Weeks after a period of unrest surrounding the recent elections in Tanzania, the U.S. State Department continues to issue a Level 3 travel advisory for the country, urging travelers to "Reconsider Travel." Despite reassurances from local operators that conditions have stabilized, this advisory raises concerns for U.S. travel advisors and safari operators about the situation beyond sensational news headlines.
On October 31, the State Department heightened its guidance for Tanzania, citing factors such as "unrest, crime, terrorism, and targeting of gay and lesbian individuals." This advisory followed protests related to President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s contentious re-election. While the U.K. Foreign Office initially issued a similar warning, it later adjusted its stance as calm returned. However, the U.S. advisory remains unchanged, leading to implications for Tanzania’s reputation as a travel destination.
In 2024, Tanzania saw a remarkable 17.5% increase in international arrivals, surpassing two million visitors. Yet, the ongoing foreign advisories pose immediate reputational risks. According to a recent poll conducted by Tourism Update, a South African travel publication, 60% of industry respondents believe that Tanzania has faced a significant reputational setback due to these advisories. Over 23% of those surveyed expressed uncertainty regarding the long-term consequences.
Barry Clemens, CEO of HospitalityEQ, an African-based hospitality consultancy, warns that maintaining a Level 3 travel warning could undermine traveler confidence and slow down bookings from key markets. “Even if the main safari areas remain calm and functional, mere perception can trigger cancellations and shorten booking timelines,” Clemens stated.
However, on the ground, operators report smooth operations and returning normalcy. Jean Du Plessis, the Tanzania regional director for Wilderness Safaris, emphasized that Tanzanians generally prefer peace over confrontation, regardless of electoral issues. Ryan Powell, COO of AndBeyond, noted that inquiries have increased, but travel during this period has continued without cancellations due to stable conditions.
Clients’ reactions in the U.S. appear to align with this assessment, as many seek reassurance without opting for last-minute cancellations or adjustments. Kate Waite, from NawiriGroup, reported that more than 250 bookings continued as planned during the post-election period, with little disruption.
Insights from Travel Advisors
Travel advisors based in the U.S. echo similar sentiments regarding the situation. Jim Holden, president of Holden Safaris, noted a lack of inquiries about civil unrest in Tanzania. He praised local Destination Management Companies (DMCs) for keeping agents informed about political dynamics and any disturbances, emphasizing that access to current information is crucial.
Some agents have adapted their booking strategies based on election cycles. Raza Visram from African Mecca Safaris avoids booking travelers within one month following elections to allow time for political tensions to ease and for any disputes to be resolved through legal avenues.
The consensus among professionals points to the importance of clear communication between U.S. agents and reputable local partners. This connection helps travelers remain confident in their plans. Waite highlighted the necessity of maintaining a dialogue, issuing timely updates, and adjusting itineraries when required. Her team’s ability to communicate effectively during crises has been invaluable in bolstering traveler confidence.
For agents and clients alike, Powell emphasizes the value of working with trusted partners and remaining engaged with thoroughly vetted associates, as consortia conduct extensive due diligence in partner selection to mitigate risk. Practical steps for travelers include registering with the State Department’s STEP program, maintaining regular communication with local operators, and sharing verified updates to counter misinformation.
A Global Perspective on Travel Advisories
Powell believes that the situation in Tanzania reflects a broader, global trend of instability. "Instability is increasingly common across the globe today," he remarked, underlining the importance of unified messaging to set realistic expectations for travelers.
The case of Tanzania reveals the necessity for agents to have dependable contacts on the ground, particularly when government advisories do not match the real-time evolving conditions. Access to accurate information not only informs better decision-making but also alleviates concerns among travelers, reinforcing the significance of trusted partnerships in navigating present-day complexities in international travel.
