Avoid drinking the tap water in Tanzania—it may contain harmful bacteria or parasites.
Tanzania’s public water supply is affected by seasonal flooding, poor sanitation, and limited infrastructure. Even in urban areas, water may carry bacteria or parasites.
Quick Overview
Tap Water Concern: Our Advice Tap Water Drinkable? ❌ No, use bottled water Common Risks: Bacteria, parasites, viruses Brush Teeth? ❌ No, use bottled water Wash Fruits/Vegetables? ❌ No, use filtered or bottled water Use Ice in Drinks? ❌ No, avoid unless purified Safe to Shower? ✅ Yes Filter Bottle Needed? ✅ Strongly recommended
Based on guidance from the CDC, WHO, and local water authorities in Tanzania.
Worried About Tap Water? Consider Using a Filter Bottle
Not sure about the water where you’re going? We’ve researched the most reliable filter bottles for travel—safe, effective, and used by thousands of travelers around the world. They offer protection from bacteria, help reduce your environmental footprint, and save you from overpaying for bottled water, so you’ll find our top recommendations just below.
Health Risks for Travelers
Travelers may be at risk of water-related illnesses, even though locals seem unaffected. This is often due to differences in gut flora, immune response, and exposure to local pathogens.
- Health risks from unsafe drinking water may include:
- Acute diarrheal disease caused by E. coli
- Parasitic infections like giardiasis or cryptosporidiosis
- Viral illnesses such as hepatitis A, especially in areas with poor wastewater management
- Toxic exposure to heavy metals or residual industrial waste
Contamination is more likely in:
- Villages or isolated areas with untreated surface water
- Places where flooding or poor infrastructure compromises sanitation
- Dwellings with outdated plumbing systems or neglected storage tanks
Clear water isn’t always clean water—invisible pathogens, bacteria, and pollutants can pose serious travel health hazards if consumed unfiltered.
If you experience persistent symptoms while traveling in Tanzania, consult a local doctor or pharmacist. In many tourist areas, English-speaking care is available.
More About Tap Water in Tanzania
Water quality in Tanzania differs significantly between cities and rural regions. Urban areas have better treatment systems, but in the countryside, many people depend on unfiltered sources like rivers and lakes. Traditional methods—such as using Moringa oleifera seeds for purification—are common but only partly effective. Newer solutions like rainwater harvesting and sand dams are being introduced to increase access to clean water.
FAQs About Tap Water in Tanzania
Is it safe to brush your teeth with tap water?
To avoid any digestive issues, it’s safer to use clean, filtered water for brushing your teeth in Tanzania.
Can I use tap water to wash my face?
Tap water should be fine for external use like washing your face—just avoid contact with your mouth or open wounds.
Is it safe to use ice in drinks?
Unless you know the ice was made from purified water, it’s best to skip it—most ice is made from tap water.
Can I shower safely with tap water?
Even if the water isn’t drinkable, it’s usually fine for washing your body.
Not sure what’s in the water where you’re staying? A compact shower filter can help protect your skin and hair from harsh water. Just double-check that the showerhead isn’t built into the wall—those can’t be fitted with a filter. According to most travelers, this shower filter is the best pick. Click here to check the best price.
Can I wash fruits and vegetables with tap water?
It’s safer to rinse produce with bottled or filtered water, especially if you plan to eat it raw.
Is bottled water expensive in Tanzania?
Bottled water is usually affordable in Tanzania, though prices may be higher in tourist areas.
If you’re exploring Tanzania, it’s likely you’re also heading into Kenya, Uganda, or Mozambique—popular choices for safaris and East Africa tours. Each has different drinking water safety levels.