Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
\nFCDO advises against all but essential travel to any area within 20km of the Tanzanian border with the Cabo Delgado province of Mozambique, due to attacks by groups linked with Islamic extremism.
\n\nFind out more about why FCDO advises against travel.
\n\nNo travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:
\n\nIf you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.
\n\nFCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.
\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\nThis information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Tanzania’s current rules for the most common types of travel.
\n\nThe authorities in Tanzania set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Tanzania High Commission in the UK.
\n\nTo enter Tanzania, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive and at least one blank page.
\n\nCheck with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
\n\nYou will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
\n\nWhen returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or proof of right of abode. See Dual Citizenship.
\n\nYou must have a tourist or business visa to enter Tanzania.
\n\nIf you are planning to work or volunteer, you will also need a work permit. Information on how to apply is available from the Tanzanian Prime Minister’s Office.
\n\nYour employer or volunteer organisation should help you arrange this before you travel.
\n\nIf you overstay your visa or permit you can be arrested, detained and fined before being deported.
\n\nThe Tanzanian Immigration Department has more information on visas.
\n\nApply for an ‘e-visa’ before you travel. It is no longer possible to get a visa from the Tanzanian High Commission in London.
\n\nYou can also get a tourist or business visa for a single entry on arrival at the main ports of entry to Tanzania, subject to meeting all immigration requirements. You may be asked to provide proof of your return journey. You will not be able to get a multiple entry visa on arrival.
\n\nYou must be ready to show your return or onward ticket at border control.
\n\nOn 18 May, the Tanzania Ministry of Health issued a Travel Advisory note announcing heightened health screening measures for travellers arriving into Tanzania from Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared this a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
\n\nYou will need to pass through mpox screening, in the form of body temperature checks, at all points of entry into Tanzania.
\n\nAll visitors to Zanzibar (excluding residents) must have mandatory Inbound Travel Insurance from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC) for the duration of their stay (up to 92 days).
\n\nYou can only buy this insurance from ZIC. Other international travel insurance policies will not be accepted. Go to the Visit Zanzibar website for more information.
\n\nYou may be refused entry if you do not have the correct insurance.
\n\nIf you have any questions that are not covered on the website, contact ZIC by emailing inbound@zic.co.tz.
\n\nTo enter Tanzania, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk.
\n\nFor full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Tanzania guide.
\n\nThere are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Tanzania. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.
\n\nDo not bring animal skin accessories into Tanzania as you risk questioning or detention when leaving the country.
\n\nBorder officials have arrested foreigners for trying to take wildlife items, including horns and seashells, out of the country. It’s illegal to do this without a certified export permit from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism. If you’re caught you could be detained or fined.
\n\n","slug":"entry-requirements","title":"Entry requirements"},{"body":"This guide also has safety advice for regions of Tanzania.
\n\nThere is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
\n\nUK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
\n\nTerrorist attacks in Tanzania cannot be ruled out.
\n\nTerrorist attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by foreign nationals, such as:
\n\nStay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.
\n\nExtremists linked to the Islamic terrorist group Al-Shabaab based in Somalia pose a threat across the East Africa region, and are thought to be active in Tanzania. Attacks by IS-Mozambique, who are based in the Cabo Delgado province of Mozambique, are possible near Tanzania’s border with this area of Mozambique. There is also thought to be some support for Daesh (formerly referred to as ISIL). The Tanzanian authorities have successfully made a number of arrests in connection to terrorism. However, many incidents in Tanzania are of unclear origin and may be conducted by criminal gangs.
\n\nIn 2020, the village of Kitaya in the Mtwara region was attacked, close to the border with Mozambique, the attack was claimed by Islamic extremists operating from northern Mozambique. Most attacks target the local security forces, although attacks against western interests are also possible.
\n\nA general election took place on 29 October 2025. Protests and the resulting security response led to fatalities and injuries in many areas of mainland Tanzania.
\n\nPrevious elections in Zanzibar have turned violent and resulted in fatalities.
