Elia Safaris
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Tanzania safari safety

Tanzania is generally a safe destination for safari travelers, but it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure your trip is enjoyable and secure. Here are key tips and guidelines to keep in mind for a safe Tanzania safari:

1. Wildlife Safety

  • Stay in the Vehicle: On game drives, remain inside the safari vehicle at all times unless your guide says it’s safe to get out. Wild animals can be unpredictable.
  • Listen to Your Guide: Your safari guide is trained in wildlife behavior and safety. Always follow their instructions to avoid dangerous situations.
  • Keep Distance: Avoid getting too close to animals, especially large ones like elephants, lions, or hippos. Give them space, and use binoculars or a camera for a closer view.
  • Avoid Feeding Wildlife: Feeding animals can make them dependent on humans and lead to aggressive behavior.
  • Night Safety: If you’re staying at a camp or lodge, be cautious at night. Many camps are unfenced, so animals may wander close. Always ask for an escort to your tent or room after dark.

2. Health and Medical Safety

  • Malaria Prevention: Tanzania is a malaria-prone country. Take antimalarial medication, wear long sleeves and pants in the evening, and use insect repellent with DEET.
  • Vaccinations: Ensure you’re up-to-date on necessary vaccinations such as yellow fever, hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus. Yellow fever vaccination is required if you’re coming from a country with yellow fever risk.
  • Travel Insurance: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellations.
  • First-Aid Kit: Bring a basic first-aid kit with essential items like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need.

3. Personal Safety

  • Secure Your Belongings: Keep valuables like passports, money, and electronics locked away in your lodge’s safe. Carry only what you need on game drives.
  • Local Scams: Be cautious in crowded areas like markets or towns to avoid pickpockets or scams. Stick to reputable vendors and ask your guide for advice when buying souvenirs.
  • Water Safety: Avoid drinking tap water. Stick to bottled water provided by your lodge or safari operator to prevent waterborne diseases like cholera or diarrhea.

4. Weather and Climate Safety

  • Sun Protection: Tanzania can be very hot, especially during the day. Wear sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to protect against sunburn and heatstroke.
  • Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Bottled water is usually provided by camps and lodges.
  • Cold Mornings/Evenings: Even though it’s hot during the day, mornings and evenings can be cool, especially on early game drives. Bring layers, such as a light jacket or fleece, to stay warm.

5. Security in Camps and Lodges

  • Use Escorts at Night: Many camps are located in wildlife areas, so always ask for an escort when walking at night, especially in unfenced camps.
  • Secure Your Tent: Keep your tent or lodge room zipped or locked when you’re not inside, as monkeys and other animals may try to enter.
  • Fire Safety: If your camp has a bonfire or uses lanterns, be cautious around open flames.

6. Road Safety

  • Vehicle Maintenance: Safaris often take place in remote areas with rugged terrain. Make sure your safari operator uses well-maintained 4×4 vehicles equipped with radios and emergency kits.
  • Driving Conditions: Road conditions can vary, especially during the rainy season, when dirt roads can become muddy and impassable. Always trust your driver’s judgment in such conditions.
  • Seat Belts: Always wear seat belts when the vehicle is moving, especially when driving on bumpy roads or off-road tracks.

7. Cultural Respect and Safety

  • Photography Etiquette: Always ask permission before taking photos of local people, especially in Maasai villages or other rural areas. In some places, photos without consent may be considered disrespectful.
  • Dress Modestly: While on safari, neutral and comfortable clothing is key, but in towns or villages, dress modestly to respect local customs. Avoid flashy jewelry or expensive items that could attract attention.

8. Emergency Contacts

  • Use Reputable Currency Exchange: Exchange money at authorized bureaus or banks. Avoid exchanging money in unofficial places, as you might receive counterfeit currency.
  • Card Payments: Credit cards are accepted in most high-end lodges, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash (in USD or Tanzanian Shillings) for tips or small purchases.

9. Currency and Payment Safety

  • Kachumbari: A fresh tomato and onion salad, often served as a side.
  • Pilau: A spiced rice dish, similar to biryani, often served with chicken, beef, or vegetables.
  • Chipsi Mayai: A popular street food, essentially an omelet with French fries cooked inside.

Safari meals in Tanzania are hearty and satisfying, blending international and local flavors to offer a unique culinary experience!

10. Communication and Connectivity

  • Mobile Coverage: Some remote safari areas may have limited cell phone coverage. It’s a good idea to notify someone of your itinerary before heading out, and your guide will have communication tools for emergencies.
  • Wi-Fi Availability: Many lodges and camps offer Wi-Fi, but it might be limited in speed and availability. It’s best not to rely on it for urgent needs.