zanzibar covid travel rules

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PCR Test and Covid Vaccination are NOT required upon arrival to Zanzibar!

On the 1st of February 2023, the Government of Zanzibar announced that mandatory PCR Tests and Covid Vaccinations are no longer required for arriving passengers.

The full Travel Advisory Nr. 15 can be downloaded here.

Departure from Zanzibar:

• If you need a COVID-19 certificate for your airline or for your return to your country, there are testing facilities in Zanzibar that provide such a service for 80 USD.
• Zanzibar Government published an online registration form for COVID-19 testing – https://zanzibarcovidtesting.co.tz/
• You can book your appointment in our resort (Mobile Unit Service) or in  government authorized facility for a specific date and time 
• The results of testing can be obtained electronically, there is no need to collect them physically
• You can choose the type of test: RT-PCR or ANTIGEN RAPID DIAGNOSTIC
• The FIT to FLY certificate is issued within 24h (RT – PCR)

Last update: 6th of February 2023

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ZANZIBAR ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

BEFORE ARRIVAL

• Save your time and keep your distance with our  online check-in
• For a smooth arrival to Tanzania we recommend to  bring the filled in and printed  Visa application and Arrival declaration form . Please, download  HERE
• A  single three-month entry tourist visa  can be applied upon arrival at USD 50 per person or  online
• Ensure that your  passport is valid  for at least six months after the end of your stay
• Make sure  not to bring any plastic  carrier bags in your luggage or on board the aircraft
• All travellers  are required to have  valid travel insurance for the whole period of  their stay
• Be familiar with the  recommended vaccinations , details  H ERE
• Keep in mind the  check in time at 14:00  and  check out time at 11:00.  We highly recommend to book a full night in case of early or late flight. Late check out is at extra charge and may be confirmed at Reception the day before departure.

FOR YOUR SMOOTH STAY

• Book the  Airport Lounge or fast track service  upon arrival and departure. Please  contact us  to make a reservation
• Connect with us  on the Guest Services  WhatsApp number +255 620 250 132  for any questions and booking made during your stay
• Discover all  Experiences   for an enjoyable stay
• Participate in various  activities within the  ZURI PROGRAM  – from wellbeing, day activities to evening music sessions to the kids program
• Share your  #zurimoments  on social media to spread the joy and happiness of the favorite moments from Zuri Zanzibar.

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Traveling to Zanzibar: COVID-19

What should you know about Coronavirus when traveling to Zanzibar?

Tanzania (including Zanzibar), as a destination, has the “Safe Travels” stamp. This means that there are globally agreed protocols in place.

Guidelines in a nutshell:

• There is no quarantine time when arriving to Zanzibar
• All nationalities are welcomed
• There is screening in place at the airports, in case of having COVID-19 related symptoms testing might be required.
• No need for negative test result to present unless the airline you use or coutry you are heading to/transferring through request it
• You should have a valid travel insurance that covers Corona treatments
• Use a licensed tour operator, they follow the Safe Travels guidelines (including us, Colors of Zanzibar)

New travel advisory is out (N.5) and the request for negative COVID-19 test result is removed

How to get tested for Covid-19 in Zanzibar?

To get tested for Coronavirus in Zanzibar is now easily accessible for everyone. In case you don’t suspect that you are infected, but need the test result in order to travel, there is testing possibility in Zanzibar City.

The testing process can be confusing for a visitor, and that’s why we have started a Covid-19 testing service in Zanzibar.

In case you suspect that you are infected, you need to use another protocol as it’s important to prevent spreading the virus. The national Covid-19 help line is reachable when calling from Tanzanian number: dial 190 (it’s free).

What we have done on our tours

Since early February, we have taken extra measures to ensure hygiene in our cars and on our tours. We have had hand sanitiser in the cars for everyone entering the car to use.

We are welcoming new bookings again, as the international travel has opened. We do not book sharing tours as of now, until the risk is gone. We are happy to book services and tours with no down-payment, so that it is zero risk for you.

It is highly recommendable to book all your tours & transfers in Zanzibar from one operator, using the same contact persons during the whole time – this will significantly lower the risk of coronavirus transmissions. With us, you will get your designated guide and driver, protecting both you and our staff this way.

Please, do not join any tours if you are not feeling well.

Coronavirus in Zanzibar

There are no statistics of how widely spread Covid-19 is in Zanzibar. However, we know that there are not many cases in Zanzibar and life has been continuing on the island as usual, just without tourism. With the new measures in place, we hope it to remain this way.

Colors of Zanzibar

Z’bar updates travel advisory in response to Covid-19

THE Zanzibar Government has updated its travel advisory to include, among other measures, all travellers entering the country to be fully vaccinated as per the approved schedule of primary vaccination rule against the Covid-19 in their respective countries.

This includes returning residents or those on transit via Zanzibar through the sea port or airports.

“The only accepted vaccines are those approved by the WHO and recognised locally, according to a statement issued by the Zanzibar Ministry of Health.

