Health Information

Tanzania Health & Vaccinations

Everything you need to know about staying healthy during your trip to Tanzania. Vaccinations, malaria prevention, healthcare, and essential health tips.

Malaria Risk

Yes - Take Precautions

Tap Water

Not Safe

Healthcare Quality

Good in major cities

Required Vaccines

1

Vaccinations

Required Vaccinations

  • Yellow Fever

    If arriving from endemic country

Recommended Vaccinations

  • Hepatitis A
  • Hepatitis B
  • Typhoid
  • Tetanus

Consult your doctor or a travel clinic at least 4-6 weeks before your trip.

Malaria Prevention

Malaria is present in Tanzania. Take preventive measures seriously.

High-Risk Areas

  • Everywhere except highlands

Prevention Tips

  • Use DEET-based insect repellent (at least 30% DEET)
  • Sleep under mosquito nets (treated nets are best)
  • Wear long sleeves and pants at dawn and dusk
  • Stay in air-conditioned or well-screened rooms
  • Take antimalarial medication as prescribed

Water & Food Safety

Tap Water

Tap water is NOT safe to drink in Tanzania. Always drink bottled or purified water.

  • Drink only bottled water (check seal is intact)
  • Avoid ice in drinks unless from a trusted source
  • Use bottled water for brushing teeth
  • Consider a water purification bottle or tablets

Food Safety Tips

  • Eat at busy restaurants with high turnover
  • Avoid raw vegetables and salads unless you trust the source
  • Eat fruits you can peel yourself
  • Ensure meat and seafood are thoroughly cooked
  • Carry hand sanitizer and use before eating

Healthcare in Tanzania

Good in major cities, limited in remote areas

Healthcare Quality

Private hospitals in major cities offer good care and are recommended for tourists. Public hospitals may have long waits and limited resources.

Recommendation: Get comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for Tanzania. Healthcare costs can be expensive, and medical evacuation may be necessary for serious conditions.

Medical Coverage

Minimum $100,000 recommended

Medical Evacuation

Essential for remote safari areas

Trip Cancellation

Protects your investment

Health Essentials to Pack

DEET insect repellent (30%+)
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
First aid kit
Prescription medications
Antimalarial tablets
Oral rehydration salts
Anti-diarrhea medication
Pain relievers
Hand sanitizer
Water purification tablets
Mosquito net (if camping)
Medical documentation

Emergency Contacts

Emergency/Ambulance

114

Police

112

Fire

115

Related Guides

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