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Arusha, Tanzania
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Essential Packing List for Safari

Packing appropriately for your Tanzanian safari ensures comfort, safety, and an unforgettable experience. Our comprehensive guide covers everything you'll need for the bush, cities, and beach extensions.

Luggage Tips
Gear Guide
View Packing List
Safari Packing

Luggage Recommendations

Choosing the right luggage is crucial for safari travel due to weight restrictions and vehicle space limitations.

Main Luggage

Soft-sided duffel bag (15-20kg limit)

Waterproof or water-resistant material

Dimensions under 24"x14"x10"

No hard-shell suitcases

Day Pack

20-30L capacity for daily game drives

Should have multiple compartments

Water bottle pocket recommended

Can double as carry-on for flights

Camera Bag

Dustproof and padded for equipment

Quick-access design for safari vehicles

Consider a rain cover for protection

Should fit in your day pack

Packing Tips

Use packing cubes to organize your items
Pack heavier items at the bottom
Roll clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles
Put liquids in sealable plastic bags
Keep essential medications in carry-on

What to Avoid

No plastic bags (banned in Tanzania)
Avoid bright colors for safari clothing
Don't overpack - laundry services available
Limit valuables and jewelry
No drone cameras without special permit

Safari Essentials Checklist

These are the must-have items for your Tanzanian safari adventure:

Clothing

  • Neutral-colored clothing (khaki, green, beige)
  • Lightweight long-sleeve shirts (3-4)
  • T-shirts (3-4)
  • Convertible hiking pants (2 pairs)
  • Shorts (for lodges/camps)
  • Light jacket or fleece
  • Waterproof windbreaker
  • Swimwear
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sandals/flip-flops
  • Wide-brimmed hat
  • Bandana/buff

Photography Gear

  • DSLR/mirrorless camera
  • Telephoto lens (200-400mm ideal)
  • Extra camera batteries (3-4)
  • Large capacity memory cards
  • Lens cleaning kit
  • Binoculars (8x42 recommended)
  • Smartphone with good camera
  • Portable hard drive
  • Universal power adapter
  • Power bank

Health & Safety

  • Prescription medications
  • Malaria prophylaxis
  • High-SPF sunscreen
  • Insect repellent (DEET 30-50%)
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Wet wipes
  • Motion sickness tablets
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Personal toiletries

Miscellaneous

  • Reusable water bottle
  • Headlamp/flashlight
  • Sunglasses (polarized)
  • Lightweight scarf
  • Small backpack
  • Travel documents (copies)
  • Notebook/pen
  • Travel pillow
  • Earplugs
  • Small binoculars

Seasonal Packing Considerations

Adjust your packing list based on when you're traveling to Tanzania:

Dry Season (June-October)

Warm layers for chilly mornings
Beanie and gloves for early game drives
Extra moisturizer for dry air
Dust mask or bandana
Heavy-duty sunscreen

Wet Season (November-May)

Quality rain jacket
Quick-dry clothing
Waterproof bag covers
Extra insect repellent
Waterproof hiking shoes

Kilimanjaro Additions

If climbing Kilimanjaro, you'll need specialized gear including:

Insulated jacket
Thermal base layers
Trekking poles
Four-season sleeping bag
Headlamp with extra batteries
Water purification tablets

Beach Extension Packing

If you're continuing to Zanzibar after your safari, add these items to your packing list:

Light, modest beach cover-ups
Reef-safe sunscreen
Snorkel gear (optional)
Beach towel
Water shoes
More casual clothing
Light scarf for women (for mosque visits)
Remember that Zanzibar is more conservative than mainland Tanzania - pack accordingly.
Zanzibar Packing