Ultimate Safari Packing List.
Our guide to packing smart for the adventure of a lifetime.
Whether you're exploring the vast Serengeti plains, descending into the Ngorongoro Crater, or watching elephants in Tarangire, this list ensures you're ready for wildlife, weather, and wonder.
Clothing & Footwear
General Clothing Guidelines:
- Pack lightweight, breathable, neutral-colored clothing (khaki, beige, olive).
- Avoid black/dark blue (attracts tsetse flies) and white (shows dirt easily).
- Layering is key – mornings can be chilly, mid-days hot.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Long-sleeved shirts 2–3 | For sun & insect protection |
| Short-sleeved shirts 2–3 | For hot afternoons |
| Lightweight jacket/fleece 1–2 | Morning & evening game drives |
| Safari trousers/convertible pants 2 | Zip-offs work well for temperature shifts |
| Shorts 1-2 | For lodge/camp use or warm days |
| Underwear 5-7 | Quick-dry preferred |
| Pair of Socks 5 | Comfortable for walking |
| Sleepwear 1-2 | Warm pajamas for cold nights |
| Lightweight rain jacket or poncho 1 | Especially in green season (Nov–May) |
| Swimsuit 1 | For lodges with pools |
| Hat with wide brim 1 | For Sun Protection |
| Scurf/Buff 1 | Useful for dust and warmth |
| Glove & Warm Hat (Optional) 1 | Especially for June–August safaris |
Footwear
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Hiking boots / trail shoes | For walking safaris or rough terrain |
| Comfortable sneakers/trainers | For travel and light walking |
| Flip-flops / sandals | For camp/lodge use and showers |
Toiletries & Health Essentials
Most lodges provide basic toiletries. Still, bring your preferred items, especially if camping or traveling to remote areas.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Toothbrush & toothpaste | Travel-sized is convenient |
| Biodegradable soap/shampoo | Friendly to the environment |
| Moisturizer / lip balm | Dry climates can chap skin |
| Sunscreen (SPF 30+) | High UV protection essential |
| Insect repellent (with DEET) | Crucial for mosquitoes & tsetse flies |
| Anti-itch cream | For bites or stings |
| Wet wipes / hand sanitizer | For game drives and dusty hands |
| Toilet paper / travel tissues | Always carry some during drives |
| Razor & shaving gel | Optional, but handy |
| Nail clippers & tweezers | Small but useful |
| Menstrual hygiene products | Pads/tampons/cups – not always available locally |
Medications & First Aid
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Personal medication | Bring sufficient supply for the whole trip |
| Malaria prophylaxis | Consult your doctor before travel |
| Pain relievers (e.g., paracetamol) | For headaches or aches |
| Antihistamines | For allergies or insect bites |
| Anti-diarrhea meds | Travel can upset digestion |
| Oral rehydration salts | Prevents dehydration |
| Motion sickness tablets | For bumpy roads or flights |
| Band-Aids, antiseptic cream | For minor cuts & blisters |
| First aid kit | Your guide will also carry one |
Safari Equipment & Electronics
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Camera (DSLR / mirrorless / phone) | - With zoom lens for wildlife photography |
| Extra memory cards & batteries | Charging may be limited in remote areas |
| Binoculars (8x42 recommended) | Each person should have one |
| Headlamp or flashlight | For night use at lodges or camps |
| Power bank | For phones and cameras |
| Travel adapter (UK 3-pin plug) | Tanzania uses 220V electricity |
| Travel alarm / watch | Not all camps have clocks |
| Waterproof/dustproof camera bag | Protects gear from elements |
| Notebook or safari journal | To record sightings & experiences |
Important Travel Documents
Store in a waterproof travel wallet and bring both physical and digital copies.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Passport | Must be valid for at least 6 months |
| Visa | Can be obtained online or on arrival |
| Flight tickets / e-confirmations | Including local flights |
| Travel insurance | Must include medical evacuation |
| Yellow fever certificate | Required if arriving from certain countries |
| COVID-19 documents | Check latest requirements if needed |
| Copies of all documents | Store in luggage and cloud |
Recommended Luggage
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Soft duffel bag or backpack | Preferred over hard suitcases for vehicle storage |
| Daypack | For daily essentials during game drives |
| Dry bag / Ziploc bags | Protect electronics from dust and rain |
| Luggage tags | Ensure your bags are labeled clearly |
