Packing for a trip to Tanzania that includes both a thrilling safari adventure and a relaxing beach getaway in Zanzibar requires careful planning. You’ll need to be prepared for diverse climates, activities, and cultural considerations. Here’s a comprehensive packing guide to ensure you have everything you need for an unforgettable trip.

First, you’ll need to prepare all the essential documents such as Passport, Visa, Travel insurance documents, Flight tickets and itinerary, Copies of important documents (digital and hard copies), Emergency contacts, Credit/debit cards and some cash in USD or Tanzania Shillings.

Then you’ll need to prepare clothing for Safari, light, breathable, and neutral-colored clothing are most recommended (avoid bright colors especially for safari since the brightness will scare away the animals), it’s best to blend with nature. Here below, review a list of more items recommended for safari.

• Long-sleeved shirts and pants for sun and insect protection
• Comfortable hiking shoes or closed-toe walking shoes
• Wide-brimmed hat for sun protection
• Lightweight jacket or fleece for cool mornings and evenings
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Socks and undergarments (moisture-wicking if possible)

Clothing for Zanzibar

• Swimsuits and beachwear
• Light, airy dresses or shorts for warm weather
• Sandals or flip-flops for the beach
• Light cover-up or sarong for beachside restaurants
• Evening wear for dining out
• Snorkeling gear (optional, but available for rent)

Many accommodations will provide you with basic toiletries but it is also highly recommended to bring a few personal care items just to avoid inconvenience. Here below, a list of items recommended.

• Sunscreen (high SPF, reef-safe for Zanzibar)
• Insect repellent with DEET
• Lip balm and moisturizer
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
• Basic first aid kit (pain relievers, antiseptic, bandages, motion sickness tablets)
• Prescription medications (bring extra in case of delays)
• Shampoo, conditioner, and soap (eco-friendly if possible) but these are also provided by the accommodations.

For gadgets & accessories, prepare to bring a camera and extra memory cards (for capturing wildlife and landscapes), binoculars (for better safari viewing) but can also be provided by your tour operator, power bank and travel adapter (Tanzania uses Type D & G plugs/the UK-style three-pin plugs), waterproof phone case for beach and snorkelling and an E-reader or book for downtime.

Other Important Items to bring are such as lightweight backpack or daypack, travel pillow and eye mask for long flights, reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, dry bag for keeping valuables safe on the beach, small flashlight or headlamp for nighttime safari activities, guidebook or language translation app for Swahili basics.

Final Tips to consider

• Pack light, as many small planes to safari lodges have strict weight limits.
• Respect local customs—modest clothing is recommended in some areas of Zanzibar.
• Be prepared for varied temperatures, from hot days to cooler nights in the Serengeti.

By packing smartly, you’ll be fully equipped to enjoy both the adventure of Tanzania’s wildlife and the relaxation of Zanzibar’s pristine beaches. Safe travels!

Talk to us at info@sonsanddaughter.co.tz and we will be happy to send you a tailor-made program that will suit your needs.

About the Author: Hellen Biseko

Hellen is a well-versed travel specialist with over seven years of experience in providing tailored support to tourists planning to visit the Tanzania National Parks and Zanzibar. Helping others and sharing knowledge are two beliefs Hellen imparts daily; Her expertise, positive attitude, and willingness to help others allow her to excel in this interesting role.