\n\nFurther demonstrations, including violent responses by security forces, are possible at any time. There have been calls on social media for demonstrations to take place on public holidays.
\n\nBe aware that there has been an increase in anti-foreigner rhetoric.
\n\nStay away from all demonstrations, rallies and large crowds, and monitor social media and local media for up-to-date information. If you become aware of any nearby protests or disruption leave the area immediately.
\n\nThe authorities have previously limited internet access during or after protests. Make a note of important phone numbers including your airline travel operator, insurance company and the FCDO’s consular assistance number in case the internet is not accessible.
\n\nIt is illegal to take or share photographs and video footage of protests and violence. Keep away from activities that could be considered political, including political discussions in public places or online. There is a risk you could be detained for social media activities including posting comments, blogging or sharing photographs or video footage relating to protests or the current political situation.
\n\nTanzanian security services may request to check your phone and other electronic devices for content related to the events around elections, and to review participation in online groups perceived to have incited violence. The police have said that it is an offence to hold or share videos or images that ‘cause panic or degrade a person’s dignity’.
\n\nThere is a risk of armed crime, including armed robbery, throughout Tanzania. Take particular care in places frequented by tourists and foreign residents. In Dar es Salaam, tourists and residents have been targeted:
\n\nIn Zanzibar incidents have taken place in Stone Town and at hotels and on popular tourist beaches throughout the island.
\n\nBag snatching is a well-known tactic of criminals, who may operate from cars or motorbikes. If you are walking on the street:
\n\nDo not carry large amounts of cash or display valuables such as expensive jewellery or watches. Leave your passport in a safe place and carry a copy for ID checks.
\n\nWhen in a vehicle, keep car doors locked, windows up and valuables out of sight. Be particularly careful at night when there is a higher incidence of crime. Do not stop if pedestrians or hitchhikers try to flag you down.
\n\nIncidents of assault, rape and sexual aggression against foreigners have occurred, including at beach resorts.
\n\nYou can take steps to reduce your risk:
\n\nIf you’re a victim of a sexual assault or other crime, you can report it to the British High Commission in Dar es Salaam. Consular staff can help:
\n\nSee FCDO’s guidance for victims of rape and sexual assault in Tanzania.
\n\nIn Dar es Salaam, tourists have been ‘express kidnapped’. This means they’ve been assaulted, robbed and forced with the threat of violence to withdraw cash from ATMs. Some have been forced to arrange cash transfers of up to £5,000 through Western Union after being befriended by strangers or getting into unlicensed taxis.
\n\nBurglary is a risk. Make sure residential property is secure and lock all doors and windows, especially at night. If where you’re staying has a security guard, they should insist on official identification before allowing anyone to enter your property or compound. If in doubt, do not let strangers in and raise the alarm.
\n\nThere have been cases where women travelling alone and in small groups have been verbally harassed.
\n\nYou should respect local laws and customs.
\n\nIf you are arrested or detained for any reason, you can insist that the British High Commission is notified immediately.
\n\nThere is a high proportion of Muslims in Tanzania, particularly in Zanzibar and Pemba. Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions. Make sure your actions do not cause offence, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas.
\n\nAlways carry copies of your passport photo page and visa. Carry your work permit, if you have one. Immigration officials or police can request these documents at any time, so make sure you can get the originals quickly if you need them. If you’re a resident or longer term visitor, consider getting certified copies.
\n\nRamadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. During this time, avoid eating or drinking in public, outside of hotels or restaurants. Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.
\n\nDress modestly throughout Tanzania. Women wearing shorts or sleeveless tops away from tourist resorts in Zanzibar and Pemba, particularly in Stone Town, may cause offence to the local population.
\n\nZanzibari authorities can fine you 700 US dollars or more if you’re wearing what they consider inappropriate clothing in public. For guides or tour operators, the fine can be at least 1,000 US dollars.
\n\nPlastic bags are banned for environmental reasons. If you arrive by air you’ll be asked to hand over all plastic bags on arrival. The ban does not include ‘ziplock’ bags for airline security procedures.
