Is Dar es Salaam safe to visit right now? (November 2026)

Travel advisories for Tanzania

What the advice says

• The US State Department advisory for Tanzania is Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution, dated October 16, 2026; this is a country-level advisory, not specific to Dar es Salaam.
• The UK FCDO notes a high global threat of terrorism affecting British nationals and states that terrorist attacks in Tanzania cannot be ruled out, potentially targeting places of worship, transport hubs, embassies, hotels, restaurants, bars, and other crowded locations.
• A general election on October 29, 2025 led to protests and a security response that caused fatalities and injuries across mainland Tanzania, and the FCDO warns further demonstrations and violent security responses are possible at any time; travelers should avoid all demonstrations and large crowds and leave the area immediately if they encounter protests or disruption.
• The FCDO warns of an increase in anti-foreigner rhetoric and states it is illegal to photograph or share footage of protests and violence, with electronic devices subject to search by security services; travelers should avoid political discussions in public or online.
• Violent and armed crime occurs throughout Tanzania, with tourists and residents in Dar es Salaam targeted in the city center and in the Masaki and Oysterbay peninsula area, including at Coco Beach along Toure Drive; bag snatching by criminals operating from cars or motorbikes is a known tactic.
• The FCDO describes cases of tourists being 'express kidnapped' in Dar es Salaam, assaulted and forced to withdraw cash from ATMs or arrange transfers of up to £5,000 through Western Union, often after being befriended by strangers or using unlicensed taxis; solo travelers should avoid unlicensed taxis and be cautious with new acquaintances.
• The FCDO also reports incidents of sexual assault against foreigners, including at beach resorts, and advises avoiding walking alone at night, not leaving drinks unattended, and taking care with strangers offering rides or invitations.