Deadly unrest in Tanzania : what risks do tourists face ?

Following last Saturday’s controversial presidential elections, which saw Samia Suluhu Hassan declared the winner with nearly 98% of the vote, Tanzania is facing a serious crisis.

Violence and a heavy death toll

Post-election protests have resulted in numerous deaths, mainly reported in Dar es Salaam and Mwanza.

The government officially acknowledges ten deaths.

The opposition, relying on hospital reports, claims a considerably higher death toll of over 800.

Uncontrollable Chaos

The nationwide internet blackout makes independent verification of the situation extremely difficult.

Protests had already erupted before the election, in response to the exclusion of the main opposition party by outgoing President Hassan, raising serious questions about the legitimacy of the democratic process.

Tourists, Travel Restrictions, and Potential Security Concerns

The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly advises against all non-essential tourist travel to the country. Air traffic is restricted throughout the country, including to Zanzibar.

A curfew imposed on October 29, 2025, remains in effect until further notice.

Tense situation in Zanzibar: The situation on the island of Zanzibar is considered calmer than on the mainland.

Travelers already there are advised to avoid gatherings and comply with the directives of local authorities.

Tour operators serving the destination are not seeing a major wave of cancellations so far, and trips are generally continuing as planned, provided flights remain operational.

Some trips have been postponed to later dates in 2026.

Regarding cancellations without penalty, customers with imminent departures (up to and including November 5th) will be informed directly of the latest official recommendations from their respective foreign ministries, which will likely include easier rescheduling or cancellation options based on the authorities’ risk assessment.