What to pack for Tanzania safaris (safari packing list)
What to pack for Tanzania safaris : Whether you have taken a Tanzania safari tours before or this will be your first, it’s important to know what to pack in order to make the most of your safari in Tanzania and to ensure that you and any other guests you may be bringing, such as if you are taking a family vacation, are equally well-prepared for any eventuality that may arise. Do not be alarmed if you find it difficult to list every item you will need to bring with you; we are here to assist you! ,.,,
SAFARI PACKING LIST
In this Tanzania safari packing list, we’ll go over everything you’ll need to bring, along with justifications for each item’s inclusion. Let’s get started.
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS AND CURRENCY
Although it might seem obvious to bring these things, it is very easy to forget them when rushing. The following identification are required:
Passport: Although picking up your passport before leaving the house should go without saying, sometimes people forget to do so. To help you remember, write a reminder about remembering your passport somewhere you can be sure you’ll see it, like on the refrigerator or the bathroom mirror. Additionally, you must confirm that your passport has a minimum remaining validity of six months.
Plane Ticket: Another obvious requirement, but once again, it’s easy to overlook them when you’re rushing.
Visa: E-visas are advised because they can be obtained in advance and may be helpful in preventing any potential problems with obtaining a physical visa once you arrive in Tanzania. However, they are offered when entering the nation if required.
Travel insurance: With this insurance, you’ll be protected from a variety of potential problems that could arise during your trip to Tanzania, including changes to your itinerary, flight delays, evacuations, theft or loss of personal belongings, and any necessary medical costs.
Covid-19 documentation: Beginning in January 2023, visitors can enter and leave the country without a Covid-19 document (proof of vaccination or PCR test).
Currency: A combination of debit or credit cards and cash is going to be your best bet if you want to be as prepared as you can be with your financial resources. You can use US dollars in Tanzania as long as they are dated after 2008 because they are accepted in the majority of the country’s major establishments. Additionally, you should make sure you have some Tanzanian shillings on hand because they are frequently accepted in more modest businesses.
VERSATILE CLOTHING
Choosing clothing for a Tanzania safari can be challenging because you never know for sure what the weather in Tanzania will be like.
Tanzania has both wet and dry seasons, with the dry ones lasting from January to February, followed by the months of June to October, and the wet ones from March to May (this is the more noticeable wet season), followed by the months of November and December.
Although it is unlikely to rain on a safari during the dry season, it is best to pack a few jackets just in case. Otherwise, lightweight attire will do. Heavy clothing, such as scarves and thicker jackets, will be necessary during the rainy season. Additionally, regardless of the season you travel in, you should make sure to pack some basic clothing, such as the following:
- Long-sleeved shirts
- Trousers
- Shorts
- Waterproof Jacket
- T-Shirts
- Socks
- Warm Sweaters
- Swimsuits
- Hats
Overall, neutral-colored, lightweight clothing is a good option for a Tanzania safari, but layering is your best friend!
STURDY AND COMFORTABLE FOOTWEAR
- It’s possible that you’ll be doing a lot of walking on your safari (especially if it’s a walking safari specifically), so wearing comfortable shoes is essential.
- It’s a good idea to wear a pair of dirty sneakers, but hiking boots that are robust and provide lots of ankle support are also essential.
- Keep your flip-flops or sandals with you if you intend to go on your safari as well as spend some time relaxing at the beach.
MEDICAL KIT
Any unforeseen accidents or illnesses on your safari can be prevented with the aid of a basic first aid kit. You will want to make sure that you are well-stocked on the necessities so that you can continue to enjoy your trip even if you have to deal with any medical issues, including regular painkillers and medications to prevent sickness and diarrhea. Some of these essentials include:
- Antibacterial medicines
- Anti-malaria medications
- Antidiarrheal medications
- Band-aids
- Gauze and Bandages
- Adhesive Tape
- Hand Sanitizer
- Eye Drops
- Nose Spray
As long as you have the necessary equipment to handle any potential cuts, bruises, or reactions, even the smallest first aid kit will do!
TOILETRIES
You should pack the same kinds of toiletries that you would for other vacations, including the following:
- Toothpaste
- Toothbrush
- Soap
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Mouthwash
- Deodorant
- Travel Towels
- Hairbrush
- Lotions
- Feminine Hygiene Products (if necessary)
Insects are a common occurrence on safaris as well, so be sure to pack some potent insect repellent in addition to these necessities to avoid getting swarmed or bitten!