In view of the current trend of Covid-19 around the globe that has led to a number of deaths and disturbances, the government has decided to update travel advisory no. 14 of November 2022 to version 15 of February 1 of 2023 which is reducing the burden to the travellers.

“All travellers entering including returning residents or on transit through the ports or airports are advised to be fully vaccinated in their respective countries,” the statement said.

The statement further stated that all travellers entering Zanzibar through ports, are not required to present Covid-19 vaccination certificates or real-time Reverse Transcription–Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) or performing the Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) unless stated otherwise.

Adding, however, for surveillance purpose, Port Health Officers may perform the RAT free of charge for randomly selected travellers upon arrival.

The statement added that travellers’ temperatures are to be assessed through a walking thermoscan upon arriving and if a traveller is found symptomatic, will be immediately isolated and handled in accordance to the local health guidelines to travellers.

Speaking to the ‘Daily News’, Mr Nassor Mazrui, Zanzibar Minister for Health, said, “We are making sure that visitors get quality services at entry points, this is good thing for the tourism sector.”

He said the eighth-phase government is serious in developing the sector.

Minister Mazrui asked the travellers from Zanzibar to make sure they seek information from the travel agents regarding the Covid-19 requirements of their destination country.

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FAQ – Travel to Tanzania & Zanzibar

Stand 06/02/2023 – Mandatory COVID TEST and COVID VACINATION is lifted!

In current times of uncertainty we decided to answer all Frequently Asked Questions here on our webpage. As we all learned now that rules and regulations can change, we do not take any responsibility for changes incurring. However we try our best to keep this page updated. And most important we always get this questions – Zanzibar and Tanzania are one country and therefor any kind of entry rules are the same for all international airports. 

Are there any restrictions concerning COVID-19 in Zanzibar and/ or Tanzania?

Answer: no.

All our ZanTours team members working at this difficult time are personally trained by me. We are proud to have sucessfully completed our vaccinations to protect our employees and of course also our guests.

Be safe with us,

Sabine Emmerich / GM ZanTours

Do I need a Yellow Fever Vaccination to enter Zanzibar and/ or Tanzania?

Unless you departed from a Yellow Fewer Risk Country, or had a longer transit stay than 12 hours. Please find below the current list of Yellow Fever Risk Countries, which you can find also on following link https://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/advice/disease-prevention-advice/yellow-fever/yellow-fever-risk-areas.aspx

• Burkina Faso
• Central African Republic
• Cote d’Ivoire
• Democratic Republic of Congo
• Equatorial Guinea
• French Guiana
• Guinea-Bissau
• Republic of Congo
• Sierra Leone
• South Sudan

Do I need a Negative COVID-19 Certificate to enter Zanzibar and/ or Tanzania?

Answer: no ( stand 06/02/2023).

Please find the current regulation for ZNZ here

Do I need a Negative COVID-19 Certificate to leave Zanzibar and/ or Tanzania?

• Unless required by your country – Please check your respective foreign office webpage or check in TIMATIC – https://www.iatatravelcentre.com/passport-visa-health-travel-document-requirements.htm
• Unless required by the airline – please check the respective airline webpage concerning COVID 19.

Can I do an internationally recognized PCR Covid-19 Test with Certificate in Zanzibar and/ or Tanzania?

Answer: yes.

Person in need of the test have to fill the application form and pay online on following page: https://zanzibarcovidtesting.co.tz/app/application . Please note that after you filled your application and it is confirmed – go back to the HOME PAGE – VIEW RESULT – FILL UR PASSPORT AND CAPTCHA – the page will direct you to the online payment system where you have to pay by credit card. The time of sampling can be maximal 72 hours prior departure flight time and not less than 48 hours.

Print the full application with payment confirmation and present your self punctual in the test center you chose!

Only certifications verified online by the government of Zanzibar are legit.

• $80 in all national collection points
• $120 in Global hospital
• $120 for mobile unit in your hotel
• $100 for Express PCR test at the airport (result in 90 min)

Note: Travellers & drivers or any one in their company must wear masks as they visit the testing centre to protect those working there.

We want to remind all travellers – that ONLY the Ministry of Health is able to test and issue the respective certificates. Certificates are verified at the airport from the Health Ministry Officers if genuine or not! In case they are NOT genuine, the guest won’t be able to board the flight!

Do I still get my tourist visa upon arrival in Zanzibar and/ or Tanzania?

However we recommend to apply for the E- Visa online to speed up your immigration process. Please find the official online application link here: https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa/

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Tanzania, including Zanzibar Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

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After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Tanzania. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 2 Practice Enhanced Precautions

• Updated   Global Polio August 20, 2024 Some international destinations have circulating poliovirus. Before any international travel, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Destination List: Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, Guinea, Indonesia, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, including Zanzibar, The Gambia, Uganda, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

African sleeping sickness (african trypanosomiasis).

