Tanzania is a bucket-list destination for any solo female traveler—iconic safaris in the Serengeti, the turquoise waters of Zanzibar, and the breathtaking views from Kilimanjaro. But figuring out what to pack? With multiple terrains, weather changes, and a variety of activities, where things get complicated.
With hot days, cool nights, beach destinations, and wildlife adventures, your suitcase needs to cover it all. Add in the need for culturally respectful outfits, eco-friendly choices for camping, and solo safety essentials, and suddenly, packing feels like a logistical puzzle.
The good news? We’ve got you covered. Whether you’re gearing up for an early-morning game drive, a sunset beach walk, or a stroll through a bustling market, this comprehensive packing guide will help you bring exactly what you need—and nothing you don’t.
(Oh, and if you want to skip the stress and just have everything handled for you, check out our Tanzania Adventure Tour. We’ll handle the logistics—you just show up with your backpack and a sense of adventure.)
Table of Contents
Why Packing Right for Tanzania Matters For Solo Female Travelers
If you’re new to African travel, you might be tempted to pack as if you’re heading on a beach vacation, a hiking trip, or an urban getaway. The truth? Tanzania is all three.
- The safari parks (Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater) are dry, dusty, and unpredictable—temperatures can swing from cold mornings to blazing afternoons in hours.
- Zanzibar’s beaches are humid and tropical, but local towns have a modest dress code that travelers should respect.
- Cities like Arusha & Dar es Salaam are warm but conservative, so what works on safari won’t always be ideal in town.
- Camping in the wilderness? You’ll need eco-friendly toiletries (since showers can be basic) and smart layers for those chilly nights in a tent.
“I thought I packed light, but I still brought stuff I never used! I wish I had known that I’d basically be living in the same 4 outfits. The best thing I packed? A scarf—it worked as a cover-up, a blanket on the safari truck, and a pillow on long drives!”
— Jasmine, The Kenya Tour 2023
Clothing: What to Wear in Tanzania as a Solo Female Traveler
Packing for Tanzania is all about versatility. You need breathable fabrics for the heat, modest options for cultural respect, and lightweight layers for cool safari mornings. Here’s exactly what to pack for each part of your trip:
For Safari (Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater)
Tanzania’s national parks can get hot, dusty, and surprisingly cold in the mornings. You’ll spend hours in a safari jeep, so comfort is key.
✅ Neutral-colored clothing (khaki, olive, beige) – Bright colors attract bugs, and dark colors (black & blue) attract tsetse flies.
✅ Long, breathable pants – Protects from sun, mosquitoes, and safari dust.
✅ Loose, long-sleeved shirts – Keeps you cool while providing coverage.
✅ Light fleece or jacket – Mornings on safari can be freezing, even in summer.
✅ Sports bra – The safari trucks get bumpy. Enough said.
🚫 What NOT to pack: Jeans (too hot), white clothes (turns brown with dust), and shorts (too much sun exposure & mosquito bites).
For Zanzibar & Coastal Areas
Zanzibar’s beaches are stunning, but remember that local customs lean conservative. Bikinis are fine at resorts but not for walking around Stone Town.
✅ Flowy dresses & skirts – Light, airy, and perfect for tropical weather.
✅ Bikinis/swimsuits – But bring a cover-up for walking around town.
✅ Sarong – Can double as a beach towel or a modesty wrap.
✅ Lightweight sandals – Easy to slip on and off at the beach.
🚫 What NOT to pack: Tiny string bikinis (outside of resorts), tight mini-skirts (best saved for other trips), and synthetic fabrics (they get too hot!).
For Cities & Cultural Sites
While safaris and beaches are relaxed, Tanzanian cities and towns are more conservative. Dressing respectfully isn’t just polite—it also helps avoid unwanted attention as a solo traveler.
✅ Maxi skirts or loose pants – Respectful and comfortable.
✅ Tunic tops or T-shirts – Covers shoulders but keeps you cool.
✅ Scarf/shawl – Handy for covering shoulders in temples or local villages.
