Quick Answer
Packing for Tanzania depends on your itinerary — safari, Zanzibar beach or Kilimanjaro trek. This guide gives you a complete packing list for all three.
This guide gives you everything you need to know about packing for Tanzania — clothing, footwear, documents, electronics, toiletries and more.
Clothing
Safari Clothing
- Light, neutral-coloured clothing (khaki, beige, olive)
- Long-sleeved shirts and trousers
- Warm layers for mornings and evenings
- Waterproof jacket
Zanzibar Beach Clothing
- Light, breathable clothing
- Swimwear
- Sarong or cover-up
- Light dress or shorts
Kilimanjaro Clothing
- Layered clothing (base, mid, outer)
- Thermal underwear
- Warm jacket and waterproof shell
- Gloves and hat
Footwear
Safari Footwear
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sandals or flip-flops for camp
Zanzibar Footwear
- Sandals or flip-flops
- Water shoes for beach
Kilimanjaro Footwear
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Gaiters
- Warm socks
Documents
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Visa (e-visa or visa on arrival)
- Travel insurance
- Flight tickets
- Accommodation confirmation
Electronics
- Camera and binoculars
- Phone and charger
- Power bank
- Adapter (Type G plug)
Toiletries
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Soap and deodorant
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Insect repellent
Health
- Personal medication
- First aid kit
- Hand sanitiser
- Face masks
Safari-Specific
- Binoculars
- Camera with zoom lens
- Daypack
- Water bottle
Zanzibar-Specific
- Snorkeling gear (optional)
- Beach bag
- Waterproof phone case
Kilimanjaro-Specific
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp
- Sleeping bag
- Water purification tablets
What NOT to Pack
- Bright-coloured clothing (attracts insects)
- Heavy luggage (weight limits on safari flights)
- Too many clothes (laundry available at most lodges)
- Expensive jewellery
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I pack for a Tanzania safari?
Light, neutral-coloured clothing, warm layers, waterproof jacket, comfortable shoes, binoculars and camera.
What should I pack for Zanzibar?
Light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sandals, sunscreen and insect repellent.
What should I pack for Kilimanjaro?
Layered clothing, thermal underwear, warm jacket, waterproof shell, hiking boots and trekking poles.
What documents do I need?
Passport, visa, travel insurance, flight tickets and accommodation confirmation.
What electronics should I bring?
Camera, binoculars, phone, charger, power bank and adapter.
What toiletries should I bring?
Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, sunscreen, lip balm and insect repellent.
What should I not pack?
Bright-coloured clothing, heavy luggage, too many clothes and expensive jewellery.
Can I do laundry during my trip?
Yes — laundry is available at most lodges and hotels.