Is Tanzania Safe to Visit Now? Post‑Election Travel & Safari Update 2025
Why This Update Matters
Late 2025 brought political unrest in parts of Tanzania — leading to curfews, protests in urban centers, and international travel advisories. As travel professionals committed to transparency and guest safety, we believe it’s crucial to offer a clear, honest, up-to-date look at the situation — especially for travelers considering safaris, beach holidays, or honeymoons. In this guide, we walk you through what’s true, what’s changed, and why many parts of Tanzania — especially safari zones and beaches — continue welcoming visitors under safe, normal conditions.
1. What Happened — What Caused the Concern
After the 29 October 2025 elections, several urban areas (notably parts of Dar es Salaam and other cities) experienced violent protests, curfews, and social unrest. Internet disruptions, transport delays, and heightened security presence caused global travel advisories, with some countries recommending citizens avoid non-essential travel to Tanzania. As a result, many travelers paused or cancelled plans — understandably concerned about safety.
2. What the Government & Tourism Authorities Say — Reassurances You Should Know
On 4 November 2025, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism issued an official statement: all entry/exit points — air, land, sea, rail — remain fully operational, and tourism services nationwide are “proceeding normally.” According to Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA), all 21 national parks and protected areas remain open and unaffected by unrest. No incidents targeting tourists were recorded before, during, or after the demonstrations. Tourism data show arrivals remained strong even in early November 2025 — a signal that many international visitors and operators still trust Tanzania’s tourism infrastructure.
3. Where It’s Safe — Safari Zones, Parks & Coastal Areas
🟢 Safari & National Parks
Popular safari circuits — Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park, southern parks like Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park — remain calm, operational, and unaffected by the unrest. Lodges, conservation areas and tourism infrastructure continue normal operations; game drives, safari transfers, and visitor services are reportedly working smoothly.
🏖️ Coastal & Beach Destinations
Coastal areas and islands such as Zanzibar remain peaceful and open for business. Resorts and beach lodges are welcoming guests; recent travel reviews suggest few — if any — disruptions. 👉 In short: the unrest was largely urban and political. Remote safari zones and coastal resorts — where you go for wildlife or beach escapes — have remained largely unaffected.
4. What Now — Travel Advisories & Realities
| Source | Advisory / Statement |
|---|---|
| U.S. Department of State | Level 3: “Reconsider Travel” — cites unrest, crime, demonstrations, and risk of violence. |
| Smartraveller (Australia) | Advises travelers to avoid protests and large gatherings; warns of unpredictable security environment. |
| Tanzanian Government (Ministry of Tourism) | Declared that peace and stability have been restored; tourism operations normal. |
5. Tips for Safe & Smooth Safari or Beach Travel in 2025/2026
- Travel directly to safari or beach areas on arrival (minimise overnight stays in cities).
- Use private transfers, charter flights or escorted transfers rather than public transport.
- Keep digital copies of your passport, visa, and travel insurance — store them offline if internet access becomes unstable.
- Register with your embassy or home country’s traveler programme and share your itinerary with family/friends.
- Stay respectful and discreet: avoid photographing protests, law enforcement, or social media distribution of politically sensitive material — this is a regulation under new security laws.
Why Now Might Be a Good Time to Visit
Parks and lodges may have better availability and lower rates than peak season — many travellers postponed, so demand is lower. With fewer crowds, you might experience quieter, more intimate wildlife viewing and lodge stays. Supporting tourism now helps local communities and signals confidence — which can help stabilize livelihoods and encourage responsible tourism businesses.
You Might Also Find These Helpful
- When & Where to See the Great Migration in Tanzania
- What to Pack for a Safari and Beach Honeymoon
- Best Midrange Zanzibar Hotels for Safari Extensions
- Best Time to Visit Tanzania – Month‑by‑Month Guide
