WASHINGTON (Chatnewstv.com) — The U.S. Department of State raised its travel advisory level for Tanzania on Friday to Level 3: Reconsider Travel, citing increased risks from unrest, crime, terrorism, and the targeting of gay and lesbian individuals.
The updated advisory, issued Oct. 31, 2025, replaces a previous advisory from September 2024, moving the East African nation from a Level 2 designation.
The State Department noted that the advisory level increase was due to the addition of an “unrest” risk indicator.
“Reconsider travel to Tanzania due to unrest, crime, terrorism, and targeting of gay and lesbian individuals,” the advisory states. “Some areas have increased risk.”
The advisory highlights that demonstrations often occur in response to political or economic issues and can be unpredictable and widespread. The Tanzanian government has been known to increase security, including stationary checkpoints and roadblocks, around protests and limits or does not authorize large gatherings.
The warning also stresses that violent crime is common, including assault, sexual assault, robberies, mugging, and carjacking. It notes that local police have limited resources to effectively respond to serious crime.
Concerns about terrorism persist, with the risk of attacks and other activity. The State Department pointed out that the risk of terrorist violence is most common in the Mtwara Region.
Of particular concern is the safety of the gay and lesbian community. The advisory states that members of this community have been arrested, targeted, and harassed and may face a higher likelihood of being targeted by police. It adds that people detained under suspicion of same-sex sexual conduct may face invasive physical exams.
For those who still choose to travel to Tanzania, the Department of State urges them to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and have an emergency plan to leave that doesn’t rely on U.S. government help. They are also advised to keep a low profile and avoid public displays of affection, particularly between same-sex couples.
