If you’re considering a trip to Tanzania, you’re in for a real treat. This is a country with stunning mountains and beaches, thrilling adventure activities, and incredibly friendly people.
Packing can be overwhelming and hard to get right, so I’ve provided a list of what to wear in Tanzania, other items to pack, what NOT to take, and FAQs about the country to help you plan your trip.
Remember that this country has a lot to offer as long as you’re open to it and willing to be flexible!
If you’re coming from the U.S. and your packing list for Tanzania includes a camera, phone, or laptop, you’ll need an adapter to charge them. For the most part, Tanzania uses the same type of electrical plugs as the U.K., so that’s the main adapter you’ll need. However, outlets that take either two or three-round pins also exist in Tanzania, so you should bring both adapters just in case. This universal one will have you covered for visiting Tanzania and going just about anywhere else.
The tap water in Tanzania isn’t safe for Western visitors to drink, and it should be avoided. While bottled water is available for purchase, it results in a lot of plastic garbage, and the cost will start to add up. The Grayl filtration system solves both problems and is one of the easiest options for filtering your own drinking water. It removes pathogens, bacteria, viruses, sediment, and more. It’s not the cheapest, but it will help prevent a trip to the emergency room. Plus, it can sit in the side pocket of your backpack for easy transport.
Tanzania’s most common crime is online theft. Like much of the world, there has been a large increase in cybersecurity attacks (including phishing, ransomware, malware, data breaches, and identity theft). Many people don’t think about it until it’s too late. I learned the hard way after my credit card number was stolen – that using unfamiliar Wi-Fi can put your data and financial information at risk of being hacked.
A VPN like those provided by NordVPN allows you to connect securely to available networks while shielding you from hackers via an additional layer of encryption. It also “unlocks” access to blocked content and sites in countries that censor internet access, so it’s useful to have no matter where you’re going – even if it’s just to your local cafe!
Pro tip: Get yours before booking your airfare since a VPN can offer discounted flight tickets due to the anonymous IP address (no more geo-targeted pricing, baby! Woo!)
Your passport is one of the few things that you literally cannot travel to Tanzania without. Use a passport holder like this one to keep it safe, and organize your other valuables too. This one can hold your passport as well as your credit and debit cards, cash, and even a cell phone. It also prevents pickpockets from being able to reach your valuables when you are in more crowded places and has RFID-blocking material to stop e-thieves.
Available on HeroTravelSupply.com with an exclusive 15% discount using the coupon code “HERO”.
Since most flights to Tanzania are not direct and will exceed 15 hours if traveling from the U.S. (not to mention the time change), jet lag relief will be your best friend. This brand is all-natural and uses botanicals like chamomile to help you adjust with less exhaustion. Way better than comparable brands that use caffeine and other stimulants, which results in a crash later.
Frankly, I wouldn’t travel to Africa without travel insurance, particularly since your domestic provider does not cover you outside of the country. In our opinion, it’s a non-negotiable to cover any surprises that come up, like cancelations, delays, theft, baggage loss, evacuations, and medical emergencies (which can rack up hefty international bills!) It’s worth it to avoid the financial headache of paying out-of-pocket for preventable expenses.
Coverage is surprisingly affordable and Faye is our go-to provider because they reimburse you quickly through their mobile app. With a motto based on helping their customers now and asking questions later – they get you the money when you need it most instead of making you fill out heaps of paperwork and plead a case. You’ll have 24/7 support from a global claims team and it costs about 3% of your trip on average. But if you end up needing it, the cost will cover itself.
If you’re planning to spend time outdoors in Tanzania, which you almost certainly are, you may end up getting some scrapes, bites, or blisters. To be prepared, a small First-Aid kit should be part of your packing checklist. Don’t drive yourself crazy trying to pack supplies for every possible scenario that might come up; a simple kit like this one has gauze, sterilizers, bandaids, and everything else you’d need.
Packing cubes are an absolute game-changer when it comes to organizing and packing your things for a trip. This set comes with five cubes of varying sizes, making it easy to group my belongings together so I can find things. They really transform your luggage from a jumbled mess to organized perfection. The two laundry bags are also a huge bonus because that’s something I always forget to pack but are essential to keeping your clean and dirty clothes separate.