SUN PROTECTION
Additionally, keep in mind that going on a safari will require you to spend a lot of time outdoors, making sun protection essential. Bring some after-sun lotion along with the sunscreen.
ELECTRONICS AND GADGETS
A camera should be on your list of must-have items because, in addition to your phone, you will undoubtedly want to document your Tanzania safari’s special moments.
Don’t forget to bring spare batteries, an extra memory card, and the charger for your camera (which also applies to your phone!). Binoculars and universal plug converters are also essential!
Never forget to protect any electronics, especially if you intend to visit Tanzania during the rainy season. They might benefit from some additional protective coverings or waterproof storage containers.
BAGGAGE
Make sure you have the various types of storage needed for all of your possessions. This may encompass the following:
- Backpack
- Waterproof Duffel Bag
- Day Pack
- Zip-Lock Bags
Making use of these various types of luggage will make it simpler to distinguish between your daily belongings and your specific safari gear.
TECHNOLOGY YOU NEED WHILE VISITING TANZANIA
Adaptors and Chargers
While you can usually count on finding international adaptors and outlets at most new hotels, this is not always true when going on safari. You must have a travel adaptor that is appropriate for the destination country. It is worthwhile to invest in either universal travel adaptors or adaptors designed specifically for use in Africa.
Pro Packing Tip: If you’re going remote camping or intend to use your phone to take pictures and videos during your Tanzania game drive, you may want to bring a heavy-duty power bank.
Camera
Although many tourists use their phones to record their safari experiences, nothing quite compares to the quality a good camera can produce. The experience of photographing the wildlife you come across will be thrilling if photography is your passion. You should undoubtedly bring a zoom lens that is at least 300mm in length for the best pictures.
Binoculars
Although they are not required, bringing a good pair of binoculars will undoubtedly enhance your safari experience. If you’re following the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti, they’ll be very helpful.
An “all or nothing” strategy is the best approach when it comes to binoculars. The best binoculars may add a little weight to your suitcase, but less expensive models will disappoint you. The SkyGenius 10 x 50 Binoculars have 10X magnification, are inexpensive, and are simple to focus.
INSECT REPELLENT
Insect Shield, clothing that has been treated to bind permethrin into the fabric, is another way to ward off unwelcome creepy crawlies in addition to picking the appropriate clothing color. Your clothing serves as an insect guard on its own, eliminating the need for repellent.
Permethrin and a DEET-based repellent should be added to your packing list if you prefer to go with the more affordable option. In most outdoor stores, you can find permethrin, which is used to treat clothing as a spray. Permethrin has the significant benefit of withstanding numerous washings, specifically six washings or six weeks (whichever comes first). You apply repellent with Deet right to your skin. Deet wipes offer convenient on-the-go protection and simplify the insect repellent process.
WHAT YOU DON’T NEED ON TANZANIA SAFARI
- You don’t need to bring shampoo and conditioner because you can get them at the camp and in the lodges.
- Children’s toys and comic books: Considering how fascinating safaris are, bringing toys, comic books, or any entertaining games is a waste. It can unnecessarily add weight and size of you luggage.
- Take no more than two pairs each of shorts and zip-off pants. There is no need to bring more clothing because there are laundry services available.
- For an extended safari lasting 7 to 8 days, bring no more than 4 pairs of underwear because there is laundry service.
- There is no need to bring jewelry because it increases the weight and increases the risk of theft.
- Bring lightweight pajamas. You will receive the warmest bedding and hot water bottles at night.
READY TO START PLANNING YOUR JOURNEY WITH SELECT ADVENTURE SAFARI?
Select Adventure Safari, an established and seasoned tour operator, offers the best safari tours to Tanzania with the most thoughtfully planned and appropriate itineraries as part of the package. Joining our knowledgeable Tanzania Safari Guide will ensure that your safari is filled with joy and unforgettable experiences.
FINAL THOUGHTS: WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR TANZANIA SAFARI
So there you have it—everything you need for a Tanzania safari trip! You can be sure to remember everything you need and have an amazing experience on your journey as long as you maintain good organization and make a detailed plan before you leave.