Is Stone Town LGBTQ+ friendly?
Same-sex acts are criminalized in Tanzania, including Zanzibar, and attitudes are conservative. Avoid public affection; arrests and blackmail occur.
LGBTQ+ laws in Tanzania
Highly hostile: arrests, crackdowns and online hunting have occurred, and public affection can lead to arrest. Total discretion needed, including on phones.
| Status | |
|---|---|
| Same-sex relationships legal | No |
| Same-sex marriage | No |
| Civil unions or partnerships | No |
| Legal gender change | No |
| Anti-discrimination law | No |
| Legal penalty | 30 years to life in prison on the mainland |
LGBTQ+ friendliness across Tanzania
Quick answers
Is Stone Town safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?
Same-sex acts are criminalized in Tanzania, including Zanzibar, and attitudes are conservative. Avoid public affection; arrests and blackmail occur.
Is same-sex marriage legal in Tanzania?
No.
More about Stone Town
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Sources
- ILGA World: legal frameworks
- UK FCDO travel advice: Tanzania
- Immigration Services Department, Tanzania
- Zanzibar Tourism Commission
- Azam Marine
- UNESCO World Heritage: Stone Town of Zanzibar
Ratings combine national law with local attitudes and the scene. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.