What to pack for a Tanzania safari
Stick to lightweight, neutral-colored layers made of breathable fabrics like linen or moisture-wicking synthetics. Avoid blue and black as they attract tsetse flies, and always pack a warm fleece for cold early morning game drives.
- Select your color palette. Wear beige, tan, khaki, or light olive. These colors blend in with the environment and don't heat up in the sun. Avoid white (it gets dirty immediately) and dark blue or black (which are proven to attract tsetse flies).
- Master the 'onion' layering system. Early morning temperatures in the Ngorongoro Crater or Serengeti can drop to 50°F (10°C), while midday hits 90°F (32°C). Wear a base layer, a long-sleeve shirt, and a zip-up fleece or light down jacket that you can peel off as the day warms up.
- Choose the right fabrics. Avoid jeans; they are heavy, take forever to dry, and are uncomfortable in a hot vehicle. Use performance fabrics or high-quality linen that wicks sweat and protects you from the sun.
- Protect your feet and head. Wear sturdy, broken-in trail shoes or hiking boots. A wide-brimmed hat with a chin strap is essential—the wind in an open-topped safari vehicle will blow a baseball cap off within minutes.
- Do I really need to wear khaki?
- Yes. It’s not just for the 'safari look'—it hides dust, stays cooler in the sun, and keeps you from being a target for biting flies.
- Can I bring camouflage clothing?
- No. In many African countries, camouflage pattern clothing is restricted to military personnel. Avoid it to prevent unnecessary questioning at checkpoints.
- Is laundry available?
- Most safari lodges offer same-day or overnight laundry service. Pack for 4 days and wash your clothes as you go to keep your luggage weight down.