Health & vaccinations
Essential medical advice for a safe journey. We recommend consulting a travel doctor 4–6 weeks before departure.
Healthy travels in Tanzania
Tanzania is a safe destination with good medical facilities in cities. Remote areas require preparation. Below is a general guide — always verify with a healthcare professional.
Required vaccinations
You must have these before entering Tanzania, especially if arriving from an endemic country.
* Certificate required for ages 1 year and above.
Strongly recommended
Consult your doctor 4–6 weeks before travel.
Malaria prophylaxis is essential — see section below.
Malaria prevention
Tanzania is a malaria zone. We strongly recommend:
- Medication: Atovaquone/proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine — discuss with your doctor.
- Mosquito repellent: DEET 30–50% or Picaridin. Apply at dusk.
- Sleep under nets: Provided in all our lodges and camps.
- Wear long sleeves in the evenings.
Malaria facts
Risk is higher during rainy seasons (March–May, November–December). No vaccine — only prevention. Symptoms: fever, chills. If you develop flu-like symptoms up to a year after return, seek immediate medical attention.
Other health considerations
Water & food
Drink only bottled or filtered water (we provide). Avoid ice from unknown sources. Eat thoroughly cooked food; fruits washed in safe water.
Sun & heat
Strong equatorial sun. Use high SPF, wear a hat, and stay hydrated. Our vehicles have UV‑protective roofs.
First aid & clinics
Guides carry first aid kits. Arusha, Karatu, and Serengeti have clinics/hospitals. Emergency evacuation insurance is mandatory.
For treks above 2500m, acute mountain sickness (AMS) is possible. Our guides are trained to recognize symptoms. We follow slow ascent profiles, carry oxygen, and have pulse oximeters. Diamox can be prescribed by your doctor.
Personal medical kit
Pack a small kit: pain relievers, antihistamines, anti‑diarrheals, rehydration salts, plasters, and any prescription meds.
🧴 What we provide
- • First aid kit in every vehicle
- • Mosquito nets at all camps/lodges
- • Bottled/filtered water (unlimited)
- • Pulse oximeters on trekking
- • Emergency evacuation contacts
🏥 Clinics & hospitals
- Arusha: Arusha Lutheran Medical Centre (standard care)
- Karatu: FAME Medical (excellent clinic)
- Serengeti: Serengeti Health Center (basic)
- Zanzibar: Mnazi Mmoja Hospital
🩺 Travel insurance with medical evacuation is mandatory — we require proof before departure.
COVID‑19 & other outbreaks
No current testing or vaccination requirements for entry. However, we monitor WHO and local health advisories. Masks and sanitizer are available on request. If you feel unwell during safari, inform your guide immediately.
Health questions?
Our team can connect you with a travel health specialist or answer general concerns.
We do not provide medical advice — always consult a doctor.