Safaris packing list.

Tanzania Safari Packing List

Get ready for the ultimate African adventure!
Packing the right items for your Tanzania safari ensures you stay comfortable, safe, and fully enjoy every moment — whether you’re exploring Serengeti’s open plains, the Ngorongoro Crater, or the forests of Tarangire.

Because weather and environments can change quickly, your packing should balance comfort, practicality, and lightness.

1. Clothing Essentials

Safari days can be hot and dusty, while mornings and evenings can be cool — especially during game drives. The key is to pack lightweight, breathable, and neutral-colored clothing.

Recommended Clothing:

• 2–3 lightweight long-sleeve shirts (for sun and insect protection)
• 2–3 short-sleeve shirts or T-shirts (breathable, quick-dry)
• 2 pairs of light trousers or convertible safari pants
• 1 pair of comfortable shorts
• 1 lightweight fleece or sweater (for cool evenings)
• 1 light waterproof jacket (for unexpected rain)
• 1 casual outfit for evenings at the lodge
• Comfortable underwear and socks

Avoid:
Bright colors (which attract insects) and dark blue or black (which attract tsetse flies).
Stick to khaki, beige, olive, or light brown tones that blend with nature.

2. Headwear & Accessories

• Wide-brimmed hat or safari cap (for sun protection)
• Lightweight scarf or buff (to protect from dust during drives)
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Light gloves (optional, for early morning chill)

3. Footwear

Your footwear should be comfortable for both vehicle safaris and short nature walks.

• Comfortable closed walking shoes or light hiking boots
• Sandals or flip-flops (for relaxing at the camp or lodge)
• Extra pairs of socks

Tip: If you’re visiting during the rainy season (March–May or Nov–Dec), waterproof shoes are highly recommended.

4. Safari Gear & Equipment

• Small daypack (for water, snacks, and personal items during drives)
• Binoculars (for better wildlife viewing)
• Camera or smartphone with extra memory cards
• Portable charger or power bank
• Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated!)
• Flashlight or headlamp (for camps without full-time power)
• Travel adapter (Type G or D plugs for Tanzania)
• Lightweight duffel bag (most safari vehicles limit luggage to soft-sided bags)

5. Health & Toiletries

• Sunscreen (SPF 30+) and lip balm with SPF
• Insect repellent with DEET
• Personal medications (and a small first-aid kit)
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and toiletries (travel-sized)
• After-sun lotion or aloe gel
• Tissues or toilet paper (for roadside stops)
• Small pack of plasters or blister pads

Tip: Some areas have strong sun and mosquitoes — so sunscreen and repellent are absolute must-haves.

6. Documents & Essentials

Keep all travel documents safe and accessible in a waterproof pouch or folder.

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
• Visa (if required)
• Travel insurance documents
• Vaccination certificate (Yellow Fever, if applicable)
• Flight tickets and itinerary
• Emergency contacts and copies of documents
• Cash (USD) and credit/debit card

7. Snacks & Personal Comfort

• Energy bars, nuts, or dried fruit for long drives
• Travel pillow and lightweight blanket (for comfort on road trips)
• Journal or notebook (to record your safari experiences)
• Reading book or e-reader (for downtime at camp)

8. Optional but Useful

• Waterproof bag or dry sack (for valuables)
• Travel laundry detergent (for washing clothes)
• Small sewing kit
• Plug-in mosquito repeller (for lodges)
• Local SIM card or portable Wi-Fi (for communication)

9. What Not to Pack

• Camouflage clothing (illegal for civilians in some African countries)
• Drones (require government permission)
• Excessive jewelry or valuables
• Plastic bags (banned in Tanzania)

10. Safari Packing Tips

• Pack light: Most safari vehicles and internal flights have weight limits (15–20 kg).
• Stay organized: Use packing cubes or dry bags for easy access.
• Dress in layers: Mornings can be cold, but afternoons are hot.
• Protect your gear: Keep cameras and electronics in dustproof bags.
• Respect nature: Eco-friendly and reusable items are always encouraged.

Final Thought

A safari in Tanzania is an unforgettable journey — from witnessing the Great Migration to exploring Africa’s vast savannas. Packing smart helps you focus on the real adventure: the beauty of the wild and the thrill of the experience.