Direct operator since 1978
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Tanzania Safari
Packing List
Everything you need to pack for a Tanzania safari — and what to leave behind. We have been running game drives since 1978. We know what works.
Booked with Safaris Tanzania?
We send a detailed printed packing checklist to every confirmed guest. If you have already booked, WhatsApp Kassim and he will send it over immediately.
Before you go
Essential Documents
Do not leave home without these. Tanzania immigration requires most of these at the border, and your safari guide will need to see several at the park gates.
Documents Checklist
- Passport (valid for 6 months beyond travel dates)
- Tanzania tourist visa (available on arrival or via e-visa)
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if arriving from a yellow fever country)
- Travel insurance policy with emergency evacuation coverage
- Airline booking confirmations
- Safari itinerary printout or digital copy
- Emergency contact numbers (Safaris Tanzania: +255 786 110 786)
- Copies of all documents stored separately (phone cloud + physical)
- Driving licence if planning to self-drive
- Credit/debit cards (notify your bank before travelling)
Visa Information
Most nationalities can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Kilimanjaro (JRO) or Dar es Salaam airports. You can also apply in advance via the Tanzania Immigration portal.
- • Single-entry tourist visa: USD 50 (or equivalent)
- • Multiple-entry: USD 100
- • Validity: 3 months from issue date
- • Passport must have 2 blank pages
Travel Insurance
Safari activities involve some degree of risk, and medical evacuation from remote parks can cost USD 10,000 or more. Standard travel insurance is not sufficient for Tanzania.
Ensure your policy explicitly covers: emergency medical evacuation, repatriation, safari activities (including game drives in open vehicles), and trip cancellation.
What to wear
Safari Clothing
The golden rule: neutral, earthy tones that blend with the bush. No bright colours, no white. Layers are essential — Tanzania温差大, sometimes 15 degrees between a 6am departure and midday.
Upper Body
- 2–3 neutral-coloured T-shirts (quick-dry fabric)
- 1–2 long-sleeve shirts (lightweight, breathable)
- 1 fleece or light fleece jacket
- 1 waterproof rain jacket or shell
- 1 warm down or synthetic jacket (June–October mornings)
Lower Body
- 2–3 pairs of lightweight trousers (convertible are ideal)
- 1 pair of shorts (knee-length)
- 1 pair of rain trousers (wet season)
Footwear
- Comfortable broken-in walking shoes or trail shoes
- Lightweight sandals or flip-flops (for camp/lodge evenings)
- Thick socks (2–3 pairs, wool or synthetic)
Head & Neck
- Wide-brim safari hat with chin strap
- Buff or neck gaiter (sun and dust protection)
- Beanie or warm hat (June–October early mornings)
Nightwear
- Lightweight sleeping clothes for warm nights
- Extra layer for cold nights at Ngorongoro
The Colour Rule
Do not wear: red, white, blue, or any bright colour. Red is particularly problematic — it is interpreted as a threat by many grazing animals and will cause them to flee. Khaki, tan, olive, brown, and muted green are the standard colours you will see on every professional guide. They also photograph beautifully against the savannah.
Tools of the trade
Safari Gear
The right gear makes a real difference. These are the items our guides and returning guests consistently recommend.
Binoculars (8x42 recommended; we also rent these)
Essential — wildlife is often 30–50m away
Camera with spare memory cards and batteries
Extra batteries and cards are vital; cold mornings drain power
Power bank (20,000mAh+ recommended)
For charging devices between lodges
Universal travel adapter (Type G or multi-adapter)
UK-style plugs used in Tanzania
Headlamp or small torch
Useful for tented camps and early morning walks
Dry bag or waterproof stuff sacks
Protect electronics and documents on boat crossings
Insect repellent (DEET 30–50% or picaridin)
Required at dusk and in mosquito-prone areas
Sunglasses (polarised preferred)
Reduces glare off the savannah
Daypack or small camera bag
For carrying layers, water, and camera on game drives
Water bottle (1–2L reusable)
Stay hydrated; we provide bottled water daily
Need binoculars?
Good binoculars are one of the highest-value investments for any safari. We rent 8x42 Bushnell binoculars for USD 10 per day — contact Kassim to arrange.
Health precautions
Health Supplies
Tanzania is a tropical destination. A few practical medical precautions will keep you comfortable throughout your trip.
Medical Checklist
- Malaria prophylaxis (consult your doctor 4+ weeks before travel)
- DEET insect repellent (30–50% concentration)
- High-SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+; sun is intense at altitude)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Personal medication (keep in original packaging)
- Basic first aid kit (plasters, antiseptic, rehydration salts)
- Imodium or similar for diarrhoea management
- Antihistamines (for unexpected allergic reactions)
- Eye drops (dust can be significant on dry-season game drives)
- Hand sanitiser (not all camps have running water)
Malaria in Tanzania
Tanzania is a malaria-risk country, particularly in the lower-altitude sections of Serengeti, Tarangire, and Ruaha. The risk is lower in Ngorongoro Crater due to its altitude (2,300m), but precautions are still recommended.
