Packing for a safari is simpler than you might think. Here's our checklist of clothes, gear and documents, plus a few local rules every traveller should know.
On safari you'll spend most of the day in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle, with early starts and cool evenings. Packing light, practical clothes is the key, and most lodges offer a laundry service, so you need less than you think.
Clothes
- Light, breathable shirts and trousers in neutral colours like khaki, green or beige
- A warm fleece or jacket for early morning game drives and evenings, especially in the Ngorongoro highlands, which can be cold
- A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
- Comfortable walking shoes or trainers
- Swimwear, if your lodge has a pool
Gear
- Binoculars: one pair each makes a big difference
- A camera with a zoom lens, plus spare batteries and memory cards
- Sunscreen, lip balm and insect repellent
- A small daypack and a reusable water bottle
- A power bank. Tanzania uses UK-style three-pin sockets, so bring an adapter.
Documents and health
- A passport valid for at least six months, and your visa
- Travel insurance
- A yellow fever certificate if you're arriving from, or travelling through, a country where yellow fever is present
- Talk to your doctor about malaria tablets and vaccinations before you travel
Good to know
- Soft bags: if your safari includes a light-aircraft flight, luggage is usually limited to about 15 kg in a soft bag.
- No plastic bags: single-use plastic carrier bags are banned in Tanzania, so leave them at home.
- No camouflage: camouflage clothing is reserved for the military in Tanzania, so don't bring it.
Not sure which safari to choose? Browse our safaris or let us plan one for you.