As in most of Africa, hygiene standards in Tanzania are lower than they are in the West. Even if you’re careful about what you eat and drink, there’s a chance you could still end up getting sick. Bringing activated charcoal is a good way to be prepared in case the worst happens. Since you can get food poisoning by anything from gourmet meals to tap water ice – it’s a wise precaution when encountering a new country’s local bacteria. These capsules will absorb the toxins in your system and help put an end to the dreaded traveler’s diarrhea.
If you do end up getting sick, taking electrolyte powder mixed with your water will help mitigate some of the symptoms. Travelers’ diarrhea often leads to dehydration, which is especially serious in hot climates, so it’s critical to replenish the electrolytes you’re losing. Even when you’re healthy, dehydration can still be an issue if you’re visiting one of Tanzania’s hotter regions. These will supercharge your water and energize you for long days outside.
A quick-dry towel has to be one of the most useful things you can pack on any trip. They are compact, fast-drying, and odor resistant. They’re great for activities like water-excursions, sunbathing, and hiking. I always like to keep one in my daypack because you never know when you might need to dry off especially when you’re in a hot country with plenty of beautiful beaches like Tanzania!
Swim with dolphins, ride in a hot air balloon over the Serengeti, and take an authentic safari. Tanzania is bustling with adventure and beautiful sights around every corner. We use Get Your Guide to book the most authentic tours in popular cities. They have flexible cancelation options and reviews that can vouch for the epicness of each excursion. This allows you peace of mind that you’re booking with reputable hosts, plus you never get stuck in a lackluster experience!
Modesty can be a big thing in many countries, and there are times in Tanzania when you’ll want to exhibit discretion without revealing too much skin. This swimsuit cover-up is handy not only for that reason, but also because it’s often much easier to just throw on a cute cover instead of getting fully dressed when hanging out poolside or stepping away from the beach for a quick lunch. This one is so flattering and comfortable, retaining its shape even when wet.
Whether you’re walking through a city or in an area where your shoes may get wet – these Crocs are very resilient. They are mostly waterproof so my wife uses them when we’re trekking through mud, dirt, gravel, or trash (in places like India where the streets aren’t very clean). Here’s a pair for men. We find them light for walking around and easy to hose off at the end of the day.
When visiting Tanzania, you’ll likely be spending a lot of time outdoors along the coastline or in one of the many national parks and reserves. It gets HOT and the sun can be very strong here, so it’s important to keep yourself cool when spending long days in the wild. A cooling towel is the perfect solution because it easily fits into a daybag and gives you immediate relief from the heat. As soon as you wet the towel, it becomes 20-30 degrees cooler than the air temperature and can keep cool for up to an hour! Simply add more water for more cooling luxury.
I really like that mosquito wristbands give me a DEET-free option that lasts all day. It’s especially convenient to wear them as a bracelet instead of reapplying toxic fumes constantly. They’re effective and easy to use, though I sometimes still opt to add a layer of natural insect repellent spray in especially buggy areas, just in case.
Tanzania has two rainy seasons, one at the beginning of the year and the other at the end of the year. Bringing along a compact travel umbrella would be wise so that you are prepared when the weather changes quickly. So much of Tanzania’s beauty is outdoors so you’ll want to stay dry with a reliable umbrella so that the weather doesn’t stop you from going out and exploring.
What if you were in the middle of a safari and your camera or phone battery ran out? What if you were in a rushed or precarious situation on your travels and needed to access something on your phone, but it didn’t have enough battery? This has happened to me before, and it was a hard lesson learned. I now carry one of these small travel chargers with me wherever I go so that I can recharge my devices while I’m on the move. This one is my favorite, its small size and strong power make it especially handy.
As you island hop across Tanzania and swim with dolphins and turtles – a waterproof phone case will be a must-have. Not only will it protect your device (Apple or Android) from water, sand, and dirt, but it will also allow you to take underwater videos with sound! Don’t forget to attach the flotation strap so you avoid losing your electronics to a sharp coral reef or foggy lake.
