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What to Pack

What to Pack

Northern Tanzania, Tanzania

Clothing Recommendations

Stick to neutral colors: khaki, tan, olive, brown, and grey. These colors blend with the savanna and avoid attracting certain insects, like tsetse flies. Avoid camouflage. Layering remains critical.

Layering Essentials

Seasonal & Cultural Attire

Dry Season focuses on sun protection. Wet Season prioritizes quick-drying materials. Cultural dress code for local villages values modesty.

Dress Code Details

  • Dry Season: Light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and pants. Bandana/scarf for dust.
  • Wet Season: Waterproof outerwear. Rain pants for comfort during downpours.
  • Cultural Visits: Cover shoulders and knees in villages. Men should dress respectfully.

Footwear Guidance

Game Drives

Comfortable closed-toe shoes like Sneakers or sturdy Sandals. Most time spent inside the vehicle.

Vehicle Comfort

Walking Safaris

Lightweight Hiking boots or robust Walking shoes with ankle support. Protects feet on uneven terrain and from thorns/insects.

Terrain Protection

Around Camp

Sandals or flip-flops for comfort when relaxing at the lodge or camp. Casual and light footwear.

Camp Comfort

Essential Documents

Secure Your Papers

Keep your documents organized and accessible. They facilitate smooth border passage and enable emergency support.

  • Passport and visa documentation: Carry original passport and printed e-Visa. Store in a Money belt or Secure travel wallet.
  • Travel insurance policy: Printed copy of policy number, emergency contacts, coverage summary. Digital copies too.
  • International driving permit: Only if self-driving outside the national park. Not for Serengeti.
  • Vaccination records: Original Yellow Fever certificate. Any relevant medical notes, especially for prescriptions.
  • Printed/digital copies of reservations: Flights, safari itinerary, accommodation bookings. Backup copies.
  • Emergency contact information: List of family, friends, embassy/consulate in Tanzania.
  • IDs for discounts: Student/senior/press IDs (if applicable, limited for park fees).
  • Organization: Keep all documents in a waterproof pouch. Separate copies from originals.

Tech & Electronics

Power and Connectivity

Bring the right electronics to capture your memories and stay connected where possible. Electricity can be limited in some camps.

Power Details

  • Voltage: Tanzania operates on 230V, 50Hz.
  • Plug Types: Most common is Type G (UK standard). Type D also sees some use.
  • Adapter: Bring a Power adapter. A Universal travel adapter with surge protection protects devices.

Mobile & Charging

Mobile phone connectivity within Serengeti National Park is limited and spotty. Manage your expectations. Most lodges offer Wi-Fi, but it is often slow.

Staying Connected

  • Mobile Phone: Most modern smartphones are compatible. Purchase local SIM cards in major towns (Vodacom, Airtel, Tigo). Airalo for eSIMs.
  • Chargers: Portable chargers and Power banks are highly recommended for charging devices when electricity is limited.
  • In-Park Connectivity: Limited phone signal. Lodges usually offer basic Wi-Fi in common areas.

Photography & Data

Camera Gear

A DSLR or Mirrorless camera for quality. Telephoto zoom lens (70-300mm or 100-400mm) is crucial. Wide-angle lens for landscapes. Extra batteries, large SD cards. Lens cleaning kit and dust blower. Sturdy Camera bag. Empty beanbag for lens stabilization.

Recommended Apps

Offline Maps (Google Maps, Maps.me). Translation (Google Translate Swahili offline pack). Wildlife Spotting (Merlin Bird ID, Mammals of Africa). Communication (WhatsApp). NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure browsing.

Data Backup

Cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) for photos. Or bring an External hard drive to back up images. B&H Photo for camera and electronics.

Health & Wellness

First Aid & Meds

A well-stocked personal health kit ensures your comfort and safety. Carry all prescription medications in original packaging with a copy of your doctor's prescription.

Kit Contents

  • First aid kit basics: Antiseptic wipes, Band-aids, sterile gauze, medical tape.
  • Pain relievers (Ibuprofen, paracetamol), antihistamines, antacids.
  • Anti-diarrhea medication (Loperamide), electrolyte rehydration salts. Small scissors, tweezers.

Sun & Insect Protection

Protect yourself from the intense equatorial sun and insects. Pack items specific to the climate.

Climate-Specific Protection

Special Health Needs

Motion Sickness

  • Motion sickness medication for bumpy safari roads.
  • Long drives on unpaved roads can induce motion sickness.
  • Over-the-counter remedies for common issues like colds and flu.

Altitude & Hygiene

  • Altitude sickness: Not a concern in Serengeti, which sits at low elevation.
  • Personal hygiene: Pack Travel-sized toiletries, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes.
  • Consider environmentally friendly products.

Activity Specific Gear

Game Drives

Binoculars are essential. At least one pair per person, 8x42 or 10x42 magnification. Bring your camera equipment. A small daypack for water and personal items.

Walking Safaris

If you plan a walking safari, sturdy closed-toe shoes or light hiking boots are necessary. Long pants protect your legs. A small daypack for water and essentials.

  • Sturdy hiking boots or walking shoes
  • Long pants for protection
  • Small daypack for water
  • Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)

Safari Specifics

A good wildlife identification guide book specific to East African mammals and birds helps you identify animals. A small, quiet Backpack or collapsible duffel bag works best for vehicle safaris.

  • Wildlife identification guide
  • Collapsible duffel bag
  • Empty beanbag (for filling)
  • No hard-sided luggage

Rent vs. Buy

Items to Buy

  • Personal Binoculars: Ensures quality, comfort, and hygiene.
  • High-End Camera Gear: Renting locally is not feasible. Rent from a specialty store before departure.
  • Prescription Medications: Bring all from home.
  • Specialty Insect Repellent: Hard to find locally.

Items to Potentially Rent

  • Basic Binoculars: Some safari operators offer basic pairs for rent.
  • Safari Vehicles: Provided with a professional guide/driver. You do not rent for self-driving.
  • Bicycles: Some lodges outside the park might offer for local village rides, not for park use.
  • Camping Gear: Included in budget camping safari packages.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items enhance your comfort, security, and overall travel experience.

Travel Comfort

Safari Specifics

Think through your daily needs on safari. Pack for comfort and practicality in a wild environment.

Region-Specific Essentials

  • A Headlamp or Small flashlight. Light may be limited at night in camps.
  • Sunglasses for bright sun and dust.
  • A small daypack for water, camera, and essentials during game drives.
  • Items difficult or expensive to purchase locally: high-quality insect repellent, specific prescription medications, specialty camera gear, certain travel-sized toiletries.

Sustainable Travel

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduce plastic waste, refill at camps.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For souvenirs and local purchases.

Reusable Utensils

Minimize disposable waste on the go.

Eco-Friendly Sunscreen

Protect yourself and the environment.

Destination Specific

Unique Needs

  • Portable chargers for cameras and phones.
  • Maps or GPS downloaded offline.
  • A good book for downtime between game drives.

Personal Items

  • Any personal prescription medications (with doctor's letter).
  • Travel-sized toiletries.
  • Small gifts for guides/staff (optional, but appreciated).

Packing Pro Tips

Pack clothing that is comfortable, durable, and suited for layering. Choose neutral colors to avoid attracting attention from wildlife or insects.

Pack these items in a soft-sided bag. This makes it easier to fit into safari vehicles, which often have strict luggage limits. Every item should serve a purpose.