Planning a safari in Tanzania is exciting — but packing the right clothing is just as important as choosing the right park. The clothes you wear can affect not only your comfort but also your ability to blend into the natural surroundings and enjoy the experience fully.
In this ultimate safari style guide, we’ll cover exactly what to wear on a Tanzania safari, from clothing essentials to footwear, accessories, and packing tips.
General Safari Clothing Guidelines
- Neutral Colors: Stick to earthy tones like khaki, olive, beige, and brown. These colors blend into the environment and don’t attract unnecessary attention from wildlife.
- Avoid Bright Colors: Bright reds, yellows, and blues may disturb animals.
- No Camouflage: In Tanzania, camouflage is reserved for the military and is not allowed for tourists.
- Comfort First: You’ll spend long hours in safari vehicles — lightweight, breathable, and loose-fitting clothes are ideal.
Clothing by Safari Season
Dry Season (June – October)
- Lightweight long-sleeved shirts and trousers (sun protection + cooler evenings).
- A fleece or jacket for chilly mornings and nights.
- Sunglasses and a wide-brim hat.
Wet Season (November – May)
- Quick-dry clothing and waterproof jacket.
- Sturdy footwear (roads and camps may be muddy).
- Light layers, as daytime can still be warm.
Safari Clothing Essentials
- Shirts & Tops
- Long-sleeved, breathable shirts for sun and insect protection.
- Short-sleeved t-shirts for daytime game drives.
- Pants & Shorts
- Lightweight trousers that can zip off into shorts (versatile for changing weather).
- A pair of comfortable shorts for hot afternoons.
- Jackets & Outerwear
- Fleece jacket for cool evenings.
- Lightweight rain jacket if traveling in green season.
- Footwear
- Closed-toe walking shoes or hiking boots.
- Sandals or slip-ons for the camp/lodge.
- Accessories
- Wide-brim safari hat or cap.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Light scarf or bandana (for dust on game drives).
- Evening Wear at the Lodge
- Casual but neat clothing for dinner.
- Some lodges have a smart-casual dress code.
Packing Extras You Shouldn’t Forget
- Sunscreen (high SPF).
- Insect repellent (DEET recommended).
- Binoculars for game viewing.
- Reusable water bottle.
- Swimwear if your lodge has a pool.
Safari Style Tips
- Layer Up: Tanzanian temperatures vary — chilly mornings, hot afternoons, and cool evenings. Layers make it easy to adapt.
- Lightweight Fabrics: Choose cotton or moisture-wicking materials for comfort.
- Travel Light: Many domestic safari flights have strict luggage limits (15kg soft bags only).
Final Thoughts
The right safari wardrobe is about practicality, comfort, and blending with nature. By packing neutral, lightweight clothing and smart accessories, you’ll be ready for Tanzania’s incredible wildlife experiences — from sunrise game drives in the Serengeti to sunset dinners in the Ngorongoro Highlands.
Dress comfortably, stay prepared, and let the adventure take center stage.