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what to pack
The Ultimate Packing List for
Your African Safari
You’ve made the thrilling decision to embark on an African safari with Boho Afrika—how exciting! As you get ready for this adventure of a lifetime, you’re probably wondering, “What should I pack?” Between looking stylish for those picture-perfect moments and staying practical for the wild terrain, packing can be a bit of a challenge. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with the ultimate packing guide to ensure you’re fully prepared for the wonders that await in Tanzania’s incredible landscapes.
Table of Contents
Documents: Don’t Leave Home Without These!
Before you even think about clothing or gear, let’s get the paperwork in order:
Passport:
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your entry date into Tanzania. It should also have blank pages for stamps.
*Pro Tip:* Keep a digital and hard copy backup of your passport, just in case.
Vaccination Certificate:
If you’re traveling from a country at risk for Yellow Fever, Tanzania requires proof of vaccination. Make sure you check in with your doctor or travel clinic about additional vaccines like Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, or Tetanus.
Visa:
A tourist visa is required. You can obtain one at the airport for $50 USD (or $100 USD for U.S. citizens), or apply online for convenience. Payments at the airport are in cash, so plan accordingly.
*Boho Tip:* Always carry a printed copy of your visa and confirmation documents.
Travel Insurance:
Do not skip this! Whether it’s trip cancellations, lost luggage, or medical emergencies, ensure you have coverage that includes evacuation, especially if you’re heading into the wild.
Money Matters: Cash, Cards & Tipping
When it comes to money, a little preparation goes a long way:
Currency:
The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the local currency, but U.S. dollars are widely accepted for tips, tours, and souvenir shopping. If you’re planning to venture outside the safari circuit, TZS is your best bet. ATMs are available in larger towns, but they’re not always reliable. Boho Tip: Always have small bills on hand for local markets and tipping your guides or lodge staff.Credit Cards:
Visa and MasterCard are generally accepted at hotels and lodges, but keep in mind that transaction fees are often applied. Amex users might struggle, so stick with Visa or MasterCard.Tipping:
On safari, tipping is customary, so plan to tip your guide about $10-$20 USD per day, and $5-$10 USD for camp staff.
Luggage: Keep It Light and Mobile
Safari-Ready Clothing: Blend Comfort with Style
Your safari wardrobe should be a blend of comfort, protection, and adaptability. Think lightweight, breathable layers that will keep you cool during the day but warm during those early morning game drives when the air is crisp. And while Boho Afrika loves a splash of color, we recommend neutral tones to blend into the environment and avoid startling wildlife.
Neutral Colors:
Earth tones like khaki, olive, and beige are best for blending in with the environment. These colors also attract less heat and help keep bugs at bay. Leave the bright colors and patterns at home—they won’t help with wildlife spotting!Layers:
Mornings and evenings can get chilly, so pack layers. A lightweight fleece or windbreaker is perfect for cool dawn game drives, while breathable shirts and trousers will keep you comfortable during the day. A sports bra for those bumpy rides is highly recommended for women.Hats & Sunglasses:
The African sun is no joke. Bring a wide-brimmed hat with a chin strap to stay cool and keep it from flying off in the wind. Sunglasses with UV protection are also a must.Shoes:
Comfortable, breathable walking shoes or lightweight hiking boots are essential. A pair of flip-flops or sandals is great for lounging at camp.Swimwear:
Many lodges have pools, and you’ll want to cool off in between game drives.Scarf or Pashmina:
These can double as a wrap for warmth on chilly evenings or protection from the dust during a drive.
Safari Gear: Tools for the Ultimate Experience
Beyond the basics, a few key items will enhance your safari experience:
Binoculars:
These are essential for spotting wildlife from a distance. Your guide will have a pair, but having your own can really make a difference.
Camera:
Whether you’re a photography pro or just want to snap memories, a good camera with a zoom lens will be invaluable. Bring extra memory cards and a portable charger or power bank to keep your devices ready for action.
Boho Tip: Keep your camera in a dustproof bag while on the move.
Sunscreen & Insect Repellent:
The sun is strong, and insects are plentiful in the bush. High-SPF sunscreen and DEET-based repellent will be your best friends.
Headlamp or Flashlight:
Some camps or lodges have limited lighting at night, so having a headlamp can be useful when moving around in the dark.
Toiletries & Meds: Keep It Simple
Most lodges provide basic toiletries, but bring your personal favorites:
Travel-Sized Toiletries: Shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothpaste—just the essentials. Keep in mind that many camps are eco-friendly, so biodegradable products are a plus.
Medications: Bring any personal medications, along with some over-the-counter essentials like antihistamines, painkillers, and anti-diarrheal meds. Motion sickness pills or bands are helpful for small-plane flights or boat rides.
Extras You’ll Be Grateful For
Reusable Water Bottle:
Stay hydrated and eco-friendly by bringing your own bottle. Many camps offer filtered water for refills.Travel Journal:
Keep track of your amazing experiences. There’s nothing like writing down your thoughts while on safari, especially with the breathtaking views surrounding you.Wet Wipes:
Dusty game drives call for a quick refresh. You’ll appreciate having these handy towelettes around.
Packing for Purpose: Sustainability on Safari
At Boho Afrika, we’re all about sustainable travel. Consider packing reusable items like bamboo utensils, cloth bags, and eco-friendly toiletries to help minimize your environmental impact. Your adventure through Africa’s wild landscapes doesn’t just enrich your life—it helps support local communities and protects the ecosystems we visit.
Additional Packing Tips
PREPARATION
Inventory Check: Gather your belongings and take inventory of what you still need.
Purchase Essentials: Buy any necessary travel items.
Consolidate Gear: If traveling with family or a group, consider sharing items like insect repellent or first aid supplies to save space and reduce weight. Laundry
Excess Baggage:
If your trip includes multiple destinations requiring more than the standard packing list, you can store excess baggage in Arusha with advance notice. If needed, additional weight allowance for internal flights may be purchased—please check availability with us.
ADDITIONAL PACKING TIPS ORGANIZING
Organising and Labeling Bags:
Place your address on a piece of paper inside your bags in case a luggage tag is lost. Seal important items like camera gear and documents in waterproof/dustproof stuff sacks. Seal any liquid items like toiletries in waterproof bags. Take a photo of your bags once packed in case you need to file a claim for lost luggage.
Note: Single-use plastic bags are banned in Tanzania, Rwanda, and Kenya. Take a photo of your bags once packed in case you need to file a claim for lost luggage.
Toiletries:
Camps and lodges provide shampoo, conditioner, and soap. If you prefer your own brands, bring a small amount from home.
TO KNOW
Plastic Bags:
Not allowed in Tanzania. Ziploc® bags are acceptable for storing toiletries, but single-use grocery and garbage bags are banned. Reusable alternatives like mesh or nylon packing cubes or stuff sacks are recommended.
Safari Car Time:
Expect to spend significant time in the safari vehicle. Be prepared for walking safaris and cultural tours with sturdy walking shoes.
Weather Considerations:
Tanzania's weather can vary depending on altitude and time of day. Bring layers for added warmth during early mornings and late nights.
Ready for Your Adventure?
Packing for a safari is all about balance: bringing enough to be prepared but not overpacking. With Boho Afrika, we believe in conscious travel—embracing the spirit of adventure while respecting the places we visit and the people we meet.
So, as you prepare for your journey, let this list be your guide to packing light, packing smart, and most of all—packing with purpose. We can’t wait to see you out there, exploring Africa’s wild beauty and making memories that will last a lifetime. Happy travels!
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