Yellow Fever Vaccination Guidelines for Tanzania

Navigating Tanzania’s yellow fever regulations can feel complicated, but we’re here to make it simple and stress-free. Tanzania is classified as a yellow fever-free country, so in most cases, visitors do not need to show proof of vaccination.

Do You Need a Yellow Fever Vaccine to Visit Tanzania?

Good news!
If you’re traveling directly from a country without yellow fever risk — such as the United States, Canada, or most of Europe — you do not need a yellow fever vaccination to enter Tanzania.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the risk of yellow fever in Tanzania is currently very low.

What Is Yellow Fever?

Yellow fever is a viral illness spread by infected mosquitoes, mostly in tropical areas of Africa and South America.
Symptoms may appear 3 to 6 days after exposure and can include:

• Fever and chills

• Muscle aches

• Headaches

• In severe cases: jaundice, bleeding, and organ failure

Tanzania’s Yellow Fever Policy

Tanzania’s regulations are straightforward:

• Vaccination is required only if you are arriving from, or transiting through, a yellow fever endemic country

• This rule does not apply to travelers coming directly from non-risk countries like the USA, UK, Germany, France, Canada, etc.

• If you transit through a yellow fever-risk country (like Ethiopia, Kenya, or Uganda) and remain there for more than 12 hours, you will be required to show proof of vaccination

Vaccination Details

• The yellow fever vaccine is given as a single dose

• It offers lifetime protection and should be administered at least 10 days before travel

• Always carry your International Certificate of Vaccination (Yellow Card) as proof

Medical Exemption?
If you cannot take the vaccine due to a medical condition, bring a doctor-signed exemption letter. Present this at immigration upon arrival.

Key Travel Tips

• Review your flight itinerary carefully — especially long layovers in yellow fever zones

• Consult a travel health clinic or doctor well in advance of your departure

• Keep all vaccination documents easily accessible during travel

Need Help?

Still unsure whether the yellow fever vaccine applies to your travel plans? Contact our team for personalized advice and up-to-date information on entry requirements.