Is It Safe to Travel to Tanzania Right Now? A Local Tour Operator Explains

Recent political events in Tanzania have led some travellers to ask whether it’s still safe to visit. With safaris, Mount Kilimanjaro climbs, and Zanzibar beach holidays on many bucket lists, wanting clear and current information is completely understandable. On Independence Day, 9 December 2025, cities such as Dar es Salaam were quieter than usual due to increased security. While the atmosphere was calm, there were no incidents affecting visitors, and authorities confirmed that the situation remained stable across the country. Travellers were also advised to ignore outdated or misleading images circulating online that suggested unrest.

Importantly, tourism has not been disrupted. National parks, Kilimanjaro climbing routes, airports, and popular coastal destinations like Zanzibar remain open and fully operational. Flights, transfers, and guided trips are running as scheduled, and travellers on the ground continue to move freely and safely. Based on official updates and current conditions, Tanzania remains a safe and welcoming destination. Below, we outline what this means for your travel plans and what to expect when visiting right now.

Tanzania’s President, Samia Suluhu Hassan, was declared the winner of the general election held on 29 October 2025. Her victory set off violent protests in Dar es Salaam and later spread to other cities over the exclusion of her main challengers. The East African nation's electoral commission said Hassan, who took power in 2021 after the death of her predecessor, John Magufuli, received more than 31.9 million votes, nearly 98 per cent of the total, handing her a five-year term. Hassan's opponents have accused her government of suppressing dissent and carrying out widespread abductions of critics. Observers from the African Union said last week that the election was not in line with democratic standards. The Tanzanian leader has rejected criticism of her human rights record and defended the fairness of the election. Last year, she ordered an investigation into the reported abductions, but no findings have been revealed as yet.

President of Tanzania, Samia Suluhu Hassan. Photo credit: Wempower

It's natural for travellers to consult official travel advisories before visiting a country. In the wake of the 29 October election events, several countries updated their guidance for Tanzania. Understanding the latest Tanzania travel advisories is an important part of deciding if it is safe to travel to the country right now. Both the U.S. and U.K. governments have updated their guidance following the unrest; there are, however, no restrictions on travelling to Tanzania, and the updates generally focus on safety whilst travelling.  This is what the guidelines say:

The latest U.S. advisory encourages travellers to avoid political gatherings, noting that some urban areas may occasionally experience demonstrations or heightened security. That said, most tourist destinations remain calm and welcoming, as the advisory primarily focuses on urban centres and political hotspots rather than safari parks or coastal areas.

Meanwhile, the U.K. travel advice has also encouraged travellers to stay informed, follow local advice, and avoid large gatherings. The U.K. also notes that the majority of tourist areas, including safari parks and coastal destinations, remain calm, welcoming, and fully accessible to travellers.

Both advisories emphasise the possibility of unrest, rather than continuous or widespread danger. Their main message is to stay informed, avoid political gatherings, and stick to established travel routes, guidance that applies to many countries during election periods. For travellers heading to safari parks, Zanzibar beaches, Kilimanjaro, or well-managed tourism zones, day-to-day life continues normally, and these areas remain calm and functioning. Even the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (Tato), representing over 300 private companies, reports that its own assessments show no security threats to tourists or to the country’s main attractions.

This reassurance comes after the post-election issues were quickly brought under control, and life across Tanzania, including tourism, is now running normally again. According to official statements from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, all modes of transport, including airports, seaports, land borders, and railway systems, are fully operational. Visitors can expect smooth entry and movement within the country. The Ministry further emphasises that Tanzania remains one of the most stable countries in Africa, with a long-standing reputation for peace, unity, and effective governance.

To get an accurate picture of Tanzania travel safety, Follow Alice spoke directly with our operations team member, Bejul Badiani, who has been on the ground throughout the recent events, offering a firsthand perspective that goes beyond the headlines.

Follow Alice Bejul Badiani, who is based in Tanzania.

At the beginning of this month, we spoke to Beej, who explained that the political climate had felt a little tense in recent weeks, mostly due to discussions following the election and concerns expressed by different groups. However, most importantly, life in Tanzania is continuing as normal, and the situation is calm.

