What Should I Pack for a Safari? – Complete Tanzania Safari Packing Guide

When preparing for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, one of the most common questions travelers ask is: “What should I pack for a safari?” Packing correctly can make your safari in Tanzania smoother, more comfortable, and stress-free. Your gear and clothing should be functional, lightweight, and suitable for the weather and activities you’ll be doing.

This guide covers everything you need to know about what to pack for a safari — from clothing and footwear to essential gadgets, toiletries, documents, and extras. Whether you’re heading to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, or the Selous (Nyerere National Park), this list ensures you’re ready for every moment of your adventure.

1. Safari Clothing – Comfort and Neutral Colors Are Key

When planning what to pack for a safari, clothing should be your top priority. Tanzania’s national parks are warm during the day and cooler in the mornings and evenings, so layering is important.

Recommended safari clothing:

• Lightweight, breathable shirts (long-sleeved for sun and insect protection)

• Neutral colors like khaki, beige, olive, and brown (bright colors can attract insects and scare wildlife)

• Light jackets or fleece sweaters for cool early mornings and evenings

• Convertible pants that can be turned into shorts

• T-shirts for casual wear

• A wide-brimmed hat for sun protection

• Light rain jacket if traveling in the rainy season (March–May, November)

Why neutral colors?
Animals are less startled by earth tones, and they also help you blend into the environment for better wildlife viewing. Avoid dark blue or black as they can attract tsetse flies.

2. Footwear – Practical and Comfortable

Knowing what to pack for a safari also means paying attention to your feet. You’ll spend long hours in vehicles, but there may also be opportunities for walking safaris or short hikes.

Best safari footwear:

• Lightweight hiking boots for walking safaris or uneven terrain

• Comfortable trainers/sneakers for general use

• Sandals or flip-flops for relaxing at the lodge or beach extensions (Zanzibar)

3. Safari Accessories – Protection from the Elements

Accessories are small but essential when deciding what to pack for a safari in Tanzania.

Must-have safari accessories:

• Polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and protect your eyes

• Sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher

• Lip balm with SPF

• Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin

• Light scarf or buff for dust protection during game drives

• Binoculars for close-up wildlife viewing

• Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated

4. Safari Gadgets – Capture the Memories

Photography is a big part of your safari, and knowing what to pack for a safari camera kit is essential.

Essential safari gadgets:

• Camera with a good zoom lens (200mm–400mm for wildlife)

• Extra memory cards

• Spare batteries or a portable power bank

• Travel adapter (Tanzania uses UK-style plugs, Type G, 230V voltage)

• Smartphone for quick shots and staying connected

• Small dry bag to protect electronics from dust

5. Toiletries & Health Essentials

When asking “What should I pack for a safari?”, you must also think about personal health and hygiene.

Recommended toiletries:

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner

• Biodegradable wet wipes (for dust and freshening up)

• Hand sanitizer

• Small first aid kit (band-aids, pain relief, antihistamines)

• Prescription medications (carry in original packaging)

• Malaria prophylaxis (consult your doctor before travel)

• Feminine hygiene products (availability can be limited in remote areas)