Island, Tanzania
Is Zanzibar LGBTQ+ friendly?
Is Zanzibar LGBTQ+ friendly?
Same-sex acts are criminalized in Tanzania, including Zanzibar, and social attitudes are conservative. Couples should avoid public affection; police crackdowns and arrests 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
| Place | Rating |
|---|---|
| Zanzibar | 1/5 · Dangerous |
| Arusha | 1/5 · Dangerous |
| Dar es Salaam | 1/5 · Dangerous |
| Stone Town | 1/5 · Dangerous |
| Nungwi | 1/5 · Dangerous |
| Moshi | 1/5 · Dangerous |
| Paje | 1/5 · Dangerous |
Quick answers
Is Zanzibar safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?
Same-sex acts are criminalized in Tanzania, including Zanzibar, and social attitudes are conservative. Couples should avoid public affection; police crackdowns and arrests occur.
Is same-sex marriage legal in Tanzania?
No.
More about Zanzibar
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Sources
- ILGA World: legal frameworks
- UK FCDO travel advice: Tanzania
- Immigration Services Department, Tanzania
- Zanzibar Tourism Commission
- Azam Marine
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 Spotted something out of date?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.