What to Pack for a Safari from Zanzibar: The Ultimate Beach & Bush Checklist

Introduction: One Trip, Two Worlds

Packing for a Tanzania safari from Zanzibar is unlike any other trip.
You’re blending two distinct experiences — the breezy beaches of Zanzibar and the untamed wilderness of Tanzania’s national parks.

One moment, you’re lounging by turquoise waters; the next, you’re photographing elephants under golden light in the Serengeti.

To make the transition seamless, we’ve created the definitive packing guide — tailored for our 2-, 3-, 4-, and 5-day safari tours from Zanzibar, so you can focus on adventure, not logistics.

Start Light: What to Know Before You Pack

If you’re flying from Zanzibar to Serengeti, Ngorongoro, or Tarangire, remember:

Luggage limit: 15 kg per person (soft bags preferred)
Weather: Warm days (24–30 °C), cool mornings and evenings
Style: Lightweight, neutral clothing (avoid bright colors that attract insects)

???? Tip: Travel Wise Safari arranges safe storage for your extra beach luggage in Zanzibar — so you can pack only what you need for the bush.

Clothing: Blend Comfort with Practicality

For Safari Days

2–3 lightweight shirts (long-sleeved, neutral tones like khaki or olive)
2 pairs of trousers or safari pants
1 pair of comfortable shorts for midday heat
A wide-brimmed hat or cap for sun protection
Light jacket or fleece for cool mornings and evenings
Sturdy walking shoes or trainers

For the Beach Segment

Swimwear and beach cover-ups
Flip-flops or sandals
Casual evening wear for restaurants or resort dinners

Essentials & Toiletries

Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Lip balm with SPF
Insect repellent (DEET-based)
Hand sanitizer & wet wipes
Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant
Small towel or quick-dry travel towel

Many lodges on our Serengeti and Ngorongoro safaris provide eco-friendly toiletries, so you can pack lighter.

Safari Gear & Accessories

Camera with zoom lens for wildlife photography
Binoculars (8×42 recommended) for spotting animals from afar
Extra batteries & memory cards (charging may be limited at remote camps)
Power bank & universal adapter
Reusable water bottle
Light daypack for snacks, sunscreen, and your camera

On our 3-Day Serengeti Fly-In Safari from Zanzibar, you’ll want to keep your gear handy — those sunrise scenes are unforgettable.

Health & Safety Items

Prescription medications in original packaging
Malaria prophylaxis (consult your doctor)
Small first-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, motion-sickness tablets)
Travel insurance documents
Face masks or scarves (helpful during dusty drives)

Documents & Money

copyright & flight tickets
Printed safari itinerary (provided by Travel Wise Safari)
Credit/debit card (most lodges accept them)
Small USD notes for tips and souvenirs

???? Tip: Tipping drivers and guides is customary in Tanzania — around USD 20 pp/day is appreciated for excellent service.

Recommended Packing per Safari Duration

2-Day Tanzania Safari from Zanzibar

Parks: Tarangire & Ngorongoro
Pack light — 1 outfit per day, one jacket, and one pair of shoes.
✅ Ideal for a quick escape from the beach.
???? 2-Day Tanzania Safari from Zanzibar

3-Day Serengeti Fly-In Safari from Zanzibar

Park: Serengeti National Park
Add one extra outfit and camera accessories.
✅ Perfect for couples, honeymooners, and photography lovers.
???? 3-Day Serengeti Fly-In Safari from Zanzibar

4-Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Safari from Zanzibar

Parks: Serengeti + Ngorongoro
Include a few more layers for chilly crater mornings.
✅ Great for travelers wanting variety and comfort.
???? 4-Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Safari from Zanzibar

???? 5-Day Tanzania Safari from Zanzibar

Parks: Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire & Manyara
Pack smart — rotating 2–3 sets of neutral clothes works best.
✅ For travelers who want to experience it all.
???? 5-Day Tanzania Safari from Zanzibar

Packing for All Seasons

Season	Months	What to Add
Dry Season	June – October	Hat, sunscreen, light clothing
Green Season	November – May	Light rain jacket, waterproof shoes
Calving Season (Ndutu)	Jan – March	Layered clothes for cool mornings

No matter when you go, Travel Wise Safari ensures you have clean water, comfortable lodges, and expert local guidance — all included in your safari package.

Pro Packing Tips from Travel Wise Safari

???? Use soft duffel bags — they fit better in small aircraft.
???? Roll clothes instead of folding — saves space.
???? Stick to earthy tones — animals see movement more than color.
???? Pack biodegradable products — protect Tanzania’s environment.
???? Leave room for souvenirs — handmade Maasai jewelry and local art are irresistible!

Final Thoughts

A Tanzania Safari from Zanzibar is more than a holiday — it’s two worlds in perfect harmony.
Pack light, trust the experts, and get ready for one of life’s greatest adventures.

Whether you’re flying for 2 days of Tarangire & Ngorongoro, or 5 days across Serengeti’s endless plains, every detail is handled for you by Travel Wise Safari — from flights to lodges and everything in between.

Ready to Travel Light & Adventure Big?

See all our safari packages starting directly from Zanzibar:
Travel Wise Safari – Safari from Zanzibar