You’re going on safari in Tanzania and you want to know what to wear. That’s great! We’ve got your back. The first thing to know is that this is a big country with a lot of different regions. The weather changes a lot between north and south, so you’ll want to check out your specific area before you pack. For example, if you’re going on safari in Arusha or Ngorongoro Crater, the weather is pretty much always warm (though it can get chilly at night) but it’s usually dry—so you can get away with short sleeves and shorts most of the time. But if you’re headed to the Serengeti or other parts of Kenya, bring along some long pants and jackets for cooler nights at camp. Also make sure to bring rain gear for rainy season; it rains almost every day during those months!
Safari in Tanzania is a must-see experience. If you’re planning on visiting the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and other game parks in August, then there are some things to keep in mind when it comes to what you wear. First of all, you’ll want to make sure that you bring plenty of sunscreen. The sun will be intense, even if it’s early morning or late afternoon. Be sure that all of your clothes are lightweight and breathable. The climate is very hot and humid during this time of year, so make sure your clothes don’t trap heat or moisture under them—you’ll feel much better for it! Also, be aware of the possibility for rain showers—they can happen at any time. Pack an umbrella if possible. It’s also not unheard of for there to be dust storms during this part of the year; just make sure that whatever shoes or boots you bring are waterproofed so they won’t get ruined when crossing through mud puddles (which are common).
If you are planning a trip to Tanzania in August, you will want to dress for the weather. The temperature in Tanzania ranges from 15°C to 20°C. The average high is around 20°C, but it’s not uncommon for temperatures to reach as high as 25°C or as low as 16°C. You’ll want to pack light, so you can move easily around the park and hike up hills if you choose. You should also wear clothing that will keep you warm in case it gets chilly at night or if there’s a storm while you’re out on safari. Dress comfortably, but appropriately for your surroundings: wear pants or long skirts that cover your knees and long-sleeved shirts with collars and sleeves (no tank tops). Long pants and closed-toe shoes are recommended for women, though some women do wear shorts on safari tours during the day time when it’s hot outside (especially if they plan on hiking). Men should wear long pants or khakis along with socks that cover their ankles; flip-flops are not allowed during game drives due to safety concerns between driver and passenger (this applies only if there are two people per vehicle).
What to Wear on Safari in Tanzania in August
The first thing to think about when you’re going on safari in Tanzania is what to wear. You want to be comfortable, but also need to be able to stay warm during the cold nights and hot days in August.
You’ll want to pack a good pair of hiking or walking shoes, with socks that can wick away moisture and keep your feet dry. You should also bring along some kind of flip-flops or sandals for when you’re in camp or at the lodge for the night.
Thin cotton clothing is ideal for summertime travel in Africa. It doesn’t retain sweat and dries quickly when it gets wet. Don’t forget a zip-up hoodie or jacket—even if it’s hot outside! The nights are chilly and there’s a possibility of rainstorms during your trip (especially during August).
Tanzanian safaris are a dream come true for nature lovers. It’s the only place in Africa where you can see lions, elephants, and leopards all in one place—and it’s also the only place in Africa where you’ll be able to find a gorilla.
This post will help you prepare for your trip with tips on what to wear for a safari in Tanzania in August.
If you’re going on safari in Tanzania, you know that the best way to ensure that your trip is a success is by making sure you’re comfortable. This means taking care of all your needs before you leave, including packing all the right clothes.
If you’re planning on visiting Tanzania in August, it’s important to understand the weather conditions and what they mean for what you should wear on safari.
If you’re planning on going on a safari in Tanzania, you have to be prepared for a lot of things. How do you know what to wear? What should you pack? How do you stay safe?
We’ve put together this article to answer all your questions about what to wear on safari in Tanzania.
When you go on a safari, you need to be prepared for anything. You never know what will happen. You could get lost in the jungle and have to spend the night there—you might get attacked by lions or elephants or snakes! And of course, you want to look stylish while you’re doing it. So here’s a list of clothing items that are perfect for your next safari adventure:
A safari is one of the most exciting adventures you can have.
You get to see wildlife like elephants, giraffes, and lions in their natural habitat. But there’s also something else: You get to wear a lot of clothes.
And by “a lot,” we mean “more than you’ve ever worn before.”
What to Wear on Safari
- The best way to get close to the wildlife is to blend in with your surroundings as much as possible by going neutral. …
- Light-weight, breathable fabrics minimise noise when walking. …
- Airy, long-sleeved shirts with a collar will keep the sun off your arms and neck
What To Wear On Safari
A safari is an essential element to a memorable holiday to South Africa. Make sure that you are packing correctly to get the most out of your adventure. The experts at Africa Travel have been sending people on African adventures for 30 years. They have shared their advice so that you know what to bring, what not to bring, and what to bring back.
