[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Safety in Tanzania — Travel Guide
Tanzania is one African country where you do not have to worry too much about safety. It is hassle free and the people generally have a laid-back lifestyle. However, you can never be too safe. Let’s consider some safety tips when traveling to Tanzania.
The first thing you need to make sure of is that you avoid isolated areas. This could leave you vulnerable to mugging especially if you are traveling alone. When traveling through the country or in the city, take a taxi that doesn’t have another person in it other than the driver.
As for booking safari walks, always make sure you do thorough research on the company and do not pay any money in advance until you are sure you are paying to the correct company.
At the western parts of the country near Burundi, there are spontaneous cases of political unrest so be careful when traveling to these regions. Also, if you have decided to use public means be wary of people who want to befriend you and offer you free food and drinks as they could use this to get close to you and to steal from you.
You should also be wary of people who walk up to you and claim to offer the best tourist deals. Some will even ask for donations for a cause such as helping orphans and children in need, but such donations should be made through the relevant offices.
Touts especially around the major tourist areas of Tanzania such as Arusha, Zanzibar islands and Moshi tend to be quite pushy. They might view a stranger as an opportunity to ask for high prices to get them where they want to go. Avoid appearing new and if you notice a taxi area, go straight towards it. You would rather pay extra and feel safe.
When in a taxi and you find yourself in traffic, keep your windows closed to avoid your belongings from being snatched. As for your important travel documents such as ID and passports and credit cards, always keep them in a tight pocket close to you.
Avoid hotels that are in seemingly unsecured places and instead choose those that are close to the main roads in cities. You should also be bargaining as this will mean that you have only limited money and the thieves will stay away. Always avoid holding your wallet in your hand as this could give the impression that you have plenty of money to spend.
Lastly, Tanzanians are very conservative people not to mention that most of them are Muslims. Avoid short clothes that may appear suggestive to them. Instead, wear trousers. For women, if you must wear a skirt, make sure it is below the knee.
Always have a map with you or utilize google maps application on your phone for easier navigation.
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