\n\nTanzania has strict laws on drug use. There may be severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences which can be applied both for supplying and simple possession of any drugs, including when transiting through the airport.
\n\nAirports in Tanzania have technology and security for detecting illegal items, including cannabis. This can be used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers.
\n\nTanzanian prisons tend to be dirty and overcrowded.
\n\nReports made to the British High Commission by Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) British passport holders suggest that they are experiencing additional levels of harassment from immigration officials. If this happens, stay calm and ask that the British High Commission is immediately informed.
\n\nSame-sex sexual activity is illegal in Tanzania, including Zanzibar. Same-sex relationships are not tolerated in Tanzania’s conservative society. If you show affection in public, like holding hands or kissing in public places, you could be arrested or put in prison.
\n\nRead more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
\n\nUS dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. Travellers cheques are not widely accepted.
\n\nMost banks in major cities have ATMs that accept foreign debit cards and issue Tanzanian shillings. They sometimes break down or run out of money.
\n\nWidespread cash shortages were reported in the days of political unrest that followed the 29 October 2025 election.
\n\nTo minimise the risk of card cloning, use ATMs located within the bank. If you try to exchange non-Bank of England pound notes, you may get a reduced exchange rate.
\n\nIf you’re visiting game reserves and national parks, always follow park regulations and advice from wardens.
\n\nOnly use reputable tour operators. Do not buy safari tours from touts. The Tanzanian Association of Tour Operators (TATO) TATO – Tanzania Association of Tour Operators – Tour Operators Association of Tanzania (tatotz.org) maintains a list of licensed tour companies.
\n\nIf you are trekking or climbing, only use a reputable travel company, stick to established routes and always walk in groups. Make sure you are well prepared and equipped to cope with the terrain and low temperatures.
\n\nThe UK Air Safety List (ASL) lists all airlines certified by the authorities with responsibility for regulatory oversight of Tanzania. These airlines are banned from operating commercial air services to, from, and within the United Kingdom. Check the UK Air Safety List when considering which airlines to fly with. The list is maintained by the Department for Transport, based on advice from the UK Civil Aviation Authority.
\n\nIf you’re planning to drive in Tanzania, see information on driving abroad.
\n\nThe condition of cars rented out by some car hire companies is variable, so use a reputable firm. There are no roadside rescue or breakdown services. Road maps are hard to come by and not always up to date. Service stations are infrequent and may not have supplies of fuel. Consider using reputable taxis as an alternative.
\n\nWidespread fuel shortages were reported in the days of political unrest that followed the 29 October 2025 election.
\n\nYou can drive in Tanzania with a UK driving licence for up to 6 months. For stays longer than this, an international driving permit (IDP) is required. Keep this with you in the car. To confirm the correct IDP to use, contact the Tanzanian High Commission in the UK.
\n\nTo drive in Zanzibar, you’ll also need a local Zanzibar driving permit (which you can get through your hire car company). Carry several copies of your driving licence, permits and insurance documents.
\n\nRoad users often drive dangerously, ignoring the rules of the road. Accidents resulting in death and serious injury are common.
\n\nWatch out for:
\n\nMany roads need repair, including in major towns and cities. During the rainy season, flooding can cause landslides and road surfaces can deteriorate.
\n\nRoads in Tanzania’s national parks, mainly dirt tracks, can become hazardous or impassable after heavy rain. It may be essential to have a 4-wheel drive vehicle.
\n\nAvoid driving outside major towns and cities at night.
\n\nThere are frequent police checkpoints. If you’re stopped by the police, ask to see identification. If you are issued with a fine, the police should give you a government control number for payment. The police should not ask you to make any on the spot payments for traffic violations. If you’re involved in a road accident, co-operate with the local police.
\n\nIf you see an unusual incident, or if somebody in plain clothes tries to flag you down, it is often safer not to stop.
\n\nLocal buses (‘dala dalas’), motorbike taxis (‘boda bodas’), and tuk-tuks (known locally as ‘bijajis’) can have poor safety standards. They are often poorly maintained and badly driven. They rarely have proper insurance cover. There are frequent accidents, some of which result in fatalities.
