East Africa
Reviewed by Alexander Webber, Chief Epidemiologist · Updated 2026-08
Tanzania carries substantial health risks for travelers, particularly malaria, which is present year-round across most of the mainland and Zanzibar. Altitude illness is a serious concern for those trekking Mount Kilimanjaro at 5,895 meters. Food and waterborne diseases including typhoid and hepatitis A are common. Safari areas and rural regions have limited medical infrastructure, making advance preparation critical.
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Source: CDC Travelers' Health — Tanzania
High risk throughout mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar year-round. No area of mainland Tanzania is considered malaria-free. Atovaquone-proguanil or doxycycline are the preferred prophylaxis options for most travelers.
Drink bottled or purified water only. Avoid ice in drinks, raw salads, and unpeeled fruit unless you peeled it yourself. Zanzibar seafood is generally safer at established restaurants but verify freshness and preparation.
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