What to wear on a Tanzania safari
Preparing your wardrobe and essential items for your upcoming safari in Tanzania doesn’t have to be complicated. Chances are, you already have everything you need in your closet! Our clothing recommendations are suitable for all seasons during a Tanzania safari. However, if you’re planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro or visit the renowned beaches of Zanzibar, there are different guidelines to consider.
Tanzania's weather
The prime months for wildlife viewing in Tanzania fall within the Dry season, which extends from late June to October. If you wish to witness the spectacular wildebeest migration in the Serengeti, plan your visit for June and July. For the wildebeest calving, the best time is late January to February. Tanzania’s main rainy season, often referred to as the ‘long rains,’ occurs in March, April, and May.
RECOMMENDED CLOTHING FOR SAFARI
To ensure comfort and convenience, it is advisable to pack casual, comfortable, and easily washable clothes. The goal is to travel light since most lodges and camps provide laundry services for a small fee. Safaris have an informal atmosphere, so there is no need for formal attire. However, it’s essential to dress in layers, as early morning game drives can be chilly depending on the time of year, while daytime temperatures can become quite warm. Stick to neutral or khaki colors and avoid wearing dark blue or black clothes, as they tend to attract tsetse flies. Don’t forget to bring wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent. After sunset, we recommend wearing long pants, long-sleeved shirts, socks, and applying insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites.
Here is a checklist of every piece of clothing you should take and what to wear on your Tanzania safari.
- T-shirts and tank tops
- Long-sleeved shirts (for sunburn protection)
- Shorts
- Lightweight long pants or convertible pants
- Warm fleece pullover or jacket
- Swimsuit
- Cotton socks and underwear
- Pajamas
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sandals or flip-flops
- Wide-brimmed hat
- Bandana (for dust)
- Heavy sweater, gloves, and hat if traveling during the cold season (June – August)
Extra items to pack for your safari trip
To ensure a smooth journey, we strongly recommend carrying important items in your carry-on luggage. These items include prescription medication, camera equipment, essential toiletries (considering liquid restrictions on flights), and one or two changes of clothes in case of delays or loss of checked baggage.
- Passport
- Plane tickets
- Travel Insurance Policy & Emergency Contact Numbers
- Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate (if required)
- Safari itinerary
- U.S. dollars in various denominations
- Credit cards and ATM bank cards
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Compact flashlight or headlamp
- Insect/Mosquito repellent
- Eye drops and extra contact lenses or spare glasses (if applicable)
- Antibacterial hand sanitizer
- Tissue paper and a small travel towel
- Camera, extra memory cards, batteries, and charger, if applicable
- UK plug adapter and transformer/voltage converter, if applicable
- Ziplock bags for toiletries, camera equipment, snacks, etc.
- Personal toiletries
Clothing to Wear In Zanzibar
When sightseeing in Stone Town or exploring areas outside of beach resorts in Zanzibar, it is advisable to dress modestly. Women should avoid wearing sleeveless or revealing tops, as well as short skirts or thigh-high shorts (Capri trousers or knee-length shorts are acceptable). Men should wear shirts and pants or knee-length shorts.
What to wear on a Tanzania safari in Different Months
Tanzania has a tropical climate with distinct rainy and dry seasons, so it’s important to consider the time of year when planning your safari attire. Here’s a guide on what to wear on your Tanzania safari in different months:
These months are considered the hot and dry season in Tanzania, with temperatures ranging from 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C). Light, breathable clothing is recommended during the day, such as loose-fitting cotton shirts and shorts or trousers. It’s important to bring a hat and sunglasses for protection against the sun, as well as sunscreen with a high SPF. For cooler evenings and early mornings, a light jacket or sweater is also recommended.
These months are the wet season in Tanzania, with rainfall occurring almost daily. Waterproof and quick-drying clothing is essential during this time, such as a rain jacket or poncho, as well as waterproof shoes or boots. It’s recommended to wear long pants and sleeves to protect against mosquito bites, and to bring insect repellent. Temperatures during this season can range from 68°F to 81°F (20°C to 27°C).
These months are the cool and dry season in Tanzania, with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). It’s important to bring warm clothing, such as a sweater or jacket, for early morning and evening game drives. During the day, light layers such as a long-sleeved shirt and pants are recommended, as well as a hat and sunglasses for sun protection. It’s also recommended to bring a waterproof jacket in case of unexpected rain.
These months are the short rainy season in Tanzania, with temperatures ranging from 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C). Quick-drying and waterproof clothing is recommended, as well as a rain jacket or poncho. Light and breathable clothing is still suitable during the day, and it’s important to bring a hat and sunglasses for sun protection. A light jacket or sweater is also recommended for cooler evenings and early mornings.
Final Thoughts on what to wear on a Tanzania safari
When preparing for a Tanzanian safari, comfort is key when it comes to clothing choices. By following this guide, you’ll have all the necessary information to pack appropriately and be fully prepared for your unforgettable adventure ! Are you ready for a safari? Hope this article of What to wear on a Tanzania safari will help you organise your next safari in the best condition.