Along this same line of thinking, a dry bag will be ideal for carrying all phones, credit cards, keys, towels, books, makeup, or anything else you want to keep dry! As you boat around, snorkel, or hang out along the coast, this one by Earth Pak is a great option because it actually works! You can fold it with air inside so it will float too.
The wildlife watching is top-notch in Africa! Binoculars are useful to have for any beautiful landscape, especially on sightseeing adventures like safaris and nature hikes, but they can be expensive if you spring for the full-size ones. These travel binoculars are great quality and much more affordable so you can catch all of the best views without hurting your travel budget.
I always end up feeling sticky and sweaty during adventurous days, and I don’t like feeling that way for hours while I’m waiting for a shower. I’ve started carrying these individually wrapped deodorant wipes with me, and they’re lifesavers! I tuck a few into my daypack, and that way, I can freshen up whenever I need to. These ones have a neutral scent for men and women and are great for sensitive skin.
In Tanzania, the roads and sidewalks are often uneven, so carry-on luggage that rolls is a pain to haul around. I use this backpack both as a carry-on bag and as my daypack for the duration of my travels. VenturePal is a super popular brand among travelers, and this model is both sturdy and comfortable. It has tons of pockets and folds up into its own little bag when not in use. It’s the perfect, lightweight travel bag.
Pickpocketing and petty theft is not uncommon in Tanzania, and skillful con artists often work in crowded areas like markets, airports, and transport stations. We bring a couple sets of these locks for city lockers, our backpacks or things out of sight, and suitcases that are checked during international flights (they’re TSA-approved, so they won’t have to cut them off).
When it rains in Tanzania, it pours! Not only that, but the topography of the region can mean that rains sneak up on you. I always carry a packable rain jacket with me. This one is my favorite because it’s light as a feather yet fully keeps me dry. It’s made of a material that allows steam from inside the jacket to escape as well, so it releases trapped sweat and heat to keep your temperature regulated.
After trying to find a bathroom in the middle of nowhere – in the dark! – I always recommend traveling to rural areas with a headlamp. There are virtually no streetlights in many areas of Tanzania, and the blackness of night can get seriously dark. Instead of trying to navigate feeling blind, bring along your own lighting to keep your footing and maintain your safety.
Bathroom situations in Tanzania may not be what you’re used to – often, they’re understocked or very dirty, and sometimes it’s hard to even find a Western-style bathroom at all. Carrying travel toilet paper that’s biodegradable is the way to go. You never know when you’ll need it, and you do not want to be caught without it when you do! Women should bring a female urination device so they can pee standing up (you won’t regret having it!)
Bathroom storage in Africa, Europe, and many parts of the world can be virtually non-existent. In case you are camping or staying in an accommodation with zero countertop space, having a hanging toiletries bag is a relief! This one has 4 giant pockets that can hold dozens of hygiene products. We never travel without these since it can hold the whole family’s self-care routine.
If you’re prone to any motion or seak sickness, we recommend having these all-natural patches on hand. My wife field-tested these compared to other brands, and this product came out on top as the most effective! It stops her nausea in its tracks for boating excursions, ATVs, windy roads, and horseback rides (and other activities you’ll surely be doing in Tanzania). Smart to have, just in case!
The best clothing to wear in Tanzania varies by destination and timing. Though much of the country is hot year-round, some of the most popular destinations are in the mountains, and the higher elevations mean much colder temperatures.
Regardless, clothing for Tanzania needs to be modest, especially for women, so bring items that cover your knees and shoulders. Tanzanians dress nicely – they see underdressed tourists as sloppy and disrespectful, so don’t plan to wear your safari gear or sweats around town.
Like most of Africa, Tanzania’s culture requires women to dress modestly. Shorts and miniskirts are a no-go, and female visitors should opt instead for capris, pants, and skirts or dresses that come at least to the knee. Sleeveless tops are acceptable if they have a wider strap and aren’t too low-cut, but something with sleeves will be more appropriate in rural areas. Much of the country is hot and humid, so clothes made from lightweight fabrics will be most comfortable.
