What To Wear On A Tanzania Safari – The Ultimate Guide

Dress Smart, Stay Comfortable & Blend Into the Wild

Packing for your Tanzania safari? Wondering what clothes are best for game drives, bush walks, or lodge dinners in the Serengeti or Ngorongoro?

You’re in the right place.

This ultimate safari outfit guide will help you choose the perfect wardrobe for your adventure — one that’s stylish, functional, and safari-appropriate. We’ll cover what to wear, what not to wear, and smart tips for every season in Tanzania.

Let’s make sure you look good, stay safe, and feel comfortable from sunrise to sundown in the wild.

Why Safari Clothing Matters

A safari isn’t just about fashion — it’s about function, comfort, and safety.

Here’s why what you wear matters:

• Wildlife won’t spot you as easily in neutral tones

• Tsetse flies are attracted to certain colors like dark blue

• Mornings can be chilly, but midday sun can be intense

• Dust, insects, and long drives call for breathable, protective clothing

Ideal Safari Clothing: Colors, Fabric & Fit

Choose:

• Neutral tones: Khaki, beige, olive, light brown, grey

• Lightweight, breathable fabrics: Cotton, linen, moisture-wicking blends

• Loose-fitting clothes: For airflow and comfort during long game drives

Avoid:

• Dark blue & black: Attract tsetse flies

• White: Stains and dust easily

• Bright colors: Distract wildlife, make you stand out

• Camouflage prints: Illegal in some African countries for civilians

Dress for the Weather in Tanzania

Tanzania’s climate varies by season and time of day:

Safari is about layering. Mornings start cold, afternoons get warm, and evenings are cooler again — especially in places like Ngorongoro or during the dry season (June–October).

What to Wear on Safari – Item by Item

Here’s a head-to-toe safari outfit checklist:

Hats & Accessories:

• Wide-brim safari hat – for sun protection

• Sunglasses – polarized with UV protection

• Light scarf or bandana – for dust and sun

• Buff or face covering – useful on open vehicles

Tops:

• 2–3 long-sleeve safari shirts – for sun & insect protection

• 2–3 short-sleeve T-shirts – breathable and neutral colors

• Light fleece or hoodie – essential for chilly mornings

• Waterproof shell or windbreaker – for the green season

Bottoms:

• 2–3 pairs of safari trousers or zip-off pants

• 1–2 pairs of comfortable shorts

• Optional: safari skirts or dresses (for women)

Footwear:

• Lightweight hiking shoes or trail runners

• Flip-flops or sandals – for camp or shower use

• Comfortable socks – avoid thick wool; quick-dry is better

Lodge & Evening Wear (Optional)

Most lodges are casual and laid-back, but if you’re staying in luxury camps, you may want to freshen up for dinner.

Pack:

• A casual evening shirt or dress

• Clean shoes or sandals

• A light sweater or shawl for chilly nights

• Swimsuit (many lodges have pools)

Insect & Sun Protection: What to Wear to Stay Safe

• Long sleeves and pants reduce mosquito bites

• Clothing treated with permethrin offers added protection

• Closed shoes protect against bugs and thorny plants

• Use reef-safe sunscreen and natural insect repellent (with DEET)

Bonus: Some lodges provide insect-repellent wipes or sprays in-room.

Seasonal Tips: What to Wear Based on Safari Timing

🟫 Dry Season (June–October)

• Mornings are cold — bring fleece or layers

• Dusty roads — scarves or buffs help

• Great time for neutrals and breathable fabrics

🟩 Green Season (November–May)

• Carry a light waterproof jacket

• Brighter landscapes, occasional rain

• Light long sleeves help with humidity and bugs

Keyword Tip: Best safari outfit by season | What to wear in Serengeti in June | Dry season safari packing

For Men: Simple Safari Outfit Ideas

• Daytime: Breathable T-shirt, cargo pants, hiking shoes

• Evening: Clean polo shirt, lightweight trousers, fleece

• Add sunglasses, a hat, and a watch or compass bracelet for style

For Women: Safari Outfit Ideas with Style & Function

• Daytime: Safari shirt, stretch safari pants or leggings

• Evening: Maxi dress or wrap skirt with a light sweater

• Add a neutral scarf, travel earrings, and practical sandals

Optional (But Useful) Add-Ons

• Photography vest (for camera gear)

• Gloves or beanie (Ngorongoro gets cold)

• Compression bags to organize clothes

• Foldable tote bag for game drives

• Neutral-colored poncho (for rainy drives)

What NOT to Wear on a Tanzania Safari

• Bright red or yellow (startles animals)

• Black or navy blue (attracts tsetse flies)

• Heels or hard shoes (uncomfortable in the bush)

• Camouflage gear (illegal in many African countries for non-military use)

• Heavy perfume (attracts insects)

Dress Right, Travel Light, Safari Bright

When it comes to what to wear on a Tanzania safari, think simple, neutral, layered, and comfortable. The right clothing can make all the difference between a distracted, uncomfortable day — and a confident, immersive safari experience.

Need help planning your safari and getting the right packing list? We’ve got you covered — from custom safari itineraries to pre-trip packing support, our team at Golden Trips is ready to help.