Safari Checklist

It is time for Africa!

So, your safari is booked and you’re ready to go, but now it’s time to pack.

You’ve probably heard horror stories about what you can and  can’t   bring, including the shocking fact that you’re limited to around  20kg (44 pounds). So, how do you make sure you bring everything you  need and nothing you don’t? 

General Packing List

• In general, pack lightly. Leave room for gifts and souvenirs. Soft sided luggage packs more easily into the safari vehicle.
• Always carry passport, airline tickets and money on your person. A fanny pack or moneybag that hangs around the neck works well.
• In case luggage doesn’t arrive the same day you do, put enough clothing and supplies for the first day in your carryon luggage.
• If taking a domestic flight luggage weight restrictions range between 15-20 kgs (33-44 lbs.) total per person.

Footwear

• Sturdy, comfortable shoes, preferably waterproof. They will get dirty.
• Tennis shoes or sandals for lounging in the evening
• Comfortable, breathable socks

Clothing

• Shorts, mid-thigh or longer (not advisable for village visits)
• Lightweight, breathable pants
• Short-sleeved shirts, cool and breathable (neutral colors are best, avoid black, dark blue and bright red)
• Bathing suit if staying at a lodge with a swimming pool or if visiting Zanzibar
• Long-sleeved fleece or sweater for evenings and/or early mornings
• Rain jacket or rain poncho
• Women: pants (capri-length or longer) and shirts that cover the shoulder are    advisable for village visits. Lightweight dresses or skirts that cover    the knees are optional depending on how rural your village visit is  but   can also be worn for evening dining at the accommodations.
• Men: short-sleeve shirts with collars (for visiting villages or evening dining at the accommodations).
• Keep valuable jewelry to a minimum

Note: Laundry service is available at most lodges either at a nominal cost or free of charge in some cases.

Baggage

• Day pack, for you to carry
• Large waterproof duffel bag or backpack

Other

• Sun hat
• Maps, guidebooks
• Scarf (for dust and/or sun)
• Batteries
• Sunglasses
• Binoculars (2 pair are standard in each vehicle –
• At least 2 Pairs of Binoculars (Nikon Monarch 8×36 or Eagle Optics Ranger 8×42)
• Money  (small Tanzanian bills and/or small US bills for small   purchases and  tips. Larger US bills and/or travelers checks for bigger   purchases)
• Journal/notebook, pencil and pen
• Pocket knife (for travelers doing basic camping)
• Electricity adapter
• Energy bars and snacks
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Playing cards, games, books, Frisbee
• Camera, memory cards, mini-tripod
• Mementos for guides and other travelers
• Personal music device
• Video camera
• Travel pillow

Toiletries

• Small hand towel (spare item)
• Roll of toilet paper (for some public restrooms)
• Soap
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Hand-wipes
• Lotion
• Glasses, contacts, solution
• Comb, mirror
• Shampoo (without heavy fragrance)
• Unscented Deodorant (use cologne/perfume sparingly, if at all, in case it might attract bees or other insects)

Documents

• Passport (with visa stamp or completed visa application with $50 or $100 US cash, exact change)
• Yellow fever certificate (REQUIRED if traveling from or through an endemic zone – refer to Medical Tips)
• Medical and Travel Insurance
• Address book

First Aid

• Ibuprofen
• Antiseptic cream
• Band-Aids
• Bandages and tape
• Sunscreen (SPF 15+)
• Diarrhea medicine
• Anti-malaria pills
• Antibiotics
• Insect repellent
• Antihistamines
• Lip balm with sunscreen o Prescription drugs

Electronics and Gadgets

• As  well as your phone, there is no doubt that you will want to   capture the  moments you experience during your safari, so a camera is   sure to be on  your list of essential items.
• Don’t  forget the charger for your camera (that goes for your   phone too!) and  spare batteries, as well as an extra memory card.   Universal plug  converters and binoculars are a must too!
• Don’t  forget to keep any electronics protected at all times,   especially if  you are planning to be in Tanzania during the rainy   season.
• Some extra protective coverings or waterproof bags to keep them in might prove useful.