Pack light, in neutral colours, and in a soft bag — bush flights have strict weight limits. Here is what actually earns its place on a Tanzania safari, with extras for the beach and for Kilimanjaro.
Clothing (safari)
- Neutral tones (khaki, olive, beige) — avoid bright white, dark blue and black (tsetse flies are drawn to dark blue/black).
- Lightweight long-sleeve shirts & trousers (sun and insect protection).
- Warm fleece or jacket for cold early-morning game drives.
- Wide-brim hat, sunglasses, comfortable closed shoes.
- Light rain jacket in green-season months.
Gear & essentials
- Binoculars (8×42 ideal) — the single best upgrade to your safari.
- Camera with zoom and spare batteries / memory cards.
- Power bank and a universal adapter (Tanzania & Kenya use UK-style Type G plugs, 230V).
- Refillable water bottle, sunscreen (SPF 30+), lip balm, insect repellent (DEET).
- Small first-aid kit and any personal medication in original packaging.
Documents
- Passport (6+ months validity), visa/eTA copies, yellow-fever certificate.
- Travel insurance details, flight and lodge confirmations, some USD cash for tips.
ℹ Luggage limits
Light-aircraft transfers usually cap luggage at about 15 kg in a soft duffel. We’ll confirm your exact allowance — laundry is available at most lodges, so you can pack less than you think.
Kilimanjaro extras
- Proper broken-in hiking boots & moisture-wicking socks.
- Layering system: base layers, insulated mid-layer, waterproof shell, down jacket for summit night.
- Warm hat, buff, liner + insulated gloves, headtorch, trekking poles.
- 4-season sleeping bag (we can rent), thermos, high-energy snacks.
See the full Kilimanjaro Climbing Guide for a complete gear breakdown.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do laundry on safari?+
Yes — most lodges and camps offer same-day laundry, so 3–4 changes of clothing is plenty.
Should I bring camouflage clothing?+
No — camouflage is restricted/illegal for civilians in Tanzania and Kenya. Stick to plain neutral colours.
