Packing List Tanzania Zanzibar is essential for a stress-free and comfortable adventure. Get prepared for every season, activity, and local custom from the start.
Packing for Zanzibar seems simple—grab some beach clothes, sunscreen, swimwear. Right? Actually, wrong. The difference between showing up with the right gear and arriving underprepared can mean the gap between a comfortable, authentic experience and constant frustration.
Here’s what experienced Zanzibar travelers know: Packing strategically for Zanzibar means considering six distinct factors—season (dry vs. rainy), activities (diving vs. Stone Town walks), cultural sensitivity (Muslim-majority island), Swiss traveler expectations (efficiency, quality), luggage limitations, and Swiss weather context (you’re used to temperate climates). See which activities match your travel dates by checking the Top Activities in Tanzania Zanzibar for Every Season (Updated 2025-2026).
This Packing List Tanzania Zanzibar helps ensure you never forget important items, whether you’re heading for safari, diving, or Stone Town’s cultural gems. This guide breaks down what to pack by season, activity, and traveler type—so you arrive prepared for whatever Zanzibar offers.
Universal Packing List Tanzania Zanzibar Essentials (All Seasons)
These items transcend seasons. Pack them regardless of when you visit.
Sun Protection
Sunscreen: SPF 50+ reef-safe formula (not oxybenzone or octinoxate, which harm coral). Zanzibar sits near the equator; UV intensity remains high year-round even when cloudy. Reapply every 2 hours, especially after swimming.
Wide-brimmed hat: Protection for face, ears, scalp. Look for UPF-rated fabrics. Straw hats work; pack-down hats are space-efficient.
Sunglasses: UV protection (look for 100% UVA/UVB blocking). Protect eyes from intense equatorial sun and water glare.
Long-sleeve cover-up: Lightweight, breathable material (linen blend). Protects shoulders/arms while swimming or walking around resort. Doubles as modest beach-to-town transition clothing.
Water Gear
Swimsuit(s): Pack at least 2 (one can be drying while you wear the other). Choose modest coverage when possible—Zanzibar is Muslim-majority. One-piece or modest two-piece appropriate; minimal bikinis attract cultural commentary.
Snorkeling gear (optional): If you have your own mask/fins, bring them. Rentals available everywhere (usually $10–20/day), so unnecessary if space-constrained. Quality personal gear ensures better fit and comfort though.
Water shoes: Critical for reef protection. Sharp coral causes nasty cuts. Reef shoes (neoprene, mesh) cost $20–40, weigh ounces, and are essential.
Waterproof bag: Protect electronics (phone, camera, documents) from water. Dry bags cost $10–20 and are essential if photographing water activities.
Clothing Basics
Lightweight, breathable fabrics: Linen, cotton, moisture-wicking synthetics. Jeans and heavy fabrics are torture in tropical heat.
Clothes covering shoulders and knees: For Stone Town, markets, and cultural respect. Women: maxi dresses, knee-length shorts, modest skirts. Men: long pants (even lightweight), shirts with sleeves.
Comfortable walking shoes: Stone Town has narrow alleys with uneven stone. Worn-in sneakers or sandals with support are essential. New shoes guarantee blisters.
Sandals/flip-flops: For resort, beach, casual wear. Pack one worn-in pair to minimize luggage space.
Health & Toiletries
Mosquito repellent: DEET-based (15–20% concentration minimum). Malaria exists in Zanzibar (risk low but present). Mosquitoes are most active evenings (5–9 PM). Health and safety are top priorities. The Packing List Tanzania Zanzibar covers malaria meds, basic first aid, and travel insurance papers.
First aid kit: Band-aids, antibiotic ointment, pain relief, antidiarrheal medication, antihistamine for bites. Hotels have basics but having backup is smart.
Prescription medications: Bring 1–2 month extra supply. Pharmacies exist in Stone Town but carry limited selections and may be expensive.
Aloe vera gel: For inevitable sunburn relief.
Hydration salts: Electrolyte powder packets. Tropical heat + activity = dehydration risk. Mix with water; prevents fatigue and heat sickness.
Toiletries: Most resorts provide basic soap/shampoo. But many travelers prefer personal products. Travel-size containers (100ml max, TSA-compliant for flights) save space.