\n\nDo not accept lifts from strangers or anyone offering to find a taxi for you. It is safest to arrange a taxi through a hotel or travel operator. Always ask to see the driver’s ID and use reputable taxi services.
\n\nPickpockets and bag-snatchers operate on overcrowded buses and at bus stations.
\n\nThere have been several accidents on Tanzanian railways. Seek local advice for any long-distance train travel.
\n\nIn the last few years there have been several ferry disasters. Hundreds of people have died when travelling:
\n\nIf you think a ferry is overloaded or not seaworthy, do not get on. If you do board, familiarise yourself with emergency procedures on board and make a note of where the life jackets and emergency exits are located.
\n\nYou should also beware of aggressive ticket touts at Tanzanian ports.
\n\nContinual pirate attacks on vessels sailing off the coast of Somalia and in the Gulf of Aden show that the threat of piracy remains significant. The threat assessment of the combined international naval counter-piracy forces is that all sailing yachts under their own passage should avoid the designated high-risk area or accept the risk of being hijacked and held hostage for ransom. For more information and advice, see Piracy and armed robbery at sea.
\n\nFind out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.
\n\nThe length of rainy seasons can vary, but they generally run from:
\n\nHeavy rainfall and strong winds can affect travel. Flooding and landslides can occur during heavy rain. If travelling to affected regions, you should take extra care and follow any advice given by the local authorities.
\n\nMonitor local and international weather reports and the TMA website for the latest updates. If travelling, plan your journeys carefully and make sure to follow local guidance.
\n\nAvoid walking, swimming, or driving through floodwater.
\n\nEarthquakes and tremors are a risk in Tanzania. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.
\n\nThe last significant earthquake (magnitude 6.0) happened on 12 August 2020, 66km north-east of Mafia Island.
\n\n","slug":"safety-and-security","title":"Safety and security"},{"body":"This section has safety advice for regions of Tanzania. It only covers regions where The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has specific advice.
\n\nYou should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.
\n\nFCDO advises against all but essential travel to any area within 20km of the Tanzanian border with the Cabo Delgado province of Mozambique, due to attacks by groups linked with Islamic extremism.
\n\nThe presence of groups linked to Islamic extremism in Cabo Delgado is creating cross-border tensions and instability. There is a risk of violent attacks. An attack on Kitaya village in October 2020 was claimed by groups linked to Islamic extremism operating from northern Mozambique.
\n\nThere have been armed robberies in the area bordering Burundi and in Kigoma region, including vehicle hijackings. Drive only in hours of daylight. There are few facilities for visitors.
\n\nSome parks are extremely remote, and emergency access and evacuation can be difficult. If you choose to camp, only use official sites. Make sure you are properly equipped and seek local advice when travelling to isolated areas.
\n\nThere are risks associated with viewing wildlife, particularly on foot or at close range. Always follow park regulations and advice from wardens, and make sure you have the correct documentation or permit before entering a national park.
\n\n","slug":"regional-risks","title":"Regional risks"},{"body":"Before you travel check that:
\n\nThis is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
\n\nCall 112 and ask for an ambulance.
\n\nContact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
\n\nAt least 8 weeks before your trip:
\n\nSee what health risks you’ll face in Tanzania, including:
\n\nAltitude sickness is a risk in parts of Tanzania. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.
\n\nThe legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
\n\nRead best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
\n\nMedical facilities are limited, especially outside Dar es Salaam.
\n\nFCDO has a list of medical providers in Tanzania where some staff will speak English.
\n\nRead FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.
\n\n","slug":"health","title":"Health"},{"body":"The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.
\n\nTelephone: 112 (ambulance, fire, police)
\n\nContact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.
\n\nFor refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.
\n\nFind out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:
\n\nFCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:
\n\nSee how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.
\n\nYou can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.
\n\nTelephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)
\n\n\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\nThe Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Tanzania on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.
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