Your first safari is something you will never forget. A little preparation helps you relax and enjoy every moment. These are the tips our guides share most often with first-time visitors.
Before you go
- Book early for peak season. The best camps for July to October fill up 6 to 12 months ahead.
- Get your visa online. Apply for the Tanzania eVisa before travelling. See our visa guide.
- Take out travel insurance with medical evacuation cover.
- Talk to your doctor about malaria prevention and vaccinations.
- Pack light. Light-aircraft flights have strict luggage limits, usually around 15 kg in a soft bag.
What to pack
- Neutral colours — khaki, beige, olive. Avoid dark blue and black (tsetse flies) and bright white (dust).
- Layers. Mornings are cold in open vehicles, afternoons are hot.
- Binoculars for everyone. They transform your safari.
- A scarf or buff for dust, sunglasses, a hat and strong sunscreen.
Read our full Tanzania safari packing list.
On safari
- Get up early. The best wildlife activity is at dawn and dusk.
- Stay in the vehicle unless your guide says it is safe.
- Keep your voice low near animals and never feed wildlife.
- Be patient. Some of the best sightings come after waiting quietly.
- Ask questions. Guides love sharing their knowledge of animals, plants and culture.
Tipping
- Tipping is customary in Tanzania. Plan to tip your driver-guide at the end of the safari and use the staff tip box at lodges. We provide guidelines in your pre-departure information.
Photography tips
- A zoom lens of 200–400 mm is ideal for wildlife.
- Bring spare batteries and memory cards — there are fewer charging points in remote camps.
- Use a bean bag to steady your camera on the vehicle window.
- Do not forget to put the camera down and simply watch.
What a typical safari day looks like
Most days start early with coffee or tea before a sunrise game drive. Many guests return to camp for brunch, rest during the hottest part of the day and head out again in the afternoon. On longer transfer days, you will game drive on the way between parks with a picnic lunch.
Safari etiquette
- Never stand on the seats or lean out of the vehicle.
- Do not ask your guide to drive off-road where it is not allowed.
- Share the best viewing spots with other vehicles and do not crowd animals.
- Keep the vehicle quiet so you do not scare wildlife away.
- Take all litter with you.
Staying comfortable
- A small cushion can make long drives more comfortable.
- Bring a reusable water bottle — we refill it from the vehicle supply.
- Use toilet stops at picnic sites and lodges; your guide will advise on "bush stops" when needed.
Wildlife safety
Animals in the parks are wild. Never walk alone after dark in unfenced camps — staff will escort you. Close your tent zips to keep monkeys and insects out.
Frequently asked questions
How many hours a day are we on game drives?
Typically 6 to 8 hours, depending on the itinerary. On a private safari you can adjust this to suit you.
Will I get phone signal on safari?
Many lodges have Wi-Fi, and there is mobile coverage in parts of the parks, but it can be patchy. Enjoy the chance to disconnect.
What happens if I feel unwell on safari?
Tell your guide. Lodges have first aid and we can arrange medical help or evacuation if needed — another reason travel insurance is essential.
Ready for your first safari?
Our 5 Days Classic Northern Circuit Safari is the perfect introduction to Tanzania, covering Tarangire, the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater.
Utmost Tanzania Tours
Utmost Tanzania Tours is an Arusha-based tour operator specialising in tailor-made wildlife safaris, Mount Kilimanjaro treks, Zanzibar beach holidays and cultural tours.
