Is Tanzania a safe country to visit?

Travel Tanzania ways african safaris

Is Tanzania a safe country to visit? 

Tanzania is the largest East African nation and is considered the most peaceful country in the region. However, you may have concerns about traveling to Tanzania, especially because of the recent worldwide health concerns. Some websites also say that traveling to Tanzania might be dangerous due to the threat of violence and terrorism. You may be asking; are these concerns valid? What is it really like in Tanzania? Is Tanzania a safe country to visit?

Currently, there has been an increase in worries around traveling anywhere because of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, before, during and even after COVID-19 all travellers travel at their own risk. We encourage travellers to exercise reasonable caution and common sense, but to not be afraid to experience a new destination and embrace the wonders of Tanzania.

Why should I trust you?

It is a good question to ask why you may rely on our travel advice. The answer is simple: we have been living in the Kilimanjaro region since 2010, and we know everything and everyone around here. It is one of the reasons why the leading travel agencies consistently choose Ways African Safaris to lead their expeditions.

Alleged dangers of visiting Tanzania

Several travel advisories cite “crime, terrorism and targeting persons” as reasons to avoid travel to Tanzania. With the exception of certain isolated cases, we can certainly say that it is an exaggeration, and does not accurately reflect the main tourist hubs in Tanzania.

Crime

Like all vacation destinations, there is petty crime in Tanzania. However, we wouldn’t say it is more common than, for example, the Dominican Republic, Thailand, Egypt, or Kenya. But, we would say it is probably less common than in places such as Paris, France, Venice, Italy or Barcelona, Spain, which have earned a reputation for expert pick-pockets or passport thieves around the most well-known tourist attractions.

Exercising reasonable travel caution is recommended. We encourage all travellers to pay attention to the following:

Pickpockets often work in crowded places such as markets and public transportation hubs. While visiting such places, it is highly recommended to leave cash and other valuables at the hotel. If you need a bit of cash for such excursions, keep your money in a small, hidden pouch, your front pocket, or in a purse that is held at the front of your body. Avoid putting your wallet in your back pocket, or keeping your purse at your side, or back of your body.

We encourage visitors to exercise caution when visiting beaches, especially in Dar es Salaam; do not leave your items unattended on the beach, and avoid contact with local “beach boys”, who are mostly overly-friendly young men trying to start up conversations or selling cheap souvenirs (as a scam to see where you keep your wallet).

Tanzania’s largest city, Dar es Salaam (among other large cities), sometimes has occurrences of robberies. Nearly all instances are of the “snatch and run” technique – an attacker simply grabs a bag and tries to get lost among the busy city crowd.

Thus, do not carry your valuables in a bag; better lock them in a hotel safe. And of course, do not leave your luggage unattended. At night, we recommend travellers take a hotel taxi instead of walking, or only using official white-and-green taxis, never private cars.

All of Visit Arusha guests are accompanied by a driver or guide who is familiar with the areas, and helps to prevent and protect against all types of misadventures. If a guest specifically requests to visit an area or tour a city without a guide or driver, it can be allowed, but at the individual’s own risk.

Violent crime

In spite of lots of misleading articles available on the Internet (some of them, sadly, published by reputable sources), violent crime against tourists is something extraordinarily rare in the northern part of Tanzania, including the popular tourist cities of Arusha and Moshi.

In nearly a decade of our time operating in Tanzania, we have heard of only a few isolated incidents of armed robberies – all of which have occurred in coastal areas of Eastern Tanzania, and not in Northern Tanzania.

Another one-off offense we have heard of is individuals being accosted as they withdrew money from an ATM at night in Dar es Salaam. To our knowledge, these people were not injured, although they did have money stolen from them. We do not recommend going to ATMs after dark, and suggest visitors attend ATMs which are guarded by a security guard (which is common for nearly all banks and ATMs in Arusha and Moshi).

