Pack Light, Pack Smart, Pack Respectfully
Year-round temperature: 28–32°C with high humidity. Culture: predominantly Muslim. Resorts are relaxed, but villages and Stone Town expect modest dress.
Must-Pack Essentials
- 2–3 swimsuits (bikinis are fine at resorts)
- Sarong, kaftan, or maxi dress for women—instant cover-up for town or ferry rides
- Knee-length board shorts and light linen shirt for men
- Flip-flops plus water shoes for coral and rocky entries
- SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, and UV sunglasses—the equatorial sun is intense
- Small waterproof dry bag (10–20 L) to keep phone and camera safe on dhow trips
- Light evening outfit: linen trousers and nice shirt for men, maxi dress for women—many restaurants prefer covered knees and shoulders
- Your own mask and snorkel (optional—better fit and hygiene; fins are easy to rent)
What to Leave at Home
- Short shorts and crop tops—disrespectful outside resorts, especially on Fridays
- Jeans or any heavy clothing—too hot and slow to dry
- Beach towels—every hotel provides them
- Full dive gear—excellent rentals everywhere for $15–25 per day
- Expensive jewelry—flashy items can attract unwanted attention
Quick Modesty Guide
- At resorts and private beaches, a bikini or swim trunks are perfectly fine
- In Stone Town, villages, or on ferries: women cover shoulders and knees, men wear long shorts and shirts
- Fridays (Jumaa prayer day): extra modesty—long sleeves and trousers are appreciated
Extra Reef-Friendly Items
- Rash guard for additional sun protection and less sunscreen use
- Reusable metal straw and water bottle—many resorts have banned single-use plastic
SerengetiNexus Packing Hack
Fit everything into a 40 L carry-on plus a small dry bag. Domestic flights to Zanzibar and Pemba enforce strict 15–20 kg limits (including hand luggage).
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Add a 4–7 night island escape to your 2025–2026 safari or Kilimanjaro adventure with SerengetiNexus.
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