Tanzania Safari Packing List: Essentials For Your Adventure

Are you embarking on an adventure? Wondering what to pack for a safari in Tanzania? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll equip you with a complete Tanzania Safari Packing List, containing everything you need to know, including what to wear on safari in Tanzania.

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Located in East Africa, Tanzania boasts an array of natural wonders, including the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti National Park, and the stunning Ngorongoro Crater to name a few. Tanzania offers vibrant markets, opportunities to experience traditional Maasai and Swahili cultures, and safaris galore.

With its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and warm hospitality, Tanzania offers travelers a truly unforgettable adventure. My 2 weeks in Tanzania was one of the most amazing experiences I have ever had.

One of the main reasons that people visit Tanzania, other than to hike Mount Kilimanjaro, is to go on a safari. I was lucky enough to visit 4 of the 7 main safari parks on my trip. So let’s dive into the essentials you’ll need with this thorough safari packing list.

Essentials for the Trip to Tanzania

• Passport: At least 2 empty pages and valid for at least 6 months past your date of departure
• Visa: Required for most countries to travel to Tanzania. IVisa can advise you if you need one, the cost and you can apply directly from their website
• Travel Insurance: Covering medical emergencies and trip cancellation is a necessity when traveling to Tanzania, especially if you are climbing Mt Kilimanjaro or embarking on a safari. SafetyWing is my choice for travel insurance and they offer adventure travel insurance as well.
• eSIM for mobile: You can avoid the high roaming changes and stay connected, assuming connections are available. I recommend Airalo as it works great and is relatively inexpensive.
• Vaccinations: Many recommended vaccinations are required, including yellow fever if you are coming from a country with a risk. You can view recommendations for vaccinations at PassportHealth. 
• Credit cards: Widely accepted at major tourist locations.
• Cash: Tanzania Shilling is the currency and is recommended to have some on hand for tipping and incidental expenses, especially if you plan to do any local shopping. 
• Contact information for your embassy or consulate in Tanzania. Most major embassies are located in Dar es Salaam.

What to Pack for a Safari in Tanzania

• Binoculars for wildlife spotting, especially if you plan on  birdwatching which I highly recommend! Suggested specifications are 8×42
• Camera or smartphone with plenty of storage
• Travel adapter –  Plug type D is the plug which has three round pins in a triangular pattern and plug type G is the plug which has two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin. Tanzania operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz
• Chargers for your electronic devices and batteries
• Sunscreen with high SPF
• Insect repellent to ward off pesky mosquitoes
• Water bottle to stay hydrated during game drives
• Daypack to carry your essentials during game drives
• Flashlight
• Sunglasses with polarized lenses 
• Head covering (baseball cap or wide brimmed hat)  that provides complete sun protection and features water-absorbent / waterproof properties to manage sweat and rain

Medications / Pharmacy

• Malaria prevention medication is recommended
• Allergy, Cold/Flu, Pain Relievers
• Dramamine / Motion sickness tablets
• Antiseptic cream, bandaids
• AfterBite

Personal Hygiene

• Dental care (toothbrush, toothpaste, floss)
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Shaving accessories
• Sanitary requirements
• Eye wear; Bring a pair of glasses in case you get irritation from the dust while on safari
• Facial cleaning creams and lotions
• Tweezers, mini scissors

What to Wear on Safari in Tanzania

Tops

• Long-sleeved shirts to protect against the sun and insects
• Jacket with a hood suitable for safaris
• Fleece jacket or sweater for chilly mornings and evenings
• Button-down shirt or tunic
• Tank tops
• Raincoat

Bottoms

• Safari pants that are lightweight and water-resistant
• Khaki-colored pants or leggings 
• Convertible or drawstring pants
• Shorts or Capris
• Underwear / Bras

Footwear

• Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots for bush walks
• Sandals (for when not on safari)
• Long socks

Tips For Choosing What to Wear on Safari

Free Resource: Tanzania Safari Packing List

Enter your information below to download your free Tanzania Safari Packing List, so you can be prepared for your trip!

Whether you’re marveling at the Great Migration in the Serengeti, gazing into the depths of the Ngorongoro Crater, or exploring the hidden gems of Selous, your safari journey through Tanzania’s wild landscapes promises to be an experience you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Wondering what to expect on a safari? Your typical day on a safari can vary between lodges but I suggest you expect to spend a full day exploring.

As you prepare for your safari adventure, remember to refer back to this Tanzania safari packing list to ensure you have everything you need for a safe, comfortable, and memorable experience.

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