Capital: Dodoma
Population: 57.31 million
Official language: Swahili, English
Time zone: East Africa Time
Emergency #: 114
Vaccinations required: Yes
Risk of malaria: Yes
Tanzania is known for its natural landscapes, wildlife, and culture. Popular attractions include the beaches along the Indian Ocean coastline and Serengeti National Park, which is home to numerous wild animals such as elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos. Kilimanjaro National Park is also popular and home to Africa’s highest mountain.
The standards for patient care and medical services in Tanzania may differ from your home country. Tanzania has a public healthcare system. Healthcare services are extremely limited outside of Dar es Salaam and generally do not meet international standards. In rural regions, formal healthcare options may be non-existent.
In the event of a medical emergency, contact your travel health insurance company immediately. Hospitals and private practitioners in Tanzania typically require upfront payment, regardless if you have travel health insurance. Evacuation – possibly to Kenya or South Africa – will be required for medical emergencies. Ensure that you have accessible funds to cover upfront fees and adequate travel health insurance. Coverage for medical evacuation is a high priority. Before you depart, check with your insurer about the extent of their coverage in Tanzania.
Access to pharmacies is limited. Outside of major cities, it may be extremely difficult to find medications. Even in hospitals, essential medications are often in short supply. Travellers should pack a sufficient supply of essential medication for the duration of their trip.
If you are travelling with medication, check with Tanzania’s embassy, consulate, or Ministry of Health for details on medication allowances and restrictions. Note that these sources may provide incomplete or out-of-date information.
Road conditions and quality vary by region. Outside of major cities roads are often unpaved and may also be poorly marked, unlit, and have no shoulder. Drivers and front-seat passengers in vehicles are required by law to wear seat belts, but all passengers should wear seat belts for safety. Helmets must be worn by motorcycle drivers and passengers at all times.