Safety and insurance in Tanzania

Read your government's current travel advice for Tanzania before you book and again before you fly. This page summarises the UK FCDO advice as it stood when last checked.

Last checked: 1 November 2026. Rules, fees and advice change, so confirm them with the official source named at the end of this page before you book and again before you fly.

Areas to avoid

The UK FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 20 km of Tanzania's border with the Cabo Delgado province of Mozambique, because of attacks by groups linked to Islamic extremism. This zone is in the far south, away from the northern parks, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar.

Terrorist attacks cannot be ruled out. Possible targets include places of worship, transport hubs, hotels, restaurants and crowded events.

Crime

  • Armed robbery is a risk across the country. Tourists have been targeted in central Dar es Salaam, in Masaki and Oysterbay (including Coco Beach) and along Toure Drive.
  • In Zanzibar, incidents have been reported in Stone Town, at hotels and on popular beaches.
  • Bag snatching is common. Carry bags securely, avoid walking alone at night and keep cash to a minimum.
  • Use every lock in your room, and never leave a drink unattended.

Local laws

  • Same-sex sexual activity is illegal, including in Zanzibar, and public displays of affection can lead to arrest.
  • Drug penalties are severe, and some herbal and CBD products are illegal.
  • It is illegal to photograph or film protests and violence. Avoid political discussion in public and online; security services may check phones.
  • Carry copies of your passport photo page and visa at all times.
  • Dress modestly in Zanzibar away from the resorts.

On safari and on the mountain

  • Follow park rules and the instructions of rangers and wardens.
  • Book with a licensed operator. The FCDO points to the list kept by the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO). Do not buy safaris from touts.
  • On Kilimanjaro, use a reputable company, keep to established routes, walk in a group and be equipped for the cold.

Insurance

Two kinds of cover matter.

  • Tanzania's mandatory inbound travel insurance. Every non-resident visitor must buy it, even with a personal policy: from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation if you arrive in Zanzibar first, or from the National Insurance Corporation if you arrive on the mainland first. Check the current price on their official portals.
  • Your own travel insurance. Medical facilities are limited, especially outside Dar es Salaam. Choose a policy that covers treatment, medical evacuation and the activities you plan, including a Kilimanjaro climb, and check any altitude limit.

In an emergency, call 112. If you are referred to a hospital, contact your insurer as soon as you can.

Check before you travel

Sources: the UK FCDO travel advice for Tanzania (safety and security, entry requirements and health). The US Department of State also publishes travel advice for Tanzania. Check your own government's latest advice before you travel, as it can change quickly.