What to Take on Safari

When packing for an African safari, moderation is key. While there is no need to go minimalist, you also don’t want to carry an abundance of unnecessary luggage. Remember, on safari, travelers will often move with their luggage in the safari vehicle throughout the tour. On days when you’re staying at the same hotel or lodge, your bags will remain in your room. Carrying too much luggage could be inconvenient or even hinder your wildlife viewing experience.

Based on years of experience leading exceptional safaris, we’ve created this packing list to help you pack just the right items (but not too many!) for your incredible Tanzanian safari:

The Ultimate Safari Packing List

You’ll spend a great deal of time in the safari vehicle viewing wildlife. However, you may also participate in walking safaris or cultural tours, so it’s essential to have practical, comfortable, and sturdy walking shoes. Please leave high heels, fashion sneakers, and platform shoes for other occasions.

Tanzania’s weather varies depending on altitude and time of day, so it’s wise to bring layers, especially for the early mornings and late nights when it gets cooler.

Safari Packing List:

  • 1-2 long-sleeved shirts
  • A warm sweater or light jacket (the temperature in the Ngorongoro region can drop to 0°C in the morning and evening)
  • Regular light shirts or T-shirts (preferably 1 for each day of the safari)
  • 1-2 pairs of light cotton trousers
  • Shorts or a loose skirt (for women)
  • Swimsuit or trunks (most lodges have swimming pools)
  • A hat or cap for sun protection

Most travelers on safari wear neutral-colored clothing like khaki and avoid bright whites or fluorescent colors. The reason is twofold: neutral tones blend in with nature, making wildlife viewing easier, and khaki-colored items are less likely to show dust, which is common in many safari areas.

What Medications Should You Take on Safari?

Each Royal Climb and Safaris vehicle is stocked with a basic first-aid kit, but if you take prescription medications or have special needs, be sure to bring your necessary meds with you.

Recommended medications include:

  • Antimalarial drugs (e.g., Malarone, Lariam)
  • Tablets for motion sickness, if needed
  • Antihistamines for allergies (e.g., Claritin, Loratadine)
  • Asthma inhalers (the dust may aggravate symptoms)
  • Any other necessary prescription medications

It’s also advised to bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes are generally active in the early morning and evening when you’re likely back at your lodge. Alternatively, wearing long-sleeved shirts can help deter mosquitoes.

Don’t forget sunscreen! The equatorial sun in Tanzania is intense, especially at higher elevations such as Ngorongoro. Use sunscreen with SPF 40 or higher for adequate protection.

Other Important Tips

Most lodges and hotels affiliated with Royal Climb and Safaris provide full room and board, meaning three full meals a day. However, safaris tend to build up an appetite due to the excitement and fresh air.

Consider packing:

  • Biscuits, chips, or packaged snacks
  • Pre-washed or dried fruit
  • Chocolate bars
  • Mixed nuts

Some fresh fruits (like bananas) or nuts (such as cashews and peanuts) can also be purchased locally as you pass through Tanzanian villages.

Necessary Items

Even if the forecast doesn’t predict much sun, don’t leave your protective glasses at home. They’ll help shield your eyes from the wind, dust, and small insects when you pop out of the window or the open roof of the safari vehicle.

Here’s a list of other recommended items:

  • Sunglasses
  • Bandana or handkerchief for dust protection
  • Adapter for electric plugs (Tanzania uses three-pronged plugs, like the ones used in England)
  • Photocopies of your passport and other travel documents
  • Camera and photo equipment
  • Hand sanitizer or disinfectant
  • Personal hygiene items (including sunscreen and insect repellent)
  • Notebook and pen

No need to bring binoculars! Each Royal Climb and Safaris vehicle is equipped with a pair for your convenience. There are also charging stations in the vehicles, so your devices will never lose power during your safari.

If you have any questions about what to pack, feel free to contact us! We are happy to assist.

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