Safety Overview
Tanzania is generally one of the safest countries in Africa for tourists. The northern safari circuit is well-established with well-maintained tourist infrastructure, and violent crime against tourists is rare. Standard travel precautions apply — use common sense, stay aware of your surroundings and follow your guide's advice.
- The northern safari circuit (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire) is very safe and well-policed
- Stay aware of your belongings in crowded areas and cities
- Use hotel safes for valuables and keep copies of important documents
- Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas
- Register with your embassy if staying for an extended period
Health Tips
Health preparation is essential for a safe and comfortable Tanzania trip. Start planning your health precautions at least 6-8 weeks before departure.
- Take anti-malaria medication as prescribed by your doctor — start before arrival
- Drink only bottled or purified water — ice in tourist lodges is usually purified
- For Kilimanjaro, be aware of altitude sickness symptoms — headache, nausea, fatigue
- Use strong sunscreen and stay hydrated — the equatorial sun is intense
- Apply insect repellent at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active
- Carry a personal first aid kit with any prescription medications
Wildlife Safety
Encountering wildlife is the highlight of any Tanzania trip. Your guide is trained to keep you safe, but understanding the basics will help you appreciate the experience more fully.
- Always stay inside the vehicle during game drives unless told otherwise
- Keep noise levels low — loud sounds can disturb animals and attract unwanted attention
- Respect recommended distances from animals — at least 25 meters for most species
- Never feed or attempt to touch wild animals
- Follow your guide's instructions at all times — they read animal behavior expertly
- On walking safaris, stay close to your guide and move quietly
Cultural Etiquette
Tanzanians are warm and welcoming people. Showing respect for local customs will enrich your experience and create meaningful connections.
- Greetings are important — take a moment to say hello and ask how someone is doing
- Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in villages
- Dress modestly when visiting local communities and religious sites
- Use your right hand for giving and receiving items — the left hand is considered impolite
- Learn a few Swahili words — Jambo (hello), Asante (thank you), Habari (how are you)
Money Tips
Understanding how money works in Tanzania will help you avoid unnecessary hassle and get the best value from your trip.
- Carry US Dollars in small bills ($1, $5, $10, $20) — crisp, post-2006 notes preferred
- Tanzanian Shillings (TZS) for local purchases, markets and tips
- Use ATMs in major towns for TZS — they dispense local currency
- Credit cards accepted at larger hotels and lodges (Visa/Mastercard)
- Avoid street money changers — use official exchange bureaus or banks
- Park fees must be paid in US Dollars — factor this into your cash planning
Photography Tips
Capturing incredible wildlife photos is easier than you think with a few simple techniques and patience.
- Shoot during golden hour — the first and last hours of sunlight produce the best images
- Be silent and patient — the best shots come to those who wait
- A telephoto lens (200-400mm) is essential for close-up wildlife shots
- Focus on the eyes — sharp eyes make wildlife photos come alive
- Capture the landscape too — Tanzania scenery is as remarkable as its wildlife
- Carry spare batteries and memory cards — you will use more than expected
Tipping Guide
Tipping is customary in Tanzania and a significant part of the income for guides, drivers and camp staff. Here are the recommended guidelines:
| Service |
Recommended Amount |
Notes |
| Safari Guide |
$20 — $30 per day |
Per group, not per person. Split among travelers. |
| Safari Driver |
$10 — $15 per day |
If separate from the guide. |
| Cook (Safari) |
$10 — $15 per day |
For camping safaris with a dedicated cook. |
| Camp/Lodge Staff |
$10 — $20 per day |
Put in the communal tip box at the lodge. |
| Kilimanjaro Guide |
$20 — $30 per day |
Lead guide. Split among the trekking group. |
| Kilimanjaro Porters |
$5 — $10 per day |
Per porter. They carry heavy loads at altitude. |
| Kilimanjaro Cook |
$10 — $15 per day |
Prepares all meals on the mountain. |
Responsible Tourism
As a visitor to Tanzania, you have the power to make a positive impact. Follow these principles to travel responsibly.
- Leave no trace — take all rubbish with you, especially in parks and natural areas
- Respect wildlife — observe from a distance and never disturb animals
- Support local communities — buy souvenirs from local artisans and community projects
- Conserve water — water is precious in Tanzania, especially in rural areas
- Avoid single-use plastics — bring a reusable water bottle
- Ask before photographing people — and show them the photo afterwards