• Tsetse fly bite 
• Avoid Bug Bites

African Trypanosomiasis

African Tick-Bite Fever

African Tick-bite fever

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Mosquito bite
• Avoid animals

Rift Valley Fever

• Touching blood, body fluids, or tissue of infected livestock

Rift Valley fever

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Tanzania, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Tanzania. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Some diseases in Tanzania—such as dengue, leishmaniasis, and African sleeping sickness—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Tanzania include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Climbing Kilimanjaro is one of the most popular outdoor activities for travelers visiting Tanzania. The high altitude may lead to altitude sickness. Talk to your doctor about ways to prevent and treat altitude sickness.

See Travel to High Altitudes .

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Tanzania. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Tanzania’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in Tanzania. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Tanzania may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Tanzania, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Tanzania.

• Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
• LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Tanzania, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Tanzania .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

To call for emergency services while in Tanzania, dial either 112 or 999. Write these numbers down to carry with you on your trip.

Learn as much as you can about Tanzania before you travel there. A good place to start is the country-specific information on Tanzania from the US Department of State.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Tanzania for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Tanzania Travel Restrictions

Traveller's COVID-19 vaccination status

Travelling from the United Kingdom to Tanzania

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces.

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Can I travel to Tanzania from the United Kingdom?

Most visitors from the United Kingdom, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Tanzania.

Can I travel to Tanzania if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United Kingdom can enter Tanzania without restrictions.

Can I travel to Tanzania without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United Kingdom can enter Tanzania without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Tanzania?

Visitors from the United Kingdom are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Tanzania.

Can I travel to Tanzania without quarantine?

Travellers from the United Kingdom are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Tanzania?

Mask usage in Tanzania is not required in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Tanzania?

Restaurants in Tanzania are open. Bars in Tanzania are .

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Tanzania travel advice

Latest updates: Entry and exit requirement – added information on mandatory travel insurance in Zanzibar

Last updated: August 26, 2024 15:31 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, tanzania - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Tanzania due to crime levels and the threat of terrorism.

Border with Mozambique in Mtwara Region - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to within 10 km of the border with Mozambique, in the Mtwara Region, due to the presence of armed groups, the threat of terrorism and the risk of kidnapping.

Portion of Mtwara Region south of the A19 highway - Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to the area between the A19 highway and the border with Mozambique in the Mtwara Region, due to the presence of armed groups, the threat of terrorism and the risk of kidnapping. This advisory excludes the areas within 10 km from the border with Mozambique, where you should avoid all travel. This advisory also excludes Mtwara City where you should exercise a high degree of caution.

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Border with Mozambique in the Mtwara region

Extremist groups are active in the northern districts of Cabo Delgado, Mozambique. Security incidents have occurred along the border, in the Mtwara Region. Tanzanian military and security forces conduct counterinsurgency operations in the area where access is controlled in several locations and movements in and out are monitored.

Southern Mtwara region

Armed groups have been active in the southern Mtwara region between highway 19 and 10 km from the border with Mozambique. There is a threat of terrorism and kidnappings in this region.

Border with Burundi and Democratic Republic of Congo (Kinshasa)

Exercise a high degree of caution when travelling near refugee camps in northwestern Tanzania, particularly in the region of Kigoma and to the west of Kagera bordering Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, due to banditry.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations can occur anywhere across the country and sometimes on short notice. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs.

Theft occurs in crowded public areas such as: 

• popular tourist areas, including beaches
• buses, trains, bus and train stations and airports
• hotel lobbies
• restaurants, including outdoor seating areas
• nightclubs and cinemas
• shopping centres

Snatching from passing motorcycles or cars is frequent. Common targets are bags, jewelry, and electronics.

In Dar es Salaam, exercise a high degree of caution in and around:

• Kariakoo Market area
• Masaki and Oyster Bay Peninsula, particularly along Toure Drive

In Zanzibar, exercise increased caution in and around:

During your trip:

• keep your personal belongings, including your passport and your other travel documents in a secure place
• don’t show signs of affluence, wear expensive jewellery or visibly display electronics
• don’t carry large sums of cash or valuables unnecessarily
• seek local advice on the security situation prior to visiting beaches
• when walking along the street, do not carry your bag with the strap across your body
• walk towards the traffic so you can see the vehicles approaching
• Avoid walking outside after dark
• be aware of your surroundings at all times and avoid distractions through actions such as wearing headphones

Violent crime

Violent crime can occur throughout the country. Incidents include:

• armed robbery
• assault, including sexual assault

During your stay:

• stay in accommodations with adequate security measures
• only use reputable companies for long term accommodations
• keep doors and windows locked at all times
• keep valuables out of sight and reach
• avoid isolated areas
• be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs 
• don't resist an attack

Kidnappings

Kidnapping-for-ransom does not pose a significant risk in Tanzania, but it cannot be ruled out since armed groups from neighboring countries are known to employ this tactic.

Exercise caution along the following border areas:

• around Lake Tanganyika, which marks the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo
• the southeastern border with Mozambique

Express kidnappings

Express kidnappings have occurred near hotels and transportation facilities such as ferry, bus and train terminals, in Dar es Salaam, where kidnappers demand small immediate ransoms.

