Travel Report for Tanzania

Country Profile for
Tanzania

TRAVEL REPORTS:

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TRAVEL REPORT

Last Updated: September 6, 2006 8:54 EDT
Still Valid: December 8, 2006 22:42 EST

Tanzania

1.	INTRODUCTION
2.	ATTENTION
3.	SAFETY AND SECURITY
4.	LOCAL TRAVEL
5.	NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE
6.	LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS
7.	ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD
8.	ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS
9.	MONEY

10.	GENERAL INFORMATION
11.	TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM
12.	ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION
13.	RETURNING TO CANADA
14.	INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS
15.	TRAVEL TIPS
16.	HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE
17.	FOR MORE INFORMATION
18.	ANNEX

1. INTRODUCTION

Section 2 of this Travel Report has been updated.

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2. ATTENTION

Travel near refugee camps in the northwestern area bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo,

Rwanda

, and

Burundi

(in the region of Kigoma and to the west of Kagera) is dangerous due to banditry.

There is a potential for terrorist activity in East Africa, including

Tanzania

and the island of Zanzibar. In the past, bombings have occurred on Zanzibar by suspected Islamic radicals targeting liberal establishments. Canadians in

Tanzania

should avoid crowds and demonstrations and register with the High Commission of Canada in Dar es Salaam (see section 7 below) or Foreign Affairs Canada (613-996-8885).

On September 1, 2006, the main border crossing point between

Zambia

and

Tanzania

(town of Nakonde) was temporarily closed. Canadians in the area should keep informed of further developments and follow the advice of local authorities.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada offers a registration service for Canadians travelling or residing abroad. Although Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada does not warn against travel to this country or region(s) of this country, Canadians are encouraged to register with the responsible Canadian government office due to the security situation and/or the absence of Canadian representation in this country. Registration can be done on-line or by calling the responsible Canadian government office abroad to request a registration form.

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

Most Canadian visitors to

Tanzania

do not experience problems. However, Canadians in

Tanzania

, especially in Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar, should exercise caution in public places such as hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, cinemas, and shopping centres. Muggings, attacks, and hold-ups occur ocasionally in Stone Town and in the immediate vicinity of the coastal resorts on Unguja. You should be vigilant, particularly in Stone Town after dark. Avoid deserted beaches. In an emergency, dial 112 for police.

Armed robbery, although rare, can also occur in parks and nature reserves, including the northern circuit in the vicinity of Serengeti National Park, Ngogongoro and Arusha National Parks, and regions surrounding Mount Kilimanjaro. Organized tours and independent travellers have been targeted. You should travel with a reputable tour company only (hotels can make recommendations). Prudence is recommended when camping or travelling alone.

You should remain on tourist routes and avoid remote areas. Exercise caution in and around Arusha, where armed robberies and carjackings have been reported. Possible violent armed robberies and carjackings can occur on less-travelled roads and trails. You should refrain from stopping on such roads and trails. Keep doors locked and windows shut at all times and do not pick up strangers. We recommend that you travel in convoy between cities. Avoid travel after dark.

Petty crime is a problem. Muggings, pickpocketing, and theft are common in crowded areas, on public transportation, and on public beaches. Leave personal belongings, including cash, passports, and airline tickets, in a hotel safe or other secure place. Sexual assaults involving tourists are a concern. Avoid walking after dark. Do not accept food or drink from strangers as it may be drugged. Seek local advice on the security situation prior to visiting beaches. In Dar es Salaam, particular caution is warranted on Toure Drive (Msasani Peninsula) where muggings and attacks, including attacks on moving vehicles, have recently been reported.

You may be approached by police officers requesting money for alleged offences. We recommend that you insist on proper identification before proceeding to a police station. Report all such incidents to the Canadian High Commission in Dar es Salaam.

If you are considering climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, you should carefully consider the inherent risks involved; primarily altitude sickness and hypothermia. It is important to investigate the numerous tour operators so as to find a reputable guide. Each year people are seriously injured or killed on the mountain and emergency assistance is severely limited.

Wild animals can be dangerous. When visiting parks or nature reserves, follow the advice and warnings of local tour guides.

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4. LOCAL TRAVEL

Traffic drives on the left. Road conditions are poor and road signs are often missing. For travel outside main cities, it is recommended to use a four-wheel drive vehicle. Excessive speeds, driving habits, poor lighting, lack of vehicle maintenance, roaming wildlife and livestock, cyclists, and pedestrians pose risks, and travel by road at night should be avoided. You should travel by taxi in cities. Avoid driving unless familiar with local conditions.

Bus travel is not recommended, as bus accidents often result in fatalities. Rail service is limited, uncomfortable, and unreliable. Domestic flights may be subject to delays and cancellations. There are regular reliable ferries from Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions. For additional information, see the Weekly Piracy Report published by the International Maritime Bureau.

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5. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

Coastal areas and islands are subject to monsoons between June and October. In most areas, the long rainy season occurs from March to May and short rains last from November to December. Roads may be impassable during the rainy season without the use of a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Travellers should keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

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6. LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 7 below. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The Department publishes A Guide for Canadians Imprisoned Abroad, specifically targeted at incarcerated Canadians. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian detainees, their families, and friends about available assistance and advice.