It is also important to mention that the overwhelming majority of Tanzanians are people of kindness and peace who welcome foreigners with respect and care. Violence, as a means of addressing conflict, is largely unheard of in the general Tanzanian population. Further, the tourism industry plays a major role in the economy of Northern Tanzania, especially in the towns of Arusha and Moshi. Therefore, many individuals appreciate and welcome travellers and want to reinforce a positive image of the nation, even so far as to go out of their way to accommodate a lost traveller or foreigner having a difficult time communicating.

All things considered, the chance of a traveller being the victim of a robbery or mugging in Tanzania is not any more than in popular travel locations in the United States or Europe. To prevent such incidents, it is advised to exercise common sense, avoid unsavoury areas, take taxis at night instead of walking, attend banks and ATMs during daylight hours, don’t carry large amounts of cash, and keep your personal items with you at all times.

Perhaps this is a poor misrepresentation of Tanzania’s conservative society.

Generally, intimacy and love is a very private thing in Tanzanian culture, and public displays of affection are not common with Tanzanian couples. Openly displaying affection is frowned upon throughout Tanzania – for both heterosexual and diverse relationships – and isn’t intended to be discriminatory, only that it is out-of-place in this conservative society.

With this understanding, we can confidently say that in the time we have resided in Tanzania, we have not ever once seen a single case of a tourist being ill-treated based on their sexual orientation.

We can assure you that as long as common decency norms are followed, no one will be troubled because of the partner someone prefers to be with.

So, is Tanzania a safe country to visit?pickpocket ways african safaris

Yes, it is. Ask visit Arusha who have experienced for Kilimanjaro and safari parks and all other wonderful places throughout Tanzania in recent months.

If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask our dedicated Travel Consultants.

We are passionate about Tanzania, and believe that this is not only a safe nation to visit – but one of the most beautiful, natural and interesting destinations in the world! Don’t allow inaccurate information persuade you from the adventure of a lifetime in East Africa. https://waysafricansafaris.com/tanzania-safari-tours/ 

The Greater Wildebeest migration in Serengeti Tanzania

The Greater Wildebeest Migration in Serengeti Tanzania

The Greater Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti, Tanzania, is a remarkable natural event that draws tourists and wildlife enthusiasts from around the world. The migration is characterized by the movement of large herds of wildebeest, accompanied by zebras, impalas, grants gazelles, and Thomson’s gazelles, in search of water and green pastures. The migration follows an annual pattern, although the exact timing can vary due to changing weather patterns and the impact of climate change.

Here’s a breakdown of the migration’s key phases and the best times to witness them:

  1. January and February:
    • The wildebeest herds are in the southern plains of the Serengeti, giving birth to their calves.
    • Over 200,000 calves are born within a brief period of two to three weeks.
    • Predators such as lions and hyenas are present, but the sheer number of calves makes it challenging for them to prey on all of them.
  2. March and April:
    • The wildebeest herd moves north and west to the central and western reaches of the Serengeti, near Lake Victoria.
    • The rut, a period of mating after complex territorial rituals by males, occurs during the long rains of April.
  3. April and May:
    • This period can be challenging for travel as torrential rains flood the Serengeti.
    • The animals are still in the southwest region.
  4. June and July:
    • The Great Migration’s iconic “great crossing” occurs as the wildebeest cross the Grumeti River.
  5. July to early October:
    • This period, during the dry season, is considered the best time to witness the Great Migration.
    • The weather is warm and stable, and animals are abundant.
    • The sparse vegetation and dried-up waterways force the animals to move north in search of food and water.
  6. November or December:
    • Wildebeest and zebras are still present, but the movements are less pronounced compared to July and August.
    • It’s advisable to avoid April and May due to the challenging travel conditions caused by floods.

It’s important to note that the traditional predictability of the migration is evolving due to changing weather patterns and the impact of climate change. Irregular rainfall in the Serengeti can disrupt the migration’s timing, leading to variations in the animals’ movements from year to year. Travelers should be aware of these changes and consider consulting with local experts or tour guides for the most accurate information when planning a visit to witness this incredible natural phenomenon.

