Safety Tips for Solo Female Travelers in Tanzania

1. Choose Trusted Safari Tour Operators

• Book with Reputable Companies: Opt for well-established and trusted tour operators, especially those with positive reviews from solo female travelers. Research their safety protocols and the level of customer service they provide.
• Private Guides: Consider hiring a private guide for your safari or cultural experiences. This ensures that you have someone knowledgeable and familiar with the area to accompany you and keep you safe.

2. Stay in Safe, Well-Reviewed Accommodations

• Check Reviews: Always book accommodations that have high ratings and reviews from solo travelers, especially females. Platforms like TripAdvisor, Booking.com, and Airbnb offer useful insights into safety and the quality of the service.
• Secure Lodging: Choose hotels or lodges that provide secure facilities, such as safe rooms, 24/7 security, and well-lit paths to the entrance. Also, inquire about their safety measures regarding personal belongings and emergencies.

3. Keep Your Valuables Safe

• Leave Expensive Items Behind: Limit the amount of expensive jewelry, gadgets, or large amounts of cash that you carry with you. Only take what you need for the day.
• Use a Money Belt or Hidden Pouch: Keep valuables like your passport, cash, and credit cards in a secure money belt or hidden pouch under your clothing.
• Lock Your Luggage: If you’re staying in shared accommodations, ensure that your luggage is locked. You can also use lockable compartments in your room to store valuables.

4. Dress Modestly and Respect Local Culture

• Cultural Sensitivity: Tanzania is a conservative country, and dressing modestly is important. Long skirts or pants and shirts with sleeves are advisable, especially in rural areas and when visiting local communities or villages.
• Blend In: While safari attire is more relaxed, try to blend in by dressing in a way that is respectful to local customs and avoids drawing unnecessary attention.

5. Stay Connected and Share Your Itinerary

• Inform Someone Trusted: Always share your travel itinerary and accommodation details with a close friend or family member back home. Keep them updated regularly on your plans.
• Emergency Contacts: Have the contact details for your tour operator, local embassy, and hotel on hand. Keep emergency numbers, including the police, handy as well.

6. Trust Your Instincts

• Stay Alert: Trust your gut instincts and be aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar places. If something feels off or uncomfortable, remove yourself from the situation.
• Avoid Isolation: While safaris can be remote, try to avoid walking around alone after dark or in poorly lit areas. Stick to well-populated and safe areas.

7. Keep Your Documents Safe

• Carry Copies: Have copies of important documents like your passport, visa, insurance, and emergency contacts, and store them separately from the originals. It’s also advisable to store a digital copy of these documents in your email or cloud storage.
• Use Hotel Safes: Most lodges and hotels offer safe deposit boxes where you can keep your passport, travel tickets, and valuables securely.

8. Be Cautious with Alcohol and Food

• Watch Your Drink: If you plan on consuming alcohol, always keep an eye on your drink to avoid potential tampering. Avoid accepting drinks from strangers.
• Eat at Reputable Restaurants: Stick to restaurants or food vendors that are popular and recommended by trusted sources like your hotel or tour guide.

9. Stay Healthy

• Hydration and Snacks: Keep a bottle of water and some snacks with you to avoid getting dehydrated or hungry during long game drives or excursions.
• Malaria Prevention: Take necessary malaria prevention medications before and during your trip, and protect yourself from mosquito bites using repellent and nets.
• First Aid Kit: Carry a small first aid kit with essentials such as painkillers, antiseptic wipes, bandaids, and any prescription medications you need.

10. Transportation Safety

• Use Trusted Transport Providers: When traveling to and from safari destinations or within cities, use reputable taxi services or your safari operator’s transport rather than public transport.
• Seatbelts: Always wear your seatbelt in a vehicle, even if traveling short distances, as road conditions can vary.

11. Be Cautious with Photos

• Ask Permission: When taking photos of people, especially in local villages or when interacting with indigenous tribes, always ask for permission. Some people may not want their photos taken, and it’s essential to respect their wishes.
• Avoid Flashing Expensive Equipment: If you’re carrying high-end camera gear, avoid showcasing it in public spaces to reduce the risk of theft.

12. Group Tours for Socializing

• Join Group Safaris: If you prefer not to travel alone during your safari, consider joining group tours. It’s a great way to meet other travelers, share experiences, and enjoy the safari in a social setting. Plus, it’s safer when you’re in a group.

13. Local Support for Women Travelers

• Women-Friendly Activities: Some operators in Tanzania offer women-only tours or groups, which can be a great way to travel with other like-minded solo female travelers.
• Respectful Guides: Make sure your tour guide or driver is respectful and professional. Don’t hesitate to ask for another guide if you feel uncomfortable with the current one.

14. Emergency Preparedness

• Know the Nearest Medical Facility: Before starting your safari, know where the nearest medical facility or hospital is located in case of any emergency.
• Emergency Plan: Have a plan for emergencies, such as knowing the quickest way to get help if you’re in a remote area.

15. Stay Positive and Open-Minded

• Enjoy the Experience: Traveling solo can be an incredibly rewarding and empowering experience. Embrace the adventure, connect with others, and enjoy the unique opportunities that solo travel provides.

By following these safety tips, you can enjoy a worry-free and memorable safari experience in Tanzania, making the most of everything this beautiful country has to offer while ensuring your well-being.