What to Pack for an African Safari: The Complete Tanzania Safari Checklist

Packing basics

Pack light and practical. Neutral colours such as khaki, beige and olive are best for game drives; avoid dark blue and black, which can attract tsetse flies. Use a soft-sided bag — domestic flights to safari airstrips usually allow around 15 kg per person including hand luggage. Confirm the allowance for your flights with our team.

Clothing

• 3–4 lightweight shirts (including long sleeves for sun and insects)
• 2–3 pairs of comfortable trousers or convertible pants
• A warm fleece or jacket for early mornings and the Ngorongoro crater rim
• A light waterproof jacket in the green season
• Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
• Comfortable closed shoes and sandals
• Swimwear if your lodge has a pool or you are visiting Zanzibar

Gear and gadgets

• Binoculars — one pair per person if possible
• Camera with a zoom lens, spare batteries and memory cards
• Power bank and a universal adapter (Tanzania uses type D and G sockets)
• Small head torch
• Reusable water bottle

Health and toiletries

• High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm
• Insect repellent
• Personal medication, plus a basic first-aid kit
• Antimalarials if advised by your doctor
• Hand sanitiser and wet wipes

Documents

• Passport valid for at least six months with blank pages
• Visa or e-visa confirmation
• Yellow fever certificate if required for your route
• Travel insurance details
• Flight tickets and safari vouchers

What to leave at home

• Plastic carrier bags — banned in Tanzania
• Camouflage clothing
• Hard-shell suitcases
• Too many outfits — many lodges offer laundry

Need a tailored list?

Packing for Kilimanjaro or a beach extension? Ask our team for a checklist tailored to your itinerary. Every trip we plan is tailor-made. Share your dates, budget and interests with our Arusha-based team and we will send a personalised itinerary within 24 hours.