Safari Safety & Health — What You Need to Know

Going on safari is an unforgettable adventure — but staying safe and healthy is key to enjoying it fully. Here’s a practical guide to common health and safety concerns on safari, especially in Tanzania.

Health Precautions & Vaccinations

Recommended Vaccinations

  • Make sure your routine vaccines (like tetanus, diphtheria, MMR) are up to date.
  • Consider additional shots like Hepatitis A and Typhoid, depending on your travel details.
  • A rabies vaccination may be recommended if you'll be in close contact with wildlife or rural areas.

Yellow Fever

  • A Yellow Fever certificate is required only if you are arriving from or transiting through a country with Yellow Fever risk.
  • The vaccine should be given at least 10 days before departure for full effectiveness.
  • Even if not strictly mandatory, it's wise to have proof of vaccination (the “Yellow Card”).

Malaria: Prevention & Protection

  • Malaria is a risk in many safari regions. Talk to your doctor about the best antimalarial medication for your trip.
  • Use a reliable mosquito repellent, wear long sleeves and trousers, and sleep under a treated mosquito net when possible.
  • In wooded or riverine areas, be aware of tsetse flies — they may appear in shaded areas. Wearing neutral-colored clothing and using repellent helps.

Water, Food & Hygiene

  • Stick to bottled, boiled, or purified water; avoid drinking from unverified sources or using unknown ice.
  • Eat only fully cooked foods and be cautious with raw or unwashed produce in remote areas.
  • Carry hand sanitizer or hand gel — very handy when you’re out in the field.

Sun, Heat & Dehydration

  • The African sun can be intense — wear sunblock, a wide-brimmed hat, and bring sunglasses.
  • Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty, to stay hydrated and energized.
  • Watch out for signs of heat exhaustion like dizziness or weakness — take breaks in the shade when needed.

Wildlife & Safari-Specific Safety

  • Always follow your guide's instructions — they know the animal behavior and terrain intimately.
  • Stay inside your vehicle during drives unless you are explicitly told it's safe to get out.
  • Never stick arms, legs, or cameras outside of the vehicle — wildlife can be unpredictable.
  • Keep noise to a minimum, especially near sensitive animals, and never feed wild animals.

Medical & Emergency Preparedness

  • Health facilities are limited in remote safari areas — serious emergencies may lead to evacuation.
  • Pack a first-aid kit: painkillers, antiseptics, antihistamines, anti-diarrhea medicine, and any prescription medications.
  • Ensure your travel insurance covers medical evacuation; camps may rely on small aircraft or radio support in an emergency.

Other Safety Tips

  • Dress in neutral, light-colored clothing to blend in and avoid insect attraction.
  • Use a headlamp or flashlight at night to avoid tripping or surprising wildlife at camp.
  • Share your medical history with your safari operator to ensure they’re aware of your needs.
  • Consider a travel health consultation several weeks before departure to get necessary vaccines and medication.

Final Word

A safari is one of life’s great adventures — and being well prepared makes all the difference. Taking the right safety and health precautions ensures you can fully enjoy every moment, from thrilling wildlife encounters to quiet sunsets over the bush. Here’s to a safe, healthy, and unforgettable safari!