What Not to Wear on Safari in Tanzania
Introduction: Dressing for the Wild
A Tanzanian safari is an adventure of a lifetime, filled with breathtaking wildlife encounters and stunning landscapes. Yet, what you wear plays an important role in shaping your comfort, safety, and overall experience. While many guides provide advice on what to pack, it’s equally important to know what not to wear. Choosing the wrong clothing can make you stand out to wildlife, attract unwanted insects, or leave you unprepared for the elements. Here’s a guide on what to avoid wearing during your safari in Tanzania.
Bright and Flashy Colors
While bold reds, oranges, or neon shades may look great in photos, they are not ideal for safari. Bright colors tend to stand out in the natural landscape and can disturb wildlife or make it harder to blend into the environment. Neutral tones such as khaki, beige, olive, and light browns are far better suited, as they help you stay inconspicuous while watching animals in their natural habitats.
Dark Blue and Black Clothing
It may come as a surprise, but wearing dark blue or black can attract tsetse flies, which deliver painful bites and are common in parts of Tanzania’s wilderness, including the Serengeti and Tarangire. To minimize the risk, avoid these colors altogether and stick to lighter, earthy shades.
Camouflage Patterns
While camouflage prints are associated with safaris, in Tanzania (and many other African countries), camouflage clothing is discouraged or even restricted. It is often reserved for the military, and wearing it as a visitor may cause unnecessary complications or confusion. Opt instead for plain, neutral colors that offer the same blending effect without the potential issues.
White Clothing
Though white may seem like a cool choice under the African sun, it is not practical on safari. Dust from the tracks and dirt from the bush quickly leave white clothes looking grimy. Since most game drives involve open vehicles and dusty terrain, white clothing rarely stays clean for long.
Heavy or Synthetic Fabrics
Safari days can be long and involve varying temperatures, from cool mornings to hot afternoons. Heavy fabrics trap heat and sweat, making you uncomfortable. Similarly, synthetic fabrics that don’t breathe well can cause irritation and overheating. Instead, pack lightweight, breathable cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics that keep you comfortable throughout the day.
Overly Formal or Delicate Clothing
Safari is about practicality, not fashion. Formal outfits, high heels, or delicate garments simply do not fit the environment. Game drives and bush walks require comfort and flexibility, so leave your fancy clothes at home and embrace functional travel wear. Comfortable shoes, sturdy sandals, or lightweight hiking boots are much more appropriate.
Strong Perfumes or Fragrances
While not technically clothing, strong scents are worth mentioning. Wildlife has an acute sense of smell, and perfumes or heavily fragranced products can interfere with your safari experience. Additionally, strong scents may attract insects. Stick to unscented toiletries when possible to stay fresh without drawing unwanted attention.
Accessories That Are Impractical
Large handbags, dangling jewelry, and oversized hats may look stylish but are not useful in the bush. Instead, opt for a small daypack to carry essentials such as water, sunscreen, and binoculars. Practical accessories like wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and lightweight scarves offer both style and functionality without getting in the way.
Dress Smart, Travel Smart
What you wear on safari can make all the difference between comfort and distraction. By avoiding bright colors, dark blues and blacks, camouflage, and impractical fabrics, you ensure that your safari in Tanzania is smooth, safe, and enjoyable. Stick to neutral, breathable clothing and functional accessories, and you’ll be ready to focus on what truly matters—the incredible adventure of witnessing Tanzania’s wildlife in its natural glory.