Beej adds that the tourism and hospitality sector, a major part of the country’s economy, continues to operate with its usual warmth and stability. For most visitors, the atmosphere is calm, friendly, and business as usual.

According to Beej, there have been some political discussions and the occasional demonstration in specific urban areas, but these have not reached tourist regions or safari routes.

She emphasises that no major travel disruptions have affected visitors. Tourism remains a national priority, so services connected to guest experience are maintained smoothly and consistently. This comes as no surprise because in 2024, Tanzania’s tourism sector reached new heights, welcoming a record 5.36 million visitors, surpassing national targets.

Of these, 2.14 million were international travellers and 3.22 million were domestic tourists, highlighting the strength of the local travel market. Tourism generated around US$4 billion, making it a main contributor to the country’s economy.

Trekkers talking with a Follow Alice guide as they make their way to Mount Kilimanjaro.

Beej’s view is clear, and that is yes, Tanzania remains a safe destination for travellers. Tourist areas, including safari parks, beaches, Kilimanjaro, and popular coastal towns, continue to be peaceful and well-managed. Visitors are still arriving in high numbers and enjoying trouble-free holidays.

Her main advice mirrors standard safety guidance found in many countries, and that is to avoid political gatherings or demonstrations in major cities, simply because these events can be unpredictable. These situations are typically localised and not connected to tourism.

Tourists arriving in Tanzania.

For travellers wondering “Is Tanzania safe for tourists?”, the answer is reassuring. Tanzania’s main tourist destinations for international travellers continue to offer secure and hassle-free experiences.

Hot air balloon safari over Tanzania’s Serengeti during the Great Migration.

The stunning oceans that can be found in Zanzibar.

Tourists are out on a safari.

Even though Tanzania remains a safe destination, well-informed travellers should follow standard precautions. As mentioned throughout, please avoid political gatherings in major cities is wise, as these are the only areas affected by post-election unrest. Monitoring local news and updates from your tour operator can help you stay informed of any changes in conditions.

Registering with your embassy or consulate is also recommended, ensuring that you can be contacted quickly in the event of an emergency. Using reputable tour operators with experienced guides like Follow Alice is also important, particularly for safaris, Kilimanjaro climbs, and Zanzibar excursions, as they provide local knowledge and professional support. They also know all the routes like the back of their hand.

Travel insurance is an important consideration, and it is advisable to select a policy that covers political unrest and medical emergencies. Following guidance from lodge staff, rangers, and guides will also help ensure a safe and comfortable journey.

Tanzania flag as a pin on the map.

Given the information from our team on the ground, official government statements, and updated travel advisories, Tanzania remains safe for tourists, and it is fully operational for travel. The isolated post-election incidents have been swiftly contained, and tourism activities across the country have returned to normal.

Travellers can confidently plan visits to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and other northern parks, climb Mount Kilimanjaro, explore Zanzibar, or enjoy the remoter wilderness of Ruaha and Nyerere National Parks. Tourism is a priority for the Tanzanian government and local communities, and both are committed to maintaining the highest standards of visitor safety.

For anyone considering if you want to travel to Tanzania now, the evidence suggests that it is both safe and rewarding. Standard precautions, such as avoiding large political gatherings, staying informed, and travelling with trusted operators, will ensure a smooth and memorable experience. If you have any questions, feel free to schedule a call with our team.

Follow Alice Meera with tourists looking at Mt Ol Doinyo Lengai in northern Tanzania.

Tanzania offers some of Africa’s most iconic experiences, from wildlife safaris and cultural tours to the challenge of Kilimanjaro and the serenity of Zanzibar beaches. Despite recent isolated incidents, the country remains welcoming, stable, and committed to visitor safety.

So if you are planning a family safari, a climbing adventure, or a beach holiday, Tanzania travel safety 2025 is solid, and the country continues to meet international tourism standards. With professional guides, operational lodges, and a government dedicated to securing its tourism sector, visitors can explore Tanzania with confidence. Contact Follow Alice to receive up-to-date advice on safety, flexible itineraries, and support for planning your Tanzanian adventure. Our on-the-ground team ensures you have accurate information and can travel with peace of mind, experiencing everything this remarkable country has to offer.