✅ Closed-toe shoes – Some streets can be dusty or uneven.
🚫 What NOT to pack: Tank tops with deep armholes (revealing), tight leggings (only okay with a tunic), and high heels (no practical use here!).
“I was so glad I packed a light scarf! It was perfect for covering up in town and also worked as a head wrap when my hair was just… not cooperating.”
— Mel, The Kenya Tour 2022
Shoes & Footwear: What to Wear on Your Feet in Tanzania
If you’re the kind of traveler who thinks, “I’ll just bring my favorite sneakers and call it a day,” think again. Tanzania’s terrain changes fast, and your feet will thank you for planning ahead.
For Safari & Hiking
✅ Hiking boots or sturdy trekking shoes – If you’re planning any walking safaris, hikes, or visiting Kilimanjaro’s foothills, you’ll want ankle support and solid grip.
✅ Closed-toe sneakers – Even if you’re not hiking, safaris can be dusty, and sneakers will keep your feet cleaner than sandals.
✅ Thick hiking socks – Helps prevent blisters & keeps feet warm on early morning game drives.
🚫 What NOT to bring: Heavy-duty mountaineering boots (unless you’re actually climbing Kilimanjaro—otherwise, they’re overkill).
For Zanzibar & Coastal Areas
✅ Flip-flops or easy slip-on sandals – Perfect for beach days and hotel lounging.
✅ Water shoes – Some beaches have rocky shores or sea urchins, so pack these if you plan on snorkeling or boat trips.
🚫 What NOT to bring: Fashion heels (zero practical use), flimsy ballet flats (sand + sweat = disaster).
For Cities & Cultural Visits
✅ Comfortable walking shoes – City streets can be uneven, so opt for comfy sneakers, travel flats, or closed-toe sandals.
✅ Something dressier (if you plan to go out) – A simple pair of nice sandals works for restaurants and rooftop bars.
🚫 What NOT to bring: Anything you wouldn’t want ruined by dust or rain.
“I almost didn’t bring hiking boots because I thought I wouldn’t need them. BIG mistake. Walking to the safari lodges and just moving around in the dirt roads? My sneakers were toast. Wish I had better shoes for that.”
— Rachel, The South Africa Tour 2018
Toiletries & Hygiene Essentials To Pack for Tanzania for Solo Female Travelers
Tanzania is hot, humid, and sometimes dusty, and you might go days without a proper shower if you’re camping. That means your toiletries need to be smart, eco-friendly, and practical.
Eco-Friendly Bath Products
Since some campsites and lodges have limited plumbing, it’s important to use biodegradable products to avoid harming the environment.
✅ Solid shampoo & conditioner bars – Last longer, no leaks, better for the planet.
✅ Biodegradable soap & body wash – Keeps you clean while protecting the local water systems.
✅ Menstrual cup or organic pads/tampons – If you use disposables, bring enough for the trip since they may not be available in remote areas.
🚫 What NOT to bring: Anything with strong artificial fragrances (bugs love scented products).
Skincare & Sun Protection
The sun in Tanzania is no joke—expect high UV exposure even on cloudy days.
✅ High-SPF sunscreen (reef-safe for Zanzibar).
✅ Aloe vera gel (for the inevitable sunburns).
✅ Lip balm with SPF (chapped lips happen fast).
🚫 What NOT to bring: Glass bottles (they break easily in transit).
General Hygiene Must-Haves
✅ Hand sanitizer & wet wipes – Some places don’t have soap or running water.
✅ Travel toilet paper – Public bathrooms may not have toilet paper (or even an actual toilet).
✅ Deodorant wipes – Sometimes a full shower isn’t possible, and these keep you fresh on the go.
Health & Safety Essentials: What Every Solo Female Traveler Needs
You don’t need to pack an entire pharmacy, but a little preparation goes a long way when you’re traveling solo in Tanzania.
Medications & Vaccines
Before you go, check Tanzania’s vaccine requirements. Some essentials include:
✅ Malaria prevention – Tanzania is a malaria zone. DEET-based repellents + prescribed malaria tablets are a must.