The type of clothing to take on your safari holiday will depend on the time of year and what type of safari you are going on. Nevertheless, there are some essential tips that are universal.
What to Wear on Safari
The best way to get close to the wildlife is to blend in with your surroundings as much as possible by going neutral. Wear greens, browns, and khakis so as to not attract unnecessary attention. For South Africa, khaki is the recommended colour
Light-weight, breathable fabrics minimise noise when walking. Layers are a great way to pack light but stay warm. Temperatures can be cool on morning game drives, hot in the afternoon and cold at night. Layers allow you to remove clothing to make yourself comfortable as temperatures fluctuate
Airy, long-sleeved shirts with a collar will keep the sun off your arms and neck
Combat trousers are perfect with plenty of pockets to store your camera, sunscreen, and binoculars
A light jacket or fleece is great for an extra layer of warmth in case you need it. Fleece is great because it dries quickly too
Comfortable trainers are suitable for most safaris, even walking safaris. You can expect to be climbing in and out of the safari vehicle frequently and some light walking around the bush
Hats are a fantastic way to protect your head and face from the sun in an open-top safari vehicle and they have the added benefit of reducing glare for better game viewing
Sunglasses should be worn to block out harmful rays and polarised glasses will cut through the glare to make sure you don’t miss a thing
Don’t forget to bring a swimsuit if your lodge has a pool
For your evening meal, light colours are recommended so as to not attract mosquitoes. Linen trousers are the perfect way to look smart, stay cool, and prevent mosquito bites
What NOT to Wear on Safari
Don’t bring bright-coloured clothing or busy patterns. This will draw attention to you and scare off the wildlife
Avoid camouflage clothing as some African countries reserve this pattern for military personnel only
Dark colours attract Tsetse flies, so stay away from dark blue or black clothing – they have a painful bite!
White coloured clothing will quickly show dirt and dust, so try to go neutral instead
Formal wear is not necessary as most lodges and camps have a relaxed dress code. Bring a smart, clean outfit to wear to dinner, but there is no need to go too formal
Heavy hiking boots take up too much room in your suitcase and aren’t necessary for most safaris unless you have been told that your itinerary includes walking through the rainforest or harsh terrain
Too much clothing! Pack light – most safari lodges offer laundry facilities. You can also save space with convertible clothing like zip-off trousers that turn into shorts or a zip-off fleece that turns into a gilet
Now that you know what to wear, make sure you know how to pack. Most safari operators will ask that you only bring one suitcase, one overnight duffle bag, and one day pack. You might think you need more, but you won’t. Less is more on safari and you won’t even feel like you are roughing it – you will be well looked after at your lodge. If you are on a fly-in safari, you must pack in a soft-sided bag. Large, rigid suitcases don’t easily fit on the light aircraft, which means that your luggage could be refused or delayed. Limit the risk of your luggage going missing by packing essentials and one safari outfit into your daypack, which you can bring as hand luggage on the flight or ground transfer to your safari lodge or camp.
The last thing to remember when packing is to leave extra space in your luggage for souvenirs. South Africa offers so many wonderful mementoes for you to remember your trip, you don’t want to have to worry about how to bring them home.
What to Bring Back
South Africa is famous for its wines, so you will want to bring back some to enjoy once you get back home. Some wineries allow you to blend your own wine, create your own labels, or cork your own sparkling wine. Most countries allow you to bring back two bottles of wine per person, but it is best to check with your local authorities.
Brandy lovers will be spoiled for choice in South Africa. Brandy is the largest selling spirit in South Africa and is subject to the most stringent production regulations in the world. It is aged for at least 3 years in French oak casks to produce the unique flavour
Amarula cream liqueur is also a popular souvenir because it has a wide appeal and features an elephant on the bottle
Ostrich eggs, intricately carved and turned into lamps are quite durable and very unique
Various wood carvings in the form of sculptures, bowls, and masks are great keepsakes and make unusual gifts
We break down the clothes that help you look the part, but any safari expert will agree there is no set dress code or safari outfit. Let’s start with some safari packing lists and what to wear on safari and then progress to recommendations for safari clothes.
Weather plays a significant role in what you wear. Most African climates do not have your standard four-season environment. In most of Africa, seasons vary between dry and wet seasons, especially in Eastern Africa. The dry season in East Africa is hot. However, Southern Africa’s opposite, where the dry season means cool evenings and mornings.
