Tanzania Plastic Bag Ban
If you are preparing your trip with Eddy Tours and Safaris, it is very important to understand the Tanzania Plastic Bag Ban before you travel.
Many visitors still arrive without knowing this rule and face delays at the airport or problems during luggage checks. This guide explains clearly what the ban means, which bags are not allowed, and what you should pack instead.
Tanzania Plastic Bag Ban – what does it mean?
The Tanzania Plastic Bag Ban is a national environmental law that restricts the import, use and circulation of plastic carrier bags in Tanzania.
The main goal of this ban is to:
- protect wildlife and livestock
- reduce pollution
- protect rivers, lakes and land
- improve public health
This rule applies to:
- international visitors
- residents
- businesses
Tanzania Plastic Bag Ban – which plastic bags are banned?
Under the Tanzania Plastic Bag Ban, the following are not allowed:
- plastic carrier shopping bags
- thin plastic packing bags
- plastic bags commonly used for retail items
These are the typical bags that are given in supermarkets and shops in many countries.
If you arrive with such bags inside your luggage, airport officers may ask you to remove and surrender them.
Tanzania Plastic Bag Ban – are any plastic bags allowed?
Yes. The Tanzania Plastic Bag Ban allows some special-use plastic items.
Common allowed items include:
- small zip-lock bags for toiletries
- medical packaging
- industrial packaging
- food safety packaging that is sealed
However, even allowed plastic bags should be kept to a minimum.
To avoid confusion at the airport, it is best to pack your items using:
- reusable fabric bags
- cloth laundry bags
- packing cubes
- reusable zip pouches
Tanzania Plastic Bag Ban – what happens at the airport?
When you arrive in Tanzania, your luggage may be checked by customs and environmental officers.
They may:
- ask you if you have plastic bags
- inspect your luggage
- request you to hand over banned bags
This is a normal procedure. It is not a punishment. It is simply part of enforcing the Tanzania Plastic Bag Ban.
Travelers who cooperate usually complete the process quickly.
Tanzania Plastic Bag Ban – why the government introduced this rule
The Tanzania Plastic Bag Ban was introduced to protect the country’s natural environment.
Tanzania is home to world-famous wildlife areas such as:
- Serengeti National Park
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Plastic pollution is extremely dangerous to animals and livestock. Many animals mistake plastic for food, which can lead to serious injuries and death.
The official environmental authority responsible for enforcement is the National Environment Management Council.
You can read official information on their website:
https://www.nemc.or.tz
(This is a government authority website, not a tour company.)
Tanzania Plastic Bag Ban – what travelers should pack instead
To fully respect the Tanzania Plastic Bag Ban, we recommend packing:
- reusable cloth shopping bags
- foldable fabric backpacks
- washable laundry bags
- reusable packing cubes
- reusable waterproof pouches
These items:
- make your packing easier
- reduce waste
- avoid problems at arrival
This is especially helpful for:
- safari travel
- mountain climbing
- domestic flights
- lodge transfers
Tanzania Plastic Bag Ban – does the ban apply during safari and mountain trips?
Yes. The Tanzania Plastic Bag Ban applies everywhere, including:
- safari parks
- lodges and camps
- mountain routes
- local villages
Many lodges and camps already follow strict environmental policies. Bringing reusable bags shows respect to local rules and helps protect the places you come to enjoy.
At Eddy Tours and Safaris, we strongly support responsible tourism and conservation.
Tanzania Plastic Bag Ban – common mistakes visitors make
Avoid these common mistakes:
- packing shopping plastic bags for dirty clothes
- using plastic carrier bags for shoes
- bringing plastic bags to store souvenirs
- assuming that airport duty-free bags are always accepted
Use reusable alternatives instead.
Why the Tanzania Plastic Bag Ban matters for your trip
Understanding the Tanzania Plastic Bag Ban helps you:
- pass airport checks smoothly
- avoid unnecessary delays
- respect local environmental laws
- travel responsibly
More importantly, it helps protect the landscapes and wildlife that make Tanzania one of the best safari and adventure destinations in Africa.
Travel responsibly with Eddy Tours and Safaris
When you book with Eddy Tours and Safaris, we make sure you receive clear pre-arrival information, including:
- environmental rules
- packing guidance
- park and conservation regulations
👉 Contact Eddy Tours and Safaris today and let us help you plan a smooth, responsible and well-prepared journey in Tanzania.
Frequently asked questions about the Tanzania Plastic Bag Ban
Is the Tanzania Plastic Bag Ban applied to all visitors?
Yes. The Tanzania Plastic Bag Ban applies to all travelers, including tourists and residents.
Can I bring small plastic zip bags for liquids?
Yes. Small zip-lock bags for toiletries and medical use are generally allowed.
Will my luggage be checked for plastic bags?
Yes. Airport officers may inspect luggage to enforce the Tanzania Plastic Bag Ban.
Can I buy plastic bags in shops inside Tanzania?
No. Shops are not allowed to provide banned plastic carrier bags.