Tanzania Safari Packing List
Pack lightly and leave some space for gifts or souvenirs. Soft-sided luggage is easier to fit into a safari vehicle than hard suitcases.
Always keep your passport, airline tickets, and money with you. A small waist bag or neck pouch can work well for important documents and cash.
If your checked luggage is delayed, it helps to keep enough clothing and basic supplies for the first day in your carry-on bag.
If you are taking a domestic flight, luggage restrictions usually range from 15 to 20 kg, or 33 to 44 lbs, total per person.
If you are climbing Mount Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru, you will need additional trekking supplies.
Clothing
- Shorts, mid-thigh or longer
- Lightweight, breathable trousers or pants
- Short-sleeved shirts that are cool and breathable
- Neutral-coloured clothing where possible. Avoid black, dark blue, and bright red
- Bathing suit if staying at a lodge with a swimming pool or visiting Zanzibar
- Long-sleeved shirt or sweater for evenings
- Rain jacket or rain poncho
For women visiting villages: a lightweight dress or skirt that covers the knees is recommended. Shoulders should also be covered.
For men visiting villages or dining at lodges: short-sleeved shirts with collars are recommended.
Note: Laundry service is available at most lodges, either for a small cost or free of charge in some cases.
Keep valuable jewellery to a minimum.
Documents
- Passport with visa stamp, or completed visa application with US$50 or US$100 cash in exact change
- Yellow fever certificate, required if travelling from or through an endemic zone
- Medical and travel insurance
- Address book or saved emergency contact details
Baggage
- Day pack to carry with you
- Large waterproof duffel bag or backpack
Footwear
- Sturdy, comfortable shoes, preferably waterproof. They will get dirty
- Tennis shoes or sandals for relaxing in the evening
- Comfortable, breathable socks
Important Notes and Restrictions
- Sun hat
- Maps or guidebooks
- Scarf for dust and sun
- Batteries
- Sunglasses
- Binoculars. The original page notes that 2 pairs are standard in each vehicle: Nikon Monarch 8x36
- Money: small Tanzanian bills and/or small US bills for small purchases and tips; larger US bills and/or travellers cheques for bigger purchases
- Journal or notebook
- Pencil and pen
- Pocket knife
- Electricity adapter
- Energy bars and snacks
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Playing cards, games, books, or Frisbee
- Camera, film if needed, and mini tripod
- Mementos for guides and other travellers
- Personal music device
- Video camera and tapes, if needed
- Travel pillow
- Toiletries
- Small towel
- Roll of toilet paper for some public restrooms
- Soap
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Hand wipes
- Lotion
- Glasses, contact lenses, and solution
- Comb and mirror
- Shampoo without heavy fragrance
- Unscented deodorant. Use cologne or perfume sparingly, if at all, as strong scents may attract bees or other insects
