Be perfectly prepared: your complete Tanzania safari packing list
A safari in Tanzania is one of the most extraordinary journeys you can take. But a successful trip starts with thorough preparation — and that means packing the right things. There's no popping to the chemist in the Serengeti. Here's everything you genuinely need.
Clothing: comfort and camouflage
Safari clothing is all about function. The golden rule: stick to neutral colours — khaki, beige, olive green, light grey. Bright colours can startle wildlife and attract insects. Pack the following:
- 3–4 lightweight, breathable long trousers (also good for insect protection)
- 5–6 T-shirts or light long-sleeved shirts
- A fleece or light jacket for cool mornings and evenings (Serengeti nights can be surprisingly chilly)
- Comfortable walking shoes or sturdy trainers
- Sandals for the camp
- A wide-brimmed sun hat
- A light rain jacket or packable poncho (for the green season)
Personal care and medication
Tanzania is a malaria-endemic country. Always consult a travel health clinic to determine the most appropriate prophylaxis for you. Additionally, pack:
- High-factor sunscreen (SPF 30 minimum, SPF 50 preferred)
- DEET-based insect repellent (at least 30–50% DEET concentration)
- Any personal prescription medication in generous supply
- Comprehensive travel insurance including medical repatriation
- Antacid tablets and anti-diarrhoea medication
- Antibacterial hand gel
- Lip balm and moisturiser (the air in Tanzania is dry)
Photography: capture every magical moment
One of the most common regrets among safari guests? Not having good enough photos. To avoid that:
- A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a telephoto lens (300mm minimum for animals at distance)
- Plenty of memory cards — you will shoot far more than you expect
- Spare batteries and a universal travel adapter (230V)
- A dust-proof camera bag
- A smartphone with a good camera works well as a secondary option
Practical travel essentials
Beyond clothing and medication, a few practical items will make your trip far more comfortable:
- Copies of your passport, visa and travel insurance (both digital and printed)
- US dollars in cash — Tanzania accepts USD for park fees and many small purchases
- A small daypack for excursions
- Binoculars (8x42 or 10x42 are ideal for safari)
- A travel guidebook or offline Tanzania app
- A compact first aid kit
What to leave at home
Equally important: what not to bring. Camouflage-patterned military clothing is prohibited in Tanzania. Leave valuable jewellery behind — less conspicuous means safer and more practical. Large hard-shell suitcases are impractical on small inter-park charter flights; a soft duffel bag is strongly preferred.
Makasa's personal packing guide
When you book your safari through Makasa, you receive a comprehensive, personalised travel information pack that includes a tailored packing list for your specific route and travel season. Our team is also available by phone right up to your departure date for any questions that arise.
👉 Get in touch with Makasa for free travel advice and your personalised packing list →