Criminals kidnap the victim from the street or a taxi and force the person to withdraw funds from an ATM. The victim is sometimes held overnight so that a second withdrawal can be made the next day.

These kidnappings are sometimes committed by taxi or ride-share apps drivers.

• Only use reputable cab companies or ride-sharing apps
• When using a ride sharing app, ensure the vehicle license plate is the same as the one displayed on the app.
• Do not accept rides from new acquaintances or strangers
• Avoid hailing taxis on the street
• Do not get into a vehicle that already has a passenger in it
• If you're threatened by armed criminals, stay calm and don’t resist

There is a threat of terrorism.

Tanzania remains vulnerable to terrorist groups active in neighbouring countries. Terrorist attacks cannot be ruled out.

Terrorists may target public places and crowded areas.  

Targets could include:

• government buildings
• places of worship
• public areas frequented by foreigners, such as restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centers, markets, hotels and other tourist destinations

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. 

Be particularly vigilant during:

• sporting events
• religious holidays
• public celebrations
• major political events, such as election

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks. 

Women safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Tanzanian law prohibits sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Those convicted face up to life imprisonment and possibly a fine.

2SLGBTQI+ persons have been subject to physical and verbal harassment by the local population and authorities.

Security forces sometimes carry out arbitrary arrests and searches based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Interventions include:

• interrogations
• alleged physical abuse.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Tanzania.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Road safety

There are major road safety issues in Tanzania. Fatal accidents are common, and they often involve pedestrians. Police and emergency services assistance is limited or even unavailable in rural areas.

Road conditions

Road conditions vary throughout the country and at different times of the year. Driving conditions may be hazardous during the rainy season from March to May and then again from November to December. Sometimes near-zero visibility is a risk. A four-wheel-drive vehicle may be necessary to travel outside cities, off major highways and during the rainy season.

Roads are poorly maintained and can be dangerous due to:

• stray animals
• numerous motorcycles and bicycles
• lack of traffic signs
• pedestrians on the road
• insufficient or lighting and vehicles not using their headlights
• poorly maintained vehicles

Driving habits

Drivers often disregard traffic laws and speeding is common. Pedestrians and other drivers’ rights of way are not respected. Drivers often don’t stop at traffic lights, making intersections very prone to accidents.

Traffic accidents can quickly draw large and sometimes hostile crowds. Remain calm if there is a dispute, particularly in a public place. If threatened by a large crowd, seek direct intervention from the local police.

If you choose to drive in Tanzania:

• always drive defensively
• avoid driving after dark outside of urban centres
• always keep doors and windows closed and locked   
• consider using a four-wheel-drive vehicle outside urban centres
• fill your gas tank before you travel
• during the rainy season, confirm with local authorities that the chosen route is passable

Checkpoints

Police checkpoints are common throughout the country. Only national police officers have the authority to establish checkpoints.

• Be prepared to show your identification
• Follow the instructions of the police
• Remain calm and courteous

If you are asked to pay a fine on the spot for a traffic violation, ask for a copy of the written fine that can be paid later, or insist on going to the nearest police station.

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using your credit or debit card at ATMs.

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers that have an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Foreigners have been victims of scams relating to volunteer work visas and safaris.

If you plan to engage in these activities, only deal with reputable companies and make verifications beforehand.

Cybersecurity

Cybercrime, malware attacks and online extortion may occur in Tanzania.

Cybercriminals can compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal personal data or credit information.

They can also monitor social media and listen to your phone conversations.

• Avoid shopping on unencrypted websites
• Be cautious when posting information on social media
• Be especially cautious if you decide to meet someone you met online
• Don't click on suspicious links that ask for your banking information in an e-mail or text message

Useful links

Overseas fraud

Cybersecurity while travelling

National parks and nature reserves

Many national parks and nature reserves are in remote areas with limited emergency services. Wild animals often venture within boundaries of camps.

If you decide to visit parks and reserves:

• Only use reputable and professional guides or tour operators  
• Follow the advice and warnings of local tour guides and camp employees
• Do not walk around at night
• Never leave children unattended

Wildlife observation

Wild animals can be dangerous, particularly if you are on foot or at close range. 

• Always maintain a safe distance when observing wildlife
• Only exit a vehicle when a professional guide or warden says it’s safe to do so
• Closely follow park regulations and wardens’ advice

Mount Kilimanjaro

If you are considering climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, carefully consider the risks involved. People are seriously injured or killed on the mountain every year, and emergency assistance is severely limited.

If you intend to climb:

• share your itinerary with a friend or family member if you’re alone  
• stay on marked trails and consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company  
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• ensure that you are properly equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back to camp
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, dehydration and heatstroke, which can be fatal 

Water activities

Costal waters can be dangerous, even for experienced swimmers. Riptides are common. Several drownings occur each year. Beaches are generally unsupervised. There is no warning system to alert of unsafe conditions.

