What Should You Pack For a Tanzanian Safari?

There are a lot of different variables to consider when packing your clothes for your safari vacation. Things like weather, safety, weight, and of course that quintessential safari STYLE. We'll break down the factors so you can make sure your suitcase is packed as best as can be.

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Also, laundry IS AVAILABLE at most lodges, but will cost extra. Price varies by lodge but is generally very reasonable.

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NOTE: If your itinerary includes any bush flights that we are arranging for you, the maximum weight per person for ALL of your luggage (personal items, hand bags, checked bags, even loose clothing) is 44lbs. Maximum dimensions are 35" x 25" x 13.5".

If you are not taking any bush flights, please see your airline carrier's baggage policy.

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Weather

Regardless of what time of year you are visiting, the days will generally be hot (low-mid 80's ^oF) and the mornings and evenings will be cool (~60^oF). Because of this, we recommend the following:

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• Layering. Packing clothes that layer will allow you to adjust to the shifts in temperature on the fly and remain comfortable no matter what time of day it is.

• Bring A Jacket And/Or Sweatshirt. For particularly cold mornings and evenings - which are especially possible if staying at the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater as many itineraries will include - a light jacket will provide enough warmth to remain comfortable. It will also be especially useful if you visit between January & May when rain is a higher possibility.

• Sandals AND Shoes. Rugged sandals like Tevas can be nice for daytime use but will be cold at night. Shoes are of course a must. The amount of walking/hiking can vary widely depending on your chosen tour.

• Zip Off Safari Trousers. Another way to allow for adjusting on the fly is to bring a pair of trousers that zip off at the knee to convert from pants to shorts. Who says dad fashion can't be stylish??

• A Hat & Sunglasses. The sun will be hot and a hat is vital for protecting your scalp and face from its potentially damaging rays.

• SPF sun protective clothing. Clothing that provides UV protection is just another layer of protection for you and your skin.

• Lightweight options. Of course your suitcase will be lighter, but you'll also be more comfortable on the ground.
• A Rain Poncho (Only For Those Visiting January-May). Though it doesn't rain all day, you may have brief periods of heavy rains - especially in April & May. Heavy Rains June-December are very unlikely.

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Safety & Other Considerations

Beyond weather considerations, there are a few other things to keep in mind when choosing your clothes.

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• No Dark Blue or Black. Parts of the Serengeti & Tarangire National Park are home to Tsetse flies. Scientists are unsure why, but these flies are attracted to dark colors. Wearing light colors will help you avoid the annoying pests.

• Also Avoid White. Less importantly than avoiding blue & black, but driving with an open top vehicle through the Serengeti will be DUSTY! Your white clothes may never look the same again.

• Wear Neutral Colors. Some will say that neutral colors allow you to blend in with the environment to animals.... but the truth is that you're going to be in a 5,000lb Land Cruiser - The animals know you're there. We recommend to wear the classic safari colors of beige, green, etc. because you're on safari! Embrace it, have fun, and dress the part!

• A Swimsuit. Double check with your tour planner, but many lodges will have pools to relax in. If you want to make sure yours do just let us know.

• Long Sleeves. Protect yourself from the sun and mosquitoes with lightweight long sleeves.

• Something Dressy. While by no means a requirement, some guests enjoy changing out of their daywear for a more formal evening attire.

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You will have access to electricity while at your lodging as well as through the on-board generator in your private safari vehicle.

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Phone & Internet Service

All of your lodges will have internet service, but the quality will likely not be what your are used to at home. If you would like to be able to use your phone on the go, you will need to follow one of the recommendations below. Keep in mind though that you will be in very remote areas and cell/internet service will be spotty.

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• Buy a local SIM Card. If your phone is unlocked, you can switch out your SIM card for a new one upon arrival in Tanzania. You'll need to ask your guide to stop at an Airtel, Vodacom, or Tigo store before departing Arusha. Stores can sometimes have unpredictable hours and you will need your passport to get it, so if you are relying on purchasing a SIM locally make sure you have time. Prices are cheap and should only cost about $7-10 for a weeks worth of calls and data.

• Buy a Global SIM Card. If you would like to avoid having a chore upon arrival, a global SIM card could be a good option. It is more expensive (~$35) but can be sent to your home before you depart so it will be ready when you arrive.

• Buy An e-SIM Card. Assuming your phone is compatible, an e-SIM can provide the best of both worlds. You download an app, purchase the package you are interested in, and when you arrive your phone will work as if you are in your local country. Prices are similar to local rates - $5-20 depending on your package.

• Ask Your Guide For a Spot. If you prefer to stay off the grid but need to use the internet once in a while you can just ask your guide if he can provide you with a hotspot. He'll be happy to help, but also keep common courtesy in mind since he is paying for that data personally.

