Your Go-To Safari Packing List Tanzania

Clothing:

• Long-Sleeved Shirts and Trousers: These offer protection against the sun and mosquitoes. Opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics.

• T-Shirts and Shorts: For those hot midday excursions.

• Warm Sweater or Jacket: Early mornings and evenings can be chilly.

• Waterproof Jacket: Essential during the rainy season.

• Hat and Sunglasses: To protect against the intense African sun.

Gear:

• Daypack: For carrying essentials during day trips.

• Binoculars: Enhance your wildlife viewing experience.

• Camera with Extra Batteries: You’ll want to capture every moment.

• Reusable Water Bottle: Dehydration can spoil any adventure! Carry water with you. A reusable bottle is practical and eco-friendly.

Footwear:

• Comfortable Hiking Boots: For those walking safaris and treks.

• Flip-flops or Sandals: Perfect for lounging at the camp.

Communications:

• Smartphone: Useful for GPS and emergency calls. Make sure it’s unlocked for local SIM cards.

• Portable Charger: Keep your devices charged while on the go.

Miscellaneous:

• Sunscreen: We recommend SPF 30 or higher.

• First-Aid Kit: Include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and gauze.

• Prescription Medications: Always bring any medications you take regularly.

• Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes can carry diseases like malaria.

• Flashlight: For navigating the campsite during the night.

• Paperwork: More on this later.

Dry Season (May to October):

• Breathable Fabrics: Opt for materials that wick moisture away, as it can get quite hot.

• Sun Hat and Sunglasses: The sun is more intense during these months.

• Light Scarf: Useful for covering your neck and face from dust and sun.

Rainy Season (November to March):

• Waterproof Jacket and Pants: Sudden downpours are common. Quick-Dry Clothing: These can be a lifesaver when caught in a rain shower.

• Rain Cover for Daypack: To protect your essentials from getting wet.

All Season Extras:

• Layering Pieces: The temperature can fluctuate dramatically from day to night.

• Swimwear: Many lodges have pools, and you might visit beaches in Zanzibar.

• Gloves and Beanie: For those chilly early morning game drives.

Identification:

• Passport: Required for entry and should have at least six months of validity.

• Visa: You may need a visa to enter Tanzania, depending on your nationality.

• Driver’s License: Useful as a secondary form of ID and if you plan to rent a vehicle.

Health-Related:

• Vaccination Certificates: Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if you’re coming from an endemic country.

• Travel Insurance Policy: Always have a copy of your insurance, which should cover medical emergencies and cancellations.

Financial:

• Credit/Debit Cards: Inform your bank of your travel dates to avoid any issues.

• Cash in Local Currency: While cards are widely accepted, having some money is advisable for smaller expenses.

Trip-Specific:

• Itinerary and Booking Confirmations: Keep a copy of your safari itinerary, accommodation, and any pre-booked activities.

• Emergency Contacts: A list of important numbers, including local emergency services and your country’s embassy.

Miscellaneous:

• Photocopies: Keep photocopies of all essential documents separate from the originals.

• Digital Backups: Store scanned copies of your documents in a secure cloud service as an extra precaution.

Medications:

• Painkillers and Anti-Inflammatory Drugs: Handy for minor aches and pains.

• Antibiotics: Consult your doctor for a broad-spectrum antibiotic in case of bacterial infections.

• Allergy Medicine: Antihistamines can be helpful for unexpected allergic reactions.

• Motion Sickness Pills: For those bumpy safari rides.

• Altitude Sickness Medication: If you plan on trekking up Mount Kilimanjaro.

Other:

• Rehydration Salts: Useful for quickly recovering from dehydration.

• Water Purification Tablets: In case you run out of bottled water.

• Hand Sanitizer: A quick way to disinfect when water and soap aren’t available.

Photography Gear:

• Digital Camera with Zoom Lens: Capture those stunning wildlife shots.

• Extra Batteries and Memory Cards: Trust us, you’ll take more photos than you think.

• Tripod or Monopod: For those low-light conditions and landscape shots.

Navigation and Exploration:

• GPS Device or App: While most tours are guided, a GPS can be helpful for any independent exploring.

• Binoculars with Built-in Camera: A two-in-one solution for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Entertainment:

• E-Reader or Tablet: For downtime at the lodge or long travel days.

• Headphones: Whether it’s music or podcasts, bring something to listen to during those quiet moments.

Miscellaneous:

• Universal Power Adapter: Tanzania uses UK-style plugs, so make sure you can charge all your devices.

• Waterproof Phone Case: Protect your phone from dust and water splashes.

More Articles on Tanzania Safaris:

• Best time for safari in Tanzania

• Ngorongoro Crater Conservation

• Tarangire Safari

• Tanzania Safari Tips

Hike Kilimanjaro while in Tanzania:

• Lemosho (7-Day Route)

• Lemosho (8-Day Route)

• Rongai (7-Day Route)

• Machame (6-Day Route)

• Machame (7-Day Route)

• Marangu (6-Day Route)