Is Tanzania safe for a female traveler? The answer is yes…in fact Tanzania is one of the most travel friendly and safest East African countries for visiting as a solo female traveler however no country can be completely safe more so for a traveler therefore caution still needs to be taken. With a little aggressiveness and common sense, one should be completely safe in Tanzania and enjoy the magnificent attractions the country has to offer.

Here are a few travel tips put together to assist a female solo traveler prepare for their Tanzania Adventure. These may also act as some basic safety tips for any traveler visiting Tanzania.

a sole traveler in Zanzibar

Arrange transport for transfers

Having an assured means of transport from airport transfers on arrival to the places one intends to visit while in a specific destination is a safer way of movement when in Tanzania. This completely eliminates the chances of accidentally landing yourself into an unlicensed or an unsafe taxi.

This transportation can be booked with a tour company with a driver guide or by simply hiring a car from them in case you are interested in a self-drive safari. It is preferable that this is done in advance to avoid getting stranded on arrival.

Respect the culture of the local people

Tanzania, just like most African countries, has a number of cultures and traditions. Largely most of the people of Tanzania are Muslims especially around the coast therefore dressing modestly will help you not attract a lot of unnecessary attention which sometimes may turn out dangerous. One can dress modestly by wearing less body revealing clothes such as skirts and shorts below the knees and tops that cover the shoulders and the upper arm. However, feel free to wear your swim wear when at the different tourist beaches. This will assist make the local natives of Tanzania feel respected.

Be streetwise

The streets in Tanzania are very safe to walk around during the day. However, since there are a number of street hawkers in the tourist dense areas of Tanzania, you will run into a number of them trying to sell their merchandise. Although these hawkers can be a bit frustrating with their persistence of wanting to sell to you, it is important to treat them with respect since all they are trying to do is make a living. Kindly make a purchase if you get interested in any of their merchandise and if you don’t, simply decline politely.

On the other hand, walking around alone and taking local transport as a traveler during the night is not a good idea therefore if you are planning on trying out Tanzania’s night life, ensure you find someone to accompany you. For any transfers, seek help from your accommodation as they should be able to book you a trustworthy taxi driver.

Carry along an unlocked phone

If you are planning on staying in Tanzania for quite some time, then it is advisable that you carry with you an unlocked phone and purchase a local SIM upon arrival. This is a more affordable and more convenient way of keeping in touch with friends and family back home and as well communicating with any new acquaintances within Tanzania.

Preferably consider bringing a cheaper unlocked phone just in case you get unlucky, and the phone gets stolen.

Most accommodation and high-end hangouts in Tanzania have Wi-Fi. This will assist with social media communications and provide a more reliable internet that compliments the local 3G and 4G internet the local SIM will provide.

Before setting off from your country ensure to download apps such as WhatsApp, Skype, Instagram and others on the phone you intend on carrying with you.

Cheapest Car Hire Rental Tanzania

Get a travel insurance

Whether you are planning on travelling to Tanzania or any other destination, it is important to get a travel insurance. This is because in case of an emergency, a travel insurance will come in handy.

The travel insurance also protects one from the financial implications that come with travel risks and medical mishaps. Having a travel insurance while visiting Tanzania is very important since the country has malaria cases.

A travel insurance can be got at an affordable cost either through an online platform or a travel agent.

Beware of the attitude of the local people towards solo female travelers

In most developed main cities and towns, people have an open-minded attitude towards solo female travelers. However, in most African countries, East Africa inclusive, most women tend not to travel alone as being seen alone as a female traveler sparks curiosity. This in most cases is a harmless intrigue, however, some men may not understand the concept of boundaries therefore may behave in a way that the Western culture considers inappropriate.

Most times asking them politely to leave you alone does the trick but if it doesn’t, head towards a largely populated area where you may feel safe around other people. If need arises, ask for help from the other locals or travelers and they will be happy to be of help to you.

Listen to the advice of the locals

Most times being in a new place more so all by yourself for the very first time can be a bit challenging however this isn’t a reason for concern since Tanzania locals are some of the most friendly and hospitable people you will ever come across. Therefore, in case you are in need of help or advice, feel free to ask around.

This mainly works during the day as in the night you may end up running into some undesirable people who are likely to prey on you as a solo traveler.

Do not be flashy

In case you decide to bring with your expensive gadgets and other valuables, ensure to keep them out of sight as they might be stolen. Also, as you walk along the streets, it is advisable that you carry minimal valuables and when you do, carry them in a safe bag pack that you should always keep in sight.

Wearing expensive jewelry or designer clothes when out in the public can make you a target as well. Being a developing country, some Tanzania locals might see you as a money-making opportunity.

Find a reliable safari company

If you are planning a safari to Tanzania, ensure to book your safari with a reputable safari company. These companies can be found by scrolling through different safari websites and checking their client reviews or asking for company recommendations from friends and other travelers.

This safari company can provide you with an informed local destination driver guide who will assist you maneuver the wilderness of Africa. These safari companies if given opportunity can organize your entire safari experience including accommodation, food and transportation.

With the above safety tips, a bit of alertness and having your personal identification documents in possession while moving around, be certain of an amazing and fulfilling Tanzania safari as a solo traveler or even a group.

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