The Ultimate Tanzania Safari Packing List: Everything You Need for an Unforgettable Adventure

Clothing

• Lightweight, Neutral-Colored Clothing (beige, khaki, olive, or light gray to blend in with the environment):

  • 3–5 T-shirts or short-sleeved shirts
  • 2–3 Long-sleeved shirts (protection from sun and bugs)
  • 3–4 Pairs of lightweight trousers or convertible pants
  • 2–3 Pairs of shorts
  • 1 Lightweight jacket or fleece (for cool mornings and evenings)
  • 1 Rain jacket or poncho (especially if traveling during the rainy season)
  • Comfortable sleepwear
  • A wide-brimmed hat or cap (for sun protection)
  • Bandana or scarf (protection from dust during game drives)

• Footwear:

  • Sturdy hiking boots or closed-toe shoes (for walking safaris or uneven terrain)
  • Comfortable sandals or slip-ons (for lodge or camp use)

• Undergarments and Socks:

  • Moisture-wicking underwear
  • Comfortable, breathable socks (including a few pairs of thicker ones for cooler mornings)

• Swimwear:

  • For lodges with pools or beach extensions to Zanzibar

Accessories

• Sunglasses (with UV protection)
• Lightweight gloves and a beanie (if traveling during cooler months, especially for early game drives)
• Safari daypack or small backpack (for carrying essentials during excursions)
• A reusable water bottle (many lodges provide refills)
• Binoculars (for wildlife viewing)
• Camera with extra batteries, memory cards, and lens cleaning kit
• Plug adapter and voltage converter (for Kenya and Tanzania, use Type G plugs and 220–240V)
• Flashlight or headlamp (for camp use)

Toiletries and Personal Care

• Travel-sized toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrush, etc.)
• Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin
• Wet wipes and hand sanitizer
• Personal medications (in original packaging)
• Basic first aid kit (including band-aids, antiseptic cream, pain relievers, and antihistamines)
• Feminine hygiene products (if applicable)
• Nail clippers and tweezers

Documents and Money

• Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity and blank pages)
• Visa for Kenya and Tanzania (apply in advance or get eVisa if applicable)
• Vaccination certificates (especially Yellow Fever)
• Travel insurance details
• Copies of important documents (passport, visas, insurance, etc.)
• Local currency (Tanzanian Shilling and Kenyan Shilling) or USD in small denominations for tips and payments

Tech and Gadgets

• Smartphone and charger
• Power bank (for charging devices on the go)
• Travel guidebook or offline maps
• E-reader or a book
• Portable Wi-Fi or local SIM card for connectivity

Extras

• Lightweight blanket or shawl (for chilly morning drives)
• Snacks (granola bars, nuts, or other non-perishable items)
• Ziplock bags or dry bags (to protect electronics and documents from dust or rain)
• Laundry bag (for separating dirty clothes)
• Travel pillow

Seasonal Adjustments

• For Wet Season (March–May, November–December):

  • Waterproof backpack cover
  • Quick-dry clothing

• For Dry Season (June–October):

  • Extra sunscreen
  • Lightweight layers

This list covers the essentials for a successful safari in both Tanzania and Kenya. If you’re doing a specific activity like trekking Mount Kilimanjaro or visiting Zanzibar, let me know, and I can customize the list further!