Then it flips. The rainy season in East Africa brings cooler weather patterns and perpetuates constant spring-like weather in Tanzania and Kenya. In contrast, the rainy season in South Africa can coincide with its hottest months. The hottest temperature in Southern Africa occurs before the first rains as humidity slowly creeps up, leading to dramatic thunderstorms.
The season impacts what you’ll wear to stay comfortable and the color of your clothing. We suggest you wear khaki, brown, and tan during the dry season. Then, it’s time to bust out the browns and greens in the rainy or green season. You dress to match the vegetation.
Where To Go On Safari?
Safari Shorts
The first decision in packing for a safari is where you go on safari. Africa has a vast range of landscapes, vegetation, and climates. It would help if you packed for where in Africa you’re headed; that’s pretty straightforward.
We have another post on the best destinations to go on safari along with our favorite parks, camps, and lodges. While you’re at it, you can read up on our favorite safari animals to see while traveling. It’s tough to decide where to go on safari as you have a wide range of options!
You have three primary regions for a safari divided into Southern, Central, Eastern Africa. Southern Africa tends to be arid and sees a wide range of temperature shifts. Central Africa is typically hot and humid but can receive cool evenings. East Africa is your classic destination and is famous for its perpetual spring.
In Southern Africa, the climate varies across the region. Summers can be blisteringly hot while winters are freezing in the back of a game vehicle. Many visitors show up in the winter, thinking they’ll be in the hot bush, only to find zero-degree weather in an open car. Yikes!
The key to a comfortable safari outfit is layers. We often pack and wear layers to adjust to the wide range of temperatures you can experience on a typical day. While the morning can be freezing in arid locations like Botswana by midday, it can be hot, so layers will save you.
Packing list for Southern Africa
5 x Athletic socks
2 x Wool socks
2 x Pairs of pants
3 x Quick-dry shirts
1 x Short sleeve shirt
1 x Jacket
1 x Fleece
Plenty of undergarments
1 x Warm hat
2 x Long sleeve shirt
1 x Shorts
1 x Bathing suit (Men’s) (Women’s)
1 x Sandals
1 x Safari Boots
1 x Safari Hat
What To Wear In Central & East Africa?
What Safari Clothes To Wear Zambia
Here the weather is more temperate year-round. It is known as the “never-ending spring.” However, morning game drives can still be chilly, so convertible pants and a light jacket are great options.
Always come prepared for rain, given the time of year. We’ve been in several of the famous thunderstorms of Africa, including a flash flood in Tanzania!
Packing list for Central and East Africa
5 x Athletic socks
Plenty of undergarments
2 x Short sleeve shirts
4 x Quick-dry shirts
1 x Pairs of pants
1 x Rain jacket
1 x Fleece
2 x Shorts
1 x Sun hat
5 x Athletic socks
1 x Bathing suit
1 x Safari Boots
1 x Safari Hat
Safari Shirts
safari clothes for women
The perfect safari shirt will make all the difference in being comfortable throughout the day. A synthetic shirt will give the most practicality, while cotton or linen shirts have a more timeless look.
Organic textiles like cotton, wool, or hemp can provide an excellent base for warmth on a cold morning or a fantastic evening. Synthetic advantages mostly relate to quick-drying, stain resistance, and keeping cool. We recommend long sleeve shirts as it provides UV and bug protection.
Below is a collection of some of the best safari shirts we’ve found on the market. It is a guide about what to look for; the best fit for you may not be on this list. We’d also suggest you check out our post on safari shirts.
The Tamiami II from Columbia is a perfect shirt for a safari. It comes in long, short-sleeved shirts that look great and offer excellent value. It features a nice blend of synthetic materials that allow the shirt to dry and quickly provide excellent ventilation in the hot sun. A long-sleeved shirt allows for greater comfort, moving from chilly mornings to hot days.
The shirt’s functionality is excellent, with a rear vent for heat management and double breast pockets for storing gear or small items. Sometimes, it can be tough to find good technical shirts, but Columbia has some great options. It’s affordable, performs well, and looks pretty good, so it’s an excellent option for safari clothing.
Elements Of Good Safari Garments
Safari Clothes – What To Wear On Safari In Mana Pools
Classic safari style in Mana Pools
There are a couple of key elements to look at with each piece of safari clothing. While you may picture yourself as an adventure seeker, remember that you are a guest, and your safari guide will handle the nitty-gritty.