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Charging Specifications

You'll be able to use your electronics in Tanzania, but you may need to plan ahead. Tanzania operates at a 230V supply voltage and a 50Hz frequency. The United States on the other hand operates at 120V & 60Hz. This means you may need to bring a voltage transformer or converter if your electrical appliances are not rated for 230 V. Many appliances, such as Apple iPhones, are "Dual Voltage" which means that they will work within a range of voltage - typically between 110V & 240V.

However, many larger appliances such as hair dryers or steamers are single voltage - meaning they are designed to ONLY work at the voltage in the United States. You can check this by looking at the tags on your appliance and if it is a single voltage appliance you will need to leave it at home or bring a voltage converter.

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• Outlet Adapter. While Tanzania uses Type D & G outlets, we recommend purchasing a universal adapter that can be used anywhere in the world. Keep in mind that these adapters do NOT convert voltage.
• Voltage Converter. If you plan on using any single voltage appliances, be sure to purchase a voltage converter such as this one on Amazon that serves as both a converter and an adapter.

Camera Equipment

While some people will be happy with photos from their phones or point & shoot cameras, most safari guests have dreams of capturing the moment in higher resolution. This list serves as a basic outline for the type of equipment you will want to bring to get those beautiful wildlife photos.

If you don't want to buy a new camera for your trip, check out your local camera shops for rentals. Many will have what you need at reasonable prices. Don't forget to give yourself some time to practice if you're unfamiliar!

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• A DSLR or Mirrorless Camera Body. Some newer point & shoot cameras are very high quality, but for many people this is a once-in-a-lifetime vacation and you will want to make sure your camera is worthy of that experience.

• A Zoom Lens. We recommend having at least a 200mm zoom lens. Some people will be happy with less and others will want more, but that is a good baseline for where amateur photographers will be able to take photos that they are happy with.

• Extra Memory Cards. You will probably take A LOT of pictures! Make sure you bring some extra memory cards or an external hard drive that you can transfer your images to. The last thing you want is for your camera storage and to run out of space.

• Extra Battery & Your Charger. You will be able to plug in while in the vehicle, so just one additional battery should work for everyone.

• Tripod or Monopod. Being able to stabilize your camera inside the car will make your life easier.
• A GoPro or Action Camera. Some may enjoy the unique videos and photos that are possible with an action camera.
• Lens Cleaning Cloth & Protection. There is a lot of dust, and keeping your lens clear will require multiple cleanings.

• Want More Detailed Advice? We suggest checking out this blog that will give you some specific equipment recommendations

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All of the other items that we recommend you bring for your vacation. Plus a few that we recommend you DONT.

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Documents & Cash:

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• Your Passports. Double check and check again!

• A Copy of Your Visa. If you get your VISA in advance (which we highly recommend), bring a paper copy.

• Yellow World Health Vaccination Card (If Necessary). Check our Health & Vaccination Recommendations Page to see what you will want or need.

• Cash. There are ATMs in Tanzania, but you may or may not be close to them depending on your itinerary. USD in good condition is accepted in most places, but the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is accepted everywhere. You will want cash for tipping ($15/pp/day recommended for guide, plus a few dollars per day for hotel staff and porters), souvenirs, and other miscellaneous expenses. The vast majority of your trip is included in your tour fee and credit cards are also accepted in most locations, but cash is always a good safety valve.

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Health & Comfort

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• Sunscreen. Sunscreen is very difficult to find in Tanzania and if you do find it, it will be very expensive. Bring enough to last for your trip. Be aware of your airline regulations to make sure you do not exceed your carry-on liquid limit.

• Bug Spray. Mosquitos and other bugs will be more present during the rainy months between January - May. Regardless of when you visit, you should pack bug spray.

• Medications. Any medications you take and/or any that are recommended by your doctor for this trip. Others such as anti-diarrheic pills or anti-motion sickness tablets could be a good idea for those who are predisposed to either.

• Items of a Personal Nature. Female sanitary products, wet wipes, contact solution, etc.

• Toiletries. All the same stuff you normally bring - toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, razors, etc

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Other

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• Apple Airtag. If you are checking a bag, an airtag can provide some piece of mind.

• A Journal. Some guests like to write about their experiences or sketch out the scenery & animals they are observing. Bringing a journal can be a fun way to look back on your holiday.

• Binoculars. Your guide will have a set to try and spot animals, but you may want one as well. Of course he'll let you borrow his too!

• Ziploc Bags. It can be nice to have a place to put things that you don't want to get dusty. Whether that is electronics, clothing, or something else, a ziploc bag is a good solution.

• A Day Bag. A small bag to bring your essentials out for game drives. The vehicle will be private, so you'll have the entire vehicle to keep your things, but some may prefer to keep it in their own bag.

• Books or an e-reader. For your long travel days or to relax back at camp with.

• Packing Cubes. To better organize your luggage

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Don't Bring

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• A Drone. Yes, we know that the footage would be awesome. Drones, however, are prohibited in Tanzania.

• Camouflaged Attire. Camo is designated strictly for military personnel in Tanzania. It is illegal for tourists or non-military to wear. On their own, the colors in camouflage - greens, browns, beiges, etc - are not a problem.

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