The genuine risks on safari are road accidents, sun, dehydration and altitude. Wildlife is a long way down the list.
Nothing on this page is medical advice. Speak to a travel clinic six to eight weeks before you fly, and take their advice over anything written here.
Before you travel
Vaccinations
Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if you are arriving from a country where it is endemic. Your clinic will advise on routine and recommended vaccinations for Tanzania.
Malaria
Tanzania is a malaria area, including the parks and Zanzibar. Prophylaxis is a medical decision. Practically: repellent, long sleeves and trousers after dusk, and use the mosquito net.
On the ground
Roads
The most dangerous part of most safaris is the drive. Our guides are instructed to drive to the conditions rather than the schedule, and if that means arriving later, we arrive later.
Sun and water
You are near the equator and often at altitude. Drinking water is provided in the vehicle throughout; use it, and use a hat.
Camp rules
- Most bush camps are unfenced. Do not walk between your tent and the mess after dark — call for the guard.
- Zip your tent, including when you leave it during the day.
- Do not feed anything, including the small and appealing things.
- Stay in the vehicle unless your guide tells you it is safe to get out.
Altitude on Kilimanjaro
Mild headache and poor sleep are normal. Confusion, breathlessness at rest or a persistent cough are not, and mean descending immediately. Our guides carry To confirm and are trained to To confirm — this will be specified once the mountain operations detail is confirmed.
If something goes wrong
Your guide carries a means of communication and we hold your insurance details. Emergency contact procedure: To confirm.
