A trip to Tanzania is a dream for many people. From its literature to the snow capped peaks of Kilimanjaro to the plains of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Just try telling your friends that you're off to Tanzania... You'll get envious looks and probably a few sarcastic comments telling you what to pack. No need for their advice! Let me take you through it here.
Most trips to Tanzania are divided into three stages. They often start with a safari in one of the big game parks, followed by a beach break next to the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. In both cases you'll be in a hot environment, for which you're going to need lightweight clothes. The final stage is usually in the glacial climate of Kilimanjaro; trust me, the Roof of Africa is freezing! As well as cold weather gear, you'll also need to take some mountaineering equipment with you. You'll need to think about taking a camera/camcorder to take unforgettable photos of your trip, as well as binoculars to better spot wildlife in the reserves. Remember to take a high factor sunscreen, strong enough for an equatorial sun and a first aid kit for any nips and scratches. Apart from that it's a question of the basics - T-shirts and so forth. Bear in mind that outside the big towns, you won't always be able to buy medication or equipment. So make sure you haven't forgotten anything before you leave!
What to pack in your bag
- Firstly, pack your thirst for adventure and an open mind so you can escape to another world
- A foreign language/English dictionary if you';re not up to speed with Shakespeare's mother tongue.
- A Visa/Mastercard to withdraw cash in the big cities and/or travelers cheques to do so in banks.
- Your vaccination certificates, which will be checked at passport control when you arrive.
- Rechargeable batteries and charger
- Beachwear and any snorkeling gear you may need
- NF/CE condoms, as they hard to find - and love has no timing!
- A first aid kit including basic medicines
- A copy of your passport in case of loss
- Any mountaineering gear required to scale the Roof of Africa
- Cold weather clothes - it's a glacial climb as you reach Kili's peak
- A torch because power outages are frequent
- A REALLY strong insect repellent. The mosquitoes are merciless!
- Dark colored clothes for safaris (you'll blend in better)
- Lightweight clothes for the tropical regions
- A good sunscreen
- Binoculars to spot wildlife
- Photographic equipment to immortalize your trip
