Safety in Tanzania

'Is it safe to go on safari in Tanzania?' is probably one of the most common questions we get! Unfortunately it is a very difficult question to answer.

In our opinion and from our experience...yes, it is! We felt very comfortable at all times. It is worth noting though that we were with our safari guide at all times and had a very 'tourist driven' experience. We were not exploring the local communities and towns by ourselves.

The question, 'is Tanzania a safe country?' does not have a straightforward answer and we simply cannot guarantee anyone's safety! It's important to be aware that there are of course risks travelling to Tanzania, just like there are in many other countries!

Everyone's interpretation of what 'safe' is, is different and how comfortable you feel in certain situations simply comes down to you as an individual. Our comfort level may be different to your comfort level, so we can only provide our experience.

Do make sure you do LOTS of research! Check out your Government's Foreign Travel Advice before travelling to any country and never do anything you don't feel comfortable with.

There are usually two common safety aspects to consider when going on safari:

1. Are you safe from the wildlife?

2. Are you safe travelling within the regions?

1. Safety on safari from wildlife

In general, yes! We think safaris are safe and would always recommend you book with a reputable company. They have trained safari guides who will talk you through the safety aspects and are trained to interpret wildlife behaviour. Safari companies will ask you to sign a waiver on arrival and explain all of the risks to you.

Of course there is always a risk when you go on safari as these animals are wild and no one can guarantee what they will and won't do. However it's worth remembering that these animals have been habituated to safari vehicles and generally don't see them as a threat!

It is also worth noting that if you are staying within the parks, a number of the lodges are unfenced which means wildlife can walk through camp at any time. The camps will provide you with a communication device and you will be escorted if moving around the camp during the dark.

Some common general safety tips:

• Always listen to your guide

• When viewing animals, talk in a quiet voice and keep noise to a minimum

• ALWAYS stay inside your vehicle unless your guide has advised it's safe to get out

• Always follow advice from your lodge or camp

2. Safety in the regions

ALWAYS read and follow your Government's Foreign Travel Advice for Tanzania. Follow their guidance and instruction appropriately including whether it's safe to travel to a particular region. This is particularly important as it may make your travel insurance void if travelling against your government's guidelines.

Tanzania is generally regarded as one of the 'safest' safari destinations in Africa, however, like any other country in the world, there are of course risks travelling in the region.

We personally never felt uncomfortable when on safari in Tanzania. Our guide made us feel at ease at all times and there are usually a number of other tourists around you in the parks. We followed all suggested Foreign Travel Advice and followed the general safety tips below.

Some common general safety tips:

• Talk to your safari company/ guide or hotel to see if and where it is safe if you want to explore outside of a hotel. If you are unsure, then it's probably safer to stay in your hotel

• Always book a safari with a reputable company!

• Don't wear lots of jewellery or wear cameras around your neck. Don't draw attention to yourself by flashing expensive items

• Don't leave your accommodation after dark if advised against it

• Never walk anywhere in the dark and at night

• Always take a taxi arranged by your accommodation

• Don't carry large amounts of cash on you

• Leave your passport in a safe place or carry it with you.

• Always have copies of your passport and ID whilst travelling