If you plan to participate in boating activities, such as snorkelling or diving:

• use a reputable company
• ensure that life jackets are available for all passengers
• do not use the equipment if you are unsure of its safety  
• consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards, the presence of dangerous species and safe swimming areas  
• don’t board boats that appear unseaworthy

Water safety abroad

Power outages

Power outages occur regularly across the country. Local authorities may impose rationing measures for electricity.  

Telecommunications

Cellular coverage is usually good in main cities but may be limited outside of urban areas.

Public transportation

Buses, locally known as “dala dala” are unsafe, overcrowded and frequently involved in fatal accidents. There have also been reports of sexual assault on buses. You should avoid using buses.

Intercity buses are usually safer.

The risks are increased when travelling after dark.

Taxis and ridesharing services

Taxis availability may be limited outside city centers.

• Avoid using motorcycle taxis, locally known as “pika-pika “or “boda-boda” or three-wheel taxis, “bajaj”, as they are frequently involved in accidents
• Use only licensed taxis selected by a reputable hotel or restaurant, or one located at an official taxi stand
• Never share a taxi with strangers
• Make sure the driver doesn’t pick up other passengers along the way to your destination
• Always ask for identification before accepting transportation and check that the driver’s ID matches the name of the car registration and taxi licence
• Ask the driver to start the meter or negotiate the fare in advance
• Have small bills ready for payment

Rideshare services are available.

• Use a trusted ridesharing app
• Confirm the driver’s identity and the licence plate before getting in the car
• Don't share your ride with another person
• Use a security feature to share your ride status with a contact

The electric train service between Dar es Salaam and Morogoro is regular and reliable. Maintenance standards are low for trains on all other lines. There have been reports of theft on crowded trains, particularly on overnight travels.

There are regular and reliable ferries travelling between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar. The ferries operating on other routes are less reliable and often overcrowded. Tanzanian ports are often frequented by persuasive ticket scalpers, insistent porters and sellers. They are crowded and prone to petty crime.  

Ferry accidents occur due to the overloading and poor maintenance of some vessels.

• Make sure the vessel you are boarding is carrying appropriate safety equipment and that life jackets are provided for all passengers and accessible at all times
• Only use reputable ferry companies
• Do not board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy
• Avoid using water means of transportation during bad weather conditions

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters, particularly in the Indian Ocean. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report  - International Maritime Bureau

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Tanzanian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

mandatory_travel_insurance_in_zanzibar

Mandatory travel insurance in Zanzibar

As of October 1, 2024, all foreigners entering Zanzibar will be required to purchase mandatory travel insurance directly from the national insurer, Zanzibar Insurance Corporation.

Information on mandatory travel insurance – Government of Zanzibar

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Tanzania.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. People with an X gender identifier have been denied entry into Tanzania. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required Business visa: required Student visa: required Work/volunteer visa: required

You can obtain a 3-month tourist or business single entry visa on arrival at main ports of entry.

Canadians planning to stay in Tanzania for more than 90 days or requiring a multiple entry visa must apply for an eVisa before traveling to Tanzania.

Verify that you abide by the terms and expiry date indicated on your visa. You could receive a substantial fine if you overstay the period allowed by your visa or residence permit.

• Visa information - Ministry of Home Affairs of Tanzania
• Get an e-visa – Tanzania’s official application service

Other entry requirements

You must be able to show proof of return or onward ticket. You could be refused entry if you fail to show it upon request.

Working and volunteering in Tanzania

You cannot perform any type of work, including volunteer work, on a tourist visa. When planning to travel to Tanzania to do volunteer work, contact the High Commission for the United Republic of Tanzania for information on specific requirements.

Work permits must be verified by Tanzanian immigration officials within 30 days of issuance. You can get this done at any Tanzanian Immigration office or online the Immigration Department’s online verification system.

• Residence permits information – Government of Tanzania
• Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada
• Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Polio: Advice for travellers - 20 August, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is low potential for yellow fever exposure in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a   country where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination may be recommended depending on your itinerary.
• Contact a designated   Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre   well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites .

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

This destination is in the African Meningitis Belt, an area which has the highest rates of meningococcal disease in the world. Meningococcal disease is a serious and sometimes fatal infection. 

Travellers who are at higher risk should discuss vaccination with a health care provider. High-risk travellers include those living or working with the local population (e.g., health care workers) or those travelling to crowded areas or taking part in large gatherings.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.

To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions .

Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:

• visiting, working or living in areas with limited access to safe food, water and proper sanitation
• visiting areas where outbreaks are occurring

Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

There is a risk of schistosomiasis in this destination. Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by tiny worms (blood flukes) which can be found in freshwater (lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands). The worms can break the skin, and their eggs can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, or urinary problems. Schistosomiasis mostly affects underdeveloped and r ural communities, particularly agricultural and fishing communities.