✅ Yellow fever vaccine – Required if you’re coming from a country with yellow fever.
✅ Traveler’s diarrhea meds – You don’t want to be caught off guard.
First Aid Kit (Don’t Skip This!)
✅ Pain relievers (for headaches from long travel days).
✅ Electrolyte tablets (for dehydration from heat or food adjustments).
✅ Antiseptic wipes & band-aids (blisters & scrapes happen).
✅ Eye drops (dust from safaris can irritate your eyes).
🚫 What NOT to bring: A huge first aid kit (you don’t need a full pharmacy, just essentials).
Solo Female Safety Gear
Tanzania is generally safe for solo female travelers, but a few small items can give extra peace of mind:
✅ Personal safety alarm – Small, loud, and great for emergency situations.
✅ Door stop – If you’re staying in a budget hotel or guesthouse, this adds an extra layer of security.
✅ Safety whistle – Good for attracting attention if needed.
Electronics & Travel Gadgets: What You Actually Need
You don’t need to bring every gadget you own, but a few smart electronics will make your trip smoother—especially when you’re dealing with limited WiFi, long safari drives, and unpredictable power sources.
Power & Charging Essentials
✅ Universal travel adapter – Tanzania uses Type G (UK-style) and sometimes Type D/M plugs, so a universal adapter is a must.
✅ Power bank – Some safari lodges and campsites don’t have power 24/7, so a strong portable charger will save you when your phone dies mid-photo.
✅ Headlamp or flashlight – Crucial for camping (some lodges have limited lighting at night) and useful for power outages in cities.
🚫 What NOT to bring: A hairdryer (most eco-lodges don’t allow them), high-voltage styling tools (voltage differences can fry them).
Photography & Travel Tech
✅ Smartphone with a good camera – You don’t need a bulky DSLR unless you’re a professional—modern phone cameras capture wildlife surprisingly well.
✅ Binoculars – Many travelers regret not bringing these—game drives are even better when you can see details up close.
✅ Extra SD card & storage – You’ll take more photos than you think, so have backup storage!
🚫 What NOT to bring: A drone (Tanzania has strict regulations, and many parks don’t allow them).
Documents & Money: What to Prepare Before Your Solo Trip To Tanzania
The last thing you want is to arrive in Tanzania and realize you forgot something crucial—like your visa paperwork, proof of insurance, or enough cash for tipping. Here’s what to get in order before you go:
Must-Have Travel Documents
✅ Passport (with at least 6 months validity) – Double-check your expiration date! Tanzania won’t let you in if your passport is too close to expiring.
✅ Visa (if required) – Many travelers can apply for an eVisa online before arrival. Check the latest requirements for your nationality.
✅ Printed travel insurance details – WiFi isn’t always reliable, so keep a physical copy of your insurance policy just in case.
✅ Copies of important documents – Keep digital & hard copies of your passport, visa, and emergency contacts in case of loss or theft.
🚫 What NOT to do: Assume you can get everything done last-minute—some visas require processing time, so apply early!
Money: How to Pay for Things in Tanzania
Tanzania operates mostly on cash, but credit cards are accepted in some places. Here’s how to budget your spending:
✅ USD & Tanzanian Shillings (TZS) – Bring a mix of both. Many places accept USD, but smaller shops and local markets only take TZS.
✅ Small bills for tipping – Tipping is expected for guides, drivers, and hotel staff, so keep $1, $5, and $10 bills handy.
✅ ATM access – ATMs are available in cities but less reliable in remote safari areas—withdraw enough cash before heading out.
✅ Credit card with no foreign transaction fees – Good for hotels, upscale restaurants, and emergencies. Visa is more widely accepted than Mastercard.
🚫 What NOT to do: Rely solely on your credit card—cash is king in many places!
Safari-Specific Gear: What Makes the Experience More Comfortable
Safaris are incredible, but they come with long days, bumpy rides, and unpredictable weather. A few small items can make a huge difference in your comfort and experience.
