. General Safety of Tap Water in Tanzania

Tap water in Tanzania is generally not safe for drinking for most international travelers. While some hotels and urban areas treat water to safe levels, contamination can occur due to:

• Aging or poorly maintained pipes

• Bacterial contamination

• Seasonal flooding affecting water quality

Even in cities like Dar es Salaam, Arusha, or Mwanza, it is recommended to avoid drinking tap water directly unless confirmed by your accommodation.

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2. Areas with Relatively Safe Tap Water

Certain hotels, lodges, and high-end resorts often provide treated tap water or have in-house filtration systems. Examples include:

• Luxury hotels in Dar es Salaam and Arusha

• High-end lodges near national parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro

• Resorts in Zanzibar with private water treatment facilities

Even in these places, travelers are often advised to double-check with staff before drinking tap water.

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3. Risks of Drinking Untreated Tap Water

Drinking untreated tap water in Tanzania can expose travelers to:

• Traveler’s diarrhea caused by bacteria like E. coli

• Cholera or typhoid in rare cases, especially in rural areas

• Hepatitis A from contaminated water or food

• Parasites such as giardia or amoebas

Symptoms can range from mild stomach upset to severe dehydration, which can disrupt your safari, Kilimanjaro climb, or beach holiday.

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4. Safe Alternatives to Tap Water

To stay hydrated without risking illness, travelers should consider:

• Bottled Water

  • Widely available in supermarkets, hotels, and lodges.

  • Check that the seal is intact before drinking.

• Filtered Water

  • Some lodges provide purified or filtered water.

  • Ensure that filtration systems are maintained.

• Boiled Water

  • Boiling for at least 1–3 minutes kills bacteria and parasites.

• Water Purification Tablets or Drops

  • Useful for remote safaris or camping trips.

  • Follow manufacturer instructions carefully.

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5. Tips for Staying Safe with Drinking Water

• Avoid ice from unverified sources in restaurants or street vendors.

• Wash fruits and vegetables with safe water.

• Brush your teeth with bottled or filtered water.

• Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it with safe water throughout your trip.

• Be cautious in rural or remote areas, where water contamination risk is higher.

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6. Tap Water Safety in Safari Parks

In national parks such as Serengeti, Tarangire, or Ngorongoro:

• Lodges and camps provide bottled or treated water.

• Avoid drinking water from rivers, lakes, or streams.

• Always confirm with your guide or lodge staff about the safety of water.

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7. FAQs – Drinking Tap Water in Tanzania

1. Can I drink tap water in Zanzibar?
It is safer to avoid tap water in Zanzibar. Stick to bottled or filtered water.

2. Is it safe to use tap water for brushing teeth?
Only if it is confirmed safe by your accommodation. Otherwise, use bottled or filtered water.

3. Can I use tap water for cooking?
Yes, if the water is boiled or treated. Always wash raw foods with safe water.

4. Are there any exceptions where tap water is safe?
High-end hotels and lodges with certified water treatment may provide safe tap water. Always verify before consumption.

5. What should I do if I accidentally drink tap water and feel sick?
Drink plenty of safe fluids, rest, and seek medical attention if symptoms persist, especially dehydration, diarrhea, or fever.