24 March 2023
Whether you have been on plenty of safaris or this is your very first one, it pays to know precisely what to bring. Partly so you get the most out of your safari in Tanzania, but also so you are properly prepared for any situation you might run into.
![What To Pack For A Tanzania Safari [Safari Packing List]](/wp-content/uploads/old-tanzania-specialist_com/2022/08/What-To-Pack-For-A-Tanzania-Safari-Safari-Packing-List.jpeg)
Finding it hard to think of absolutely everything you will need to take with you? Do not worry, because we are here to help you out!
Safari Packing List
In this packing list for a Tanzania safari we run through every item you should take with you, and explain why each one belongs in your bag.
Let’s get started.
Travel Documents and Currency
It may sound like an obvious thing to pack, yet documents are surprisingly easy to forget when you are rushing. These are the documents and the currency you will need:
- Passport: Obvious, of course, but actually picking up your passport on your way out of the door is something people genuinely do forget. Leave yourself a written reminder somewhere you are certain to see it, like the fridge door or the bathroom mirror, so it stays front of mind. You will also need to check that your passport remains valid for at least six months.
- Plane Ticket: Another clear essential, and yet again something that is easily left behind when you’re in a rush.
- Visa: We recommend an e-visa, because you can arrange it in advance and it helps you avoid any possible trouble getting a physical visa once you land in Tanzania. If needed, though, visas are also issued on arrival in the country.
- Travel Insurance: This cover protects you against problems that may crop up during your trip to Tanzania, such as cancellations, delayed flights, evacuations, theft or loss of belongings, and any medical costs you incur.
- Covid-19 documentation: Since January 2023 travellers can enter and leave the country without any Covid-19 paperwork (vaccination and/or PCR-test).
- Currency: Be as well prepared as you can where money is concerned: a combination of debit or credit cards together with cash is going to be your safest option. As for which currency you are able to spend in Tanzania, US dollars are accepted in most of the major establishments in the country, provided the notes are dated after 2006. You will also want to make sure you carry some Tanzanian shillings, as the smaller establishments often work with those.
Versatile Clothing
Clothing is one of the harder parts of a safari to get right, because you can never be entirely sure what the Tanzania weather will do.
Tanzania has both wet and dry seasons: the dry seasons run from January to February and again from June to October, while the wet seasons last from March to May (the more pronounced of the two) and then through November and December.
On a dry-season safari you are unlikely to see rain, but it is wise to pack a few jackets just in case.
Beyond that, light clothing is all you need. The wet seasons call for heavier items, such as scarves and thicker jackets.
There are also some everyday clothes you will want to pack regardless of the season you travel in, including the following:
- Long-sleeved shirts
- Trousers
- Shorts
- Waterproof jacket
- T-shirts
- Socks
- Warm sweaters
- Swimsuits
- Hats
Overall, lightweight outfits in neutral colours are the practical choice for a safari, but keep in mind that layers are your best friend!
Sturdy and Comfortable Footwear
You may well do a fair bit of walking during your safari (certainly if it is specifically a walking safari), so comfortable footwear is essential.
A pair of trainers you do not mind getting dirty is a good idea, while sturdy hiking boots with plenty of ankle support are a must as well.
If you intend to combine your safari with some time relaxing on the beach as well, do not forget to pack your flip-flops or sandals!
Medical Kit
A basic first aid kit helps you deal with any unexpected mishaps or illness during your safari.
From ordinary painkillers to medication against nausea and diarrhoea – make sure you are stocked up on the essentials. That way you can keep enjoying your trip even if a medical problem comes up.
Some of these essentials include:
- Antibacterial medicines
- Anti-malaria medications
- Antidiarrhoeal medications
- Band-aids
- Gauze and bandages
- Adhesive tape
- Hand sanitizer
- Eye drops
- Nose spray
Even the tiniest first aid kit will do, provided it contains what you need to treat any cuts, bruises or reactions that might occur!
Toiletries
As for toiletries, bring the same sort of items you would take on any other holiday, such as the following:
- Toothpaste
- Toothbrush
- Soap
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Mouthwash
- Deodorant
- Travel towels
- Hairbrush
- Lotions
- Feminine hygiene products (if required)
A safari also means plenty of insects, so alongside these essentials make sure you pick up a strong insect repellent too, so you avoid being swarmed or bitten!
Sun Protection
Bear in mind as well that you will be spending long stretches of time outdoors while you are on safari, which makes protection from the sun vital.
Besides your sunscreen, pack some after-sun lotion as well.
Electronics and Gadgets
Apart from your phone, you will certainly want to record the moments you experience on safari, so a camera is bound to be on your list of essentials.
Remember the charger for your camera (and for your phone!), spare batteries and an extra memory card. Universal plug adapters and binoculars are essential as well!
Keep all your electronics protected at all times, particularly if you will be in Tanzania during the rainy season.
A few extra protective covers or waterproof bags to store them in could come in handy.
Baggage
Make sure you have all the different types of storage you need for your belongings. That might include the following:
- Backpack
- Waterproof duffel bag
- Daypack
- Zip lock bags
Using these different kinds of bags makes it much easier to tell your everyday items apart from your safari-specific gear.
In conclusion: what should you pack for your Tanzania safari?
And that is everything you need for a safari trip to Tanzania!
Stay well organised, make a thorough plan before you set off, and you can be confident of remembering all the essentials and having a wonderful experience on your journey!
