Central Tanzania, Tanzania: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Central Tanzania, Tanzania? If you're planning to go to Central Tanzania, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Central Tanzania, Tanzania

Based on the climate and weather in Central Tanzania, Tanzania, the best time to go is September. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Central Tanzania, Tanzania

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Central Tanzania, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Central Tanzania, Tanzania by month

January

If you go to Central Tanzania in January, you will notice that it is hot and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Tanzania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Central Tanzania may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

February

February in Central Tanzania is pretty consistently hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Tanzania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Central Tanzania may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to choose the right kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

March

If you go to Central Tanzania in March, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Tanzania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Central Tanzania may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you choose the correct type. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

April in Central Tanzania is hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) to low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Tanzania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Central Tanzania may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to find the correct type. The majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

May here is pretty consistently hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Tanzania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Central Tanzania may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to get the necessary type. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

June

If you vacation in Central Tanzania during June, you will probably notice that it is hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Tanzania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Central Tanzania may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you pick the right type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

July

If you visit Central Tanzania during July, you may find that it is warm and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Tanzania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Central Tanzania may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

August

If you vacation in Central Tanzania during August, you may notice that it is pretty consistently hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Tanzania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Central Tanzania may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to find the necessary kind. Most adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

September

September for Central Tanzania is hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Tanzania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Central Tanzania may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to choose the necessary kind. Most adapters available online are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

October

October in Central Tanzania can be sweltering and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Tanzania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Central Tanzania may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. It's important that you pick the correct kind. Many adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

If you go to Central Tanzania in November, you will notice that it can be sweltering and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Tanzania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Central Tanzania may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to pick the correct kind. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

December

If you are traveling to Central Tanzania in December, you will notice that it can be sweltering. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Tanzania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Central Tanzania may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to find the right type. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

What to do in Central Tanzania, Tanzania

Central Tanzania, located in the heart of the country, is a region with many tourist attractions. These tourist attractions range from national parks, cultural sites, historical ruins, and much more. Below are some of the top tourist attractions to visit while in Central Tanzania.

1. Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park is one of Tanzania's largest national parks, located in the southern part of the country. It is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts as it is home to various endangered species such as the wild dog, cheetah, and African elephant. The park also offers a chance to explore the rugged terrain dotted with rocky outcrops, baobab trees, and riverine valleys.

2. Udzungwa Mountains National Park

Udzungwa Mountains National Park is an alluring destination for hikers, nature lovers, and bird-watchers. Located in the southern highlands, the park is home to lush forest trails, rivers, and waterfalls. It also has a high number of unique plant and animal species, some of which are found nowhere else in the world. Hiking to the top of the park's tallest peak, the Sanje Waterfall, is a must-do activity for visitors.

3. Mikumi National Park

Located on the main highway that connects Dar es Salaam and the central regions of Tanzania, Mikumi National Park is a popular game reserve that offers exceptional wildlife sightings. The park boasts a variety of animals, including lions, giraffes, zebras, buffalos, and many more. The park's size and location provide an ideal day trip from Tanzania's major cities.

4. Iringa Town

Iringa is a small town located in the southern part of Central Tanzania. The town has a rich history and boasts various cultural and historical sites worth visiting. One of the main attractions is the Old Boma museum, which showcases the history and culture of the local Hehe people. The town also offers easy access to Ruaha and Udzungwa National Parks.

5. Isimila Stone Age Site

Located near Iringa Town, the Isimila Stone Age Site is a historical attraction that is worth visiting. It consists of a collection of stone tools and artifacts that date back over 60,000 years. The site is believed to have been inhabited by early humans who used the tools to hunt and gather food.

In conclusion, Central Tanzania is a region packed with many excellent tourist attractions. Whether visitors are interested in wildlife, culture, history, or adventure, there is something for everyone in this part of Tanzania. With easy access to the region from all major cities, it is an ideal destination for those looking to explore Tanzania's heartland.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Aladdin, Wyoming, United States of America, Hyrynsalmi, Finland, Rhinelander, Wisconsin, United States of America, El Portal, California, United States of America, Patong, Thailand, Gengenbach, Germany, Islas del Rosario, Colombia, Oltrepò Pavese, Italy, Begusarai, India, Arras, France, and Ferapontovo, Russia.