Tech & Adapters
Universal power adapter (Type G): Tanzania uses Type G outlets (three rectangular holes). Essential for charging phones, cameras, electronics.
Phone charger + USB cable: Bring extra—redundancy matters.
Power bank: Useful for mid-day phone charging during safaris or full days out.
Camera: Optional but recommended for Zanzibar’s stunning beauty. Memory cards, backup batteries crucial.
Documents & Money
Passport: Valid for 6 months beyond travel dates. Non-negotiable.
Travel insurance documentation: Carry copies and originals. Critical if medical needs arise.
Visa: Swiss citizens receive 90-day tourist visas on arrival (USD 50) or pre-arranged online. Have USD cash or credit card ready (Conversant Traveller).
Cash (USD or Tanzanian Shillings): USD widely accepted but TZS preferred. ATMs available in Stone Town and some resorts. Bring USD 200–500 as backup. Credit cards work at some resorts/restaurants but not universally.
Credit/debit card: For emergencies, online bookings, larger purchases.
Discover peak travel months and underrated periods in our Best Time to Visit Zanzibar: The Ultimate 2025–2026 Seasonal Guide for Swiss Travelers.
Packing List Tanzania Zanzibar: Dry Season (June–October)
Adjust this Packing List Tanzania Zanzibar for rainy, dry, and hot seasons so your trip remains comfortable and hassle-free.
Weather: 25–30°C daytime, 20°C nighttime, minimal rainfall, Kusi winds
Best for: Diving, hiking, all activities
Packing focus: Layers for cool evenings + dive gear
Clothing
Light linen shirts: 3–4 (quick-dry preferred). Breathable, fashionable, versatile.
Lightweight pants or shorts: 2–3. Linen, cotton, or moisture-wicking blends. Knee-length or longer (cultural respect).
Summer dresses: 2–3 (flowy, modest, ankle-length or knee-length). Pack one special dinner dress if planning upscale dining.
Light fleece or cardigan: 1 for cool evenings (20°C at night feels chilly after hot days) and air-conditioned interiors (resorts over-AC aggressively).
Comfortable sandals: Worn-in pair.
Sneakers: For spice tours, Stone Town exploration (uneven terrain).
Rain jacket (packable): Optional in dry season but smart backup.
Activity-Specific
For diving/snorkeling: Rash guard or wetsuit (for warmth, UV protection). Water shoes essential.
For spice tours: Sturdy walking shoes (farm terrain), long pants (protection from brush/leaves).
For Stone Town walking: Modest day dress, scarf (versatile—sun protection, temple/mosque visits, aesthetic), comfortable walking shoes.
Dry Season Tips
- June–October feels like perfect Swiss summer—pack accordingly
- Nighttime chills might surprise you; light layer eliminates discomfort
- Reef shoes are non-negotiable for diving
Hot Season (December–February) Packing
Weather: 28–32°C, high humidity (80–85%), occasional brief showers, flat calm seas
Best for: Beach activities, swimming, kitesurfing
Packing focus: Breathable fabrics, moisture-wicking, minimal layers
For travel tips unique to each coastal area, check our Zanzibar Tanzania Beach Guide: Which to Visit & When (2026).
Clothing
Breathable tank tops: 6–8 (ultra-lightweight, quick-dry). You’ll go through more shirts due to sweat.
Lightweight shorts/skirts: 2–3. Knee-length minimum (cultural respect). Look for moisture-wicking blends.
Maxi dresses: 2–3 (flowy, sleeveless if possible, 100% cotton/linen). Doubles as casual-to-semi-formal wear. Comfortable, modest, fashionable.
Minimal layers: One ultra-light cardigan or sarong for AC-blasted indoors and evening temperature drops (rare but possible).
Summer sandals: Breathable, worn-in, waterproof (salt water, sand).
Water shoes: Essential for reef exploration.
Sun hat: Critical—UV intensity peaks in December–February.
Activity-Specific
For kitesurfing: Rash guard, board shorts, or wetsuit. Water shoes, waterproof phone case.
For beach resort stays: Minimal—beach covers from resort to town, swimwear, light sundress for dinner. Beach holidays are easy with our Packing List Tanzania Zanzibar, which highlights quick-dry swimwear, flip-flops, and sun protection essentials.
