
Guide to What to Wear on a Safari in Tanzania
Guide to What to Wear on a Safari in Tanzania : You probably know what to pack for your forthcoming safari in Tanzania. Safari clothing is one of the important things to consider when planning a Tanzania safari. Clothes to wear on safari depend on the safari you are embarking on. The weather conditions also determine what to wear for safari in Tanzania. This guide has recommendations for what to wear on a safari in Tanzania.
What clothes to wear on a hike?
Tanzania is blessed with spectacular mountains worth hiking. The main highlight is Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. Mount Kilimanjaro is 5895 meters above sea level. Mount Meru is another stunning peak to try hiking. Mount Meru is the country’s second-highest peak and is 4566 meters above sea level. There are other options for hiking in Tanzania, such as Mount Ol Doinyo – the only active volcano in Tanzania, Mount Hanang, Udzungwa Mountains, Mahale Mountains, and many others.
The Kilimanjaro hike and Meru hike are favorite hiking safaris for most safari-goers. When preparing for such thrilling adventures, it is essential to bring clothes to be comfortable throughout the hike. When climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, you will pass through almost five vegetation zones. Here are a few tips:
Layering System
Layering is a key to a successful Kilimanjaro hike. Here, we recommend three layers: base layer, middle layer, and outer layer. Since the weather of Mount Kilimanjaro varies from the scorching sun to freezing temperatures, a layering system is quintessential.
Base layer
The base layer regulates body temperature and moisture by wicking away perspiration and drying rapidly. We suggest you should select merino wool or synthetic material and not cotton clothes.
When packing clothes for base layers, include different fabrics and types of clothing for warm and cold weather. A lightweight synthetic sleeve and quick-dry hiking pants are perfect for warm weather, while medium and heavy-weight layers are perfect for cold weather.
Mid layer
As you gain height on your Kilimanjaro hike or Meru hike, the weather turns to be cold. On top of your base layer, put on some mid-layers. We recommend sweaters, fleece jackets, long-sleeved tops, hoodies, shirts, or thin-down jackets.
Outer layer
As you climb higher to the arctic zones of Kilimanjaro, the weather becomes adverse over there. To avoid this problem, you will need outer layers, such as parka and rain layers.
A parka is a bulky garment that insulates you from the cold and should have 550 fill or more. It can be worn instead of a heavy-weight mid-layer or on top if it’s particularly cold.
Rain layers, often known as shells, protect from wind, rain, and snow. They should be waterproof and breathable. During inclement weather, wear them over your fleece or jacket and climbing pants.

Apart from shirts, pants, and jackets, there are other clothing or things to bring on your Kilimanjaro hike or Meru hike.
- Hiking boots
- Gaiters
- Hiking and trekking socks
- Polarized sunglasses
- A rain poncho
- Sneakers for wearing in camp
- Heavyweight gloves or mittens
- Waterproof and breathable shell mittens
- A fleece or wool hat to cover your ears
- A balaclava
What to wear on a wildlife safari in Tanzania?
With a dozen options for wildlife adventures, Tanzania offers a unique safari experience. The Serengeti National Park is a spectacular choice for many nature lovers, not to forget the Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and many others.
While you are in the wild, you need some clothes to be comfortable. Here is a list of recommended clothing to wear on safari.
- T-shirts and tank-tops
- Long-sleeved shirts
- Shorts
- Light long pants or convertible long-short pants
- Warm fleece pullover or jacket
- Bandana
- Heavy sweater, gloves, and toque if traveling in the cold season
- One swimsuit
- Cotton socks and underwear
- Pajamas
- One pair of comfortable walking shoes
- One pair of sandals or flip-flops
- Wide-brimmed hat
Colors to wear on safari
When going for a wildlife safari in Tanzania, it is important to select wisely colors to wear on safari. The colors of safari outfits matter since the wilderness isn’t the same as normal life. We discourage wearing bright colors on your safari to avoid startling animals.
Neutral colors like khaki and tan are perfect. They make you blend with nature. Animals won’t be scared to get closer to you. Other best colors for wildlife safari dress codes include brown, green, and beige. Blue and black colors attract insects like tsetse flies. Tsetse flies spread sleeping sickness, a disease endemic to sub-Saharan countries.
You should also bring other safari gear apart from clothes. They are important for your comfortable safari. A pair of binoculars, a camera, and other things are essential.
However, coming for a safari with all the items on the safari packing list can be challenging.