When traveling in Africa—especially on safari or to remote areas—it’s wise to take some food and drink precautions to avoid getting sick and to stay hydrated and safe. Here’s what you should know:

Most lodges serve Western-style food. It’s advisable to specify dietary requirements in advance. Avoid tap water; opt for bottled water, especially when traveling outside main towns. Remember, Tanzania has banned the use of plastic bags.

🥤 1. Water Safety

  • DO NOT drink tap water unless you are told it is safe (in many safari lodges, it’s not recommended).
  • Always drink bottled, filtered, or boiled water.
  • Most safari camps and lodges provide purified water in your room and for game drives.
  • Avoid ice cubes in drinks unless you know they were made with filtered water.
  • Use safe water for brushing your teeth—especially in rural or remote areas.

🧃 2. Safe Drinks

  • Bottled drinks (soda, juice, beer, wine) are safe to consume.
  • Tea and coffee are usually made with boiled water and are fine to drink.
  • Avoid homemade fruit juices or street-side drinks unless you’re sure they were prepared hygienically.

🍽️ 3. Food Safety Tips

  • Eat freshly cooked, hot meals—especially in more remote or rural areas.
  • Be cautious with street food. In many places it’s delicious and safe, but stick to busy stalls with high turnover.
  • Be wary of buffets, especially if the food has been sitting out for a long time.
  • Wash fruits and vegetables with clean water or peel them yourself.
  • Avoid raw or undercooked meat, eggs, or seafood.
  • Dairy products should be pasteurized.

🍖 4. Foods That Are Generally Safe

  • Meals served at reputable safari lodges and hotels—they are used to hosting international travelers and usually follow high hygiene standards.
  • Fruits you peel yourself: bananas, oranges, mangoes.
  • Grilled meats (well-cooked) and stews are generally safe.
  • Boiled or grilled vegetables over raw salads.

💊 5. Stomach Safety Tips

  • Bring anti-diarrheal medication (like Imodium) just in case.
  • Consider packing oral rehydration salts (ORS) if you’re doing remote travel or staying in the bush.
  • A probiotic supplement can help strengthen your gut before and during your trip.

🍷 6. Alcohol

  • Wine and beer are widely available and safe to drink.
  • Drink in moderation—safaris start early, and wildlife encounters require alertness.
  • Don’t drink alcohol in excess in areas without quick access to medical care.