Unless you’re driving across Africa like us, you’ll be safe. The clothes you pack should be for comfort, not some rugged adventure. If it doesn’t feel comfortable, you may as well leave it at home.
Versatility
African Safari Dress
You’ll want to pack light. The days are often busy, so multiple wardrobe changes aren’t in the mix. Solid clothes that are casual yet stylish enough to wear to dinner in a lodge over a five-course meal.
Versatility can include the right material, fit, and functionality. For example, a good long sleeve shirt can keep you warm in the morning but cool during the day in a way that short-sleeve or tee shirts fail.
Durability
This one is key. Africa can be hard on clothes, even on a short trip. Climbing in and out of a safari vehicle can easily rip a weak pair of pants or shorts. Look for clothes for Africa that stretch a little.
You also have a lot of dust and sun exposure. If you’re involved in conservation efforts, on a walking safari, or spending any time outside of a game vehicle, you need decent safari clothes that will hold up to the elements.
The best way is often to stick with solid name brands that we trust when ordering online or to shop in your local store, although that can be difficult with limited selections.
Material
With a safari, you’ve come to see nature, and that’s just what you will encounter. So, your clothing needs to be well suited to the environments of Africa. We go for solid natural materials like hemp, linen, leather, or wool for our outdoor wear.
Manmade materials such as nylon or polyester are other great options as they are excellent at moisture management and protection. The only material we’re not massive fans of is cotton, but it’s often the softest and warmest material with great value. I always read the tags and materials on outdoor apparel before I make a purchase and consider its intended purpose.
Practicality
Linyanti Concession – Botswana
Things like having pockets can make or break good safari wear. Where else will you stash things like lip balm, sunscreen, or even a pair of binoculars?
The day-to-day wear of clothes is the most important part because if you feel uncomfortable in the bush, you’ll likely look ridiculous. You aren’t walking the runways of Paris but spending time in the bush. Care about your look, but not too much.
Camouflage
Cameron Gorilla Trekking Green Safari Clothes
Safari clothes should blend in with the environment. You should wear beige, green, and brown colored clothes. They are the staple colors of safari wear because they blend into the environment and can provide a better game viewing experience.
While wearing bright colors such as red is said to scare off animals and make you stand out. This may or may not be true. Only the animals know for sure. Of course, the Maasai Warriors in Kenya and Tanzania have been wearing red for centuries!
That being said, neutral colors do a great job at hiding dirt and dust, which there will be plenty of on a drive or walk through the bush. White clothes aren’t going to stay white very long, and dark colors are believed to attract tsetse flies. Trust us, you do not want to become familiar with tsetse flies!
For example, when gorilla trekking, it is advised to wear long pants and greens. When on foot, wearing colors that blend well into the environment and a good pair of safari boots is always advised.
Tips On Safari Clothes
Safari Clothes Are Not Required – You do not have to wear special safari clothes. The majority of time on safari is spent in a vehicle where clothes choice does not matter much.
Blend – Attempt to blend in. Remember to wear a safari outfit and clothes suited for the environment.
No Animal Prints – Don’t wear animal prints or some ridiculous getup. You’re not bushwacking through the African jungle. This isn’t Jumanji. You’ll spend most of your time in the back of a vehicle. So, wear comfortable clothes that will not stain by dirt, offer sun protection, and are comfortable from the heat or cold.
It Can Get Cold – Mind the weather. It can get really, really cold in the back of a game vehicle in Africa early morning or at night. Make sure to pack a nice jacket. I didn’t recommend any here – anything that breaks the wind should do.
Ditch Dark Blue – DO NOT wear blue in Eastern Africa. Blue attracts the Tsetse fly, which is not a myth.
Don’t Overpack – You only need a handful of shirts and pants. You are in the African bush, and there is no need for multiple wardrobe changes. However, it goes without saying to always pack ample underwear and socks.
Relax – Keep it simple at five-star lodges in Africa. Things are still casual.
Sunglasses – A good pair of sunglasses will save your eyes from staring at landscapes all day.
Layer – Make sure to pack in layers. It will go from cold in the morning to hot at night and then back to evening time.
Light Rain Jacket – Bring a light rain jacket, depending on the season. Most Safari companies and lodges come prepared in this aspect and will provide their guests with nice thick ponchos, but if you’re doing it on your don’t forget a rain jacket.
Pockets! – We love clothing with pockets to carry sunblock, chapstick, flashlight, camera, or binoculars. It’s better than having to juggle around a bag. We already have our safari cameras to contend with in the back of a game viewer.