Safaris Tanzania guests consistently report that their prescribed malaria prophylaxis gave them peace of mind throughout the trip. Consult your doctor or a travel health specialist at least 4 weeks before departure.
Altitude Note: Ngorongoro Crater
At 2,300 metres above sea level, Ngorongoro Crater is significantly cooler than Arusha or the Serengeti floor. Morning game drives here can feel near-freezing. Bring an extra warm layer (fleece or down jacket) even in summer. Altitude sickness is unlikely for short visits, but pace yourself on any walks.
Just as important
What NOT to Bring
Safari vehicles have limited storage space, some items are illegal in national parks, and certain things simply will not survive the African bush.
Brightly coloured clothing (especially red, white, or blue) — startles wildlife
Cotton clothing in large quantities — stays wet, attracts dust
Expensive jewellery or watches — unnecessary weight and risk
Self-defence spray (illegal in Tanzania national parks)
Single-use plastic bags (banned in Tanzania — use reusable bags instead)
Professional photographic equipment beyond your camera — adds security risk
Large suitcases — soft duffel bags fit more easily in safari vehicles
Hairdryers (most camps have limited power; air-dry instead)
Books (heavy — use an e-reader if needed)
Tip: A soft duffel bag (not a hard suitcase) fits much more easily into safari vehicles and tent trailer storage.
Plan by season
Wet Season vs Dry Season
The same packing principles apply year-round, but each season has specific adjustments.
Wet Season: Nov – May
The long rains (March to May) transform the landscape into a lush green paradise. Fewer tourists, lower prices, and extraordinary birding. Short rains (October to November) are brief afternoon showers.
Add to your bag:
- Quick-dry trousers that convert to shorts
- Waterproof rain jacket and rain trousers
- Waterproof bag liner or dry sacks for your camera gear
- Extra pairs of thick walking socks
- Plastic shoe covers for muddy conditions
- Antifungal powder (higher humidity increases risk of foot issues)
Dry Season: June – Oct
Peak safari season. The bush dries out, animals congregate around water sources, and visibility improves. The Great Migration reaches the Mara River from July to October.
Add to your bag:
- Warm fleece or puffy jacket (temperatures can drop to 5°C before sunrise in Ngorongoro)
- Thermal base layer (lightweight, for early morning game drives)
- Hand warmers (reusable or disposable)
- Extra moisturiser and lip balm (dry season air is arid)
- Thin gloves (cold mornings on open vehicle game drives)
Not sure what to pack for your specific itinerary?
Every Safaris Tanzania itinerary is different. Kassim can advise on exact clothing requirements based on your route, season, and planned activities.
Ask Kassim for Packing AdviceCommon questions
Packing Questions
Answers to the questions our guests ask most often before departure.
What colours of clothing should I avoid on safari?
Avoid bright colours and white — they startle wildlife. Khaki, olive, brown, tan, and green are the standard safari colours. Neutral tones blend with the bush and will not affect animal behaviour.
Do I really need binoculars on safari?
Yes — emphatically. Game drives often stop 30 to 50 metres from wildlife for safety and to avoid disturbing animals. A good pair of binoculars (8x42 is ideal) transforms what you can see and photograph. We recommend bringing your own if you have them.
Should I take malaria prophylaxis for Tanzania?
Tanzania is a malaria-risk area, particularly in lower-altitude parks like Serengeti and Tarangire. We strongly recommend consulting your travel doctor at least 4 weeks before departure about malaria prophylaxis. Prevention through medication, insect repellent, and covering up at dusk is the standard approach for all our guests.
What vaccinations do I need for Tanzania?
Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from a yellow fever country. Routine vaccinations (MMR, diphtheria, tetanus) should be up to date. Hepatitis A and typhoid are recommended. Consult a travel health clinic 6 to 8 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Is there electricity to charge my camera and phone on safari?
Yes. Our vehicles have USB charging ports and a 12V socket. Most camps and lodges have charging facilities. For multi-day mobile safaris, we recommend bringing a power bank as a backup.
What should I wear on an early morning game drive?
Layers. Tanzania's dawn game drives are cold — temperatures can drop to 8 to 12 degrees Celsius before sunrise, even in summer. Wear a warm base layer, a fleece or light jacket, and add a waterproof shell. As the morning warms up, you can remove layers.
Can I do laundry during a multi-day safari?
Most safari camps and lodges offer same-day laundry service for a small fee. On mobile safaris with tented camps, laundry facilities are more limited. Pack enough clothing for 5 to 7 days regardless — quick-dry fabrics wash well in a sink and dry overnight.
What is the difference between wet season and dry season packing?
Wet season (November to May): add a quality rain jacket and rain trousers, waterproof bag liner, and extra pairs of socks. Dry season (June to October): temperatures are cooler, especially at altitude in Ngorongoro, so add an extra warm layer. Both seasons require sun protection and neutral clothing.
Still Have Questions?
Kassim has been packing guests for 48 years. He knows exactly what works on a Tanzania safari — and he will tell you honestly what you can leave at home.
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