Tanzania, home to the Serengeti, Mount Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar, is one of Africa’s most captivating destinations. But if you’re a solo female traveler, you may wonder: Is Tanzania safe for solo female travelers? The answer is yes, with the right precautions. By staying informed and taking a few simple steps, you can enjoy an incredible, safe adventure in Tanzania. Here’s everything you need to know to confidently plan your solo trip.
Plan a secure and guided solo trip in Tanzania.
1. Understanding the Safety Situation in Tanzania
Tanzania is generally considered a safe destination for tourists, including solo female travelers. However, like any country, there are certain risks. Petty theft and scams can occur in tourist areas, so it’s important to be cautious, especially in crowded markets or when using public transportation.
Safety in Tourist Areas
Popular destinations such as Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Zanzibar are well-patrolled and tourist-friendly. Most travelers experience no issues, but staying aware of your surroundings is key.
- Tip: Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less populated areas, and always use reliable transport.
Read about the general safety tips for travelers in Tanzania.
2. Choosing Safe Accommodations
When traveling alone, your accommodation is your base for safety and comfort. Research and choose lodges, hotels, or guesthouses with good reviews, focusing on those that offer security features like 24-hour front desks, secure premises, and in-room safes.
What to Look For:
- Security: Choose accommodations that offer secured entrances and friendly staff.
- Solo-Friendly: Look for places that specifically cater to solo travelers or are recommended by fellow solo female adventurers.
Check out safe and reliable accommodations in Tanzania.
3. Staying Safe on Safari
Going on safari is a must when visiting Tanzania, and it’s generally very safe. Most safari tours are led by professional guides who know how to navigate the parks safely. If you’re booking a safari as a solo traveler, opt for group tours, which provide companionship and added safety.
Safety Tips for Solo Safaris:
- Stick with Your Guide: Always follow your guide’s instructions during game drives and when walking around camps.
- Join Group Tours: These can be more enjoyable and safer, offering the chance to meet fellow travelers.
Explore safe safari options in Tanzania.
4. What to Wear: Dressing Modestly in Tanzania
Tanzania is a predominantly conservative country, especially in rural areas and Zanzibar, which has a significant Muslim population. To avoid unwanted attention and show respect for the local culture, it’s important to dress modestly.
What’s Appropriate?
- In Cities and Towns: Wear long skirts, dresses, or pants, and cover your shoulders. This is especially important in markets or when visiting religious sites.
- On Safari or Beaches: Casual, comfortable clothing is fine, but it’s a good idea to bring a light shawl or cover-up when moving between destinations.
Learn more about appropriate attire for traveling in Tanzania.
5. Navigating Tanzania Safely
Getting around Tanzania is relatively easy, with plenty of options for solo travelers. While public transportation is available, it’s not always the safest option for solo female travelers. Instead, consider using private taxis, rideshare services, or guided transfers, especially for long distances.
Transport Safety Tips:
- Taxis: Always use registered taxis, and agree on the fare before getting in. Ask your hotel or lodge to recommend a reliable driver.
- Domestic Flights: For longer distances, especially between Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Zanzibar, consider domestic flights, which are affordable and safe.
Find more information on transportation in Tanzania.
6. Health and Medical Considerations
Tanzania has specific health concerns, particularly in terms of malaria and general travel vaccinations. It’s essential to be well-prepared before you go.
Vaccinations and Malaria Prevention
- Vaccinations: Make sure your routine vaccines are up to date, and consider vaccines for yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A.
- Malaria: Tanzania is a malaria zone, so take preventive measures such as using mosquito repellents, wearing long sleeves in the evenings, and taking antimalarial medication.
- Tip: Always carry a small first-aid kit with basic medical supplies, including any prescription medications you may need.
Get health advice for traveling to Tanzania.
7. Handling Money and Personal Belongings
As a solo traveler, it’s important to keep your money and valuables secure. Carry only what you need for the day and store the rest in your hotel safe. Use a money belt or anti-theft bag to protect your cash and passport while exploring.
Money Safety Tips:
- ATMs: Use ATMs inside banks or hotels for extra security.
- Cards and Cash: Tanzania is largely a cash-based economy, but many larger hotels and restaurants accept credit cards. Always have small bills in Tanzanian shillings on hand for local markets or smaller vendors.
Read more tips on managing money while traveling.
8. Meeting Other Travelers
One of the best parts of solo travel is meeting other like-minded adventurers along the way. Tanzania has a well-established tourist trail, meaning you’re likely to meet fellow travelers in lodges, on safaris, or during day trips. Joining group activities is a great way to connect with others while feeling safe and secure.
Where to Meet People:
- Hostels and Guesthouses: These often have communal areas where solo travelers can socialize.
- Group Tours: Opt for group safaris or guided tours to meet others while exploring Tanzania’s top sights.
Find group tours for solo travelers in Tanzania.
9. Avoiding Scams and Tourist Traps
While Tanzania is generally safe, scams targeting tourists can happen, especially in more crowded areas like Stone Town in Zanzibar or the bustling markets of Arusha. Common scams include overpriced goods, unlicensed tour guides, and “helpful” strangers offering unsolicited services.
How to Avoid Scams:
- Licensed Guides: Always book your tours and safaris through licensed operators or reputable hotels.
- Be Polite but Firm: If someone offers a service or item that you’re not interested in, politely decline and walk away.
- Haggling: In local markets, haggling is expected, but be respectful and aware of reasonable prices.
Learn about common travel scams in Africa.
10. Staying Connected
Having reliable access to the internet and phone service can be reassuring for solo travelers. Upon arrival in Tanzania, consider purchasing a local SIM card to stay connected, or ensure your phone plan includes international roaming.
Best Options for Staying Connected:
- Local SIM Cards: Affordable and widely available, with providers like Vodacom and Airtel offering good coverage across most of Tanzania.
- Wi-Fi: Available in most hotels, lodges, and cafes, though the connection may be slow in remote areas.
Discover more about staying connected while traveling in Tanzania.
Conclusion: A Safe and Unforgettable Journey
Tanzania is a safe and rewarding destination for solo female travelers, offering breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and rich cultural experiences. By staying aware of your surroundings, dressing appropriately, and using reliable accommodations and transport, you can have an unforgettable adventure while feeling secure throughout your journey.
For personalized safari tours and expert travel advice, visit Kilimanjaro Climb Specialist or Eddy Tours & Safaris.