Health considerations on a Tanzania Safari
What to Know Before You Go
Quick summary
- A safari is one of the more comfortable ways to travel in Tanzania from a health perspective
- Malaria prevention is the main consideration in most safari areas
- Sun exposure and dehydration are the most common issues travelers actually encounter
- Remote locations mean basic preparation matters more than it would in a city
The honest picture
A Tanzania safari is not a physically demanding experience. You are spending most of your time in a vehicle, in a lodge or around camp. The health considerations are less about exertion and more about environment. The bush is remote, the sun is strong and the mosquitoes come out at dusk. None of that is a problem with a little preparation.
Malaria
Safari areas in Tanzania are malaria risk zones. This is the single most important health consideration for safari travelers. Refer to our malaria article for a full breakdown of prevention and what to expect.
Sun and heat
The Tanzanian sun is stronger than most travelers expect, particularly at altitude in the Ngorongoro Crater and during long game drives with open roof hatches. Sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses are not optional. Dehydration is the most common issue we see on safari and it is entirely avoidable. Drink water consistently throughout the day, not just when you feel thirsty.
Insects
Beyond mosquitoes, tsetse flies are present in some safari areas and their bite is uncomfortable. Light colored, long sleeved clothing provides the best protection. Avoid dark blue and black clothing in tsetse areas as these colors are known to attract them.
Remote locations
Safari camps are often far from the nearest hospital or clinic. This is part of what makes them special, but it also means that pre-existing medical conditions should be disclosed to your operator in advance and that any personal medication should be packed in sufficient quantity with some extra to spare. Our guides carry first aid kits on all drives and the lodges we work with have emergency protocols in place.
A note from Dakik
The vast majority of our safari clients never encounter a single health issue beyond a little sunburn on day one. Prepare sensibly, follow your guide’s advice in the field and you will be absolutely fine.