Are Safaris in Tanzania Safe?

Tanzania is one of the most sought-after safari destinations in the world, known for its breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and iconic parks like Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and Mount Kilimanjaro. However, potential travelers often have concerns about the safety of embarking on a safari in Tanzania. This article aims to address these concerns, covering major topics such as animal danger, vaccinations, vehicle safety, and more. By the end of this blog, you'll see why safaris in Tanzania are very safe, provided you follow the right precautions.

Blog Overview

1. Understanding Animal Danger
   • Wildlife Encounters
   • Safety Measures
2. Health Precautions and Vaccinations
   • Recommended Vaccinations
   • Malaria Prevention
3. Vehicle Safety and Getting Stuck
   • Quality of Safari Vehicles
   • What to Do If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck
4. General Safety Tips
   • Choosing Reputable Safari Operators
   • Travel Insurance
   • Personal Safety Measures

Understanding Animal Danger

One of the primary concerns for many prospective safari-goers is the potential danger posed by wild animals. While it's true that you'll be in close proximity to some of Africa's most majestic and powerful creatures, safaris are designed and carried out with your safety in mind.

Wildlife Encounters

Encountering wildlife is the highlight of any safari, and Tanzania's national parks offer some of the best opportunities for seeing animals in their natural habitats. The key is to remember that these animals are wild and should be respected as such.

• Big Cats: Lions, leopards, and cheetahs are often the stars of the show. While they are impressive predators, incidents involving these animals are extraordinarily rare on safaris. Guides are expertly trained to observe from a safe distance and understand animal behavior, ensuring that both the animals and tourists are kept safe.
• Elephants and Buffalos: These large herbivores can be unpredictable, especially if they feel threatened. However, experienced guides know precisely how to approach these animals safely, minimizing any potential risks.
• Hippopotamuses and Crocodiles: Found in rivers and lakes, these animals can be dangerous if approached on foot. Safari vehicles provide a secure way to view them, with attacks being virtually unheard of.

The Serengeti National Park is renowned for its annual migration, where over a million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles move across the plains. This spectacle attracts predators, offering unparalleled wildlife viewing. Despite the large number of predators, attacks on safari vehicles are exceedingly rare due to the animals being accustomed to the presence of vehicles. This habituation significantly reduces any risk to tourists, making such encounters both safe and awe-inspiring.

Safety Measures

To ensure your safety, follow these guidelines:

• Stay in the Vehicle: Always remain in the vehicle during game drives unless your guide indicates it’s safe to get out. This rule is crucial, as stepping out can put you at immediate risk.
• Listen to Your Guide: Guides are knowledgeable about animal behavior and park regulations. Follow their instructions at all times. Their expertise is vital in navigating the complexities of the wild.
• Maintain Silence and Calm: Loud noises or sudden movements can startle animals, potentially causing them to react defensively. Keeping quiet also enhances your wildlife viewing experience.
• Avoid Feeding Animals: Feeding wildlife can be dangerous and is strictly prohibited. It alters their natural behavior and can make them more aggressive. It also poses health risks to the animals.

Health Precautions and Vaccinations

Health is another major concern for travelers, particularly when visiting Africa. Tanzania, like many other destinations, has certain health risks that can be mitigated with proper precautions.

Recommended Vaccinations

Before traveling to Tanzania, it’s important to ensure that you are up to date on routine vaccines and receive specific vaccinations recommended for the region.

• Yellow Fever: A yellow fever vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission.
• Hepatitis A and B: Vaccinations for hepatitis A and B are recommended due to the potential for contaminated food and water and sexual transmission, respectively.
• Typhoid: Vaccination is advised, particularly if you plan to visit smaller cities or rural areas where food hygiene might be less stringent.
• Rabies: Consider a rabies vaccine if you will be spending a lot of time outdoors or in remote areas, as rabies can be transmitted by animal bites.

In addition to these, ensure your routine vaccinations such as measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, and polio are up to date. It's advisable to consult a travel medicine specialist who can provide personalized advice based on your itinerary.

Link: Travel Health Advice for Tanzania

Malaria Prevention

Malaria is present in Tanzania, so taking preventive measures is essential:

• Antimalarial Medication: Consult your doctor about the best antimalarial medication for you. Options include atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, and mefloquine.
• Insect Repellent: Use insect repellent with DEET on exposed skin. Alternatives include picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• Mosquito Nets: Ensure that your accommodations provide mosquito nets or are equipped with screened windows and doors. Nets treated with insecticide offer additional protection.
• Long-Sleeved Clothing: Wear long sleeves and pants, especially in the evening when mosquitoes are most active. Light-colored clothing is less attractive to mosquitoes.

