Picture this: You’re watching lions at sunset in the Serengeti when you realize—you forgot your binoculars. Or you’re on a game drive in a dust storm wishing you’d packed that bandana. Or worse, you’re struggling with a 50-pound suitcase at a tiny bush airstrip.
After 15 years of guiding safaris, we’ve seen every packing mistake imaginable. But we’ve also perfected what works. This isn’t just another generic list—it’s a battle-tested system from guides who live in the bush.
“The secret isn’t packing more—it’s packing smarter. Leave the ‘just in case’ items at home and bring the ‘can’t live without’ essentials.” – Sarah, Unpredictable Safaris Operations Manager
Before we list a single item, understand these three principles:
The 24-Hour Rule: If you won’t use it within 24 hours, question its necessity.
The Layering Law: African weather changes dramatically. Dress in removable layers.
The Color Code: Stick to neutral colors (khaki, olive, brown). Avoid bright colors, white (dust!), and dark blue/black (attracts tsetse flies).
Pro Insight:
“Many lodges offer same-day laundry for $2-3 per kg. Pack for 4-5 days, not 10. This single tip saves most travelers from overpacking.”
| tem | Quantity | Notes | Our Top Pick |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lightweight long pants | 3-4 pairs | Quick-dry fabric is key. Convertible zip-offs are versatile. | Prana Brion or similar |
| Long-sleeved shirts | 4-5 | Lightweight, breathable. Button-ups allow ventilation. | Columbia Silver Ridge |
| T-shirts/tanks | 3-4 | For layering or lodge wear. Merino wool works in all temps. | Icebreaker merino |
| Safari jacket | 1 | Lightweight, water-resistant. Many have multiple pockets. | |
| Warm fleece/jacket | 1 | Mornings and evenings can be chilly, especially at Ngorongoro. | |
| Comfortable shorts | 1-2 pairs | For lounging at camp only. Not for game drives. | |
| Sleepwear | 1 set | Lightweight. Some camps have AC, some don’t. | |
| Underwear | 5-7 pairs | Quick-dry material. Consider ExOfficio or similar. | |
| Socks | 5-7 pairs | Moisture-wicking. Bring at least 1 pair of warm socks. |
| Item | When to Wear | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sturdy closed shoes | Game drives, walks | Comfort is key. Break them in BEFORE your trip. |
| Lightweight hiking shoes | Walking safaris, village visits | Ankle support optional but recommended. |
| Sandals/flip-flops | Around camp, showers | Keen or Teva for sturdy camp sandals. |
| Camp shoes/slippers | Evenings at lodge | Some lodges provide, but bring your own just in case. |
Binoculars: 8×42 or 10×42 magnification. Don’t cheap out here.
Camera equipment: Plus extra batteries, memory cards, lens cloths.
Power bank/battery pack: At least 20,000mAh. Many camps have limited charging time.
Headlamp with red light: Preserves night vision. Essential for walking to tent at night.
Reusable water bottle: We provide unlimited water, but your own bottle is handy.
Small daypack: For carrying essentials on game drives.
Ziploc bags: Multiple sizes for organizing, protecting electronics from dust.
Prescription medications in original containers
Malaria prophylaxis (as prescribed)
Basic first aid: Band-aids, antiseptic, blister treatment
Sunscreen: High SPF, reef-safe if going to Zanzibar
Lip balm with SPF
Insect repellent (30-50% DEET or picaridin)
Hand sanitizer
Motion sickness tablets (some roads are bumpy!)
Eye drops (for dust)
Earplugs (nature can be loud at night!)
Passport (with 6 months validity + 2 blank pages)
Yellow fever certificate (if traveling from endemic country)
Travel insurance documents
Visa (can get on arrival or online)
Credit/debit cards (Visa/Mastercard)
USD cash ($50 bills from 2009 or newer for tipping/souvenirs)
Copies of all documents (digital and physical)
Money Tip:
“Bring about $300-500 in crisp $50 bills for tipping and souvenirs. Smaller bills ($1, $5, $10) are impossible to get in Tanzania and essential for markets. We can help break larger bills upon arrival.”
Surprisingly, many people pack these unnecessary items:
❌ Formal clothing: No need for dresses, suits, or heels.
❌ Excessive toiletries: Most lodges provide quality shampoo, soap, lotion.
❌ Hair dryers/straighteners: Many camps run on generator power.
❌ Expensive jewelry: Keep it simple and safe.
❌ Single-use plastics: Tanzania is banning them. Bring reusable alternatives.
❌ Military-style clothing: It can be confusing or offensive.
❌ Drones: Illegal in national parks without special permit.
❌ Tons of books: You’ll be busy! One e-reader or paperback is plenty.
Add 1 “smart casual” outfit for lodge evenings
Ladies: A sundress or nice top for dinner
Gentlemen: Collared shirt for dinner
Add warmer sleepwear (nights can be cold)
Extra headlamp/batteries
More Ziploc bags for organization in limited space
Add swimwear (2 sets)
Beach cover-up/sarong
Flip-flops for beach
Pack separately: Use packing cubes to separate safari and beach clothes
Main luggage: Soft-sided duffel bag (45-75L). Hard suitcases don’t fit on small planes.
Daypack: For daily essentials on game drives.
Personal items: For flights, your documents, camera, and medications.
Weight Limits: Domestic flights typically allow 15kg (33lbs) checked, 5kg (11lbs) carry-on. We’ll remind you of your specific limits.