Trust Tours & Safaris

Planning

Tanzania Safari Packing List

6 min read · Updated June 2026

The short answer

Pack light, in neutral colours, in layers: breathable shirts and trousers, a warm fleece for chilly mornings, sun protection, insect repellent, binoculars and a good camera. Most other gear — 4x4, water, meals — is provided.

Pack light, in neutral colours, and in layers. Tanzanian days are warm but mornings, evenings and the highlands (Ngorongoro, the Serengeti) get cool, so you'll want to add and shed layers through the day. Here's a practical checklist.

See safari packages

Clothing

  • Lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking shirts and trousers
  • Long sleeves and trousers for sun and insect protection
  • Neutral colours — khaki, beige, olive (bright colours attract insects and startle wildlife)
  • A warm fleece or jacket for chilly mornings, evenings and the highlands
  • Sturdy walking shoes or light hiking boots, plus sandals for the lodge

Sun & insect protection

  • Wide-brimmed hat and UV sunglasses
  • High-SPF sunscreen and SPF lip balm (reapply often)
  • Strong insect repellent — mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk

Gear & accessories

  • Binoculars — essential for game viewing
  • Camera with a good zoom lens, spare batteries and memory cards
  • A small daypack for game drives, plus a refillable water bottle
  • Portable power bank for long drives with limited charging
  • Headlamp or flashlight for camp at night
  • Waterproof/dry bags for electronics and documents

Documents & health

  • Passport (valid 6+ months), visa, travel insurance and any permits
  • Personal medications and a basic first-aid kit
  • Anti-malarials and, for climbers, altitude medication if prescribed
  • Yellow fever certificate if your routing requires it

Frequently Asked Questions

Less than you think. Most lodges and camps offer laundry, and internal bush flights have strict luggage limits (often ~15 kg in soft bags). Pack versatile layers you can re-wear.

Our packages include 4x4 transport with a pop-up roof, accommodation and meals, park fees, an English-speaking guide, bottled water on game drives and emergency evacuation cover — so you only need personal items.

Ready to take the next step?

See safari packages

Keep reading

Related trips

Questions about your trip?

Plan it with Ombeni directly

No call centre — you talk to the founder. Ask anything about routes, timing, health or logistics and we'll help you plan.

Ask on WhatsApp