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Tanzania’s Leading Tour Operator

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Safari & Beach Packing

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SAFARI & BEACH PACKING

Packing for Tanzania is easier than you might think — especially when you know what really matters.
From early-morning game drives on safari to relaxed afternoons on Zanzibar’s beaches, comfort, breathability and smart layering are key. Below you’ll find practical guidance on what to wear, followed by a clear packing list to help you prepare with confidence.
 

What to wear on Safari

On safari, clothing is all about comfort, protection and blending into nature. Days usually start early and mornings can be surprisingly cool, warming up quickly as the sun rises.

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Colours & fabrics

  • Choose neutral colours such as beige, khaki, olive or soft grey

  • Avoid bright colours and busy patterns, they may draw unnecessary attention from wildlife

  • Avoid dark colours such as blue and black, they can attract tsetse flies 

  • Breathable, lightweight fabrics (cotton, linen, technical outdoor fabrics) work best

  • Long sleeves and trousers help protect against sun and insects

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Layers matter

  • Early mornings can be chilly, especially in open safari vehicles

  • Bring a light fleece or jacket for game drives

  • By late morning, short sleeves are usually perfect

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Footwear

  • Comfortable, closed shoes or light trainers are ideal

  • You won’t be walking long distances, but stability and comfort are important

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Safari style tip

Safari doesn’t mean “outdoor fashion show” — practical always wins. Neutral tones also photograph beautifully against Tanzania’s landscapes.

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What to wear at the Beach (Zanzibar & Islands)

Beach life in Tanzania is relaxed, tropical and easygoing.
 

Daytime

  • Light summer dresses, shorts, airy shirts or T-shirts

  • Swimwear (bring more than one set so you can alternate)

  • Flip-flops or sandals
     

Evenings

  • Casual but neat clothing for dinners

  • A light cardigan or shawl for breezy evenings
     

Cultural note

When visiting villages, towns or local restaurants away from the beach, it’s respectful to cover shoulders and knees. A light scarf or sarong is perfect for this.

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Safari & Beach Packing List – Clothing

Safari Clothing

  • Lightweight long-sleeve shirts (2–3)

  • Lightweight long trousers (2–3)

  • Short-sleeve shirts or tops (2–3)

  • Light fleece or warm layer

  • Light jacket or windbreaker

  • Underwear

  • Comfortable socks (breathable, preferably cotton or wool blends)

  • Comfortable closed shoes or trainers

  • Safari hat or cap

  • Sunglasses
     

Beach Clothing

  • Swimwear (2–3 sets)

  • Light summer dresses / shorts / tops

  • Flip-flops or sandals

  • Casual evening outfit

  • Light scarf or sarong
     

Useful Extras

  • Sleepwear

  • Extra socks (useful for early morning game drives or cooler evenings)

  • Lightweight rain jacket (season-dependent)

  • Laundry dries quickly in Tanzania — no need to overpack
     

Essentials & Personal Items

  • Camera

  • Spare camera batteries and memory cards

  • Mobile phone and charger

  • Power bank (useful during long game drives)

  • Universal travel adapter / multi-plug

  • Binoculars (highly recommended; ideally one per person)

  • Head torch / headlamp (useful in lodges and tented camps after dark)

  • Mosquito repellent (preferably with DEET or an effective alternative)

  • Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)

  • Lip balm with SPF

  • Books or e-reader for travel moments and lodge downtime

  • Personal snacks (especially if you have specific preferences)

  • Personal medications and prescriptions

  • Basic travel medicine (pain relief, anti-diarrhea tablets, rehydration salts)

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Bags & Luggage

  • Soft-sided travel bag or duffel bag (preferred for safaris; easy to store in vehicles)

  • Soft Medium-sized suitcase if combining safari with beach stays or hotel-based travel

  • Lightweight daypack for daily essentials during game drives and excursions
     

Important luggage note for domestic flights:
When your itinerary includes a domestic flight — for example between national parks or from a safari area to Zanzibar — luggage restrictions apply.
 

  • Maximum 15 kg per person for main luggage

  • One small piece of hand luggage is allowed in addition
     

These limits are strictly enforced by local airlines due to small aircraft and bush airstrips. Packing light and choosing a soft-sided bag will help ensure a smooth journey.

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Storing luggage during your safari or climb:

If your itinerary starts and ends in the same location (for example Arusha), luggage that is not needed during your safari or Kilimanjaro climb can safely be stored at your hotel or lodge. This allows you to travel lighter and avoids unnecessary carrying or repacking during your journey.

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Final packing reminder

Before you travel, always check your airline’s baggage rules and avoid packing prohibited or restricted items. Regulations differ per airline and are especially strict on domestic flights using smaller aircraft.

Checking this in advance helps prevent delays or confiscation at the airport and ensures a smooth start to your journey.

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