For diving: Rash guard (sun protection; water stays warm 28–29°C so wetsuits unnecessary).
Hot Season Tips
- Pack light: breathable fabrics dry quickly; laundry services available
- Bring more underwear (heat + humidity = frequent changes)
- Deodorant/antiperspirant crucial if you prefer powder-dry environments
- Loose-fitting clothes prevent sweat concentration
Explore expert recommendations and month-by-month insights in the Zanzibar Best Time to Visit: Complete 2026 Guide
Packing List Tanzania Zanzibar: Rainy Season (March–May, November) Packing
Weather: 26–31°C, afternoon thunderstorms, high humidity, seaweed on east coast beaches
Best for: Photography, cultural immersion, budget travel
Packing focus: Waterproof gear, quick-dry fabrics, reef shoes
Learn how to combine safari adventure and Zanzibar beaches with our Budget Safari Tanzania: Cost & Planning Guide 2026.
Clothing
Packable rain jacket: Space-efficient, lightweight. Protects from afternoon downpours without overheating.
Quick-dry pants or shorts: Moisture-wicking blends that dry within 2 hours of getting wet.
Long-sleeve shirts: 2–3 (protection from rain, sun, insects). Cotton-poly blends dry faster than pure cotton.
Merino wool or synthetic socks: 3–4 pairs (rare need but useful if you slip on wet terrain).
Waterproof bag: Protect electronics, documents, valuables during heavy rain.
Umbrella: Compact, lightweight. Practical for afternoon downpours while sightseeing.
Reef shoes: Critical—muddy terrain becomes slippery.
Rainy Season Tips
- Rain comes 2–4 PM typically; plan morning activities, shelter afternoons
- Humidity + rain = moisture everywhere; pack synthetic/merino underwear that resist odor
- Beach gear less essential (swimming less appealing during rain periods)
- Photography opportunities peak during/after storms (dramatic light, lush landscapes)
By Activity: Specialized Packing
For Snorkeling/Diving
Core gear:
- Mask, fins (optional if renting)
- Rash guard (sun + abrasion protection)
- Reef shoes (non-negotiable)
- Certification card (if certified)
- Waterproof phone case (for documenting underwater encounters)
Optional: Underwater camera, GoPro, dive computer.
Best months: June–October (visibility 20–30m); December–February (visibility 15–25m).
For Stone Town Exploration
For Stone Town excursions, refer to your Packing List Tanzania Zanzibar—cover modest clothes, travel documents, and comfort shoes.
What to pack:
- Comfortable walking shoes (worn-in; uneven terrain punishes new shoes)
- Scarf (versatile: sun protection, temple/mosque visits, aesthetic accessory)
- Modest day dress or pants + long-sleeve shirt
- Small backpack (hands free for navigation, photography)
- Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated; markets, narrow alleys, heat)
What NOT to pack:
- Revealing swimwear (disrespectful in historic town)
- Flip-flops (uneven stone = twisted ankles)
- Heavy bags (narrow alleys make shouldering difficult)
For Spice Tours
What to pack:
- Sturdy sneakers (farm terrain, uneven ground)
- Long pants (protection from brush, leaves, insects)
- Light scarf (dusty environments, sun)
- Small bag (for spice purchases)
- Hydration bottle (farm walks are active, sun exposure real)
For Safari (if combining with Zanzibar)
Core safari gear:
- Neutral colors (khaki, olive, beige, tan)—don’t attract tsetse flies or insects
- Long sleeves + pants (mosquitoes, sun, tsetse fly protection)
- Warm layer (early morning chill on open vehicles)
- Binoculars (animal spotting)
- Camera + extra batteries
- Field notebook (documenting sightings)
For full safari-specific packing details, see: The Perfect Itinerary: Combining a Tanzania Safari with a Zanzibar Escape.
Swiss Traveler Tips for your Packing List Tanzania Zanzibar
Luggage Philosophy
If you travel light, use this Packing List Tanzania Zanzibar to prioritize versatile clothing and critical gear for adventure and comfort. Swiss travelers are efficient packers. Apply that discipline:
Carry-on only option: 1 soft duffel or expandable backpack + personal item. Minimizes risk of lost luggage, speeds airport process.
