Planning · 6 min read

Safari packing list: what to wear on a Tanzania safari

What to pack for a Tanzania safari — neutral layers, camera kit, luggage limits for light aircraft, and what you genuinely do not need.

ColoursNeutral, not white
Fly-in limitOften 15kg soft bag
MorningsCool, layer up

Safari packing is simpler than people expect. Neutral colours, layers for cold mornings and warm afternoons, and a soft bag if your route includes light aircraft.

Clothing

  • Khaki, olive, sand and grey — avoid bright white, and avoid blue and black where tsetse flies are active
  • Long sleeves and trousers for dusk, when mosquitoes are out
  • A warm fleece and windproof for early game drives, especially on the crater rim
  • A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen
  • Closed shoes for drives; sandals for camp

Camera and binoculars

A zoom in the 100–400mm range covers most sightings; bring more memory cards than you think and a bean bag or soft support for the vehicle. One pair of binoculars per person changes the experience more than any lens.

Luggage

Light aircraft transfers between the Serengeti and Zanzibar usually limit you to a soft duffel of around 15kg including hand luggage. Laundry is available at most camps and lodges, so pack for three or four days, not for the whole trip.

Health and documents

  • Antimalarials as advised by your doctor, plus insect repellent
  • Personal medication in original packaging, in your hand luggage
  • Printed and digital copies of your visa approval, insurance and itinerary

What you can leave at home

Camouflage clothing (restricted in Tanzania), heavy tripods, hair dryers and more than one pair of jeans.

Pre-departure pack

Every Kilinyota booking gets a route-specific list, luggage limits and the health advice that matches your itinerary.