Risk level

Safety and security

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)

Crime

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
• markets
• 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:

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

In Zanzibar, exercise increased caution in and around:

• Stone Town
• Nungwi
• Paje
• Jambiani

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
• burglary
• 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

Terrorism

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
• schools
• 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:

• detentions
• 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.

Roads

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:

• potholes
• 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 fine on-the-spot for a traffic violation, ask for a copy of the written fine, which is payable later, or insist on going to the nearest police station

Fraud

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

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

Trains

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.

Ferries

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

Piracy

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

Air travel

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

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

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.

Passport

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.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Visas

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.

Useful links

• 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.

Useful links

• 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).

Health

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. 

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. 

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.

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.  

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.

Travel health and safety

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.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

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

Drugs

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

Alcohol

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:

• hospitals
• schools
• bridges
• industrial sites
• airports

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:

• drinking
• eating
• smoking

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+ travellers

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

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

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

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.

Travellers with dual citizenship

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.

Useful links

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

Driving

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

Vehicles drive on the left.

International Driving Permit

Money

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.

Natural disasters and climate

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

Cyclones

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.

Useful links

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