Safari Packing List
Below is the recommended packing list for a multi-day safari. Items numbered with a “+” can be adjusted upwards based on the number of safari days on your itinerary. Note that nearly all of these items are already included on our climbing gear list. The bold entries represent the additional gear list items to bring on your safari. Neutral colors are recommended to avoid attracting tsetse flies.
Technical Clothing
In general, a safari holiday is informal, so there is no need to pack a different outfit for every day. Limit yourself to one smart-casual outfit, if desired. Quick-drying fabrics are best, as well as items colored in neutral earth tones (brown, gray, green), especially if you will do a walking activity. White clothing, as well as bright or fluorescent colors should be avoided. Plan to layer your clothing so you can adjust for temperature changes. Dresses and skirts have practical limitations on safari. Officially, it is suggested that visitors refrain from wearing clothing that is revealing or made of camouflage-patterned fabric, although in practice, this is generally left to personal discretion. Pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes and sandals/flip-flops.
There are also general clothes that you will want to make sure that you pack no matter what season you travel in, such as the following:
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- Long-sleeved shirts
- Trousers
- Shorts
- Waterproof jacket
- T-shirts
- Socks
- Warm sweaters
- Swimsuits
- Hats
Laundry
Insect Repellent
Medication
Diet
Travel Documents and Currency
This might seem like an obvious item to take with you, but it can be very easy to forget it if you are in a hurry. The documents and currency that you will need are as follows:
- Passport: This is a no-brainer, but it can sometimes be tough to remember to pick up your passport on your way out of the door. Make a note about remembering your passport somewhere that you can be sure that you will see it- such as on the fridge or on the bathroom mirror- to help you keep it in mind. You will also need to make sure that your passport has a minimum validity of six months.
- Plane Ticket: Another obvious necessity, but again, it can be easy to forget them when you’re in a hurry.
- Visa: E-visas are recommended as they can be ordered in advance, and they can be useful when it comes to avoiding any potential issues with obtaining a physical visa once you get to Tanzania. However, if it is necessary, they are available upon arrival in the country.
- Travel Insurance: This insurance will keep you covered for issues that might pop up during your trip to Tanzania, such as cancellations, flight delays, evacuations, theft, or loss of property, and any necessary medical expenses.
- Currency: It is best to be as prepared as possible when it comes to the money that you bring with you, so a mixture of debit or credit cards as well as cash is going to be your best bet. When it comes to what currency you are able to use in Tanzania, you can use US dollars so long as they are dated after 2006 as they are accepted in most major establishments in the country. You will also need to make sure that you have some Tanzanian shillings, as they will often be used in smaller establishments.
Medical Kit
A basic first aid kit will help to avoid any unexpected mishaps or illnesses on your safari.
From regular painkillers to medications to avoid sickness and diarrhoea, you want to make sure that you are stocked up on the essentials. This way, you can continue to enjoy your trip even if you have to deal with any medical problems.
Some of these essentials include:
- Antibacterial medicines
- Anti-malaria medications
- Antidiarrhoeal medications
- Band-aids
- Gauze and bandages
- Adhesive tape
- Hand sanitizer
- Eye drops
- Nose spray
Even the smallest first aid kit will suffice, as long as you have the right tools to deal with any cuts, bruises, or reactions that might occur!
Toiletries
When it comes to toiletries, you will want to bring the same kind of items as you would on other vacations, such as the following:
- Toothpaste
- Toothbrush
- Soap
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Mouthwash
- Deodorant
- Travel towels
- Hairbrush
- Lotions
- Feminine hygiene products (if necessary)
A safari is also going to be prone to insects, so make sure that you also get yourself some strong insect repellent as well as these essentials in order to avoid being swarmed or bitten!
Sun Protection
You will also need to keep in mind that you are going to be outside for a long time whilst on safari, so protection from the sun is crucial.
As well as sunscreen, bring some after-sun lotion as well.
Electronics and Gadgets
As well as your phone, there is no doubt that you will want to capture the moments you experience during your safari, so a camera is sure to be on your list of essential items.
Don’t forget the charger for your camera (that goes for your phone too!) and spare batteries, as well as an extra memory card. Universal plug converters and binoculars are a must too!
Don’t forget to keep any electronics protected at all times, especially if you are planning to be in Tanzania during the rainy season.
Some extra protective coverings or waterproof bags to keep them in might prove useful.
Baggage
Make sure that you have all the different kinds of storage necessary for all of your belongings. This could include the following:
- Backpack
- Waterproof duffel bag
- Daypack
- Zip lock bags
Utilizing these different kinds of baggage will make it easier to decipher your everyday items from your specific safari items.
Travel for Seniors
Notify us of any specific mobility issues, if applicable. Safaris are generally a senior-friendly holiday, but it is best to have a checkup before travel. Utilize the option of advising your tour operator of underlying medical conditions.
Travel with Children
Provide children with an activity pack (toys, books, iPad/tablet etc.) to keep them occupied in case of lengthy travel or delays. As internet access can be erratic in Tanzania, be sure to download games, music etc. so that it can be accessed without wi-fi. Bear in mind that game drives are several hours long. Ask your tour operator if your destinations offer qualified child-minding services or other child-friendly programs. If you have an infant/toddler you will need your baby carrier and a portable baby monitor. You will not be able to find most baby products on safari, so you will have to carry a sufficient supply.
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