Packing for a Tanzania safari is simpler than most people think. You spend most days in a Land Cruiser, mornings are cold and afternoons are warm. Pack light, pack in layers and leave the hard suitcase at home. Here is what we tell our guests.
Clothing
- 3 or 4 lightweight shirts, with at least two long-sleeved for sun and insects.
- 2 pairs of comfortable trousers and 1 pair of shorts.
- A warm fleece or jumper. Early game drives and the Ngorongoro Crater rim are cold, often around 10 degrees Celsius.
- A light rain jacket from November to May.
- A wide-brimmed hat and a buff or scarf for dust.
- Swimwear for lodge pools and Zanzibar.
Choose the right colours
Khaki, beige, olive and brown are the classic safari colours. They hide dust and blend into the bush. Avoid dark blue and black. These colours attract tsetse flies in parts of Tarangire and around Lake Eyasi. Bright white shows every speck of red dust within an hour.
Shoes
Closed trainers or light walking shoes work for most safaris. Add sandals for the lodge and the beach. Hiking boots are only needed for Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru or long walking safaris.
Bags
Use a soft duffel bag. It fits the vehicle better than a hard case. If your trip includes a light aircraft flight, most operators limit you to 15 kilograms per person, including hand luggage, in a soft bag. Bring a small daypack for the vehicle.
Camera and gear
- Binoculars. One pair per person makes a big difference.
- A camera with a zoom lens of 200 mm or more.
- Spare batteries and memory cards. Our Land Cruisers have charging points.
- A power bank and a UK-style plug adapter (Type G).
- A headlamp for tented camps.
Health and documents
- Passport valid for at least six months, plus your Tanzania e-visa.
- Yellow fever certificate if you arrive from a country with yellow fever risk.
- Malaria tablets after advice from your doctor.
- Insect repellent, high SPF sunscreen and lip balm.
- A small first aid kit and any personal medication.
- Travel insurance and some US dollars in small notes for tips.
Dress respectfully off the safari trail
In Stone Town and in villages, cover shoulders and knees. Beachwear is fine on Zanzibar beaches and at resorts, but bring a sarong or light trousers for walks into town.
What to leave at home
Camouflage clothing, which is restricted in Tanzania. Plastic bags, which are banned. Heavy jeans, which stay wet and take days to dry.
Questions about your trip? Ask the Lulu family, or browse our Tanzania safaris.
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