What to Pack for Tanzania 2026
Packing for Tanzania depends on your activities. A safari requires neutral-coloured clothing, Kilimanjaro needs layered mountain gear, and Zanzibar calls for light beachwear. Here is your complete checklist.
Safari Packing List
Clothing
- Neutral colours (khaki, olive, beige, brown) - avoid blue/black (attracts tsetse flies)
- Long-sleeved shirts (sun and insect protection)
- Convertible trousers / zip-off pants
- Lightweight fleece or jacket (mornings are cold)
- Wide-brimmed hat or cap
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sandals for camp/lodge
Gear & Accessories
- Binoculars (essential for wildlife viewing)
- Camera with zoom lens (200mm minimum)
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Sunscreen SPF 50+
- Insect repellent (DEET 30%+)
- Reusable water bottle
- Headlamp or torch
- Power bank (charging may be limited)
- Universal power adapter (UK Type G sockets)
Kilimanjaro Climbing Gear
Kilimanjaro spans five climate zones. You need clothing for tropical heat at the base and sub-zero temperatures at the summit.
Essential Clothing
- Moisture-wicking base layers (tops and bottoms)
- Insulating mid-layer (fleece or down jacket)
- Waterproof outer shell (jacket and trousers)
- Warm hat and balaclava
- Insulated gloves + liner gloves
- Hiking boots (broken in)
- Gaiters
- Thermal socks (4-5 pairs)
Essential Gear
- Sleeping bag rated to -15C or colder
- Trekking poles (highly recommended)
- Daypack (25-35 litres)
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Water bottles or hydration bladder (3L minimum)
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Diamox (consult doctor before trip)
Most operators rent sleeping bags, poles, and some clothing in Moshi or Arusha.
Essential Documents
- Passport - valid for 6+ months beyond entry date, with blank pages
- Tanzania e-Visa - apply at visa.immigration.go.tz before travel
- Yellow Fever certificate - required if arriving from an endemic country
- Travel insurance documents - ensure safari/adventure coverage
- Vaccination records - recommended vaccinations proof
- Printed copies of all bookings, itinerary, and emergency contacts
- USD cash - for tips, park fees (crisp bills, 2013 or newer)
Health & Medications
- Malaria prophylaxis (Malarone, doxycycline, or mefloquine - consult your doctor)
- DEET-based insect repellent
- Hand sanitiser
- Basic first-aid kit (plasters, antiseptic, painkillers)
- Anti-diarrhoeal medication (Imodium)
- Oral rehydration salts
- Any personal prescription medications (bring extra supply)
FAQ
Tanzania uses UK-style Type G sockets (three rectangular pins). Bring a universal travel adapter. Voltage is 230V, 50Hz. Safari lodges and camps may have limited charging times.
Most safari lodges offer laundry service (often included or for a small fee). Budget camps may have hand-wash facilities. Quick-dry clothing is ideal.
Packing Tips
- Bag limit: Most safari flights allow 15kg soft bag only
- No hard cases on light aircraft
- USD cash: Crisp, post-2013 bills
- Dress modestly in towns/Zanzibar
- Avoid camo - it is restricted