Tanzania Visa, Health & Safety Requirements

Before you can enjoy the Serengeti or climb Kilimanjaro, there are a few administrative and health requirements to handle. This guide covers everything you need to know about visas, vaccinations, safety, and travel insurance for Tanzania — written in plain language with 2026 information.

Tanzania Visa Requirements

E-Visa (Recommended)

The Tanzania e-Visa is the easiest and fastest option. Apply online at evisa.go.tz at least two weeks before your departure date. The process takes 5–10 business days for standard processing.

• Cost: $50 for most nationalities, $100 for US citizens
• Validity: Single entry, 90 days from date of issue
• Requirements: Passport scan, passport photo, flight itinerary, hotel confirmation
• Processing time: 5–10 business days (apply early)

Visa on Arrival

You can obtain a visa on arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, Dar es Salaam, and other entry points. The process involves queuing, completing a form, and paying in cash (USD). It works, but the e-Visa queue is significantly faster after a long flight.

Who Does Not Need a Visa?

Citizens of Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, and several other African nations are visa-exempt for stays up to 90 days. Check the Tanzania Immigration website for the current list.

Vaccinations and Health Requirements

Yellow Fever

A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required if you are arriving from or have transited through a country with risk of Yellow Fever transmission (most of sub-Saharan Africa, parts of South America). If you are arriving directly from Europe, North America, or Asia, a certificate is not required — but carrying one causes no issues and may be requested.

Recommended Vaccinations

Consult your doctor or a travel health clinic 6–8 weeks before departure. Common recommendations for Tanzania include:

• Hepatitis A and B: Recommended for all travellers
• Typhoid: Recommended, especially if visiting smaller towns
• Tetanus and Diphtheria: Ensure your booster is current
• Rabies: Consider if you will be in remote areas or around animals
• Cholera: Occasionally recommended for remote travel

Malaria

Tanzania is a malaria zone. There is no vaccination for malaria — you need prophylactic medication. Popular options include Malarone (atovaquone-proguanil), Doxycycline, and Mefloquine. Consult your doctor for the best option for you. Begin medication before arriving in Tanzania and continue for the recommended period after leaving.

Prevention tips:

• Sleep under mosquito nets (provided at all reputable camps and lodges)
• Apply DEET-based repellent at dawn and dusk
• Wear long sleeves and trousers in the evening

Is Tanzania Safe for Tourists?

Yes. Tanzania is one of the safest countries in East Africa for tourists. Violent crime against visitors is rare. The main risks are:

• Petty theft: Pickpocketing in crowded areas. Keep valuables in your hotel safe.
• Road safety: Tanzanian roads can be challenging. Always travel with an experienced guide.
• Wildlife: National parks are wild environments. Follow your guide instructions at all times.

Political stability is strong, and the tourism infrastructure in northern Tanzania (Arusha, Serengeti, Ngorongoro) is well-established with reliable communication networks.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is essential for a Tanzania safari. Your policy should cover:

• Medical evacuation: Helicopter evacuation from remote areas can cost $30,000–$50,000. Ensure your policy covers this.
• Medical treatment abroad: Minimum $100,000 coverage recommended
• Trip cancellation: Safaris involve significant advance payments
• Safari activities: Confirm that game drives, walking safaris, and balloon safaris are covered

We recommend World Nomads, Allianz, or similar providers that specifically cover safari destinations in East Africa.

Emergency Contacts

• Tanzania Emergency: 112 (general), 114 (police), 116 (fire)
• Tourist Police: +255 22 211 7500
• Buhaya Trekking Safaris: Your guide carries a satellite phone and first-aid kit on every departure

For a complete overview of safari planning, see our complete Tanzania safari planning guide.