What to Pack for a Tanzanian Safari: The Ultimate Checklist

Heading on a safari in Tanzania? Use this complete packing checklist to make sure you’re fully prepared — from clothing and gadgets to documents and safari essentials.

Pack Light, Pack Smart — Your Safari Adventure Awaits

Packing for a safari isn’t quite like packing for an ordinary vacation. You’ll be out in the wild, moving from lodges to camps, encountering dusty roads, early mornings, and varying temperatures — all while chasing unforgettable wildlife moments.

Whether you’re heading to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, or Tarangire, this ultimate safari packing list will help you prepare like a pro.

Travel flat lay. Packing stuff for trip. Traveling. Passport, cameras, photos. Memories. Backpacking

1. Clothing Essentials: Blend In, Stay Cool

The key to safari clothing is neutral colors, breathable fabrics, and layers.

Must-Pack:

  • Lightweight, neutral-colored shirts (tan, olive, khaki, grey)
  • Convertible trousers/shorts
  • Fleece or jacket for chilly mornings and evenings
  • Long-sleeved shirts for sun and insect protection
  • A wide-brimmed hat or cap
  • Comfortable walking shoes or trail runners
  • Flip-flops or sandals for lodge downtime
  • Swimsuit (many lodges have pools)

Avoid: Bright colors (attract insects) and dark blue/black (attract tsetse flies).

2. Safari Gear & Accessories

🧭 Essentials to pack:

  • Binoculars (8×42 or 10×42 is perfect for wildlife)
  • Flashlight or headlamp (for campsites or night movement)
  • Lightweight backpack or daypack
  • Dry bags or ziplock bags for dust and moisture protection
  • Camera + extra batteries + memory cards
  • Sunglasses (with UV protection)

Pro tip: Bring a lens cloth or blower brush to clean your camera from dust after game drives.

Benson Safaris | Tourist observing wildlife with binoculars during safari in tarangire national park

3. Health & Hygiene Items

Protection & care:

  • Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
  • Insect repellent with DEET
  • Personal medication (plus copies of prescriptions)
  • Basic first aid kit (plasters, antiseptic wipes, painkillers)
  • Anti-malarial tablets (consult your doctor)
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
  • Reusable water bottle

Some lodges offer filtered water, but having your own bottle is helpful for drives.

4. Travel Documents & Essentials

Don’t forget:

  • Valid passport (with at least 6 months left)
  • Tanzania visa (available online or on arrival for many nationalities)
  • Yellow fever certificate (required if traveling from an endemic country)
  • Travel insurance (including evacuation coverage)
  • Safari itinerary and confirmation documents
  • Copies of documents (digital + printed)

Money tips:

  • Carry some USD in small denominations (for tips and small purchases)
  • ATMs are available in cities like Arusha, but cash is king in remote areas
Benson Safaris | Wild elephants spotted during Safari

5. Optional but Handy Items

Bonus items for comfort:

  • Travel pillow and blanket (especially if flying into Kilimanjaro)
  • E-reader or a good book for downtime
  • Travel journal and pen
  • Power bank or solar charger
  • Plug adapter (Tanzania uses UK-style Type G plugs)

6. Packing Tips for Safari Travel

  • Soft-sided duffel bags are recommended for safari vehicles and bush flights.
  • Weight limits for domestic flights are often 15kg (including hand luggage).
  • Pack in layers — morning game drives can be chilly, but midday gets hot.
  • Use packing cubes to stay organized while moving between camps.

Leave space for souvenirs like Tanzanian coffee, Maasai crafts, or local art.

Final Thoughts: Prepared = Peace of Mind

A well-packed bag ensures you’re comfortable, safe, and ready for every moment on safari — from pre-dawn game drives to sundowners by the fire. With this checklist, you can focus less on what you forgot, and more on what truly matters: the adventure of a lifetime.

Need help planning your safari itinerary or choosing the right camps? We’re here to help — and we’ll even send you a printable packing guide before you travel.

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