Before you pack, remember: If your itinerary includes light aircraft flights (which most do), you must use a soft-sided duffel bag. Hard-shell suitcases generally cannot fit into the luggage pods of bush planes. Stick to a 15kg (33lb) limit.
- Clothing: The “Safari Neutral” Wardrobe
Avoid bright colors (which scare animals) and dark blue/black (which attract Tsetse flies).
Colors: Khaki, olive, tan, beige, and brown are best.
3-4 T-shirts: Breathable fabrics.
2 Long-sleeved Shirts: For protection against the sun and bugs in the evening. Linen or lightweight cotton is ideal.
1 Warm Layer: A fleece jacket or lightweight sweater. It gets surprisingly cold on early morning game drives and crater rims.
2 Pairs of Shorts: For the heat of the day.
2 Pairs of Long Trousers: Zip-off trousers are practical. You’ll want long pants for evening dinners and bush walks.
Casual Smart Wear: One nice outfit for dinner at the lodge (luxury lodges are relaxed but elegant).
Swimwear: For the lodge pool or a dip in Lake Tanganyika (Mahale).
- Footwear
Comfortable Walking Shoes/Sneakers: Good for game drives and light walking.
Hiking Boots: Essential for Mahale (chimp trekking) or walking safaris in Nyerere. They should have good ankle support and grip.
Sandals/Flip-flops: For relaxing around the camp.
- Essentials & Toiletries
Sun Protection: High SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat (with a chin strap so it doesn’t fly off in the jeep).
Insect Repellent: With DEET.
Malaria Prophylaxis: As prescribed by your doctor.
Personal Med Kit: Antihistamines, painkillers, rehydration salts, band-aids, and any personal prescription meds.
Hand Sanitizer & Wet Wipes: It can get dusty!
- Gadgets & Gear
Camera: With a good zoom lens (at least 300mm is recommended for wildlife).
Binoculars: Every couple should have at least one good pair (8×42 or 10×42). Don’t rely solely on the guide’s pair.
Power Bank: To charge phones while on game drives.
Travel Adapter: Tanzania generally uses the British “Type G” (three rectangular pins).
Flashlight/Headlamp: Camps can be dark at night (though many provide flashlights).
- Important Documents
Passport: Valid for at least 6 months beyond travel dates.
Yellow Fever Certificate: Required if entering Tanzania from a yellow fever-endemic country (like Kenya).
Visa: Printed copy of your E-Visa.
Travel Insurance: Printed policy number and emergency contact.
Cash (USD): Small bills (dated 2009 or later) for tipping guides and staff.
- Special “Mahale” Add-on (If trekking for Chimps)
Gardening Gloves: Helpful for grabbing prickly branches while hiking.
Long Socks: To tuck your trousers into (prevents “safari ants” from crawling up your legs).
Surgical Masks: Often required when you get close to the chimpanzees to protect them from human diseases. (Lodges usually provide these, but good to have your own).