Most travellers are at low risk. Travellers should avoid contact with untreated freshwater such as lakes, rivers, and ponds (e.g., swimming, bathing, wading, ingesting). There is no vaccine or medication available to prevent infection.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The level of risk may vary by:

The virus that causes chikungunya is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times.

Learn more:

Insect bite and pest prevention Chikungunya

Onchocerciasis (river blindness)   is an eye and skin disease caused by a parasite spread through the bite of an infected female blackfly.  Onchocerciasis often leads to blindness if left untreated. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from blackfly bites, which are most common close to fast-flowing rivers and streams. There is no vaccine available for onchocerciasis although drug treatments exist.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Rift Valley fever is a viral disease that can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can be fatal. It is spread to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, from the bite of an infected mosquito, or eating or drinking unpasteurized dairy. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from insect bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock, and unpasteurized dairy. There is no vaccine available for Rift Valley fever.

African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness)  is caused by a parasite spread through the bite of a tsetse fly. Tsetse flies usually bite during the day and the bites are usually painful. If untreated, the disease is eventually fatal. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from bites especially in game parks and rural areas. Avoid wearing bright or dark-coloured clothing as these colours attract tsetse flies. There is no vaccine available for this disease.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)   is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). 

High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.

Medical services and facilities

Medical facilities and services are not up to Canadian standards, even in Dar es Salaam.

Medical supplies can be limited. A cash deposit or an upfront payment is required.

Medical evacuation, which can be very expensive, may be necessary in the event of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Medication 

Some prescription medications may not be available in Tanzania.

If you take prescription medications, you’re responsible for determining their legality in the country. 

• Bring enough medication for your stay
• Always keep your medication in the original container and carry a copy of your prescriptions  
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage 

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences.

The sale and consumption of alcohol may be limited in certain regions of the country and at certain times of the year.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Plastic bags

The use, manufacture or importation of plastic bags is illegal.

Convicted offenders, including tourists, can face very heavy fines, imprisonment for up to 7 days, or both.

Identification

Local authorities may request to see your identification at any time.

• Always carry photo identification
• Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place in case it’s lost or seized

Photography and drones

Photography of military installations is forbidden. Individuals have been detained and/or had their cameras and film confiscated for taking pictures of public structures and buildings, including:

• industrial sites

You must obtain a permit to import a drone into Tanzania.

Always ask permission before photographing individuals.

Information on drone importation – Tanzanian Civil Aviation Authority

Pornography

Possession of pornographic material is illegal.

Flora and fauna

Collecting and removing any flora or fauna from its natural habitat is illegal. This includes removing seashells from marine parks.

Tanzanian law strictly regulates the sale, possession or removal from the country of animal or animal parts, including jewelry and hunting trophies. Certain items are exempt. However, you need a special permit from the Tanzanian wildlife management authority before attempting to leave the country with these items.

Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority – Government of Tanzania

Ramadan 

In 2025, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 28.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

Dress and Behaviour

In Zanzibar, Islamic practices and beliefs are particularly influential.

To avoid offending local sensitivities:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect religious and social traditions

Women should cover their shoulders and refrain from wearing shorts.

2SLGBTQI+ persons should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Tanzania.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Tanzania.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Tanzania, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Tanzania.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Tanzania by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Tanzania to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

You must carry an international driving permit alongside your Canadian driver’s licence.

Vehicles drive on the left.

International Driving Permit

The currency is the Tanzanian shilling (TZS).

Tanzanian shillings or U.S. dollars are the preferred method of payment. Credit cards are not widely accepted in rural areas.

ATMs are available in main cities, and some can be used to access Canadian bank accounts. However, they occasionally run out of cash, especially on holidays and during weekends. You should carry a small amount of U.S. dollars for use in airports and at borders. You must declare all currencies exceeding 10,000 U.S. dollars upon arrival and departure from Tanzania.

Climate change

Climate change is affecting Tanzania. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local news to stay informed on the current situation.

Rainy season

On the mainland, the rainy season usually extends from March to May and then again from November to December. This can vary from year to year due to climate change. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable due to mudslides and landslides. Bridges, buildings, and infrastructure may be damaged.

• Monitor local media for the latest information including road conditions
• Stay away from flooded areas
• Monitor weather reports
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Latest weather warnings – Tanzania Meteorological Authority

The cyclone season occurs from November to April.

If you decide to travel to Tanzania during this time:

• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator

Seismic activity

Tanzania is located in an active seismic zone.

Even minor earthquakes can cause significant damage.

• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Earthquakes - What to Do?
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Floods - What to do? (getprepared.gc.ca)

Local services

Dial 112 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

Comoros, Seychelles, Zambia

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in Tanzania, in Dar es Salaam, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Warnings and insurance

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel

Mtwara region along the tanzania-mozambique border.

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 20km of the Tanzanian border with Cabo Delgado Province in Mozambique.

This is due to attacks by groups linked with Islamic extremism.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see  general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see  general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about  safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

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Tanzania Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Tanzania

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces.

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Can I travel to Tanzania from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Tanzania.