Best time to Visit Tanzania

Best Time to Visit Tanzania

When is the best time to visit Tanzania?

Discover the optimal time to visit Tanzania based on your preferences and desired experiences. Tanzania’s expansive size and diverse geography result in varied climate patterns across its regions throughout the year. Explore the following insights for each season:

Dry Season (June to October):

For unparalleled wildlife encounters, especially in the northern parks like Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire, the dry season stands out. Sparse vegetation and animals gathering around water sources enhance visibility. Enjoy comfortable safari conditions with dry, warm days and cool nights.

Shoulder Season (November and December):

Positioned between the dry and wet seasons, November marks the onset of the shoulder season. While still relatively dry, the landscape transforms with a touch of green after the initial rains. Wildlife viewing remains excellent, and the reduced tourist numbers create a more intimate experience.

Short Rains (November to mid-December):

Tanzania experiences short rains during this period. Abundant wildlife persists, although some roads may pose challenges, and occasional showers are possible. Take advantage of fewer crowds and potential accommodation discounts during this time.

Wet Season (March to May):

Embrace Tanzania’s rainy period, characterized by lush greenery and excellent birdwatching opportunities. Some remote roads may become challenging, and certain parks might temporarily close due to flooding. The southern circuit parks, such as Selous and Ruaha, shine during the wet season.

If conquering Mount Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru is on your agenda, opt for the dry months from late June to October and January to March. This ensures more stable weather conditions, enhancing your chances of a successful ascent.

Ultimately, the ideal time to visit Tanzania hinges on your specific interests and priorities. For prime wildlife viewing, the dry season is optimal. Alternatively, if you seek tranquility and don’t mind occasional rain, the shoulder and wet seasons promise enriching experiences. Prior to planning your trip, consult up-to-date weather information for your chosen region. At Ways African Safaris, we are dedicated to assisting you in crafting a seamless African adventure.

Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park is the largest national park in Tanzania. The addition of the Usangu Game Reserve and other important wetlands to the park in 2008 increased its size to about 20,226 square kilometres (7,809 sq mi), making it the largest park in Tanzania and East Africa.

The park is about 130 kilometres (81 mi) west of Iringa. The park is a part of the 45,000 square kilometres (17,000 sq mi) Rungwa-Kizigo-Muhesi ecosystem, which includes the Rungwa Game Reserve, the Kizigo and Muhesi Game Reserves, and the Mbomipa Wildlife Management Area.

The name of the park is derived from the Great Ruaha River, which flows along its southeastern margin and is the focus for game-viewing. The park can be reached by car on a dirt road from Iringa and there are two airstrips – Msembe airstrip at Msembe (park headquarters), and Jongomeru Airstrip, near the Jongomeru Ranger Post.

Climate

Ruaha National Park has a bimodal pattern of rain forest; the short rainfall season begins November to February, while the long season is between March and April. The annual mean rainfall ranges between 500mm-800mm with the average annual temperature of about 280c. The park experiences its dry season between June and October when the temperature at Msembe headquarter reaches 350c.

Tourism Attractions

The park formerly was known for its large elephant population, numbering 34,000 in the Ruaha-Rungwa ecosystem in 2009 but only 15,836 (plus or minus 4,759) in 2015.

More than 571 species of birds have been identified in the park. Among the resident species are hornbills. Many migratory birds visit the park.

Other noted animals found in this park are cheetah, African leopard, lion (Africa’s second largest population, representing 10 percent of the world population), African wild dog (third largest population in the world), spotted hyena, giraffe, hippopotamus, African buffalo, and sable antelope. The best times to visit for predators and large mammals is during the dry season (May–December) and for birds and flowers, during the wet season (January–April).

Birds

Ruaha National Park Tours

The park is one of the Tanzania birds’ paradise with more than 571species and some of them are known to be migrants from within and outside Africa. Migrating species from Europe, Asia, Australian rim and Madagascar have been recorded in the park. Species of interest in the park include Ruaha red-billed hornbill (Tokus ruahae) which is dominant in the area. The recently annexed wetland, the Usangu basin is one of the country’s important bird area (IBA) as recognized by Birdlife International. Though birds can be seen all the year around, the best time for bird watching is during the wet season.