Bring a jacket or sweater for the evenings, just in case, and warmer pants for trekking in the mountains. For most visitors, a pair of flip-flops is essential, but shoes that are comfortable for walking will also come in handy. If you plan on hiking or trekking, some good hiking shoes or boots are also essential.
Bring t-shirts, button-downs, and pants made from lightweight fabrics. If you’re traveling away from the coast, you’ll probably need at least a jacket or sweater for the evenings as well. For trekking or going up in the mountains, warmer clothes and items you can layer are critical. You’ll also want a pair of sandals, some shoes that are good for walking, and a pair of hiking shoes or boots if you plan to do any trekking.
Though the weather varies throughout the country, Tanzania’s climate is generally characterized by two rainy seasons and two dry seasons (one short and one long). Temperatures tend to be fairly stable year-round in much of the country, although most regions experience a slight dip during the summer months, due to Tanzania’s location in the southern hemisphere. Ultimately, though, when deciding what to wear in Tanzania, the elevation is just as important as the season.
Spring is when Tanzania’s “long rainy season” occurs, and these are the wettest months of the year. Humidity is also high, and temperatures regularly climb to 90°F (32°C) and above.
To stay comfortable in the high humidity, pack lightweight, breathable clothing, but bring a light jacket for the evenings (unless you’re only visiting the coast or the islands, where you won’t need it). Since there are heavy rains, make sure to bring a light rain jacket and a sturdy umbrella, as well as a pair of shoes that dry fast and are easy to clean. Plastic or rubber sandals with good traction are usually the best shoes for Tanzania during the rainy season. Temperatures average between 75°F and 85°F (24°C to 29°C).
Since Tanzania is in the southern hemisphere, summer is actually slightly cooler than other seasons, and it’s also less humid. This is the “long dry season” in Tanzania, and there is very little rain in most of the country.
At low elevations, including in Dar es Salaam, even the coolest season is still hot. But temperatures frequently dip into the 40s Fahrenheit in the Arusha, and it gets even colder higher in the mountains. If you’re headed there, you’ll need warm clothes, especially at night. No matter what part of Tanzania you visit, you probably won’t need any rain gear this time of year. Temperatures average between 70°F and 80°F (21°C to 27°C).
Early fall is still dry in Tanzania, but the “short rainy season” usually starts in November. Temperatures in most of the country climb slightly throughout the fall months.
During the fall, the most comfortable clothes at lower elevations will be tops, pants, and dresses made from lightweight fabrics. You’re likely to encounter some rain if you visit later in the season, so bring a rain jacket and an umbrella as well. Temperatures average between 80°F and 90°F (27°C to 32°C).
The “short rainy season” usually continues into December, but the rest of the winter months make up the “short dry season.” January and February are the hottest months of the year, with temperatures frequently climbing above 100°F (38°C) at lower elevations.
To deal with the heat, stick to lightweight fabrics, and don’t cover up more than modesty requires. At higher elevations, though, you’ll need some warm clothes even during these hottest months. It’s also a good idea to bring a rain jacket or umbrella anytime in the winter. Temperatures average between 85°F and 95°F (29°C to 35°C).
At beaches that are far from the tourist trail, local people will be more conservative and less accustomed to swimwear-clad foreigners; in that case, I’d recommend wearing a modest one-piece suit and covering up when you’re out of the water unless the beach is totally deserted (and many are!). Men can wear either briefs or swim trunks at any beach but do put on a shirt once you’re off the sand. The standard beach footwear for Tanzania is flip-flops, of course. But if you’re planning on doing anything more active in the water, a pair of water shoes or sturdier sandals is a good idea.
Trekking – Tanzania is renowned for its trekking; after all, Mt. Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa and the highest free-standing mountain in the world. But if you don’t have the time or funds for the week-long climb, there are plenty of other trekking options, including day hikes that are suitable for all levels. In general, you should plan to have three layers: a sweat-wicking base layer (like a fitted merino wool t-shirt), an insulated mid-layer (like a fleece jacket), and a wind- and waterproof outer layer (like a rain jacket). Layering will make it easy to stay comfortable throughout the day, as the temperatures change or you work up a sweat hiking.
