U.S. State Department Issues Travel Advisory for Tanzania

The U.S. State Department has upgraded its travel advisory for Tanzania, now including a risk indicator for “uncertainty.” The alert has been raised from Level 2 to Level 3 as of October 31st, following the recent presidential, parliamentary, and city council elections in the country.

The advisory cautiously recommends that travelers “please reconsider” visiting Tanzania, citing concerns over violence, crime, terrorism, and the targeting of individuals in the LGBTQ+ community. It highlights that certain areas present higher risks.

Demonstrations, the State Department warns, can be unpredictable. The Tanzanian government has responded by increasing security around such protests. The advisory notes that members of the gay and lesbian community face arrest, harassment, and may be specifically targeted by law enforcement.

Moreover, the advisory mentions the potential for invasive physical searches for those detained on suspicions of same-sex activity. Violent crimes, notably robbery, assault, and sexual assault, are reported as common issues.

There’s also a concern about the risk of terrorist attacks, particularly in the Mtwara region. In total, over two million tourists visited Tanzania in 2024, according to the Tanzania National Bureau of Statistics.

Popular sites like the Ngorongoro Reserve and Serengeti National Park drew large crowds, being the most frequented tourist destinations. The advisory suggests that travelers formulate their emergency escape plans without relying on U.S. government assistance.

Travelers are urged to keep a low profile, stay alert, avoid leaving food or drinks unattended, and refrain from public displays of affection, especially among same-sex couples.

The advisory system from the State Department categorizes risks into four levels: Level 1 – Take normal precautions; Level 2 – Be extra careful; Level 3 – Reconsider travel; Level 4 – Travel prohibited.