Is It Safe to Travel to Tanzania Amid the Marburg Virus Outbreak?
Is Tanzania Safe for Travelers Right Now?
Yes, Tanzania is safe for travelers, and tourism activities remain unaffected by the recent Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) outbreak in the Kagera region. The Tanzanian government has swiftly taken effective containment measures, ensuring the virus does not spread beyond the isolated area.
If you’ve been planning your safari, Kilimanjaro trek, or Zanzibar getaway, there’s no need to cancel or postpone. Tourism destinations, including Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Zanzibar, are completely safe, with no recorded cases or risks to visitors. Here’s what you need to know.
1. Marburg Virus in Tanzania: What’s the Reality?
The Tanzanian Ministry of Health declared an outbreak of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) on January 20, 2025, in the Biharamulo district of Kagera region, a remote area in northwestern Tanzania.
This is a localized outbreak, and no new cases have been reported since the initial announcement. The Tanzanian government, has put strict containment measures in place to prevent the disease from spreading.
Clarification Between WHO and the Tanzanian Health Ministry
There has been some confusion regarding the number of cases and fatalities. Initially, WHO reported nine suspected cases with eight deaths. However, the Tanzanian Ministry of Health refuted this claim, stating that after laboratory testing, only one confirmed case was found, and all other suspected cases tested negative.
This means that there is no ongoing transmission beyond the single confirmed case. The situation is fully under control, and the risk to travelers remains extremely low.
2. How Far Is Kagera from Tanzania’s Tourism Regions?
The Kagera region is geographically far from Tanzania’s popular tourist destinations.
- Arusha (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Kilimanjaro, Tarangire): 1,068 km away
- Dar es Salaam (Zanzibar & coastal tourism spots): 1,450 km away
3. Government Measures Ensuring Safety
Tanzania’s government has taken strict precautions to contain the outbreak and ensure travelers' safety:
- Traveler Surveillance: All departing travelers from Kagera must complete an online health surveillance form.
- Contact Tracing & Monitoring: Anyone in contact with the confirmed case is under government observation and restricted from traveling until cleared.
- Temperature Screening: Travelers at airports, land borders, and ports are checked for symptoms.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: The government, in collaboration with WHO, is ensuring that locals and travelers are well-informed about symptoms and precautions.
- Designated Health Facilities: Any suspected cases are immediately tested and treated in controlled environments, far from tourism regions.
4. Tourism Is Unaffected & Running as Usual
Thanks to these strict measures, Tanzania’s tourism sector remains fully operational and unaffected. The Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO) and the African Travel & Tourism Association (ATTA) confirm that Popular attractions such as Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and Mount Kilimanjaro remain unaffected and safe for visitors.
Tourists can confidently enjoy:
✅ Safaris in Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire & Manyara
✅ Climbing Kilimanjaro
✅ Relaxing in Zanzibar & the Swahili Coast
✅ Cultural & historical experiences across Tanzania
There are no travel restrictions to Tanzania, and no risk to safari travelers.
Understanding Marburg Virus Disease (MVD)
What Is Marburg Virus Disease?
Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) is a rare but severe illness caused by the Marburg virus, which belongs to the same family as Ebola. It was first identified in 1967 in Marburg, Germany.
How Is It Transmitted?
- The initial infection usually happens through contact with bats.
- It does not spread through the air.
- Transmission occurs only through direct contact with bodily fluids (blood, saliva, sweat, etc.) of an infected person.
- Unlike COVID-19, it does not spread easily among people.
Symptoms of Marburg Virus Disease
- Early Symptoms: High fever, severe headache, muscle pain, extreme fatigue.
- Later Symptoms: Stomach pain, diarrhea, vomiting, rash, difficulty breathing.
- Severe Cases: Internal bleeding (nose, gums, eyes).
Safety Measures for Travelers
- Wash hands frequently with soap or sanitizer.
- Avoid contact with bats and primates.
- Follow government and health authority guidelines.
- Report any health concerns to medical professionals immediately.
Final Verdict: Is It Safe to Travel to Tanzania?
✅ Yes, Tanzania is safe for travelers.
✅ The Marburg virus outbreak is localized and contained.
✅ The risk to tourists is virtually zero.
✅ Tourism activities are continuing as usual.
Tanzania has successfully handled past health situations with strict protocols and efficient responses. WHO has assessed the risk as low and does not recommend any travel restrictions.
If you have travel plans to Tanzania, you can visit with confidence. Enjoy your safari, explore Zanzibar’s white-sand beaches, and experience Tanzania’s incredible wildlife, landscapes, and culture—completely worry-free.
For more information, check updates from the Tanzania Ministry of Health or call the official health hotline: 199.
🌍 Karibu Tanzania!