Here is your ultimate packing checklist for a Tanzania safari everything you need to stay comfortable, safe, and ready for adventure in the African wild.
Tanzania Safari Packing Checklist
Clothing
Light, breathable, and neutral-colored clothing is ideal (avoid bright colors and dark blue/black, which attract tsetse flies).
Essentials
- Light long-sleeved shirts (for sun and insect protection)
- Light long trousers or convertible pants
- T-shirts or breathable tops (avoid white gets dirty easily)
- A fleece or warm jacket (for chilly mornings/evenings)
- A light waterproof jacket (especially if traveling Nov–May)
- Shorts (for warmer afternoons at the lodge)
- Comfortable underwear and socks
- Swimsuit (for lodges with pools)
- Safari hat or wide-brimmed hat
- Buff or scarf (for dust)
Footwear
- Comfortable closed walking shoes/hiking boots
- Lightweight sandals or flip-flops (for the lodge)
Toiletries and Personal Care
- Sunscreen (high SPF)
- Insect repellent
- Lip balm with SPF
- Wet wipes and hand sanitizer
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, travel soap
- Small towel
- Basic first aid kit (plasters, painkillers, antihistamines)
- Prescription medication (with extra supply)
Gear and Electronics
- Binoculars (highly recommended)
- Camera (with extra batteries/memory cards)
- Phone and charger (portable power bank is helpful)
- Flashlight/headlamp (for camps/lodges with limited lighting)
- Universal power adapter (Tanzania uses Type D & G plugs)
Travel Documents & Essentials
- Passport (with at least 6 months validity)
- Tanzanian visa (or e-visa printout)
- Yellow Fever certificate (especially if coming from risk zones)
- Travel insurance documents
- Flight tickets/itinerary
- Local currency (Tanzanian Shillings) and USD cash
- Credit/debit card
- Copies of all documents (keep digital and printed versions)
Daypack Essentials
- Lightweight daypack
- Refillable water bottle or hydration pack
- Snacks (nuts, granola bars, etc.)
- Notebook and pen (for journaling sightings)
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Travel pillow (for long drives)