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Here's some travel advice to keep you informed and safe when it comes
to travel to Tanzania...
Terrorism
We advise you to exercise a high degree of caution in Tanzania because of the high threat of terrorist attack. We continue to receive reports that terrorists are planning attacks against a range of targets, including places frequented by foreigners. In planning your activities, consider the kind of places known to be terrorist targets which include commercial and public areas known to be frequented by foreigners such as hotels, clubs, restaurants, bars, schools, places of worship, airports, marketplaces, outdoor recreation events and tourist areas.
Civil Unrest/Political Tension
You should avoid all public rallies and protests because political tensions could lead to violence, and authorities have, in the past, used force. In the lead-up to elections in Zanzibar on 30 October 2005, demonstrations and protests frequently became violent. Elections on mainland Tanzania are scheduled for 18 December 2005. The potential for violence in Tanzania will remain high in the period before and after the election.
Border areas with Rwanda, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo: We strongly advise you not to travel to the border areas with Rwanda, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, because of the risk of banditry which continues to flow from the conflict in the Great Lakes region. Security risks in these areas are heightened, especially at night.
Crime
Crime, including violent robbery and petty theft, is common in Tanzania, especially on public transport, in national parks and on beaches. Crime levels in Dar es Salaam and armed banditry at coastal resorts in mainland Tanzania and on Zanzibar and Pemba Island, are increasing. Incidents of armed banditry have also been reported in national parks in Tanzania, and around Mount Kilimanjaro. Car-jackings occur throughout the country. Travellers have also been targeted by thieves in isolated areas. Some criminals use fake police identification cards to request money for alleged offences.
Local Travel
Driving in Tanzania can be hazardous, especially at night, as most roads and vehicles are in poor condition. Excessive speeds, driving habits and poor lighting also pose risks. Traffic accidents are common and bus accidents have resulted in fatalities.
The safety standards Australians might expect of tour operators are not always met, especially for adventure sports such as scuba-diving. Diving equipment may not meet international standards.
Piracy occurs in the coastal areas of Tanzania. See our travel advice on shipping and ports for more information. The International Maritime Bureau issues weekly piracy reports on its web site.
Natural Disasters
The rainy seasons are March to May and November to December when flooding occurs and roads may become impassable. Monsoons occur in the coastal areas and islands between June and October. Information on natural disasters can be obtained from the Humanitarian Early Warning Service. If a natural disaster occurs, follow the advice of local authorities.
Local Law and Customs
Travellers are reminded that when overseas, they are subject to local laws. Local
laws and legal processes can be very different from those at home. A violation
of local laws may result in a jail sentence, served in a local prison. Consular
assistance cannot override local law, even where local laws may appear harsh or
unjust by your standards.
Homosexual acts are illegal in Tanzania. Penalties range from 30 years to life imprisonment.
Penalties for drug offences are severe and include lengthy imprisonment.
Spitting and the possession of pornographic material are illegal in Tanzania.
Photography around military zones, military assets and/or military personnel is prohibited.
There are conservative standards of dress and behaviour in Tanzania, and you should take care not to offend.
Entry and Exit Requirements
Visa conditions change regularly. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Tanzania for the most up to date information.
A Yellow Fever Certificate is required for entry into Tanzania.
Health Issues
Medical facilities are limited in Tanzania and evacuation may be required in cases of serious illness or accident. Malaria is prevalent in most parts of the country. HIV/AIDS is endemic and there are regular outbreaks of cholera.
Your doctor or travel clinic is the best source of information about immunisations
and disease outbreaks overseas. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides useful
tips for staying healthy while travelling overseas.
We strongly recommend that you take out comprehensive travel insurance that will cover any overseas medical costs, before you depart. Confirm that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away and check what circumstances and activities are not included in your policy. Remember, if you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel.
Source: Australian Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade
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