General Safari Clothing Guidelines
The right clothing can make your safari more comfortable, safer, and more enjoyable. In Tanzania, days are usually warm, but mornings and evenings can get quite chilly, especially in the dry season and at higher altitudes like Ngorongoro.
Key Principles:
- Neutral Colors: Wear beige, khaki, olive green, and brown. Bright colors can scare off animals; dark colors attract tsetse flies.
- Lightweight and Breathable: Natural fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking blends are ideal.
- Layering is Essential: Mornings are cool, afternoons are hot, and evenings can get cold.
Safari Clothing Essentials
| Clothing Item | Why You Need It |
|---|---|
| Long-sleeve shirts (lightweight) | Protects against sun and mosquitoes. |
| T-shirts | For hot afternoons. |
| Lightweight trousers/convertible pants | Comfort and sun protection. |
| Shorts (optional) | Good for hotter areas, but some prefer full coverage for insect protection. |
| Fleece jacket or warm sweater | Necessary for early morning and evening game drives. |
| Waterproof jacket or windbreaker | Handy during the rainy season or misty mornings. |
| Safari hat with a wide brim | Protection from the intense African sun. |
| Comfortable walking shoes or boots | For nature walks and general movement. |
| Sandals | For camp or lodge relaxation time. |
| Scarf or buff | Useful against dust during drives and chilly mornings. |
| Sunglasses (polarized) | Essential for strong African sun. |
| Swimsuit | Some lodges and camps have pools. |
Accessories and Special Gear
- Binoculars: Vital for spotting wildlife from a distance.
- Daypack: To carry essentials like water, sunscreen, and camera gear.
- Sunscreen: SPF 30 or higher.
- Insect repellent: Preferably with DEET.
- Headlamp/Flashlight: Camps often have limited lighting.
Safari Clothing Tips
- Avoid Camouflage Patterns: In some African countries, only military personnel wear camouflage. It’s best to avoid it to prevent misunderstandings.
- Don’t Overpack: Many safari lodges and camps offer laundry services.
- Dress Modestly: Especially when visiting villages, towns, or religious sites.
- Plan for Dust: Safari vehicles are often open-sided and dusty. Bandanas and buffs help cover your mouth and nose.
Special Considerations
- Rainy Season Safaris (March–May, November–December): Waterproof shoes, light rain jacket, and fast-drying clothes are crucial.
- Mount Kilimanjaro Trekkers: Prepare for sub-zero temperatures at night with thermal layers and heavy-duty gear.