Hello,

This will be my first time traveling to Tanzania. I'm doing some science research on Mafia island. Just wondering if anyone has taken boat trips off the coast of Tanzania and your experience. How are the people, and is it generally safe? i'm a female in my 20's traveling alone. Just want to know if I have anything to worry about.

plan on climbing Mt. Kill after i'm done with the research. I'm in good physical health, athletic and can handle a decent hike.. anyone have suggestions on which trail to take?

Thanks.

Hi Daniela

With regards to crime, violence of civil disturbance the coast of Tanzania is safe enough. As a woman traveling alone the usual rules of prudence and caution should apply, although the east coast is predominantly Muslim and very little sexual malfeasance is usually permitted in African Islamic societies. Tanzania is hugely corrupt however, and every tricky scam in the book is alive and well, but this is generally perpetrated without violence, and if you are scammed usually it is only at the expense of your dignity.

The premier way to travel by sea on the East African coast is by dhow. There are hundreds of commercial options to transit by this ageless means, and you will have no trouble finding one. The islands of Zanzibar and Mafia are very commercial with highly organized tourist industries, so have no fear that you will be in any way out of the mainstream loop.

Advice on choosing a Kilimanjaro route is not so easy based on no info, so get in touch and I would be happy to talk you through the options.

hey good to know that you are going to Tanzania. i went to there when i was a kid only...so cann't remember everything about my trip. but i can say that you will enjoy that trip. hope that you will have a great time.