Carry-on + checked bag (better): More flexibility, comfort without overweight fees.
Fabric over hard-shell: Soft duffels flex into tight spaces; hard luggage is rigid and space-inefficient.
Quality Expectations
Swiss travelers appreciate durable, quality gear:
- Clothing: Invest in quick-dry fabrics (Merino wool, synthetic blends). They last, don’t wrinkle, resist odor.
- Shoes: Pack worn-in quality shoes rather than new/cheap ones. Foot pain ruins trips.
- Sunscreen: Don’t skimp. SPF 50+ reef-safe brand costs more but works better.
Packing Practicality
Versatile pieces: Pack neutral colors that mix/match. Fewer items, more combinations.
One special outfit: Nice shirt/dress for upscale dining. Resorts stay casual, but occasional dressing up feels good.
Minimal “just in case”: Trust you’ll find replacements or rentals. Over-packing “safety items” adds bulk without adding value.
Packing by Luggage Type
Carry-On Only (Minimal)
Total capacity: ~45L (typical 22x35x55 cm dimensions)
Recommend:
- 3 swimsuits (air-dry between wears)
- 4 shirts
- 2 shorts/skirts
- 1 dress
- 1 pair flip-flops, 1 pair shoes
- Toiletries (under 100ml liquids, TSA-compliant)
- Tech + chargers
- Documents
Reality: Doable but tight. Laundry service (most resorts) becomes essential.
Carry-On + Checked Bag (Comfortable)
Carry-on: Tech, valuables, day essentials, toiletries (excess goes in checked)
Checked bag: ~60–70L capacity
Allows:
- More clothing variety
- Full toiletries kit
- Camera gear, binoculars
- Souvenirs/gifts space
- Comfort without constant laundry dependency
Complete Packing List Tanzania Zanzibar
| Category | Item | Qty | Season(s) | Notes |
| Sun Protection | SPF 50+ sunscreen (reef-safe) | 2 bottles | All | Reapply every 2 hours |
| Wide-brimmed hat | 1 | All | UPF-rated fabric | |
| Sunglasses (UV 100%) | 1 | All | Polarized optional | |
| Lightweight cover-up | 1 | All | Doubles as modest wear | |
| Water | Swimsuit | 2 | All | Modest coverage |
| Snorkeling gear | Optional | All | Or rent for $10–20/day | |
| Water shoes | 1 | All | Essential for reef | |
| Waterproof phone case | 1 | All | Critical for water activities | |
| Clothing | Breathable shirts | 3–6 | Jun–Oct (3), Dec–Feb (6) | Linen, cotton, quick-dry |
| Shorts/skirts (knee-length+) | 2–3 | All | Quick-dry preferred | |
| Dresses (modest, flowy) | 2–3 | Dec–Feb | Can be casual or formal | |
| Long pants (lightweight) | 1–2 | Jun–Oct, Mar–May | For cultural respect | |
| Underwear | 5–7 | All | Extra for humid seasons | |
| Socks (Merino/synthetic) | 3 pairs | All | Hiking, cool evenings | |
| Walking shoes | 1 | All | Worn-in, broken-in | |
| Sandals | 1 | All | Waterproof preferred | |
| Layers | Light fleece/cardigan | 1 | Jun–Oct | Evening chill, AC indoors |
| Rain jacket (packable) | 1 | Mar–May, Nov | Essential for rainy season | |
| Scarf | 1 | All | Sun, cultural respect, aesthetic | |
| Health | Mosquito repellent (DEET) | 1 bottle | All | 15–20% concentration |
| First aid kit | 1 small | All | Band-aids, antibiotic, pain relief | |
| Prescription meds | Extra month | All | Pharmacy access limited | |
| Aloe vera gel | 1 tube | All | Sunburn relief | |
| Hydration salts | 4–6 packets | All | Prevent dehydration | |
| Antidiarrheal meds | 1 pack | All | Food/water adjustment | |
| Tech | Universal adapter (Type G) | 1 | All | Non-negotiable |
| Phone charger | 2 | All | Redundancy | |
| USB cables | 2 | All | Backups | |
| Power bank | 1 | All | Mid-day charging | |
| Camera | Optional | All | Memory cards, batteries | |
| Documents | Passport (6 months valid) | 1 | All | Non-negotiable |
| Travel insurance docs | Copies + originals | All | Critical if emergency | |
| Visa documentation | Per requirements | All | Or cash USD 50 for arrival visa | |
| Cash (USD or TZS) | $200–500 | All | ATMs available but backup smart | |
