Is Selous Game Reserve Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Selous Game Reserve is fairly safe for solo female travelers. The staff and guides at the park are generally respectful and professional, making the overall experience comfortable and secure. However, as it is a wildlife reserve, it's critical to follow safety rules and stay within designated areas. Accommodation facilities offer good security measures, but staying alert and using common sense is always advised.

Safety rating

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Safety index

Safety at night:Unsafe

While Tanzania at large is respectful and friendly towards travelers, it's worth remembering that the reserve is a natural habitat of wild animals, including predators. Walking alone at night in such areas can pose serious safety risks. Professional guidance is highly recommended. Besides, certain areas may have limited visibility and it can be quite desolate at night. Thus, it's generally advisable to avoid wandering alone after dusk.

Public transportation:Moderate

Selous Game Reserve area primarily relies on arranged tours and private transportation, as public transportation is not extensive. However, there are options like local buses or Dala-Dalas for shorter distances within the cities surrounding the reserve, and these can be crowded and not very punctual. Safety generally depends on personal vigilance and certain precautions must be taken. It's better to avoid traveling after dark. It's worth noting that English is not widely spoken by conductors or drivers, so communication might be a challenge.

Street harassment:Very low

Street harassment isn't a major issue in Selous Game Reserve. The environment is mostly populated by wildlife rather than people, and interactions with humans are mainly with professional guides and staff who are trained to treat visitors professionally. Your journey should remain generally peaceful and uninterrupted.

Petty crimes:Low

Selous Game Reserve in Tanzania is generally considered safe for travelers. Petty crime is relatively low, as the reserve is a controlled area with regular patrols conducted by park rangers. However, travelers are still advised to keep valuables safely stowed and avoid leaving belongings unattended since incidents, although rare, can occur.

Tap water:Unsafe

Drinking tap water in Selous Game Reserve is not generally recommended. The basic infrastructure may sometimes lack proper sanitization, making it less safe for consumption. It's advised to drink bottled water, or ensure all tap water has been boiled, filtered, or treated with a sterilizing agent before consuming.

Is Selous Game Reserve safe to travel?

Is Selous Game Reserve safe right now?

Before your visit to Selous Game Reserve, it's essential to check travel advisories for United Republic of Tanzania, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
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Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Canadian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Tanzania due to high crime levels and potential terrorism threats. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 17, 2024
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Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Australian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Tanzania, overall, due to the risk of violent crime. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: September 8, 2023

Safety in United Republic of Tanzania