Packing right for a safari makes a real difference to your comfort — mornings are cold, afternoons are hot and dusty, and you\’ll be living out of one bag for days at a time. Here\’s exactly what to bring.
Clothing
- Neutral colors — khaki, olive, tan, brown (avoid bright colors and pure white, which show dust; avoid dark blue/black in tsetse fly areas like Tarangire)
- A warm layer (fleece or light jacket) for early morning game drives, which can be surprisingly cold
- Long-sleeved shirts and trousers for sun and insect protection, plus shorts/t-shirts for warm afternoons
- A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
- Comfortable closed shoes or light hiking boots
- A swimsuit if your itinerary includes a lodge pool, hot springs, or a Zanzibar extension
Gear
- Binoculars — genuinely worth packing if you have a pair; most vehicles carry some but your own means everyone in your group can look at once
- A camera with a zoom lens if you have one, plus extra memory cards and batteries
- A dry bag or dust cover for electronics on game drives
- A reusable water bottle
- A small day pack for camera gear and personal items in the vehicle
Health & Toiletries
- Sunscreen (high SPF) and insect repellent (ideally DEET-based for evenings)
- Any personal medication, plus a basic first-aid kit (plasters, antihistamine, rehydration salts)
- Anti-malarial medication if prescribed by your doctor
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes — useful during long game drive days
Documents
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates) and visa or eVisa confirmation
- Travel insurance documents and emergency contact details
- Printed or digital copies of your booking confirmation and flight details
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from a country with risk of transmission
What to Leave Behind
Camouflage clothing is restricted for civilians in Tanzania — leave it at home. Most camps and lodges also offer a laundry service, so you can pack lighter than you might think, especially on longer itineraries.
We send a tailored packing list specific to your itinerary and travel dates once your safari is confirmed — this guide covers the essentials that apply to almost every trip.