What to Pack for a One‑Week Serengeti Safari with MJ Safaris

Heading into the Serengeti with MJ Safaris is an adventure you’ll remember forever—but packing smart can make the journey smoother and more enjoyable. Drawing from expert travel guides and up-to-date packing advice, here’s your essential what-to-bring list.

1. Know the Rules Before You Pack

• Most bush flights allow only soft-sided duffel bags and a small carry-on, with a total weight limit of approximately 15–20 kg (33–44 lb). Hard-shell or wheeled luggage is often restricted.
      

2. Clothing: Layer, Neutral, Practical

• Neutral tones (khaki, olive, beige) help you blend into your surroundings and avoid insects like tsetse flies—bright or camouflage clothing should be avoided.
  
  

• Layering is key: mornings and evenings are often chilly, even in the heat of the day. Pack a fleece or light jacket plus a waterproof jacket if you’re in the rainy season.
  
  

• Most camps provide laundry facilities, so bring 2–4 outfits rather than seven separate days of clothing.
  
  

3. Footwear: Comfort Matters

• For game drives and walking safaris, durable walking shoes or broken-in hiking boots are best.

• For camp downtime or lodge lounges, a pair of light sandals or flip-flops is ideal.
  
  

4. Sun & Insect Protection

• A wide-brim hat, polarized sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are must-haves under the African sun. Lip balm with SPF helps protect sensitive skin.
  
  

• DEET-based insect repellent is highly recommended; scented items like perfume should be avoided because they attract insects.
  

5. Tech & Tools

• Bring a compact binocular (8×42 or 10×42) for spotting wildlife from afar.

• A camera or smartphone with large storage and spare batteries, plus chargers, travel adapter (Tanzania uses types D and G), and a power bank.
  
  

• A headlamp or flashlight for moving around camp after dark.
  
  

6. Essentials & Health Items

• Keep your passport, visa documents, travel insurance, and Yellow Fever vaccination card in your daypack.
  
  

• Carry antimalarial medication, personal prescriptions, pain relievers, antihistamines, and basic first‑aid supplies.

• Pack toiletries and hand sanitizer—unscented wherever possible.
  
  

7. What to Leave Behind

• Camouflage or bright-colored clothing—illegal in some countries or likely to attract wildlife or insects.

• Hard-shell or oversized luggage, as bush flights and safari vehicles are compact.

• Drones, unless you have park permission and permits.

• Single-use plastic bags, all camps discourage these.
  

Quick Reference Packing List

Final Advice: Pack Light, Pack Smart

Lightweight gear means fewer hassles on charter flights and game drives. Since many camps offer laundry, focus on rewearable essentials rather than overpacking. With the right kit, you’ll be comfortable, protected, and ready for the magic of the Serengeti.