This Tanzania packing list covers everything you need for a Serengeti safari, Zanzibar beach holiday, and Kilimanjaro trek — three very different experiences that require very different gear. Pack smart and pack light.
For outfit details and cultural advice, read our full guide: What to Wear in Tanzania.
Tanzania Safari Packing List (Serengeti, Ngorongoro)
- 3–4 safari shirts (long-sleeved, neutral tones: khaki, olive, tan)
- 2 pairs convertible trousers
- 1 fleece jacket (cold Serengeti mornings, 10–12°C)
- 1 lightweight rain jacket
- Wide-brimmed sun hat with chin strap
- Buff or neck gaiter (Serengeti dust)
- Closed walking shoes or lightweight boots
- Polarized sunglasses
- Soft-sided duffel bag (15kg limit on bush planes)
- SPF 50+ sunscreen
- DEET insect repellent
- Anti-malaria tablets
Zanzibar Packing List
- 2–3 swimsuits
- 2 sarongs or light kaftans (beach cover-up + Stone Town modesty cover)
- Modest top and long skirt or trousers for Stone Town and Lamu
- Lightweight scarf for mosque/market visits
- Comfortable sandals and flip-flops
- Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Reef shoes or water shoes
Kilimanjaro Packing List
- Moisture-wicking thermal base layers (top and bottom)
- Fleece mid-layer
- Down jacket (600-fill minimum)
- Hardshell waterproof jacket and waterproof trousers
- Waterproof trekking boots (already broken in)
- Gaiters
- Warm hat (wool or fleece) and balaclava for summit
- Expedition gloves or mittens
- Trekking poles (2)
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- High-altitude glacier sunglasses (CE-rated UV400)
- Altitude sickness medication (Diamox — consult doctor)
- Merino wool socks (4 pairs)
Documents & Practical Essentials
- Tanzania visa (apply online at eservices.immigration.go.tz)
- Yellow fever certificate (required for entry)
- Travel insurance with emergency evacuation (essential for Kili)
- Power bank and universal adapter
- Camera with zoom lens (200mm+ for safari)
💡 Book Serengeti safaris, Ngorongoro tours, Zanzibar excursions, and Kilimanjaro climbs through Viator Tanzania, and hotels through Booking.com.
FAQs: Tanzania Packing List
What bag should I use for a Tanzania safari?
A soft duffel or frameless backpack. Bush aircraft (Cessna 208s, etc.) serving the Serengeti have strict 15kg limits and require soft bags without frames. Store your main luggage in Arusha or Dar es Salaam.
What do I need for Kilimanjaro that I can’t rent?
Trekking boots (rent if well-fitted), base layers, and your specific prescription medications. Most other gear (poles, sleeping bags, down jackets) can be rented in Moshi or Arusha at reasonable cost. Check quality carefully before renting.