A practical, printable Tanzania safari packing list for game drives, lodge stays, camping safaris and optional Zanzibar extensions.
The essential safari checklist
Pack light, choose layers and prioritise comfort. Neutral colours such as khaki, olive, tan and brown are practical for dusty game drives. Most safari vehicles have limited luggage space, and light aircraft commonly apply stricter soft-bag limits than international airlines.
- Passport, visa approval where required and travel-insurance details
- Soft-sided luggage plus a small daypack
- Lightweight shirts and trousers in neutral colours
- Warm fleece or light insulated jacket for cool mornings
- Comfortable closed walking shoes and sandals
- Wide-brim hat, sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen
- Insect repellent and personal medication
- Binoculars, camera, chargers and spare memory cards
- Reusable water bottle and a small head torch
Clothing for changing conditions
Tanzania can feel hot at midday and surprisingly cool before sunrise, particularly around Ngorongoro, the Serengeti and the northern highlands. Bring breathable layers rather than one heavy coat. Long sleeves and trousers provide useful protection from sun, dust and insects. A light rain shell is worthwhile during the green seasons.
Bright white shows dust quickly, while very dark blue and black may attract tsetse flies in some woodland areas. Camouflage-pattern clothing can be restricted or misunderstood in parts of Africa, so plain neutral clothing is the simplest choice.
Documents, money and health items
Keep originals and digital copies of your passport, insurance certificate, emergency contacts, flight details and confirmed itinerary. Carry prescribed medicines in their original packaging and bring enough for delays. Ask a travel-health professional for personalised advice well before departure.
US dollars are widely useful for tourism expenses, but notes should be clean and relatively recent. Tanzanian shillings are convenient for small local purchases. Cards are accepted at many lodges, although connections can be unreliable and surcharges may apply.
Camera and electronics
A phone is enough for many travellers, but wildlife photographers benefit from a zoom lens in the 200-400mm range. Bring spare batteries, memory cards, a dust cloth, a protective bag and a universal adapter. Tanzania generally uses Type D and G sockets with 230V supply. A power bank is helpful where camps switch electricity off overnight.
What to leave at home
Avoid hard-shell oversized cases, valuable jewellery, excessive formal clothing, single-use plastic carrier bags and drones without written permits. Do not bring wildlife products or anything that could breach customs or conservation rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do laundry on safari?
Many lodges offer laundry for an additional charge; underwear is sometimes excluded. Drying can take longer during wet weather.
How much luggage can I bring?
Your international allowance may be generous, but domestic light aircraft often apply lower limits and require soft bags. We confirm the limit for every itinerary before travel.