Can I travel to Tanzania if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Tanzania without restrictions.

Can I travel to Tanzania without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Tanzania without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Tanzania?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Tanzania.

Can I travel to Tanzania without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Tanzania?

Mask usage in Tanzania is not required in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Tanzania?

Restaurants in Tanzania are open. Bars in Tanzania are .

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Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

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Travel Advisory September 5, 2024

Tanzania - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued after period review with minor edits.

Exercise increased caution in Tanzania due to  crime, terrorism, and  targeting of LGBTQI+ persons . Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

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. Police forces have limited 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 tourists.  Please see the information below regarding the increased threat of terrorism in Mtwara Region.

Members of the LGBTQI+ community have been arrested, targeted, and harassed.  Due to their sexual orientation and identity LGBTQI+ individuals may experience a higher likelihood of being targeted by police.  People detained under suspicion of same-sex sexual conduct could be subject to invasive physical exams such as forced anal exams.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Tanzania.

If you decide to travel to Tanzania:

• 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 X/Twitter.
• Review the Country Security Report for Tanzania.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Mtwara Region in southern Tanzania – Level 3: Reconsider Travel There is a rise in extremist activity along the southern border, which has led to attacks on both government officials and civilians.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .  

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

6 months. Passports with the “X” gender marker are not accepted.

Yellow fever required if traveling from a country where the disease is endemic.

Travelers must declare international currency valuing more than $10,000 on both entrance to and exit from Tanzania. Non-resident American citizens may not import or export Tanzanian Shillings (TSH).

Non-residents (except Kenyans and Ugandans) may not import or export Tanzanian Shillings (TZS)

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy dar es salaam.

686 Old Bagamoyo Road, Msasani, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania Telephone:  +(255) 22-229-4000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(255) 22-229-4000, dial '1' for an emergency operator Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

The United Republic of Tanzania is a constitutional republic located in East Africa. It enjoys a relatively stable economy; it is resource-rich and has a growing tourist industry. Tourist facilities are centered around the “northern and southern circuit” of National Parks which include the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Kilimanjaro, Arusha, Nyerere, and Ruaha as well as the islands in the semi-autonomous Zanzibar archipelago.

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Tanzania for information on U.S.-Tanzania relations. 

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visas: Tourists must obtain a one-year multiple entry visa for $100. Applicants can apply and pay online for an e-visa in advance of travel. If approved, the applicant will receive a “grant notice” via email which they present to the Immigration Officer upon arrival at the airport in Tanzania. U.S. citizens can also obtain a tourist visa upon arrival.

Volunteer work is prohibited on a tourist visa. Volunteers must obtain a Class “C” Residence Permit .

Contact the Tanzanian Immigration Services Department for information on obtaining a residence permit .

Obtain the latest information on visas from the Embassy of Tanzania in Washington D.C.

Information about dual nationality or the prevention of international child abduction can be found on our website. For further information about customs regulations, please read our Customs Information page . Please note that Tanzania does not permit dual citizenship for adults.

Entry Requirements:

• Passport with at least one blank page and six months’ validity.
• Visitors must present a round-trip ticket and be prepared to demonstrate they have sufficient funds for their stay.
• Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for all travelers arriving from countries where the disease is endemic, including 12+ hour airport transit and layovers. The Embassy of Tanzania has further information, including on waivers for this requirement.

Information about recommended vaccinations and medications can be found on the CDC’s website .

HIV/AIDS restrictions: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to, or foreign residents of, Tanzania.

Safety and Security

You should review the Department of State’s Travel Advisory for Tanzania before considering travel to Tanzania.

Terrorism: Travelers should be aware that terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) 
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists 
• Places of worship 
• Schools 
• Parks 
• Shopping malls and markets 
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) 

There have been reports of violence in the Mtwara region in southern Tanzania. Increased activity by extremists along the southern border has led to attacks against both government and civilian targets.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Crime: Crime in Tanzania is a regular occurrence and Tanzanian authorities have limited capacity to deter and investigate such acts.

• Home invasions, sometimes violent, have been reported in Arusha and Dar es Salaam.
• Pickpockets and bag snatchers target Westerners in tourist areas.

International Financial Scams: See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime: If you or someone you know becomes the victim of a crime abroad, you should contact the local police and the U.S. embassy.

• Replace a stolen passport.
• Help you find appropriate medical care if you are the victim of violent crimes such as assault or rape.
• Put you in contact with the appropriate police authorities, and if you want us to, contact family members or friends.
• Direct you to local attorneys, although it is important to remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may have difficulty accessing sufficient social and/or medical support and local police have limited resources. The Embassy can provide information on the limited resources available in Tanzania to support survivors of domestic violence.

Sexual Assault: is a risk for all U.S. citizens and especially for women travelers.

• Victims of sexual assault may have difficulty accessing sufficient social and/or medical support.
• Local police have limited resources and investigations are often not completed. Prosecutions are very rare.

