What to Pack for a Tanzania Safari: The Definitive Packing List

Packing for safari is simpler than you think. The key is less is more — especially if you're taking bush flights, which have strict weight limits. Here's exactly what to bring.

Luggage Rules: Read This First

Bush Flights (Crucial) If your itinerary includes internal flights (Arusha to Serengeti, for example), you'll fly on small bush planes with strict baggage limits:

• Maximum weight: 15–20 kg (33–44 lbs) including carry-on
• Bag type: Soft-sided duffel bags ONLY — no hard suitcases (they don't fit in the cargo holds)
• Dimensions: Typically max 60cm × 35cm × 25cm

This is the single most important packing constraint. If you overpack, you'll pay excess baggage fees or leave items behind.

Road Safaris If traveling entirely by road (safari vehicle), luggage limits are more relaxed. But space in the vehicle is shared, so a single medium duffel (25–30 kg) per person is sensible.

Clothing: What to Wear on Safari

Colors - YES: Khaki, olive, tan, brown, sage green, muted earth tones - NO: Bright white (attracts insects, shows dust instantly), black (absorbs heat, attracts tsetse flies), bright colors (can disturb wildlife), camouflage patterns (restricted in some East African countries)

The Layering System Tanzania's safari day spans a wide temperature range — from near-freezing dawn game drives (especially June–August at altitude) to 30°C+ midday heat. Layers are essential.

Layer 1 — Base: Lightweight, moisture-wicking shirt (synthetic or merino wool). Bring 3–4 tops.

Layer 2 — Insulation: Fleece jacket or lightweight down. Essential for early morning drives when wind chill on an open vehicle is real.

Layer 3 — Outer: Light rain jacket or windbreaker. Doubles as wind protection on morning drives.

Specific Items

Footwear - Closed-toe walking shoes: Comfortable, broken-in, ankle support for walking safaris. Trail runners or light hiking boots. - Sandals/flip-flops: For camp. Crocs or Tevas work well. - DO NOT bring: Brand-new boots (blisters guaranteed), heavy hiking boots (overkill), high heels (some lodges are elegant, but nobody dresses up on safari)

Accessories

• Sun hat: Wide-brimmed, with chin strap (it's windy on game drives)
• Sunglasses: Polarized, UV400
• Buff/neck gaiter: Versatile — sun protection, dust mask, warmth
• Headlamp or small torch: Essential for navigating camp at night
• Binoculars: 8x42 or 10x42 are ideal for safari. Even budget binoculars transform the experience
• Daypack: Small bag for game drives (camera, water, snacks)

Sun & Insect Protection

• Sunscreen: SPF 50+, reef-safe formula, apply liberally
• Lip balm with SPF: Often forgotten, always needed
• Insect repellent: DEET-based (30–50%) for skin; Permethrin spray for treating clothing
• After-bite cream: Hydrocortisone or antihistamine cream for inevitable bites

Camera & Electronics

• Camera + lenses: See our safari photography guide
• Smartphone: Works as camera, GPS, bird ID app, and travel diary
• Power bank: 10,000–20,000 mAh. Vehicle charging is unreliable
• Charging cables: Bring 2 (one will break or go missing)
• Universal adapter: Tanzania uses Type D/G outlets (UK-style, 3 prong). Bring a universal adapter
• Memory cards: Bring more than you think you'll need. 2–3 cards × 64GB minimum

Medical & Toiletries

• Prescription medications: Bring enough for the trip + 3 extra days
• Malaria prophylaxis: Prescribed by your doctor (Malarone, doxycycline, or mefloquine)
• Basic first aid: Plasters, antiseptic, blister pads, tweezers
• Anti-diarrhea tablets: Imodium (pragmatic insurance)
• Oral rehydration salts: For dehydration from heat or illness
• Hand sanitizer: Essential
• Wet wipes: The most underrated safari item. Dust is relentless
• Moisturizer: The dry air and sun will wreck your skin
• Toiletries: Most safari camps provide shampoo, conditioner, and soap — but bring your own if you're particular

Documents & Money

• Passport: Valid for 6+ months from entry date, with 2+ blank pages
• Visa: Most nationalities need a visa (available on arrival or e-visa in advance)
• Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from an endemic country
• Travel insurance: Non-negotiable. Ensure it covers medical evacuation (nearest hospital may be a bush flight away)
• Cash (USD): For tips, souvenirs, visa on arrival. Bring small denominations ($1, $5, $10, $20). Notes must be post-2013 series
• Credit card: Accepted at lodges for extras, but not in remote camps

Tipping Guide

Tipping is expected and appreciated in Tanzania:

What NOT to Pack

• Hard suitcases (won't fit on bush planes)
• Too many outfits (nobody cares about fashion on safari — you'll wear the same 3 shirts)
• Hair dryers/straighteners (camps have limited power; your hair will survive)
• Expensive jewelry (leave it at home)
• Drone (prohibited in all Tanzania national parks without a permit)
• Plastic bags (Tanzania has a plastic bag ban — bring reusable bags)

Our Pre-Safari Checklist

8 weeks before: - [ ] Book travel insurance - [ ] See doctor for vaccinations + malaria prescription - [ ] Check passport validity

4 weeks before: - [ ] Apply for visa (e-visa) - [ ] Buy/gather safari clothing - [ ] Purchase binoculars if needed

1 week before: - [ ] Start malaria prophylaxis (if Malarone, start 1–2 days before) - [ ] Charge all electronics - [ ] Photocopy passport, insurance, booking confirmations - [ ] Pack using this list

Need help planning your safari? Contact our team or explore our camps and lodges to start building your itinerary.

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Questions about packing for a specific camp or season? Ask our team — we'll give you advice tailored to your exact itinerary and travel dates.

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