| Credit/debit card | 1 | All | Emergencies, some purchases | |
| Toiletries | Shampoo/body wash | Travel-size | All | Or use resort’s |
| Toothbrush/toothpaste | 1 set | All | Or use resort’s | |
| Deodorant/antiperspirant | 1 | Dec–Feb | Humidity + heat = sweat | |
| Feminine hygiene | Full supply | Women | Limited selection in Zanzibar | |
| Miscellaneous | Reusable water bottle | 1 | All | Hydration, sustainability |
| Snacks (trail mix, bars) | Modest | Optional | No need if food available | |
| Small gifts | Optional | All | Minimal—appreciate but not expected | |
| Notebook + pen | Optional | Optional | Journaling, notes |
Laundry & Resupply Options
Laundry Services
Availability: All resorts offer laundry service (most daily turnaround)
Cost: $2–5 per item (cheapest option)
Quality: Good—hand-washed, line-dried
Recommendation: Use laundry service 2–3 times per week rather than packing excess clothing.
Shopping in Zanzibar
Stone Town markets: Limited Western clothing, focus on loscal fabrics/garments. Prices cheap but quality variable.
Resort boutiques: Overpriced but convenient.
No major chains: Zanzibar lacks H&M, Zara, Western brand stores. Bring what you need or accept local options.
FAQs
1. Do I really need to bring snorkeling gear?
No—snorkeling gear rentals available everywhere for $10–20/day. Bring your own only if you have specific requirements (prescription mask) or quality preferences. Most travelers rent and never regret it.
2. What’s the best fabric for hot weather?
Merino wool: Thermoregulating, moisture-wicking, odor-resistant, durable. Premium cost ($30–50/shirt) but worth it for extended trips.
Synthetic blends (polyester/nylon): Quick-drying, breathable, affordable ($15–30). Great for budget travelers.
Pure cotton: Breathable but stays wet when sweaty; takes forever to dry. Avoid for hot-weather-heavy packing.
Linen: Looks great, breathes well, wrinkles constantly. Great for resorts, less practical for active days.
Best strategy: Mix—Merino/synthetics for active wear, linen/cotton for casual resort time.
Use our Zanzibar Tanzania: Complete Weather & Travel Guide 2026 to align your itinerary with sunshine and fewer crowds.
3. Can I wear shorts to dinner?
At resorts: Yes. Restaurants stay casual (flip-flops acceptable).
At nicer restaurants in Stone Town: No. Wear long pants or a modest skirt + top.
Cultural rule: Shorts (especially very short ones) are seen as disrespectful outside beach/resort zones. Opt for knee-length or longer elsewhere.
4. Should I pack formal attire?
No—unless you’re attending a specific formal event. Zanzibar culture is casual. “Formal” means nice linen shirt + pants, not tuxedo. One semi-nice outfit for upscale dining suffices.
5. What if I forget something?
You won’t need it. Seriously. Zanzibar is well-traveled; basic items are available. Sunscreen (more expensive, buy locally), toiletries (pharmacies stock basics), clothing (limited Western options but functional local items available). The “must-have” forgot-it items almost never become problems because you improvise or discover you didn’t need them.
Conclusion: Pack Smart, Travel Comfortably
Smart packing means arriving prepared without excess bulk. Focus on versatile, season-appropriate pieces, activity-specific gear, and quality over quantity. Swiss efficiency paired with tropical reality creates the optimal Zanzibar packing approach.
Before you fly, review this Packing List Tanzania Zanzibar one last time to confirm you’re prepared for every adventure and season. Pack once, pack right, and maximize comfort while minimizing laundry stress.
About Zamani Voyage
Swiss travelers booking Zamani Voyage’s Tanzania safari and Zanzibar beach packages receive packing recommendations customized to season and chosen activities. Their expert guidance ensures you arrive with exactly what you need, nothing excess. Learn more at zamani-voyage.ch.
