative.
Many LGBTQ+ travellers do visit and enjoy Tanzania safely. The key is to be discreet, avoid public displays of affection, and respect the local context. Lodges, safari camps and tourist accommodations tend to be more open-minded, and hospitality staff are generally professional and welcoming.
That said, we completely understand if you don’t feel comfortable with the situation. Everyone’s comfort level is different, and it’s important to make choices that feel right for you. If you’d like to talk things through or get personalised advice, feel free to reach out to our team - we are happy to help.
Travelling solo in Tanzania
Travelling alone in Tanzania can be very rewarding. You’ll meet friendly locals, enjoy the freedom to set your own pace, and experience nature up close. We have welcomed plenty of solo travellers, and they all told us they felt safe and well looked after, especially in lodges, camps, and parks.
Some tips:
- Let someone at home know your route and check in now and then
- Get a local SIM card for easy contact and data
- Don’t hike alone in remote areas
Explore Tanzania with a local driver
While self-driving in Tanzania is a fantastic option, we understand that you might prefer the comfort and ease of having a local driver. At Roadtrip Africa, we work with highly trained and incredibly friendly driver-guides who know Tanzania inside and out.
A local driver-guide offers the best of both worlds: you stay in control of your holiday and itinerary while leaving the driving to someone who knows the roads and the region. Along the way, you’ll gain fascinating insights into Tanzania’s culture, wildlife, and hidden gems.
Our drivers aren’t just skilled behind the wheel - they’re also experienced tour guides and bush mechanics, ready to handle any situation that might come up. They speak English fluently and are passionate about making your journey stress-free and unforgettable.
Ready to start your adventure?
Book your car (with or without driver) today! And experience Tanzania safely, freely and on your own terms.
