Tanzania Travel Advisory

Reissued after period review with minor edits.

Exercise increased caution in Tanzania due to crime, terrorism, and targeting of LGBTQI+ persons. Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Reconsider Travel To:

• Mtwara Region in southern Tanzania due to the threat of terrorism.

Country Summary: Violent crime such as assault, sexual assault, robberies, mugging, and carjacking, is common. Police forces have limited resources to respond effectively to serious crime.

Terrorist groups could attack in Tanzania with little or no warning, targeting embassies, police stations, mosques, and other places frequented by tourists.  Please see the information below regarding the increased threat of terrorism in Mtwara Region.

Members of the LGBTQI+ community have been arrested, targeted, and harassed.  Due to their sexual orientation and identity LGBTQI+ individuals may experience a higher likelihood of being targeted by police.  People detained under suspicion of same-sex sexual conduct could be subject to invasive physical exams such as forced anal exams.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Tanzania.

If you decide to travel to Tanzania:

• Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa and keep original documents in a secure location.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not leave your food or drink unattended.
• Stay alert in all locations, especially those frequented by Westerners.
• Avoid public displays of affection particularly between same-sex couples.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter.
• Review the Country Security Report for Tanzania.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Mtwara Region in southern Tanzania – Level 3: Reconsider Travel
There is a rise in extremist activity along the southern border, which has led to attacks on both government officials and civilians.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.