Category: Travel Advisories

Planning a trip to Tanzania? You’ll want to pay close attention to a recent update from the U.S. Department of State. They’ve elevated the travel advisory for Tanzania to Level 3, strongly advising American citizens to “reconsider travel” to the popular East African nation. This change signifies a step up from the previous Level 2 warning.

Key Concerns: Crime and Terrorism Threats

The primary reasons behind this updated advisory are growing concerns about violent crime and potential terrorism threats within Tanzania. The State Department explicitly warns that “There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Tanzania.” This is a serious consideration for anyone planning a visit.

Beyond terrorism, the advisory highlights that “Violent crime is common.” This includes a range of offenses such as assault, sexual assault, robberies, mugging, and carjacking. Compounding these risks, the State Department notes that local police forces may have “limited resources to respond effectively to serious crime,” potentially leaving travelers more vulnerable in emergency situations.

Specific Risks for LGBTQ+ Travelers

The advisory also points out significant additional risks for LGBTQ+ travelers. It warns that individuals from this community have faced “arrests, targeting, and harassment” and may have a “higher likelihood of being targeted by police.” The situation is serious enough that the State Department notes those detained under suspicion of same-sex sexual conduct could face invasive physical examinations.

Furthermore, travelers should be aware of the potential for unpredictable demonstrations that might arise due to political or economic issues. These gatherings can create additional safety risks and should be avoided.

Navigating Tanzania Safely Despite the Advisory

For those who still decide to travel to Tanzania, the State Department offers several crucial recommendations. It’s advised to create your own emergency evacuation plan, as you shouldn’t rely solely on U.S. government assistance. Travelers are also encouraged to avoid drawing unnecessary attention to themselves and to refrain from public displays of affection, particularly for same-sex couples.

• Develop an independent emergency evacuation plan.
• Avoid drawing attention to yourself.
• Refrain from public displays of affection, especially for same-sex couples.
• Carry copies of your U.S. passport and visas, not the originals.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for alerts.

Enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is highly recommended, as it allows U.S. diplomatic missions to send you important safety alerts and helps them locate you in an emergency. Carrying copies of your passport and visa, rather than the originals, can also help protect your identity if your documents are lost or stolen.

Planning a trip to Madagascar? You might want to hit pause and reconsider. The U.S. State Department has just issued a Level 3 travel advisory, strongly advising Americans to ‘reconsider travel’ to the island nation. Why the warning? Escalating violence, political instability, and a worrying rise in criminal activity are making the situation on the ground increasingly precarious.

Unrest and Political Turmoil

This updated advisory, which came out on September 27, follows a period of intense and often violent protests across Madagascar. Demonstrations, initially sparked by poor economic conditions, lack of basic services, and frequent power outages, have unfortunately devolved into rioting, looting, and vandalism in several regions. The situation took a dramatic turn when the country’s parliament voted to impeach President Andry Rajoelina, who has reportedly fled the country.

Adding to the instability, a military coup has unfolded. Reports indicate that Colonel Michael Randrianirina was sworn in as the new president on October 18, following weeks of unrest. Both the United Nations and the African Union have condemned this unconstitutional change of government, with the AU suspending Madagascar’s membership and demanding a return to civilian rule.

Heightened Security Concerns for Travelers

American officials are particularly concerned about the rapid development of protests, especially after dark. They’re advising U.S. citizens to steer clear of any demonstration areas. The capital city, Antananarivo, has seen particularly intense confrontations. In a significant development on October 11, members of the Malagasy army, the same unit that helped Rajoelina come to power in 2009, joined demonstrators and declared control over the nation’s armed forces.

Rising Criminal Activity Poses a Threat

Beyond the political upheaval, the State Department’s advisory highlights a concerning increase in violent crime throughout Madagascar. Criminal gangs, known locally as the Dahalo and notorious for cattle rustling, are increasingly clashing with security forces, especially in the southern and western parts of the country. Travelers should also be aware of the risks of armed robbery and assault, which can occur in remote areas as well as on major roads, making travel between cities potentially hazardous.

While the U.S. government hasn’t explicitly condemned the military takeover, the continued emphasis on caution signals that potential visitors should carefully weigh the necessity of their travel. If you do decide to proceed with plans, comprehensive precautions are strongly recommended.