Layers are less important on the bottom, and in warmer conditions, a pair of hiking pants is sufficient. But for higher elevations and colder climates, including Mt. Kilimanjaro and Mt. Meru, bring a pair of leggings or long underwear to wear beneath your pants. For those treks, you’ll also need a hat and a pair of gloves to stay warm. While you can get away with wearing tennis shoes for easy day hikes, waterproof hiking boots are a necessity for Tanzania’s longer and more strenuous treks – just make sure you break them in before your trip. For multi-day hikes, you’ll probably also appreciate having another pair of comfortable shoes to change into at night.
Safaris – For many visitors, the chance to go on a safari is Tanzania’s main attraction. But since it’s such an unusual experience, most will question what to wear for such an occasion. Most of your time will be spent sitting in a vehicle, taking easy walks, or hanging out at a lodge – honestly, I’ve really never seen a need for the tactical-looking vests and cargo pants usually marketed as African safari clothes. That said, it’s a good idea to dress in neutral colors, which will help you blend into your surroundings and cause less disturbance to the wildlife. The best safari clothing for Tanzania will depend on the time of year, but bringing items that will easily layer is always the best way to stay comfortable.
For the most part, Tanzania’s safari destinations are hot during the day, so tops and pants made from lightweight fabrics will be the most comfortable. Since you’ll likely spend a lot of time in the sun, a hat and sunglasses are also a good idea. In addition to a lightweight safari outfit, I’d suggest bringing a fleece jacket, as well as a pair of heavier pants (or a base layer to wear under thinner pants), as it can get cold in the morning in open-air vehicles. Lastly, closed-toed shoes will be best for keeping your toes warm during chilly game drives, and a pair of sturdy sandals will be convenient for walking around camp.
Between the long flights to Tanzania and the downtime at the beach or during safaris, you’ll have plenty of time to catch up on some reading. But even just a couple books will be heavy and bulky in your luggage. Opt for a Kindle instead, and you’ll save on space and weight.
Tanzania can get cold in the mountains, but unless you’re planning to spend all your time there, you won’t need tons of warm clothes. Just bring enough for those days, and you’ll probably want to wear lighter-weight clothes the rest of the time.
Tanzania is a safe country for tourists, but there’s always a risk that things can get stolen or lost while traveling. There’s no reason to risk bringing unnecessary electronics and having something happen to them.
Many packing lists for Tanzania and elsewhere in Africa include a mosquito net, but it’s generally not worth it. If a net is necessary, hotels will normally provide one. If they don’t, it’s usually not possible to hang up your own anyway.
A towel definitely belongs on the list of things to take to Tanzania, but choose the quick-dry kind that are designed for travel. A regular towel takes up tons of space in your bag and takes forever to dry.
Except in the most rural areas, there are ATMs throughout Tanzania, so you should have no problem accessing cash once you get there. Just don’t forget your debit card!
If you have jewelry that’s expensive, or just sentimental, it’s better left at home. There’s always some risk of getting pickpocketed or otherwise having things lost or stolen while you’re traveling, so don’t bring anything you’d be too upset to lose.
The Tanzania dress code is conservative, and women should generally avoid exposing their thighs (except at the beach). Leave the short skirts and shorts at home, and opt for something at least knee-length instead.
Tanzania is one of the safest countries in Africa, and also among the most commonly visited. There are some risks involved, of course, as there are with traveling anywhere, and it’s important to use common sense and be aware of your surroundings.
Though pickpocketing happens in certain areas, violent crime against foreigners is quite rare, so you can rest assured that there’s little risk. There are, however, occasional safety advisories, so be sure to check travel warnings before you go.
Poor hygiene standards can pose a risk to Western travelers in Tanzania, so it’s important to take a few precautions.
Make sure you’re up to date on all the basic vaccinations: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, polio, chickenpox, MMR (measles-mumps-rubella), and Tdap (tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis). The two additional vaccinations recommended for travel to Tanzania are typhoid and yellow fever; a rabies vaccine is only needed for people who will be coming into contact with animals or taking extended trips to remote areas. Malaria prophylaxis is also recommended, as is sleeping under a bed net in areas where mosquitos are prevalent (check with your accommodations for tips and a net when necessary).
