The U.S. Issued a Level 3 Travel Warning to This Popular Destination Citing Crime and Terrorism—What Travelers Should Know

The United States Department of State is warning travelers to the popular African country of Tanzania to “reconsider” their trips following reports of crime, terrorism, and more.

The State Department increased its travel advisory warning for Tanzania from a Level 2 to a Level 3, warning Americans to “reconsider travel” there “due to unrest, crime, terrorism, and targeting of gay and lesbian individuals.” The warning is one tier below the highest Level 4 alert.

“There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Tanzania,” the State Department wrote in its advisory, adding “Violent crime is common. It includes assault, sexual assault, robberies, mugging, and carjacking. Local police have limited resources to respond effectively to serious crime.” 

In addition, the State Department warned of demonstrations “in response to political or economic issues,” which it said can be “unpredictable.”

When it comes to the LGBTQIA+ community, the State Department said people have been “arrested, targeted, and harassed” and “may experience a higher likelihood of being targeted by police.” Those detained under suspicion of same-sex sexual conduct could even face invasive physical exams.

Tanzania has long been a popular tourism destination in Africa, known for its safari adventures, hiking, and outdoor activities. The region also boasts famous beaches and islands, like Zanzibar. As home to Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania attracts hiking enthusiasts from around the world.

The State Department said travelers who do plan a trip to the East African country should have their own emergency evacuation plan that does not rely on help from the U.S. government, avoid standing out, avoid public displays of affection (especially between same-sex couples), and always carry a copy of their U.S. passport and visa, but not the original. Travelers can also enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate.

“Stay aware of your surroundings,” the advisory warned, adding to “Stay alert in tourist spots.”

Tanzania is the latest African country to receive an increased advisory warning. Last month, the State Department similarly raised its warning for travel to Madagascar to a Level 3 following demonstrations there from young protesters concerning water and electricity outages. Currently, the State Department classifies eight African countries under its highest Level 4 alert—Burkina Faso, Central African Republic, Libya, Mali, Niger, Somalia, South Sudan, and Sudan—and 10 African countries under its Level 3 alert—Burundi, Chad, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Madagascar, Mauritania, Niger, Tanzania, and Uganda.