Safety Information

🔐 General Safety Tips (All Countries)

• Avoid Flashy Displays: Don’t wear expensive jewelry or flash large amounts of cash.
• Keep Copies of Documents: Make digital and paper copies of your passport, ID, and travel insurance.
• Use Reputable Transport: Stick to licensed taxis or trusted ride-share apps like Uber or Bolt.
• Secure Your Belongings: Use anti-theft bags, keep zippers closed, and never leave valuables unattended.
• Limit Night Travel: Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas.
• Beware of Scams: Be wary of overly friendly strangers, fake tour guides, and unsolicited help.
• Avoid Political Gatherings: Stay away from protests, political events, or large, unregulated crowds.
• Stay Informed: Register with your embassy, monitor local news, and keep emergency numbers handy.
• Health & Hygiene: Use hand sanitizer, drink safe water, and be cautious with street food.
• Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, remove yourself from the situation.

🇺🇬 Uganda

• City Safety: Kampala is generally safe, but petty theft and scams are common in crowded areas.
• Transport: Avoid night travel on roads outside cities due to poor lighting and potential hazards.
• Wildlife Areas: Always go with certified guides in parks or on treks (especially for gorilla tracking).
• Police Stops: Be polite and calm if stopped; occasional checkpoints are common.

🇰🇪 Kenya

• Nairobi Alert: Petty crime is common—especially ‘snatch-and-run’ thefts. Keep phones out of sight.
• Avoid Slums: Do not visit informal settlements like Kibera without a trusted local guide.
• Terrorism Risk: Stay away from areas near the Somali border and monitor official advisories.
• Beach Areas: Be cautious with beach boys offering boat trips or activities—use licensed operators.

🇹🇿 Tanzania

• Pickpocketing: Common in Dar es Salaam and Arusha—carry only what you need.
• ATM Use: Use machines inside banks or guarded locations—avoid standalone outdoor ATMs.
• Island Etiquette: In Zanzibar, conservative dress is expected in town (Stone Town in particular).
• Road Safety: Avoid public minibuses (‘dala-dalas’)—they can be overcrowded and unsafe.

🇲🇽 Mexico

• Cartel Violence: Avoid border towns and follow government travel advisories. Most tourist areas are safe.
• Police Interaction: Corruption exists—remain respectful but aware. Some may solicit bribes.
• Road Travel: Don’t drive at night outside major cities or tourist zones.
• Avoid Tap Water: Use bottled water—even for brushing teeth.

🇯🇲 Jamaica

• Gang Violence: Stay in tourist zones in Kingston, Montego Bay, and Spanish Town.
• Beach Vendors: Politely decline persistent sellers; some may be aggressive.
• Drug Laws: Marijuana is partially decriminalized but still illegal in many situations—don’t assume it’s freely allowed.
• Resort Areas: Stick to hotel-approved excursions and transportation.

🇧🇿 Belize

• Theft: Occasional muggings and petty theft in Belize City—avoid walking alone after dark.
• Island Safety: Caye Caulker and San Pedro are generally safe but practice caution at night.
• Border Zones: Avoid venturing too close to the Guatemalan border without a guide.
• Snorkeling/Boating: Use only certified tour operators with safety equipment.