Although it’s fine for brushing your teeth, Westerners in Tanzania should avoid drinking tap water. Bottled water is widely available, or you can treat your water by boiling, filtering, or chlorinating it. You should also be careful to avoid beverages made with water or ice. Lastly, make sure your food has been thoroughly cooked and is hot when it’s served to you, and skip raw fruits and vegetables unless they have a peel or skin you can remove.
Tanzania is a large enough country that its weather varies considerably by region.
Temperatures in the capital of Dar es Salaam typically range between the mid-60s and the upper-80s Fahrenheit but can get much higher elsewhere.
The interior of the country tends to be cooler and less humid. While most people think of Tanzania as a tropical country, it’s also one of the few in Africa that has glaciers and gets snow.
Serengeti
Due to its proximity to the equator, Tanzania does not experience the four seasons. Rather, the country has two rainy seasons and two dry seasons. The main wet season is from March to May, and a shorter one lasts from November to January.
When it comes to getting around Tanzania, travelers have a few options. The most common (and cheapest) way to get around is by bus. Buses connect most of the country, although they’re less frequent in remote areas. Bus options range from the rickety and overcrowded dalla-dallas to air-conditioned luxury buses that provide drinks and snacks. Or, if you can afford it, flying is much faster and more comfortable, and also safer than taking the bus. Over a dozen towns in Tanzania have commercial airports, including all the main tourist destinations. Tanzania also has a train system, although it’s incredibly slow and only runs a few times per week.
For Americans visiting Tanzania, a tourist visa is required. Visas can be obtained in advance at Tanzanian embassies or on arrival in Tanzania.
If you plan to get your visa on arrival, make sure you bring new, undamaged U.S. dollars to pay for it.
Check current travel information to gather details about cost and logistics long before you travel.
Yes. You’ll find ATMs in all major towns throughout Tanzania and shouldn’t have any problem accessing cash. If you do plan to spend an extended amount of time in very rural areas, though, you’ll probably want to withdraw enough money ahead of time to cover those days.
Many cafes and hotels in Tanzania’s major towns have Wi-Fi connections, though they can be slow at times. Much of the country also has 4G cell service, which you can access from your phone with a local SIM card. Again, it may be slow, but it’s usually sufficient for emails, texting apps, and basic websites. Make sure you use a VPN to protect your sensitive data from hackers! Otherwise, you may find yourself having to deal with identity theft while overseas – NOT fun (trust me).
Over a hundred languages are used across Tanzania, but Swahili is the official language and the most commonly spoken. Most Tanzanians speak their ethnic group’s language as their native tongue and Swahili as their second language.
English is the second official language in Tanzania and is widely spoken, especially in major towns and by those working in the tourism and hospitality industries. Tourists who speak only English will be able to travel in Tanzania without too much difficulty.
One of the most important things to keep in mind about Tanzanian culture is that it’s quite conservative; women should generally dress modestly, and public displays of affection should be avoided. Travelers should also be aware of settings where smoking or drinking in excess might be frowned upon, especially in rural areas.
Greetings are important in Tanzania, and it’s customary to greet each person in a group individually. Tanzanians also take hospitality seriously. It is considered rude to turn down things that are offered to you, especially food, so travelers should accept things that are given to them whenever possible. Lastly, the left hand is considered unclean in Tanzania, so do your best to use your right hand for eating and for handing things to people.
Tanzania is best known for its wildlife and is one of Africa’s premier safari destinations.
The country has over a dozen national parks, but the Serengeti is by far the most famous and is especially known for the annual wildebeest migration.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area, site of a 100-square-mile volcanic crater, is one of the country’s other top places to see wildlife.
Active travelers will have plenty of options to choose from as well. Mt. Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest mountain, although Mt. Meru is actually a more technical climb. There are also great trekking options near Ngorongoro Crater and in the Usambara Mountains.
Lastly, the island of Zanzibar is an incredibly popular tourist destination and is home to stunning beaches and fascinating history and culture. There’s plenty to do on the island, including snorkeling, diving, and kitesurfing, as well as great shopping, spas, and food.
