As you consider traveling to Tanzania, whether to go on safari, tackle the slopes of Kilimanjaro, soak up the sun on the tropical coastline, or immerse yourself in the fascinating culture of this East African nation, be sure to remember to familiarize yourself with the various entry requirements. These may include visa requirements as is covered in the content that follows; the different health-related considerations that you should be aware of.

As a developing nation, Tanzania does not offer the same level of health resources that visitors from developed nations are accustomed to. Nonetheless, great strides are being made in modernizing and expanding these services, both for its local population and for those visiting from across the globe. You are advised to ensure that you have adequate travel insurance, especially cover that will provide for all hospitalization and repatriation expenses.

From a tourism perspective, Tanzania has adopted a combination of international best practices and locally relevant regulations to ensure that health matters related to tourists receive the priority that they are due.

On this page, you will find a comprehensive guide to all health-related matters you will need to be aware of both before and during your trip to Tanzania. Please note, that the medical community’s understanding and application of health measures is dynamic, and frequently updated. Accordingly, should you have any uncertainty, be sure to consult your healthcare provider or other qualified sources before traveling.

Basic Visa and Passport Information

To enter Tanzania, travelers must possess a valid passport and a visa. Depending on your nationality, you may obtain a visa upon arrival or apply for an e-visa beforehand. Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity from your departure date. Visit the official Tanzanian Immigration Website for further information.

Mandatory Vaccination Requirements for Entry

Yellow Fever – Yellow fever is a viral disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes. While most infected individuals exhibit mild symptoms, severe cases can lead to hemorrhagic fever with a high mortality rate.

Tanzania requires all visitors over one year of age coming from or transiting through yellow fever endemic countries to present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. This precautionary measure aims to prevent the spread of the disease.

Travelers coming directly from countries where Yellow Fever is non-endemic are exempt from the yellow fever vaccination requirement.  Travelers from non-endemic countries who transit a yellow fever-endemic country for longer than 12 hours are required to produce a yellow fever vaccination certificate. It is advisable to check for any recent changes in the exemption list before travel

Important

The yellow fever vaccination is only effective 10 days after receiving the vaccine. Therefore the accompanying certificate comes into effect after 10 days and remains valid for ten years. Ensure you receive the vaccination well before your departure to meet this requirement. Visit an authorized vaccination clinic or travel health center to receive the yellow fever vaccine and obtain the necessary certificate. Confirm that the center is accredited by the World Health Organization (WHO). Be sure to store your certificate safely with other travel documents required for entry (Passport etc.)

Current COVID-19 Situation in Tanzania

At present, there are no restrictions related to COVID-19 applicable to travelers from any country across the globe. As the COVID-19 situation evolves, Tanzania may update its entry requirements. Stay updated on travel advisories and guidelines issued by the Tanzanian government and relevant health authorities. Reliable vaccines are available worldwide and are recommended for all individuals.

Recommended Standard Immunizations

It is suggested that visitors to Tanzania are vaccinated against tetanus, diphtheria, and Hepatitis A and B. Please note that the above diseases are found worldwide.

Tetanus

Considered more common in equatorial countries, Tanzania nevertheless reports very low incidence of tetanus. Immunization is administered via the DPT vaccine, which is recommended every ten years for adults. From this perspective, it is suggested that individuals ensure their vaccine status is up-to-date. The DPT vaccine also provides immunity to diphtheria and pertussis.

Hepatitis A and B

Hepatitis A is contracted via contaminated food and liquids, while Hepatitis B is transmitted in conditions of poor sanitation via biological fluids (saliva, blood, etc). Vaccinations are widely available in countries with modern healthcare systems.

Other Suggestions

Certain countries, such as the United States of America, recommend that those traveling to Tanzania consider vaccination against chickenpox, influenza, measles-mumps-rubella, polio, and shingles before travel. These vaccinations are commonly given as standard to children.

Other Diseases to Consider

Malaria

Malaria occurs mainly in tropical regions and the infected parasites are transmitted by the female Anopheles mosquito into the bloodstream of humans. There is currently no effective vaccine against infection. However, various anti-malaria prophylaxis medications exist which can reduce the risk of infection. Consult your healthcare provider or local travel clinic for further information about the available drugs. Bear in mind that some of these medications may cause unpleasant side effects.

To further minimize the risk of infection, take preventative measures to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. Measures include applying insect repellent and by wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants in the evening and early morning. Most accommodation establishments provide mosquito nets over beds.