What to Pack for Your Tanzania Safari

What to Pack for Your Tanzania Safari

Packing for a Tanzania safari is simpler than most people think, but getting the details right makes a genuine difference to your comfort and enjoyment. Our team has hosted thousands of guests across our Serengeti and Tarangire camps, and this guide reflects years of field experience.

Clothing

Neutral colours are essential: khaki, olive, tan, grey, and brown. Avoid bright whites and blues, which can disturb wildlife and attract tsetse flies. Cotton and moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics work best. Pack for layers — mornings and evenings can be surprisingly cool, particularly in the Serengeti (altitude 1,500m), while midday temperatures climb to 28-32 degrees Celsius. A lightweight fleece or softshell jacket is essential. A packable rain jacket is wise, even in the dry season, as afternoon showers are not uncommon. Long trousers protect against thorns on walking safaris, and a wide-brimmed hat and quality sunglasses guard against the strong equatorial sun.

Footwear

For game drives, comfortable closed-toe shoes or trainers are fine. For walking safaris, proper closed-toe boots or trail shoes with ankle support are recommended. Bring sandals or flip-flops for around camp. Avoid open-toed shoes in the bush.

Photography and Optics

A camera with a zoom lens of at least 200mm is ideal — a 100-400mm range covers most safari scenarios. Bring spare batteries and multiple memory cards, as charging opportunities exist but are limited to solar power. A beanbag is more practical than a tripod for stabilising shots from a vehicle. Binoculars are arguably the single most important item after your camera — even a basic 8x42 or 10x42 pair transforms your game viewing experience. We have loaner binoculars at our camps, but personal optics are always preferable.

Health and Toiletries

SPF 50 sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, and insect repellent containing DEET are essential. Bring any prescription medications you require, along with basic remedies for headache, stomach upset, and allergies. A small first-aid kit with plasters and antiseptic is sensible. Most toiletries are provided at camp, but personal preferences vary.

Luggage

If you are taking a light aircraft to the Serengeti, soft-sided bags are mandatory — rigid suitcases do not fit in the aircraft hold. The typical weight limit is 15kg including hand luggage. For road transfers, luggage type is less critical, but soft bags remain more practical in safari vehicles. Pack less than you think you need — laundry service is available at both our camps.

Miscellaneous Essentials

A headlamp or small torch for moving around camp after dark. A reusable water bottle (we provide filtered water). A journal for recording sightings. A universal power adapter (Tanzania uses UK-style three-pin plugs). Cash in US dollars for tips and small purchases — notes must be dated 2006 or later to be accepted. And most importantly, bring a sense of patience and wonder — the bush operates on its own schedule, and the best sightings often come to those who are willing to wait.