Packing smart for your Tanzania safari is the key to comfort, safety, and enjoyment during your journey. With so many adventurous activities—game drives, walking safaris, cultural visits, and even beach extensions—your gear and clothing should be versatile, practical, and lightweight. This guide from Kimanaa Africa Safaris will help you prepare the perfect Tanzania safari packing list so you can focus on the adventure of a lifetime.

Clothing Essentials for a Tanzania Safari

The right safari clothing keeps you comfortable in changing weather and protects you from sun, insects, and dust. Always choose lightweight, breathable, neutral-colored clothes such as khaki, beige, olive, or brown. Avoid bright colors, white, or dark shades, as these attract insects or stand out in the bush.

For a 7-day safari, we recommend:

• 4 short-sleeved t-shirts

• 2 long-sleeved shirts (for sun and insect protection)

• 1 pair of shorts

• 2–3 pairs of lightweight trousers (cargo pants or cotton)

• 5 pairs of socks

• Undergarments (at least 5 pairs; ladies should pack 4 supportive sports bras)

• Warm flannel pajamas (nights get cold in the highlands)

• 1 fleece jacket or sweatshirt (for early mornings and evenings)

• Thin waterproof raincoat (especially if traveling in the rainy season)

• Swimsuit (many lodges and camps have pools)

• Safari hat with chin strap and UV-protection sunglasses

👉 Pro Tip: Many lodges offer laundry services (sometimes free, often at a small cost), so there’s no need to over pack.

Footwear for Different Activities

Tanzania’s terrain is rugged and varied, so having the right shoes makes all the difference:

• Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots – best for game walks and trekking.

• Comfortable sneakers – fine for game drives.

• Sandals or flip-flops – for use around camp, the shower, or beach extensions.

Toiletries & Personal Care

While lodges provide basic amenities, packing your own ensures comfort. Include:

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo & conditioner (travel-size)

• Sunscreen (high SPF) & lip balm with SPF

• Mosquito repellent (DEET-based recommended)

• Feminine hygiene products (not always available in remote areas)

• Hand sanitizer & wet wipes

Basic Medical & First Aid Kit

Although most camps have first aid supplies, carry a personal kit with:

• Prescription medications + spare eyeglasses

• Antimalarial tablets

• Pain relief (Paracetamol, Ibuprofen)

• Antihistamines (for allergies or insect bites)

• Anti-diarrhea medication & rehydration salts

• Antiseptic gel & band-aids

• Motion sickness tablets (for bumpy roads or boat rides)

Safari Gadgets & Accessories

Tanzania offers world-class photography and wildlife encounters. Don’t forget:

• Camera with zoom lens + spare memory cards & batteries

• Binoculars (your guide provides one, but personal ones are best)

• Smartphone or tablet for journaling, communication, or storage

• Adapter plug (British 3-pin type, 220–240V, 50Hz)

• Flashlight or headlamp (some camps have minimal lighting)

• Dust- and waterproof bags for cameras, lenses, and electronics

👉 Enthusiasts sometimes bring night vision gear for nocturnal animal viewing.

Travel Documents & Money

Essential travel documents to carry include:

• Passport (valid 6+ months, with visa if required)

• Flight tickets & safari itinerary

• Travel insurance documents

• Emergency contact details

• Copies of passport & documents (both paper & digital)

💵 Money tips:

• Carry US dollars (issued after 2006, crisp and unmarked).

• Credit cards (Visa & MasterCard) are accepted only in major cities, with high fees. Most lodges prefer cash payments.

• Always split your cash into separate places to minimize risk.

Tanzania Beachwear

If your safari ends with a Zanzibar or Mafia Island beach escape:

• Bring a swimsuit (topless sunbathing is not allowed).

• Light cotton clothing, polo shirts, or dresses for evenings.

• Semi-formal outfits for romantic dinners on the beach.

Respectful Dressing in Tanzania

Tanzanians are conservative in dress, especially in rural areas and religious sites.

• Wear knee-length shorts or trousers and modest tops when visiting villages or markets.

• Avoid tank tops, short skirts, or revealing clothing outside beach resorts.

• At mosques, temples, and churches, cover shoulders and legs.

Safari Luggage Restrictions

• On internal safari flights: 15 kg (33 lbs) per person in soft-sided duffel bags.

• Hard suitcases don’t fit in small aircraft storage.

• Extra luggage can be stored at your hotel or Kimanaa Africa Safaris office.

Packing Tips & What to Leave at Home

✔️ Do bring:

• Soft-sided, lightweight luggage

• Water-resistant daypack

• TSA-approved locks

• Simple, practical clothing

❌ Leave behind:

• Expensive jewelry

• Hair dryers or irons (often unnecessary & impractical)

• Excessive beauty products

• Bright or flashy clothing