The local equivalent to the “911” emergency line in Tanzania is “111”, “112”, and “+255 787 668 306” however response times can be very slow and service unreliable.

Please see our information for victims of crime , including possible victim compensation programs in the United States.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: While you are traveling in Tanzania, you are subject to its laws. Foreign laws and legal systems can be vastly different from our own. Persons violating Tanzania’s laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.

• Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Tanzania are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
• Photographing military installations is forbidden. Individuals have been detained and/or had their cameras confiscated for taking photos of hospitals, schools, bridges, industrial sites and airports. Sites where photography is prohibited are not always marked.
• It is illegal to import or export an animal or animal part without export certification from the Tanzanian government.
• It is illegal to gather, collect, or remove flora or fauna, including seashells, ebony or mpingo wood.

Furthermore, certain acts of U.S. citizens overseas are prosecutable as crimes in the United States even if they are not illegal under the local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad .

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

What to Wear: While visiting Tanzania, you should dress modestly outside of the hotel or resort. Entering public areas in a bathing suit or in clothes that would be deemed immodest according to the local community may attract negative public attention.

Ramadan: During the holy month of Ramadan, when Muslims fast during daylight hours, U.S. citizens should be mindful and respectful of local culture and religious views.

Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers: Consensual same-sex sexual relations are a criminal offense in Tanzania. Those convicted may be sentenced to up to 30 years in prison. Authorities use the penal code to intimidate and arrest individuals based on their real or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity. Individuals detained under suspicion of same-sex sexual conduct may be subject to or threatened with forced anal examinations.

Members of the LGBTQI+ community may be denied entry to Tanzania by immigration authorities (including on Zanzibar) or once admitted may be targeted, harassed, and/or charged with unrelated offenses.

Public displays of affection between persons of the same sex may be met with harassment or violence. Non-governmental organizations that support the LGBTQI+ community and their staff may also be targeted, harassed, or have staff members detained by local authorities.

For more detailed information about respect for the human rights of LGBTQI+ persons in Tanzania, you may review the State Department’s annual Country Reports on Human Rights Practices . For further information specific to LGBTQI+ travel, please read our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page .

The Tanzanian government does not accept passports with the “X” gender marker. This applies to travel to, within, or through Tanzania.

Accessibility: Individuals may find accessible accommodation challenging to find in Tanzania. Sidewalks are nearly non-existent and there are frequent power outages.

Medical Emergencies, Ambulance Services:

• Are unreliable and/or not easily accessible throughout the country. Travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital.
• Not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.
• Click  here  to access the list of medical facilities in Tanzania from the Embassy website. 

The Department of State, U.S. embassies and U.S. consulates do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas, including in Tanzania. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage . We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

Prescription Medication: Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.  Check with the Embassy of Tanzania in Washington D.C. to ensure the medication is legal in Tanzania.

You can find detailed information on vaccinations and other health precautions on the CDC website .  For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad, consult the World Health Organization (WHO) website , which contains additional health information for travelers, including detailed country-specific health information .

Water Quality & Food Safety

• In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.
• If ascending Mount Kilimanjaro or other mountains in Tanzania, be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness, and take precautions before you travel.
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes.

Adventure Travel

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel.

Travel and Transportation

TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in Tanzania, you may encounter dangerous road conditions. Road accidents are a major threat to travelers in Tanzania. Roads are poorly maintained and often bumpy, potholed, and unpaved. Even good roads may deteriorate quickly due to weather conditions. Travelers should note that traffic moves on the left side of the road, which can be very disorienting to those not accustomed to it.

• Beware of vehicles traveling at excessive speed, and unpredictable local driving habits.
• Many vehicles are poorly maintained and lack basic safety equipment.
• Heavy traffic jams, either due to rush hour or because of accidents, are common.
• Vehicles may cross the median strip and drive against the flow of traffic.
• During the rainy season ((late March to mid-June and mid-November to mid-December), many roads in Tanzania, both urban and rural, are passable only with four-wheel-drive vehicles.
• Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information.

Traffic Laws: Tanzanian law requires all motor vehicle operators to be in possession of a valid driver’s license. Persons staying in Tanzania for fewer than six months may use a valid U.S. driver’s license after validation by local traffic authorities, or an international driver’s license. Persons intending to remain in Tanzania for more than six months are required to obtain a Tanzanian driver’s license. All vehicles are required to carry third-party liability insurance and to post the decal in the front window.

Public Transport:

• Use taxis or hire a driver from a reputable source.
• Travelers should avoid using public buses known as “dala-dalas”; three-wheeled taxis known as “bajajis”; and motorcycle taxis called “boda-bodas”. These modes of transport are often poorly maintained and ignore traffic rules.
• When traveling to Zanzibar by ferry, use the high-speed ferry and purchase your tickets from inside the ferry terminal or online in advance. Tickets should include your name, date of travel, and class of travel.

Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Tanzania, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Tanzania's   Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the  FAA's safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Tanzania should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website  and the  NGA broadcast warnings website .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Tanzania . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

Adoption Notices

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