Safari Packing List
Please review the suggested Safari Packing list when preparing for your Safari with RA Safaris
Please note: for longer safaris (10 days or more) many accommodations offer laundry services, if you prefer to pack less when traveling.
Laundry services are not available for camping safaris, but if you prefer to wash your own laundry there are clothing lines to dry items.
If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Essentials
- Passport/IDs and extra copies
- Credit cards/ Bank card
- Cash to exchange to local currency (USD, Euros and British Pounds are easiest to exchange)
Health and Hygiene
- Daily toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, ect)
- Hand sanitizer
- Sunscreen
- Mosquito repellent
- Lip balm
- All prescription or over-the-counter medications you regularly take at home.
- Anti-malaria medications (Please discuss with your doctor first)
- Contact lens solution (if needed, as is difficult to find and very expensive in Tanzania)
Clothing
Weather in Tanzania can be sunny and hot, or cool and rainy.
One thing you can depend on is that it will likely be very humid year-round.
Loose-fitting cotton, linen and other natural fibers are usually preferred.
Zanzibar is a tropical island with hot, humid weather.
Attire at resorts is relaxed, while modest dress in Stonetown is preferred. Remember, it is a UNESCO Heritage Site, please respect the local customs.
Women should cover shoulders and knees.
Men should wear shirts and loose-fitting shorts or trousers.
- Several light-weight shirts or tops
- A sweater or light jacket, as nights in Ngorongoro, Usambaras and Serengeti areas can get very chilly.
- Several pairs of comfortable pants for walking or sitting for long periods of time
- A pair of hiking shorts
- A long skirt or dress for ladies
- Slacks for men
- Swimming costume/swimsuit (most accommodations have a swimming pool)
- Rain jacket
- Walking sandals
- Sport shoes or hiking boots
Accessories
- Sun glasses
- Sun hat/Cap
- A day bag such as a purse, satchel or small backpack to carry your personal items
Electronics
Tanzania and Kenya use the Type G plug (similar to British Style).
Voltage in East Africa is 230 V (50 Hz). while it is compatible with most of Uk and Europe, it may not be compatible with USA, Canada and Asian types. You may require a voltage adapter.
USB ports are widely available in Tanzania, and even in your safari car, also.
- Power bank or solar charger
- Charging cables
- Cell phone
- Tablet or Kindle reader
- Camera + extra batteries or charging system
- Headlamp or flashlight/torch + extra batteries
Extras
- Reusable water bottle
- Handkerchief
- Travel pillow
- Laptop computer (many lodges have WiFi access)
Important Visa/Immigration Information
All travelers entering Tanzania, even for tourism purposes must have an appropriate visa.
Depending on your country of citizenship, you may obtain this visa on arrival. However, to save time, you may consider applying for the convenient tourism e-visa.
Learn more at Tanzania Immigration website.
Some travelers may require a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate in order to enter Tanzania.
Learn if you need one, (opens PDF) and ensure you travel with this certificate.
Please Note: Even if you are not a citizen of the listed countries, if you have previously traveled to one of the named countries you will require a Yellow Fever Card.
Items NOT to bring
Some well-meaning travelers like to bring pencils, small toys or other items to share with children. While we know the idea has good intentions, we advise against this.
First of all, most of the items can be purchased locally (and therefore support the local economy) and,
Secondly, this can encourage a habit of begging from children.
We prefer instead to give gifts through schools and other appropriate settings to encourage children to pursue their education, not look for a handout for tourists.
RA Safaris supports a local school in West Kilimanjaro, and can help facilitate donations of school supplies, sanitary products for girls or other forms of charity.
If you wish to make time to give back during your safari, please reach out so we can ensure this happens in the most ethical and sustainable way.