Is Tanzania Safe to Travel to in 2026?

The United States maintains a Level 2 travel advisory for Tanzania as of 31st October 2025, recommending increased caution due to crime and terrorism risks in specific regions. Most of Tanzania's 61.7 million population centres and primary tourist destinations remain secure for international visitors.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office rates Tanzania as generally safe, whilst Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs advises exercising "a high degree of caution" due to violent crime and civil unrest risks. These assessments reflect Tanzania's complex security landscape, where established safari circuits operate safely alongside problematic border regions.

Tanzania welcomed 1.5 million international visitors in 2024, with the vast majority experiencing no security incidents. The country's tourism infrastructure spans 947,300 square kilometres, from Mount Kilimanjaro in the north to the Selous Game Reserve in the south.

The Current Situation

Armed insurgency in northern Mozambique continues to affect Tanzania's southern Mtwara Region. The Canadian government specifically warns against non-essential travel to areas between the A19 highway and the Mozambique border, citing "armed groups, terrorism threats and kidnapping risks".

This insurgency, led by Ahlu Sunnah Wa-Jama (ASWJ), has displaced over 946,000 people in Mozambique's Cabo Delgado province since 2017. Cross-border incidents peaked in 2020 when militants briefly occupied the Mozambican town of Mocímboa da Praia, 180 kilometres south of the Tanzanian border.

Tanzania's military deployed additional forces to the southern border in 2021. The Tanzanian Defence Force maintains forward operating bases in Mtwara and Lindi regions, according to local security sources. Regional cooperation through the Southern African Development Community has strengthened border monitoring capabilities.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan's government has maintained robust counter-terrorism operations whilst preserving tourist access to major attractions. The Northern Safari Circuit, including Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, operates without security restrictions.

Regional Safety Breakdown

Northern Tanzania presents minimal security risks. Kilimanjaro International Airport, 46 kilometres from Arusha, processes over 800,000 passengers annually with standard security protocols. The 14,763-square-kilometre Serengeti ecosystem maintains regular anti-poaching patrols that enhance visitor security.

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania's largest city with 6.7 million residents, experiences typical urban crime levels. The diplomatic quarter in Msasani Peninsula remains well-policed, though petty crime affects tourists in Kariakoo Market and along the waterfront.

Central Tanzania, including Dodoma and the route to Ruaha National Park, presents low security risks. The 570-kilometre drive from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma uses well-maintained roads with regular police checkpoints.

Zanzibar's semi-autonomous status includes separate security arrangements. The archipelago's 1.9 million annual visitors face minimal crime, though conservative Islamic customs require respectful behaviour, particularly outside Stone Town's tourist areas.

Southern regions require careful assessment. Whilst the western areas around Ruaha National Park remain accessible, the southeastern districts of Mtwara and parts of Lindi require security briefings before travel.

Crime & Safety

Petty crime dominates Tanzania's security challenges for tourists. Street robbery affects 3-4% of visitors annually, according to tourism police statistics from 2024. Pickpocketing concentrates around bus stations, markets and beaches.

Violent crime remains relatively uncommon but occurs sporadically. Armed robbery incidents increased 12% in 2024 compared to 2023, primarily in Dar es Salaam's outlying districts. Tourist-targeted incidents typically involve opportunistic theft rather than planned attacks.

Road safety presents significant risks. Tanzania records approximately 4,000 traffic fatalities annually across its 91,000-kilometre road network. Rural roads lack consistent maintenance, whilst urban areas suffer from aggressive driving standards and inadequate traffic enforcement.

Wildlife encounters require professional guidance. Self-drive safaris carry inherent risks, with 15-20 incidents annually involving tourist vehicles and large mammals. Licensed guides undergo mandatory safety training through the Tanzania Tourism Association.

LGBTQ+ travellers face legal and social challenges. Homosexuality remains criminalised under colonial-era legislation, carrying potential 30-year sentences. Whilst prosecutions are rare, discretion is essential throughout Tanzania, including Zanzibar.

Entry Requirements & Practicalities

British nationals require visas obtainable online through Tanzania's eVisa system at a cost of $50. Processing typically takes 5-10 business days. Passports must remain valid for six months beyond the intended departure date.

Yellow fever vaccination certificates are mandatory for travellers arriving from endemic countries. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for all regions below 1,800 metres elevation, covering most tourist destinations except highland areas around Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel insurance covering medical evacuation is strongly recommended. The nearest advanced medical facilities for northern safari circuits are in Nairobi, Kenya, approximately 280 kilometres from Arusha. Zanzibar's Aga Khan Hospital provides the highest standard care on the islands.

Mobile network coverage reaches 89% of Tanzania's territory through Vodacom, Airtel and Tigo networks. Internet connectivity has improved significantly, with 4G available in all major towns and tourist areas.

Banking facilities accept international cards in major centres. ATMs dispense Tanzanian shillings in denominations up to 10,000 TSh notes. Remote areas require cash planning, as card facilities may be unavailable.

What Travellers Should Do Now

Book accommodations through established operators with proven security protocols. The Tanzania Tourism Association maintains a database of licensed operators meeting international safety standards.

Register with your embassy upon arrival. British nationals should use the Foreign Office's travel registration service. This facilitates communication during emergencies and enables consular assistance if required.

Obtain comprehensive travel insurance covering adventure activities and medical evacuation. Standard policies may exclude safari activities, requiring specialist coverage costing £80-120 for two-week trips.

Monitor security updates through official channels. The Tanzania Tourism Board publishes weekly security briefings during peak season. Local conditions can change rapidly, particularly in border regions.

Plan flexible itineraries avoiding the Mtwara-Mozambique border zone. Alternative southern access to wildlife areas uses the western routes through Iringa region, adding approximately 200 kilometres but ensuring security.

Key Facts:

  • Tanzania maintains Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution) travel advisory status as of March 2026
  • The Mtwara Region border area with Mozambique remains off-limits due to armed insurgency risks
  • Northern safari circuits including Serengeti and Kilimanjaro operate with minimal security restrictions
  • Petty crime affects 3-4% of visitors annually, concentrated in urban areas and transport hubs