What to pack for a Tanzania safari: The complete packing list

Vivian Duyvestyn
01 april 2026

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:

  1. 3–4 lightweight, breathable long trousers (also good for insect protection)
  2. 5–6 T-shirts or light long-sleeved shirts
  3. A fleece or light jacket for cool mornings and evenings (Serengeti nights can be surprisingly chilly)
  4. Comfortable walking shoes or sturdy trainers
  5. Sandals for the camp
  6. A wide-brimmed sun hat
  7. 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:

  1. High-factor sunscreen (SPF 30 minimum, SPF 50 preferred)
  2. DEET-based insect repellent (at least 30–50% DEET concentration)
  3. Any personal prescription medication in generous supply
  4. Comprehensive travel insurance including medical repatriation
  5. Antacid tablets and anti-diarrhoea medication
  6. Antibacterial hand gel
  7. 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:

  1. A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a telephoto lens (300mm minimum for animals at distance)
  2. Plenty of memory cards — you will shoot far more than you expect
  3. Spare batteries and a universal travel adapter (230V)
  4. A dust-proof camera bag
  5. 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:

  1. Copies of your passport, visa and travel insurance (both digital and printed)
  2. US dollars in cash — Tanzania accepts USD for park fees and many small purchases
  3. A small daypack for excursions
  4. Binoculars (8x42 or 10x42 are ideal for safari)
  5. A travel guidebook or offline Tanzania app
  6. 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 →