I.The Approach
Pack lightly, plan thoroughly.
Packing for a safari is not easy. Camera equipment, weight restrictions, the unpredictable rhythms of the bush — it takes careful consideration. This guide gives you everything you need to plan a fun, hassle-free Tanzania safari.
II.General
The essentials.
- ·Pack lightly and leave room for gifts and souvenirs. Soft-sided luggage fits the safari vehicle and domestic flights more easily.
- ·Always carry your passport, airline tickets, credit cards and money on your person. A neck pouch or money belt works well.
- ·Pack enough clothing and supplies for the first day in your carry-on, in case of any airline delays.
- ·On domestic flights, luggage is limited to 15–20 kg per person.
III.Footwear
What to wear on your feet.
- ·Sturdy, comfortable shoes — preferably waterproof and easy to clean.
- ·Tennis shoes or sandals for relaxed evenings.
- ·Comfortable, breathable socks.
IV.Clothing
Neutral, breathable, layered.
- ·Shorts (mid-thigh or longer).
- ·Lightweight, breathable pants.
- ·Short-sleeved shirts in neutral colours — avoid black, dark blue and bright red.
- ·Bathing suit.
- ·Long-sleeved shirt, jacket or sweater for cool evenings.
- ·Women: a lightweight dress or skirt covering the knees (and shoulders) for village visits.
- ·Men: short-sleeved shirts with collars for villages or evening dining.
- ·Keep valuable jewellery to a minimum.
Laundry service is available at most lodges at a small cost.
V.Baggage
How to carry it.
- ·A day pack for game drives.
- ·A large waterproof duffel as your main luggage.
VI.Other
Worth bringing along.
- ·Sun hat, sunglasses, scarf (for dust or sun).
- ·Maps, guidebooks, journal/notebook, pen and pencil.
- ·Binoculars, batteries, headlamp or flashlight.
- ·Small Tanzanian and US bills for tips and small purchases; larger US bills for bigger spends.
- ·Pocket knife, international multi-plug adapter, energy bars and snacks.
- ·Camera, mini tripod, video camera, Ziploc bags for camera and toiletries.
- ·Travel pillow, personal music device, playing cards, books, Frisbee.
- ·Small gifts for guides, fellow travellers and Maasai children (pencils, pens).
VII.Toiletries
Keep it gentle.
- ·Toothbrush and toothpaste, hand-wipes, lotion.
- ·Glasses, contacts and solution; comb, mirror.
- ·Shampoo without heavy fragrance.
- ·Unscented deodorant — use cologne sparingly to avoid attracting bees and insects.
VIII.Documents
Don't leave home without these.
- ·Passport (apply for your tourist visa in advance at tanzaniaevisa.com).
- ·Yellow fever certificate.
- ·Medical and travel insurance.
- ·Address book.
IX.First Aid
A small kit goes a long way.
- ·Sunscreen (SPF 15+) and lip balm with sunscreen.
- ·Anti-malaria pills, antibiotics, antihistamines.
- ·Insect repellent.
- ·Any prescription medications.
"Pack for the journey you want — not the one you fear."