Additional measures include staying in air-conditioned or well-screened accommodations and using insecticide-treated bed nets. The combination of these strategies significantly reduces the risk of malaria.

Vehicle Safety and Getting Stuck

The thought of being in the middle of the wilderness and having your vehicle get stuck might be daunting, but safari operators are well-prepared for such situations.

Quality of Safari Vehicles

Reputable safari companies use well-maintained, sturdy vehicles designed to handle the rough terrain of Tanzania's national parks. These vehicles are typically equipped with:

• 4WD Capability: Ensures that vehicles can navigate difficult terrains, including mud and sand.
• Communication Equipment: Radios or satellite phones to communicate with park rangers or other guides in case of emergencies.
• First Aid Kits: Basic medical supplies for minor injuries or ailments.

In addition to these features, safari vehicles often have raised seating and open roofs for better wildlife viewing. They are built to withstand the terrain of the wilderness, ensuring both safety and comfort for passengers.

What to Do If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck

Even with the best vehicles, getting stuck can occasionally happen, especially during the rainy season when tracks can become muddy:

• Stay Calm: Your guide will be experienced in handling such situations and will know the best course of action. Panic can complicate the situation.
• Follow Instructions: The guide may need assistance from passengers to stabilize the vehicle or gather materials for traction. They might ask you to help place stones or branches under the tires.
• Wait for Assistance: If the vehicle cannot be freed immediately, guides can call for help from other vehicles or park rangers. Patience is key, as help is often not far away.

Guides are trained to handle such scenarios and often have tools like shovels, tow ropes, and even winches to extricate stuck vehicles. The vast network of safari operators ensures quick assistance when needed.

General Safety Tips

To further ensure your safari is safe and enjoyable, consider these additional tips:

Choosing Reputable Safari Operators

The safety and quality of your safari largely depend on the operator you choose. Look for operators with:

• Good Reviews: Check reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor or SafariBookings to see what past travelers have to say.
• Professional Accreditation: Ensure they are members of reputable safari associations, such as the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO).
• Experienced Guides: Ask about the training and experience of the guides. Knowledgeable guides can significantly enhance your safety and experience.

Reputable operators also follow strict safety protocols and have comprehensive insurance policies. They provide detailed pre-trip briefings, ensuring you are well-prepared for the adventure.

Travel Insurance

Investing in comprehensive travel insurance is a must. Look for policies that cover:

• Medical Emergencies: Including evacuation if necessary. Ensure the policy covers activities like safaris.
• Trip Cancellations: To protect against unexpected changes in your travel plans. This is particularly important given the investment a safari represents.
• Lost Luggage: In case your belongings are lost or delayed. Coverage for valuable items like cameras and binoculars is also beneficial.

Additionally, check if the insurance covers political evacuation and natural disasters, which, although rare, provide an extra layer of security.

Personal Safety Measures

• Keep Valuables Secure: While in cities or at lodges, keep valuables locked away. Use hotel safes and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• Stay Informed: Keep up with local news and updates from your safari operator

about any potential safety issues. Being aware of your surroundings helps you stay safe.

• Emergency Contacts: Have a list of emergency contacts, including your country’s embassy, local hospitals, and your safari operator’s main office. Ensure your family or friends back home also have this information.

Personal safety also extends to following local customs and being respectful of the environment and wildlife. Maintaining a low profile and being culturally sensitive can enhance your travel experience.

Additional Safety Considerations

Weather Conditions

Weather can play a significant role in your safari experience. Tanzania has two main rainy seasons: the short rains (November to December) and the long rains (March to May). While safaris are still possible during these periods, the roads can be muddy, and some tracks may become impassable. It's essential to:

• Check Weather Forecasts: Before setting out each day.
• Pack Accordingly: Bring waterproof clothing and footwear.
• Follow Guide's Advice: They have up-to-date information on weather conditions and road status.

Food and Water Safety

While on safari, food is generally prepared by the lodge or camp staff, who adhere to high standards of hygiene. However, it's essential to:

• Drink Bottled Water: Avoid tap water unless it has been boiled or purified.
• Be Cautious with Street Food: In cities, choose restaurants with good reviews and high turnover.

Conclusion

In summary, safaris in Tanzania are very safe when proper precautions are taken. From understanding animal behavior and ensuring health vaccinations to choosing reputable operator such as the one's on CloudSafaris and staying informed, you can mitigate most risks associated with safari travel.

Tanzania offers an unparalleled safari experience, rich with wildlife, stunning landscapes, and cultural insights. By following the advice outlined in this guide, you can embark on your safari adventure with confidence, knowing that your safety is a top priority. So, pack your bags, prepare your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable journey into the wild heart of Tanzania.

If you have any other questions, let us answer them for you at [email protected]!