What to Pack for Game Drives
✅ A lightweight daypack – Keep essentials (camera, water bottle, sunscreen) within reach during game drives.
✅ Sunglasses & hat – The sun is harsh, and the glare from the savanna can be blinding.
✅ Buff or scarf – Useful for blocking dust on bumpy roads and keeping warm on chilly mornings.
✅ Refillable water bottle – Stay hydrated, especially on full-day game drives where stops are limited.
✅ Packable rain jacket – Even in the dry season, unexpected showers happen.
What Makes Camping in the Bush Easier
✅ Earplugs – Nature is loud at night (think crickets, baboons, and distant lions), so if you’re a light sleeper, you’ll want these.
✅ Sleep sheet or lightweight sleeping bag – Some camps provide bedding, but it’s nice to have your own layer for extra comfort.
✅ Portable travel fan – If you’re sensitive to heat, a small USB-powered fan makes a big difference inside safari tents.
🚫 What NOT to bring: Too much luggage—most safari vehicles have weight limits, so pack light!
Final Packing Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid as a solo female traveler in Tanzania
Even experienced travelers make some classic packing mistakes in Tanzania. Here’s how to avoid them:
Common Overpacking Regrets
🚫 Too many clothes – Most travelers rotate the same 4–5 outfits, so less is more.
🚫 Bulky luggage – Soft duffel bags are better than hard-shell suitcases for fitting into safari jeeps.
🚫 Bringing jeans – They’re too hot, take forever to dry, and get stiff with dust.
Things You’ll Be Glad You Packed
✅ A headlamp – Game lodges get dark fast, and you’ll want hands-free lighting.
✅ A quick-dry towel – Essential for beach days and when lodges don’t provide towels.
✅ A good book or offline entertainment – Safari drives can be long between wildlife sightings.
Conclusion: What To Pack As A Solo Female Traveler In Tanzania
Tanzania is one of the most unforgettable destinations for solo female travelers, and packing smart means traveling with confidence. Whether you’re tracking lions on safari, soaking in the beaches of Zanzibar, or exploring the local markets, having the right gear will make your trip smoother, safer, and more enjoyable.
And if you want a stress-free way to experience it all, check out our Tanzania Adventure Tour—we’ve already handled the logistics, so all you have to do is pack and go!
FAQ: What Solo Female Travelers Ask About Packing for Tanzania
1. Do I need hiking boots, or will sneakers be okay?
If you’re doing any hiking or walking safaris, hiking boots are best. If not, sneakers are fine for everyday wear.
2. What should I wear in Zanzibar?
Swimsuits are fine on the beach, but cover up in town! A sarong is a great all-purpose cover-up.
3. Can I bring a rolling suitcase?
Duffel bags are better for safari jeeps, but rolling suitcases work if you’re mainly in cities & hotels.
4. Is it safe for solo female travelers to wear shorts in Tanzania?
Shorts are okay on safari, but in cities and rural areas, loose pants or skirts are better for cultural respect.
5. Do I need to bring mosquito repellent?
Yes! Tanzania is a malaria-risk area, so bring DEET-based repellent or a natural alternative.
6. Will I need a rain jacket, even in the dry season?
Yes. Sudden rain showers can happen, especially in Zanzibar and the highlands. A lightweight, packable rain jacket is ideal.
7. Can I wear tank tops in Tanzania?
In safari lodges and beach resorts, yes. But in cities and villages, it’s better to cover shoulders with a light scarf or T-shirt.
8. What’s the best type of bag to bring for safari?
A soft duffel bag is best for fitting into safari vehicles, and a small daypack is handy for game drives.
9. How much cash should I carry in Tanzania?
ATMs are available in cities but not reliable in remote areas. Bring a mix of USD and Tanzanian Shillings for tipping and small purchases.
10. Is laundry available on safari or in lodges?
Some lodges offer limited laundry services, but quick-dry clothing and travel detergent are useful for hand-washing on longer trips.
