Tanzania Safari Packing List
Going on a safari in Tanzania is an exciting adventure, but packing the right gear is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. From the Serengeti to the Ngorongoro Crater, the climate and environment can vary greatly, so being prepared with the right clothing, gear, and personal items will ensure a smooth safari. This packing list covers everything you’ll need, including clothing, safari gear, and other essentials.
Clothing Essentials
Your clothing choices for a Tanzania safari should be functional, comfortable, and appropriate for varying weather conditions. Light, neutral-colored clothing is best to blend into the environment and stay cool in the heat.
A. Safari Clothing
Item |
Quantity |
Why You Need It |
Lightweight, Long-Sleeved Shirts |
2-3 |
Protects from the sun and insects while keeping you cool. |
Short-Sleeved Shirts |
2-3 |
For warmer days; breathable fabrics are ideal. |
Lightweight, Quick-Dry Pants |
2-3 pairs |
Comfortable for game drives and keeps legs protected. |
Convertible Zip-Off Pants (Optional) |
1-2 pairs |
Versatile for changing between shorts and pants. |
Shorts |
1-2 pairs |
Useful for warm afternoons. |
Fleece or Lightweight Jacket |
1 |
For early morning and evening game drives when it’s cooler. |
Waterproof Jacket (Optional) |
1 |
Useful for unexpected showers, especially in the wet season. |
Sun Hat |
1 |
Wide-brimmed hat for sun protection. |
Buff/Scarf |
1 |
Protects your neck from the sun or dust during game drives. |
Sunglasses (UV Protection) |
1 pair |
Protects eyes from sun glare. |
B. Footwear
Item |
Quantity |
Why You Need It |
Comfortable Walking Shoes or Hiking Boots |
1 pair |
Sturdy shoes for walking safaris or uneven terrain. |
Lightweight Sandals |
1 pair |
Comfortable for relaxing at the lodge or camp. |
Socks (Moisture-Wicking) |
3-4 pairs |
Keeps feet dry and comfortable, especially in hot weather. |
Safari Gear and Accessories
Bringing the right gear on safari will enhance your experience, ensuring you can see the wildlife and capture stunning photos while staying comfortable and safe.
Item |
Why You Need It |
Binoculars (8×42 or 10×42) |
Essential for spotting distant wildlife on game drives. |
Camera (with zoom lens) |
Capture high-quality photos of wildlife; a zoom lens (200mm+) is ideal for distant animals. |
Extra Camera Batteries/Memory Cards |
Essential for long game drives where recharging isn’t possible. |
Daypack (25-30L) |
To carry personal items like water, snacks, and extra layers during game drives and walking safaris. |
Reusable Water Bottle |
Stay hydrated throughout the day. |
Headlamp or Flashlight |
Useful for navigating campsites or lodges at night. |
Travel Adapter (UK Type G plug) |
Necessary for charging devices in Tanzania. |
Portable Power Bank |
For recharging electronics during multi-day safaris without electricity. |
Ziplock Bags (for electronics) |
Protects devices and cameras from dust on game drives. |
Personal Care and Toiletries
Personal care items should be compact and practical. Most lodges and camps provide basic toiletries, but it’s good to have your own essentials.
Item |
Why You Need It |
Sunscreen (SPF 30+ or higher) |
Protects against the intense African sun. |
Insect Repellent (DEET or Picaridin) |
Essential to protect against mosquitoes and other insects, especially in the evenings. |
Lip Balm with SPF |
Prevents chapped lips due to sun exposure. |
Hand Sanitizer |
Keeps hands clean during game drives when soap and water may not be available. |
Wet Wipes or Face Wipes |
Useful for freshening up during long days. |
Toothbrush and Toothpaste |
Basic hygiene is essential. |
Travel Towel (Quick-Drying) |
For personal hygiene or unexpected wet conditions. |
First Aid Kit |
Include band-aids, antiseptic cream, pain relievers, and any prescription medications. |
Malaria Prophylaxis |
Consult with your doctor to bring the appropriate malaria medication for your trip. |
Motion Sickness Tablets |
Useful if you are prone to car sickness on bumpy game drives. |
Tissues/Toilet Paper |
Useful for restroom breaks in remote areas. |
Documents and Money
Bringing the correct documents and currency will ensure you have smooth travels and are prepared for any situation.
Item |
Why You Need It |
Passport |
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months. |
Visa |
Check whether you need a Tanzanian visa in advance. |
Vaccination Certificate (Yellow Fever) |
Tanzania requires proof of yellow fever vaccination if you are coming from or transiting through a country with yellow fever. |
Travel Insurance |
Make sure your insurance covers safari activities, medical emergencies, and evacuation. |
Cash (USD or Tanzanian Shillings) |
For tipping, small purchases, or emergencies; bring small denominations. |
Credit/Debit Card |
For larger expenses, note that some remote areas may not accept cards. |
Other Useful Items
These miscellaneous items will add extra convenience and comfort to your safari experience.
Item |
Why You Need It |
Travel Pillow |
For added comfort during long game drives or flights. |
Journal and Pen |
Great for documenting your safari experiences. |
Snacks (Energy Bars, Nuts) |
Handy for long drives between parks or during game drives. |
Laundry Bag |
Keep dirty clothes separate from clean ones. |
Books or E-Reader |
For relaxing during downtime at lodges or camps. |
Sewing Kit (Optional) |
Useful for quick repairs on the go. |
What Not to Bring
It’s important to avoid overpacking or bringing items that are unnecessary for a safari. Keep your luggage light, as many safari vehicles and light aircraft have weight restrictions.
Item |
Why Not to Bring It |
Bright-Colored Clothing |
Bright colors can attract insects and stand out in the bush, making wildlife more difficult to spot. |
Heavy or Bulky Luggage |
Safari vehicles and small aircraft often have strict luggage weight limits (usually around 15kg or 33lbs). |
Expensive Jewelry |
There’s no need for valuables on safari, and it’s safer to leave them at home. |
Too Many Electronics |
Keep gadgets to a minimum and avoid carrying excessive electronics that are heavy and prone to dust damage. |
Sample Packing List for a 7-Day Safari in Tanzania
Here’s an example of what your packing list might look like for a week-long safari in Tanzania.
Category |
Items |
Clothing |
3 lightweight shirts, 2 long-sleeved shirts, 2 pairs of pants, 1 fleece jacket, 1 sun hat, 1 pair of walking shoes, 1 pair of sandals, 4 pairs of socks |
Safari Gear |
Binoculars, camera with zoom lens, daypack, reusable water bottle, headlamp, power bank |
Personal Care |
Sunscreen, insect repellent, lip balm, wet wipes, toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer |
Documents |
Passport, visa (if needed), vaccination certificate, travel insurance, cash (USD), credit card |
Miscellaneous |
Snacks, travel pillow, journal, pen, books, laundry bag |
Packing the right items for your Tanzania safari ensures a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable adventure. Focus on lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors, and bring essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and a good camera. Don’t forget practical gear like binoculars and a daypack, as well as personal care items to keep you comfortable during long game drives. By keeping your luggage light and functional, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your safari experience in Tanzania!