Animals

Ruaha National Park Safaris

Ruaha is believed to have high concentration of elephants than any national park in East Africa. It is also a place where, magnificent mammals like Kudu (both Greater and Lesser), Sable and Roan antelopes can easily be spotted in Miombo woodland. The male Kudu have beautiful spiraled horns while male Sable antelope have impressive curved horns. The park is also a habitat for endangered wild dogs. Other animals in the park include lions, leopards, cheetah, giraffes, zebras, elands, impala, bat eared foxes and Jackals.

Reptiles and Amphibians

Apart from large animals, the park also harbors a number of reptiles and amphibians such as crocodiles, poisonous and non-poisonous snakes, monitor lizards, agama lizards and frogs. The Great Ruaha and Mzombe rivers are presumably the most preferred habitat for crocodiles.

Vegetation

The park is characterized by semi-arid type of vegetation, baobab trees, Acacia and other species. There are over 1650 plant species that have been identified. The park is the transitional point of two vegetation zones, the Zambezian (characterized by Miombo vegetation) and Sudanian (characterized by Acacia vegetation). Historical and cultural sites

There are several historical and cultural sites in the park which offer a visitor a chance to explore the Southern Tanzanian tribes. The early trade routes used by the Arab caravan crossed here. In 1830 these coastal traders expanded their routes northward, and in year 1857 to 1858 other European explorers such as Burton and Speke used these routes too. Chief Mkwawa used the same routes to visit his chiefdoms in Sangu and Gogo.

The park area often hailed as the land of the brave Chief Mkwawa, the Chief of the hehe people who resisted against the German attack in the late 19th century. The fierce and successful battle tactics against the German invasion made the Hehe tribe famous in the Southern highland of the then Tanganyika (Tanzania). The Hehe tribe under the leadership of chief Mkwawa was dominant around the Ruaha area. Some of the outcrops in the area are known as hiding places of chief Mkwawa who went into hiding after the fall of his empire (kalenga) to the German in 1894. In brief, it is believed that, this ancient land (Ruaha National Park) holds many secrets of chief Mkwawa.

Some of the cultural sites that were used for rituals are “Ganga la Mafunyo”, Nyanywa and Chahe, Painting rock at Nyanywa, the “Gogo” chief “Mapenza” grave at Mpululu and “Mkwawa” spring area believed to be used by Chief Mkwawa. Other historical sites near the park include Isimila pillars near Iringa town, Kalenga, Mlambalasi, Lugalo and God’s bridge just to mention a few.

Physical feature

Ruaha National Park has a wide range of physical features from the Great Rift Valley, river systems, natural springs, wetlands, hot water springs, and kopjes to the beautiful rolling hills and mountains.

Rivers

The river systems and watershed are of economic, social and ecological significance for the park itself and country at large. Main rivers include the Great Ruaha, Mzombe, Mdonya, Mwagusi and Jongomero.

Rift valley

The Great Rift Valley crosses the park. The escarpment wall along the western valley side is about 50-100m high in the north-eastern parts, increasing in height to the southwest. It is considered that, the valley of the Great Ruaha River is an extension of the Great Rift Valley. The Great Ruaha River flows for 160km long along the entire eastern boundary through rugged gorges and open plains.

Natural springs

They occur throughout the park and they are associated with the base of the Western Rift Valley escarpment, most notably Mkwawa, Mwayembe, Makinde and Majimoto springs. These are dry season refugees for wildlife and when most of the rivers get dry.

Undulating landscape

The park has undulating land and hills including kilimamatonge, Nyamasombe, Nyanywa, Chariwindwi, Igawira, Mwayiui, Kibiriti, Magangwe, Ndetamburwa and Isukanvyiola. These act as kopjes creating good habitat for animals such as klipspringer which normally can be seen in some of these hills.