Health Preparation for Your Tanzania Trip
Tanzania is a tropical country, and taking proper health precautions before and during your visit will help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. We recommend consulting a travel health clinic or your doctor at least 6-8 weeks before departure to allow time for any vaccinations that require multiple doses.
Recommended Vaccinations
- Yellow Fever: Required if you are arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic country. A valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate may be checked at immigration. The vaccine provides lifelong protection after a single dose.
- Hepatitis A: Recommended for all travelers. Transmitted through contaminated food and water.
- Hepatitis B: Recommended for longer stays or if you may be exposed to blood or body fluids.
- Typhoid: Recommended for all travelers, especially those visiting smaller cities or rural areas.
- Tetanus/Diphtheria: Ensure your routine booster is up to date.
- Rabies: Consider if you will be in remote areas far from medical facilities, or if you plan extensive outdoor activities.
Malaria Prevention
Tanzania is a malaria-endemic country, and anti-malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended for all visitors. Common options include Malarone (atovaquone-proguanil), Doxycycline, and Mefloquine. Consult your doctor to determine which medication is best for you, considering side effects and any existing medical conditions.
In addition to medication, protect yourself from mosquito bites by:
- Using insect repellent containing 20-30% DEET on exposed skin
- Wearing long sleeves and trousers during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active
- Sleeping under a mosquito net (provided at most lodges and camps)
- Using permethrin-treated clothing for added protection
General Health Tips
- Drink only bottled or filtered water. We provide safe drinking water on all safaris and Kilimanjaro treks.
- Use sunscreen (SPF 50+) and reapply frequently, especially at altitude on Kilimanjaro.
- Bring any prescription medications in their original packaging with a copy of the prescription.
- Pack a basic first aid kit with diarrhea medication, rehydration salts, pain relief, and any personal medications.
- Altitude sickness is a consideration for Kilimanjaro climbers. Discuss Acetazolamide (Diamox) with your doctor if you plan to trek.