In Zanzibar, Islamic practices and beliefs are particularly influential. Common sense and discretion should be exercised in dress and behaviour throughout Tanzania. Respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities. Visitors should dress conservatively (e.g. women should cover their shoulders and refrain from wearing shorts). The use of non-prescription drugs is prohibited. Alcohol is not sold in some parts of Zanzibar and visitors should avoid consuming it in those areas.

Penalties for drug-related offences can be severe.

During the lunar month of Ramadan (the ninth month of the Muslim calendar), visitors should use discretion when drinking, eating, and smoking in public between sunrise and sunset. This year, Ramadan is expected to begin on or about September 24, 2006.

Homosexual activity is illegal and is subject to significant penalty.

Possession of pornographic material is illegal.

The export of hunting "trophies" is strictly regulated. Canadians should contact the High Commission for the United Republic of Tanzania (see section 7 below) for specific information regarding customs requirements.

Photography of military installations is forbidden. Individuals have been detained and/or had their cameras and film confiscated for taking pictures of hospitals, schools, bridges, industrial sites, and airports. Always ask permission before photographing individuals.

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7. ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD

You can obtain consular assistance and further information at the following address:

Tanzania - DAR ES SALAAM, High Comission of Canada
Address: 38 Mirambo Street, Corner Garden Avenue, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Postal Address: P.O. Box 1022, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Tel.: 255 (22) 216-3300
Fax: 255 (22) 211-6897
E-mail: dslam@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.daressalaam.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, call the High Commission of Canada in Dar es Salaam and follow the instructions. You may also call the Department in Ottawa at 613-996-8885. Collect calls cannot be made in

Tanzania

.

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8. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the Tanzanian authorities and, to the best of our knowledge, was valid on July 31, 2006. However, these requirements are subject to change.

It is the sole prerogative of each country to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the country or countries to be visited. Conditions are subject to change.

Foreign Affairs

Canada

’s Office of Protocol provides contact details for the High Commission for the United Republic of Tanzania, where you can obtain further information on entry and exit requirements.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit

Tanzania

. The passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected departure from the country. They are required to show their passports when entering or exiting the islands of Zanzibar and Pemba. They must also be in possession of a visa.

Tourist Visa: Required
Business Visa: Required
Student Visa: Required
Work/Volunteer Visa: Required

Although visas are available upon arrival, it is recommended to acquire visas prior to arrival in

Tanzania

. When you arrive, ensure immigration officials validate your visa by stamping your passport or writing any required information into it. A tourist visa is valid for six months from the date of issue, but the duration of a stay cannot exceed three months. Moreover, some visas are valid for a period shorter than three months. Frequent visitors and business persons should request multiple-entry visas.

You should verify that you abide by the terms and expiry date indicated on your visa. Substantial fines are levied on those who overstay the period allowed by their visitor visa or residence permit.

A yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required of travellers arriving from infected areas.

In Zanzibar an additional airport tax of US$5, payable in cash on departure, is required.

Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify visa requirements for this and other countries, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

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9. MONEY

The currency is the Tanzanian shilling (TZS). Credit cards are generally accepted at larger hotels, European carriers and other businesses which cater to international clientele. Outside of Dar es Salaam and at smaller establishments, cash or traveller's cheques in U.S. dollars or pounds sterling is the preferred method of payment, particularly for hotel bills, domestic airline tickets, and entry to national parks. Canadian dollar denominated traveller’s cheques are not accepted. ATMs are becoming more widely available and can be used to access Canadian bank accounts; however, they are subject to breakdowns. We recommend that you carry a small supply of cash in U.S. dollars or euros for use in airports and at borders.

Check with your bank for information on ATM services in other countries. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ATMs around the world. Your bank can advise if you need a new personal identification number (PIN) for overseas access to your account. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ATMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. GENERAL INFORMATION

Tanzania (official capital: Dodoma; commercial capital: Dar es Salaam) is located in east Africa, bordered by Uganda, Lake Victoria, Kenya, the Indian Ocean, Mozambique, Lake Malawi, Malawi, Zambia, Burundi, and Rwanda. It is separated from the Democratic Republic of Congo by Lake Tanganyika. Zanzibar, a part of

Tanzania

, is an archipelago made up of the islands of Unguja and Pemba and several islets. The official languages are English and Swahili. Tourist facilities are adequate in major cities but limited in remote areas, with the exception of principal game lodges and beach resorts. Telecommunications are progressively improving as cellular telephones are proving to be more reliable.

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11. TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Medicine Program Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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12. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

You should bring adequate supplies of all medications in their original containers, clearly labeled. Carry a signed, dated letter from your doctor describing all medical conditions and listing all medications, including generic names.

Medical facilities are limited and medicines are often unavailable, even in Dar es Salaam.

As the level of HIV/AIDS infection in Tanzania is high, you should be cautious about any activity involving the transmission of bodily fluids.

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13. RETURNING TO CANADA

Please consult the Current Issue on returning to Canada.

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14. INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS

Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child from another country, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

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15. TRAVEL TIPS

Please consult our Traveller's Checklist.

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16. HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE

Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

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17. FOR MORE INFORMATION

N/A

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18. ANNEX

N/A

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