What To Pack For A Tanzania Safari [Safari Packing List]

Packing for a safari in Tanzania is not just about filling a suitcase—it’s about preparing smartly for comfort, safety, and adventure in the wild. With vast national parks like the Serengeti, Tarangire, and Ngorongoro Crater on your itinerary, having the right gear ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Here’s the ultimate Tanzania safari packing list, broken down by category to make your preparations easy and efficient.

Safari Packing Essentials

1. Travel Documents & Money

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months)

• Tanzania visa (can be obtained online or on arrival)

• Travel insurance documents

• Vaccination certificates (e.g. Yellow Fever, if required)

• Copies of important documents (stored separately)

• Credit/debit cards and some US dollars or Tanzanian Shillings

Clothing: What to Wear on Safari

Tanzania’s climate varies between hot days and cooler mornings/evenings. Pack light, neutral-colored clothing that offers protection and comfort.

Recommended Clothing Items:

• 3–5 breathable, long-sleeved shirts (for sun and insect protection)

• 2–3 pairs of lightweight trousers or convertible pants

• 1–2 pairs of shorts (for camp/lodge wear)

• T-shirts or tank tops (quick-dry)

• Fleece or light jacket (mornings/evenings can be chilly)

• Waterproof jacket or poncho (especially during rainy season)

• Wide-brimmed hat or cap (sun protection)

• Undergarments and socks (quick-dry is best)

• Swimsuit (many lodges have pools)

• Sleepwear

Note: Avoid black and blue clothing, especially in tsetse fly-prone areas.

Footwear for Safari

• Comfortable walking shoes or lightweight hiking boots

• Flip-flops or sandals (for showers, lodge time)

Make sure your shoes are already broken in to avoid discomfort or blisters.

Toiletries & Personal Care

• Sunscreen (high SPF)

• Insect repellent with DEET or Picaridin

• After-bite or soothing cream

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

• Wet wipes and tissues

• Hand sanitizer

• Shampoo, soap, and conditioner (travel size)

• Menstrual hygiene products

• Lip balm with SPF

• Moisturizer and lotion (the sun and dust can be drying)

Safari Gadgets & Electronics

• Camera or smartphone with zoom lens

• Extra memory cards and batteries

• Binoculars (essential for game viewing)

• Universal travel adapter

• Power bank/portable charger

• Flashlight or headlamp (with extra batteries)

• Noise-cancelling headphones (optional for flights or bush silence)

Medical & First Aid Kit

• Basic first aid supplies (band-aids, antiseptic, tweezers)

• Personal medications (in original packaging)

• Anti-malarial pills (as prescribed)

• Antihistamines (for allergies or insect bites)

• Anti-diarrhea medication (like Imodium)

• Rehydration salts or electrolyte tablets

• Motion sickness tablets (if doing long drives)

Tip: Carry medicines in a labeled pouch in your carry-on luggage.

Other Useful Safari Items

• Safari journal or notebook

• Lightweight daypack or sling bag

• Sunglasses with UV protection

• Reusable water bottle or hydration pack

• Scarf or buff (for dust during game drives)

• Travel pillow and eye mask (for long travel days)

• Zip-lock bags for organization or wet items

• Travel laundry detergent (hand washing between lodge stays)

Luggage Recommendations

• Soft-sided duffel bag or backpack (easier for bush planes and safari vehicles)

• Weight limit for local flights: usually 15–20 kg (33–44 lbs), including hand luggage

Avoid hard-shell suitcases—they’re bulky and harder to fit in safari vehicles or small planes.

What NOT to Pack

• Camouflage clothing (reserved for military and not recommended for tourists)

• Hair dryers (many lodges run on solar or limited power)

• Drones (often restricted or require special permits)

Final Thoughts

Packing for a Tanzania safari doesn’t have to be stressful. With this checklist, you’ll be fully prepared to enjoy your wildlife adventure, stay healthy, and travel light yet smart.

Whether you’re game driving through the Serengeti or relaxing by your lodge’s campfire, the right gear helps you focus on the experience, not the hassle.