Packing to come on a Tanzanian Safari vastly different than packing for pretty much any other holiday. The main thing to remember, is that if your safari is going to include any charter or bush flights, your weight will be restricted to about 15 kg, including all your camera gear! It is also worth noting that these small flights require you to use soft bags like duffels.
When it comes to what to wear on safari comfort should be prioritised above everything else. Depending on what your safari itinerary is and what standard of accommodation you are staying in laundry is often available meaning you rarely need to pack more than 2 pairs of trousers and long sleeve tops. However, do bear in mind that not all laundries wash underwear, so bring enough for your safari duration!
You want lightweight, breathable pants and tops, to ensure they evaporate any moisture quickly helping you remain cool. Light long sleeves and trousers will also help protect you from the strong sun.
You should aim for earth tones since the tsetse flies are attracted to dark blue and black. Not only do they bite but they are also linked to a disease called sleeping sickness. We recommend not attracting them in the first place!
Morning and evening can be cold, so bring a slighter warmer layer for when the temperatures drop. We provide ponchos should it rain so unless you are with us during the rainy season don’t worry about the extra weight from a jacket.
As for footwear, unless you are planning on tackling some epic hikes whilst in Tanzania, any pair of sturdy closed toe footwear is perfect. We particularly like lightweight trail trainers as they are also breathable and will help keep you more comfortable during the hotter hours whilst also often being waterproof should it rain.
A hat, sunglasses and sun cream are essential. The sun is hot! There would be nothing worse than not being able to fully enjoy your safari as a result of sunburn, sun in the eyes of God forbid sunstroke.
Depending on what accommodation you chose you may well have a pool to enjoy during down time, so pack a swim suit, some flip flops and a casual outfit to relax around camp in the evenings. Don’t forget it can get chilli so a warmer layer is always adviced.
We also recommend wearing PJ’s, as you never know, there may be a visitor worth getting up for in the middle of the night!
When it comes to toiletries keep it light however do pack in some moisturiser and lip balm as it is very dry in Tanzania. Make sure you don’t forget the insect repellent either. We recommend anything strong with DEET.
Although we have a full first aid kit, we also recommend you bring a personal kit including any medication you normally use.
Lastly, it is worth talking power. In Tanzania we use two plug types: D (three round prongs in a triangle) and G (2 flat prongs). Universal plug adapters are the best and a worthwhile investment if you travel regularly.
But more than anything else, remember to pack your sense of adventure!