Several key travel-related services in the U.S. were limited during the government shutdown. While national parks and agencies like the TSA were unable to operate as normal, the U.S. Department of State remained active in issuing important travel advisories.
One of the travel advisories is an active “avoid all travel” warning for Mali amid serious safety risks. Around the same time the alert was raised, a “reconsider travel” advisory was also issued for another African country, Tanzania, the world’s most famous safari destination.
In 2024, Tanzania welcomed over two million visitors, which was quite a surge from its 2023 figures. However, the State Department has cautioned American travelers about various safety and security threats amid the political unrest and heightened discrimination in Tanzania presently.
The updated U.S. travel advisory for Tanzania was posted after the African nation’s controversial presidential election on Oct. 29. Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan is currently facing various accusations involving election irregularities and human rights abuses. Read on to learn about what is happening in Tanzania right now and how it is affecting safety and travel there.
Why The U.S. Slapped Tanzania With A “Reconsider Travel” Advisory
On Oct. 31, the U.S. State Department raised its travel advisory for Tanzania from Level 2 to Level 3, or “Reconsider travel.” The reasons cited are “unrest, crime, terrorism, and targeting of LGBTQ+ individuals.” There is also an increased risk in certain parts of the country. An unrest risk indicator was added as post-election demonstrations continue in Tanzania.
The warning also reminds U.S. travelers of the rampant violence in Tanzania, particularly crimes such as assault, sexual assault, robbery, mugging, and carjacking. The State Department adds that local police have “limited resources” in the East African nation, so tourists may not get the assistance they need.
Tanzania deals with serious terrorist attacks and violence, particularly in the Mtwara region, which shares a border with Mozambique and has an active presence of the violent extremist group, ISIS-Mozambique, known locally as Al-Shabaab.
Lastly, LGBT+ travelers must be aware that members of the gay and lesbian community have been targeted by the police and detained under suspicion of same-sex sexual relations, which could lead to “invasive physical exams.”
Safari Trips In Tanzania Are “Fully Operational” And “Safe” Amid The Unrest
On Nov. 13, Mussa Nasoro Kuji, the Conservation Commissioner of Tanzania’s National Park Authority (TANAPA), assured international tourists that the conservation areas and 21 national parks across Tanzania “remain fully operational” amid the unrest in a statement issued by the authority. He added that the safari sites are “safe” and “accessible” during this time, so those who have booked their trips in advance should definitely rethink canceling things first.
“No incidents targeting tourists were recorded before, during or after the election,” said Kuji in the statement.
Kuji shared that TANAPA worked closely with the authorities to make sure that Tanzania’s tourism does not get interrupted amid the protests. This is not limited to maintaining the safety and security of visitors, as the country also prides itself as one of the most hospitable destinations in Africa.
Tanzania has high hopes for its tourism industry following a remarkable 2024. That year, the country received 2,200,466 international visitors, which was a 17.5% increase from 2023. Some of the Tanzanian destinations that drew the most attention were the Zanzibar Archipelago, Serengeti National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro, and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
This rise in popularity has earned Tanzania approximately $3.4 billion in 2024. The tourism sector contributes about 17.2% to Tanzania’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and has produced more than 1.5 million job opportunities. It is certainly one of the world’s most famous safari destinations, alongside Kenya and South Africa’s Kruger National Park.
Travel Safety Tips For Tanzania
If you decide to travel to Tanzania, stick to the major tourist areas mentioned above, especially the safari spots. These places are generally safer, but visitors must still be aware of other risks out there or in areas nearby. For instance, driving conditions there could be dangerous, and traffic accidents are common.
If you are booking a tour, book tour operators with reputable drivers to show you around, and exercise caution if using public transport, which is often considered less safe. Below are other important safety reminders to keep in mind when traveling to Tanzania during this period:
- Have a smart emergency plan that does not rely on U.S. government services
- Stay updated with the developing local news
- Do not draw excessive attention to yourself, especially at tourist sites
- Keep your U.S. passport and visa in a secure place and carry copies of them at all times.
- For LGBT+ travelers, avoid public displays of affection or any actions that may attract police attention
- Check all entry requirements, including the required yellow fever vaccination
- Check the U.S. State Department’s International Travel page for comprehensive guides and checklists regarding the risks above
Public Scrutiny Against Tanzania’s President Has Caused Some Flight Disruptions
Tanzanians are protesting the reelection of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who won 98% of the vote during the October elections. Hassan is accused of rigging the election and is being called out over the violent government crackdown on the demonstrations that followed.
On October 31, a diplomatic insider told BBC News that there was credible evidence that at least 500 people had died in the latter. During that tense time, international tourists were reportedly stuck at the airport in Zanzibar, a popular island destination in Tanzania.
The flight disruptions were caused by the mainland protests and internet shutdown amid the unrest. The situation in Tanzania has been scrutinized by the African Union and other international critics, such as the U.K., Canada, Norway, and the European Union, which released a statement urging “authorities to exercise maximum restraint to preserve human lives.”
Forecasts are mixed about the future outcome of the unrest in Tanzania. So if you are planning to travel to Tanzania soon or have already booked your trip, make sure to double-check the status of your flights, hotel bookings, and tours.
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