Multiple countries have issued travel advisories against traveling to Tanzania.
Travelers are being asked to reconsider their plans to visit a popular safari and beach destination in Africa.
Tanzania in East Africa is known for its great safari opportunities, and adventurers often visit to trek the highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro. The Indian Ocean archipelago of Zanzibar also attracts sun-seekers in the colder winter months. However, the typically peaceful country is experiencing civil unrest after recent presidential elections sparked protests.
Tanzania held its general election on Oct. 29, in which President Samia Suluhu Hassan won with 98% of the vote. She ran with little competition, as one opposition leader was imprisoned and another barred from running. The opposition called it a sham contest, and demonstrations erupted.
During the three-day protests last week, about 700 people were killed, according to the main opposition party, though authorities have not confirmed this. A curfew was announced across the country, and internet services were blocked. Passengers were stranded at airports as domestic flights were canceled and mobile services disrupted.
Reconsider Travel
Governments around the world are cautioning travelers to avoid non-essential travel and to keep a low profile if they are in the country after reports that foreign nationals were detained.
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On Nov. 5, the U.S. Embassy in Tanzania posted a security alert stating that the curfew in the capital city has been lifted, but other areas may still be affected. “Movement restrictions and security checkpoints continue in many locations. Foreign nationals may experience increased attention from local security authorities, and there have been reports of temporary detentions.”
The embassy reminded travelers that sharing pictures that cause panic is a criminal offense and that authorities are checking electronic devices. Internet access is not fully restored, and cash and fuel supplies are low.
The U.S. Department of State also updated its travel advisory from Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution to Level 3: Reconsider Travel due to unrest, crime, and terrorism. It also warns that LGBTQ+ travelers are being targeted in the country. “Members of the gay and lesbian community have been arrested, targeted, and harassed. People who identify as gay or lesbian may experience a higher likelihood of being targeted by police. People detained under suspicion of same-sex sexual conduct may face invasive physical exams.”
The advisory recommends that travelers keep a copy of their passport and visa with them and store the originals safely. Travelers should keep a low profile, avoid public displays of affection, and plan for emergencies.
Meanwhile, the U.K. Foreign Office has advised against all but essential travel to the country. In its warning, it said that while things have calmed after deadly protests, they could escalate again. “Groups of tourists have been targeted and detained by local police for allegedly interfering with or inciting anti-government protests,” it adds. Internet and social media services are also disrupted, and supermarkets and hospitals are running low on supplies.
Canada also cautioned against all non-essential travel to Tanzania. Authorities have detained foreign nationals, and any photos or videos on electronic devices deemed sensitive may lead to detainment. It recommends avoiding demonstrations and to “follow the instructions of local authorities, including orders on movement restrictions and the sharing of videos or photos deemed sensitive.”
Additionally, the Netherlands stated that the situation is more stable but that its embassy is closed until further notice, while Czechia said it is monitoring the situation.
If you are in Tanzania, check with your airline to confirm your flight status. Follow local advisories, monitor the situation closely, and register with your government to receive updates.
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