Snake bites are very rare for travellers in Tanzania. Snakes avoid people, and most safari time is spent in a vehicle or at a lodge. Still, knowing what to do helps you stay calm and act quickly. This is general first-aid guidance. Always follow the advice of medical professionals.
This article is general information and not medical advice. In an emergency, contact your guide, lodge staff and emergency medical services immediately.
What to do: step by step
- Move away from the snake. Avoid a second bite. Do not try to catch or kill it.
- Stay calm and still. Movement can spread venom faster. Sit or lie down.
- Call for help. Alert your guide or lodge staff straight away.
- Remove tight items. Take off rings, watches and tight clothing near the bite before swelling starts.
- Keep the limb still and at a comfortable, neutral position.
- Note the time of the bite and any symptoms.
- Remember the snake’s appearance if you saw it, or take a photo from a safe distance only if it is easy to do so.
- Get to medical care as quickly as possible.
What not to do
| Do not | Why |
|---|---|
| Use a tourniquet | Can cause serious tissue damage |
| Cut the wound | Causes infection and bleeding |
| Try to suck out venom | Does not work and can harm the helper |
| Apply ice or heat | Can damage tissue |
| Drink alcohol or caffeine | Can affect the body’s response |
| Chase or handle the snake | Risks another bite |
Venom in the eyes
Spitting cobras can spray venom towards the face as a defence. If venom gets in the eyes:
- Rinse immediately with lots of clean water, or another bland liquid if water is not available.
- Keep rinsing for several minutes.
- Do not rub the eyes.
- Seek medical help.
How help works on safari
Professional guides carry first aid kits and are trained in first aid. Lodges and camps have emergency procedures and radio or phone contact. For serious incidents in remote areas, air evacuation services can fly patients to hospitals in Arusha, Dar es Salaam or Nairobi.
This is why travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is essential. Read our safari preparation checklist for what to look for.
Preventing bites
- Wear closed shoes on walks and at night.
- Use a torch after dark.
- Stay on paths and follow your guide.
- Do not put hands into holes, rock cracks or under logs.
- Shake out shoes and clothes left outside.
- Never approach or handle a snake.
Keep it in perspective
Most visitors never see a snake. The main health risks on safari are sun, dehydration and mosquitoes. Read about snakes in Tanzania and the most dangerous animals in Africa for more context, and see things to know before your first safari.
Frequently asked questions
No. Tourniquets can cause serious harm. Keep the person still and get medical help as quickly as possible.
Rinse the eyes immediately with plenty of clean water or another bland liquid for several minutes, and seek medical help.
Professional guides carry first aid kits and are trained in first aid, and camps have emergency plans for evacuation.
