COVID-19

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to within 20km of the border with Mozambique, in the Mtwara Region, due to the threat of militant attacks, terrorism and kidnapping (level 3 of 4).

Exercise increased caution

Exercise increased caution elsewhere in Tanzania due to violent crime and the threat of terrorism (level 2 of 4).

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Tanzania

Violent crime
Violent crime, including mugging and armed robbery, is common in Tanzania, including in Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam and Arusha. There are regular reports of crime along the Toure Drive on Msasani Peninsula. Other violent crime, such as carjacking, armed home invasions, and sexual assault, also occurs. Petty crime, including bag-snatching (particularly by passing vehicles) and pickpocketing, is particularly prevalent in public places, urban areas and popular tourist spots. Thieves tend to target travellers in isolated or coastal areas. 

There is a particular risk of armed robbery and banditry in the provinces of Kigoma and Kagera, near the borders with Rwanda, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo. There have also been reports of armed bandits around Mount Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti and Arusha National Parks.

New Zealanders in Tanzania are advised to be vigilant at all times, particularly in places frequented by tourists, and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings. We advise against walking and travelling at night, especially to isolated areas, including deserted beaches. As victims of robbery are often targeted due to their perceived wealth, we advise against wearing or displaying items that appear valuable, such as mobile devices or jewellery.

No resistance should be given if you are the victim of a robbery, mugging or carjacking, as this could lead to an escalation in violence. Victims of bag snatchers from moving vehicles have been dragged behind vehicles.

Make sure your residential property or accommodation is secure at all times, especially at night. When driving, you should keep doors locked, windows up and any valuables out of sight.

There have been incidents of drink spiking followed by robbery and assault reported in Tanzania. Extra care should be taken to ensure your food and drink is never left unattended. We recommend against accepting drinks from strangers or recent acquaintances.

If you’re stopped by police, always ask for ID, especially before paying any fines.

Beware of ATM and credit card fraud. Avoid using ATMs that look temporary in structure or location, and only use ATMs in well-lit public areas or inside banks.

Kidnapping
Express kidnappings, where criminals abduct a victim for a short period of time and force them to withdraw funds from their bank account at an ATM, occur, particularly in Dar es Salaam. This has been known to occur after tourists are befriended by strangers or when using unlicensed taxis. We advise against accepting unsolicited offers of assistance and recommend that you pre-book taxis, preferably arranged through a reputable establishment such as your hotel. 

Terrorism
There is an increasing threat of terrorism in Tanzania, including in Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, and particularly near the border with Mozambique in the Mtwara region and in other border areas. Most attacks target local security forces but attacks against Western interests and other groups are possible. In October 2020, an attack in Kitaya village was claimed by groups linked to Islamic extremists, who were operating from Northern Mozambique. 

New Zealanders in Tanzania are advised to keep themselves informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media and other local information sources. We recommend following any instructions issued by the local authorities and exercising vigilance in public places, particularly at tourist sites, hotels, embassies, shopping areas, places of worship and transport hubs.

Civil unrest
Demonstrations and political rallies do occur in Tanzania and have, on occasion, led to violence. They can also disrupt local public services and transport. New Zealanders in Tanzania are advised to avoid all protests and demonstrations and comply with any instructions and restrictions issued by the local authorities.

Transport safety
Use only well-maintained public transport and taxis. When using a taxi, arrange it through a reputable establishment.  You should avoid using minibuses (dala dala) and three-wheeled taxis, due to poor safety standards and dangerous driving practices. 

There are limited rail services and maintenance standards are low.

Road travel can be hazardous, roads and vehicles are often in poor condition. Drivers often drive at excessive speeds and can disregard road rules, accidents are common.

Maritime safety
There have been serious ferry accidents off the coast of Tanzania and on lake Victoria in the past, resulting in hundreds of casualties. We recommend you do not board any ferry which you believe is overloaded or unseaworthy. 

Piracy, including attacks and kidnappings, has been reported in the coastal waters off Tanzania. Mariners are advised to be vigilant and take appropriate precautionary measures in these waters. For more information view the International Maritime Bureau's piracy report.

General travel advice
Modesty and discretion should be exercised in both dress and behaviour in areas away from tourist resorts, particularly in Zanzibar, to avoid offending local sensitivities. Same-sex activity is illegal and jail terms are lengthy. Harassment and intimidation of those suspected of engaging in same-sex relations, by both law enforcement and members of the public, is a regular occurrence. 

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include lengthy imprisonment or fines.

It is a legal requirement to carry a form of identification with you at all times. Failure to produce them could result in a fine or arrest. 

New Zealanders travelling or living in Tanzania should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

New Zealanders in Tanzania are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

• For current health alerts

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The New Zealand High Commission Pretoria, South Africa is accredited to Tanzania

Street Address 125 Middel Street, Nieuw Muckleneuk, 0181 Pretoria, South Africa Postal Address Private Bag X27, Brooklyn Square 0075, Pretoria, South Africa Telephone +27 12 435 9000 Email enquiries@nzhc.co.za Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/south-africa Hours Mon - Fri 0800 - 1630hrs

See our regional advice for Africa