Your First Tanzania Safari: A Step-by-Step Planning Checklist
A step-by-step checklist for first-time visitors planning a Tanzania safari, from choosing dates and parks to documents, health, packing and money.
Planning a first safari can feel overwhelming. There are parks to choose, seasons to understand, documents to prepare and a packing list that looks nothing like a normal vacation. The good news is that it breaks down into a clear sequence of decisions.
This is the checklist our team in Arusha walks through with first-time guests. Work through it in order and you will arrive relaxed, prepared and ready to enjoy the bush.
Quick tips
- Lock in your dates and operator first, then book flights around them.
- Apply for your visa only through the official Tanzania e-visa portal.
- Pack in a soft-sided bag and leave plastic carrier bags at home.
- Bring a mix of US dollars and a card, with notes in good condition.
- Keep printed and digital copies of your passport, visa and insurance.
Six to twelve months before
The big decisions come first, because they shape everything else.
- Choose your travel month based on wildlife, weather and budget.
- Decide on trip length and whether to add Kilimanjaro or Zanzibar.
- Set a realistic budget and choose your accommodation style, from lodges to tented camps.
- Pick an operator and confirm your itinerary in writing.
- Book international flights into Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) if your safari is in the north.
Three to six months before
Now turn to the practical paperwork. Check that your passport has enough validity and blank pages, then review the visa rules for your nationality. We recommend applying online only through the official Tanzania e-visa portal at visa.immigration.go.tz and avoiding third-party sites.
Buy comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation, and check that it covers any activities you plan, such as climbing. If your trip includes Zanzibar, note that Zanzibar requires inbound visitors to hold its own mandatory travel insurance, introduced in October 2024.
Six to eight weeks before
Visit a travel clinic or your doctor to discuss vaccinations, malaria prevention and any personal health needs. Ask whether you need a yellow fever certificate based on your route, as requirements depend on where you are traveling from and through.
This is also a good time to break in walking shoes, test your camera gear and tell your bank about your travel dates.
Share any dietary requirements, allergies or medical conditions with your operator now, so lodges and camps can prepare. Remote camps can cater for most needs, but they plan supplies well in advance and appreciate notice. If you are celebrating a birthday or anniversary on safari, mention that too, and confirm the luggage allowance for any light aircraft flights in your itinerary.
Packing essentials
Safari packing is about layers and soft luggage. Light aircraft and vehicle storage favor soft-sided bags over hard suitcases. Tanzania has banned plastic carrier bags since 2019, so pack toiletries in reusable zip pouches or fabric bags instead.
- Neutral-colored clothing, a warm fleece and a light rain jacket.
- Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Binoculars, spare batteries and memory cards.
- A type G (UK-style) plug adapter and a power bank.
Money and the final week
US dollars are widely accepted for many tourism payments, while the Tanzanian shilling is used for everyday local purchases. Bring clean, undamaged, recent-issue notes, as older or torn bills are often refused. Cards are accepted at many lodges, but not everywhere.
In the last week, print copies of your key documents, confirm your airport pickup and save your operator's contact details offline.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most important thing to book first?
Your safari dates and accommodation, especially in peak months when the best camps fill early. Once those are confirmed, book international flights to match.
Do I need special clothing for a safari?
You do not need expensive gear. Comfortable layers in neutral colors, a warm top for cold mornings and good sun protection cover most of what you need.
Do I need malaria medication?
Malaria is present in much of Tanzania, so speak with a travel clinic or doctor well before departure. They can advise on prevention based on your health and itinerary.