What to Pack for a Tanzania Safari — The Complete Checklist

After two thousand safaris, here's what we've learned actually matters in your duffle.

Clothing — neutral colours, layers • 3-4 lightweight long-sleeve shirts (khaki, olive, beige — avoid white and bright colours) • 2-3 pairs of zip-off safari trousers • 1 warm fleece or down jacket — Ngorongoro rim mornings are cold • 1 light rain shell • Wide-brim hat with a chin strap • Closed-toe walking shoes (not heavy boots) • Light buff or scarf for dusty drives

Photography & electronics • Camera with a 100-400mm zoom minimum (200-600mm ideal) • Spare batteries — lodges have power but not always reliably • Universal adapter (Type G in Tanzania) • Power bank for vehicle charging • Binoculars (8×42 is the sweet spot)

Health & toiletries • Anti-malarial tablets (consult your GP) • Strong sunscreen (SPF 50+) and lip balm • Insect repellent with DEET • Personal first-aid (the vehicle carries a kit too)

What to leave at home • Camouflage clothing (illegal in Tanzania) • Plastic bags (banned) • Heavy hiking boots (overkill for game drives) • Bright or white clothing • Too many books — you'll be exhausted after dark

Luggage rules If you're flying between parks, the bush-plane limit is 15kg in a soft duffle. We supply a packing list specific to your flight schedule when you book.