12 Mistakes to Avoid on Your First Tanzania Safari (Especially for Women Travelers)

Posted by

Hasib Santo

Planning your first trip? Here are the mistakes to avoid on Tanzania safari so you can focus on photography, wildlife, and adventure with confidence. — from photographing the Great Migration, to watching elephants in Tarangire, to breathing in dawn air over Ngorongoro. But first-time safari-goers often make mistakes that can cause stress or missed opportunities.

Here are the 12 mistakes to avoid on your first Tanzania safari, plus special tips for women travelers to make your trip smoother, safer, and more empowering.

Common Mistakes to Avoid on Tanzania Safari (and How to Fix Them)

Mistake 1: Not Researching the Best Time to Visit

Why It Matters: The wrong season may mean muddy roads, fewer animals, or missing the Migration.

📊 Safari Seasons at a Glance

Months	Weather	Wildlife Viewing	Best For
Jan–Feb	Warm, green	Calving season	Photographers, birders
Mar–May	Long rains	Limited drives	Budget travelers
Jun–Oct	Dry, cool	Peak wildlife, Migration	Classic safaris
Nov–Dec	Short rains	Fewer crowds, lush	Photography, culture

👉 Women’s Tip: If solo, consider peak season (Jun–Oct). Camps are fuller, making it easier to meet other women travelers and feel supported.

Mistake 2: Packing Incorrectly

Why It Matters: Overpacking is stressful with 15–20kg flight limits. Wrong colors (black, blue) attract tsetse flies; underpacking leaves you cold.

📥 Safari Packing Checklist
☑️ Neutral clothes (khaki, beige, olive)
☑️ Fleece jacket for mornings
☑️ Sturdy walking shoes
☑️ Wide-brimmed hat & sunscreen
☑️ Insect repellent & scarf
❌ Avoid: Hard suitcases, bright colors, heels

👉 Women’s Tip: A lightweight scarf doubles as modest cover, dust/sun protection, and a blanket on early drives.

Mistake 3: Forgetting Health & Safety Essentials

Pack sunscreen, insect repellent, sanitizer, reusable bottle
Bring a personal kit (painkillers, stomach aids, feminine hygiene)
Stay hydrated during drives

👉 Women’s Tip: Carry feminine hygiene products — not widely available in rural Tanzania.

Mistake 4: Ignoring Cultural Sensitivities

Dress modestly outside safari camps
Cover shoulders/knees in Zanzibar (99% Muslim)
Always ask before photographing locals

👉 Women’s Tip: Loose trousers or maxi skirts = both safari comfort and cultural respect.

Mistake 5: Skipping Travel Insurance

Medical evacuation can cost thousands
Get insurance covering evacuation, cancellation, gear theft

👉 Women’s Tip: Choose plans with theft protection for cameras and laptops.

Mistake 6: Underestimating Early Mornings

Sunrise = prime wildlife time
Prepare gear night before
Sleep early, limit alcohol

👉 Women’s Tip: Bring a small thermos — most lodges will fill it with coffee/tea before game drives.

Mistake 7: Over-Shooting or Under-Shooting Photos

Use burst mode wisely
Back up photos daily
Capture variety: animals, landscapes, people

👉 Women’s Tip: Don’t only chase the Big Five — include human details like Maasai jewelry or market scenes.

Mistake 8: Expecting Luxury Everywhere

Even luxury camps face power cuts, dust, or weak Wi-Fi
Bring flashlight, moisturizer, portable charger

👉 Women’s Tip: A mini comfort kit (lip balm, face mist, wipes) = game-changer on long drives.

Mistake 9: Not Carrying Enough Cash

Cards aren’t always accepted
Carry USD + Tanzanian shillings
Split money in different pouches

👉 Women’s Tip: A money belt or neck pouch is safer than handbags.

Mistake 10: Disrespecting Wildlife

Stay inside vehicles unless permitted
Keep voices low
Never feed or provoke animals

👉 Women’s Tip: Use your zoom lens, not your body. Patience = better shots.

Mistake 11: Ignoring Fitness & Well-being

Long drives = fatigue
Stretch during breaks
Stay hydrated, carry snacks & electrolytes

👉 Women’s Tip: Herbal teas or wellness items bring comfort in the bush.

Mistake 12: Choosing the Wrong Safari Operator

Book licensed, reputable companies
Check reviews & ethical practices
Ensure they understand women travelers’ needs

👉 Women’s Tip: Choose operators offering women-only photo tours — like Women in Wildlife Photography LLC.

🦁 FAQs About Tanzania Safaris

Is Tanzania safe for solo female travelers?
Yes. Safaris with licensed operators are very safe. Petty theft in cities is possible, but violent incidents are rare.

What should women wear on safari?
Neutral clothes (khaki, beige, olive). Avoid black/blue (tsetse flies). Bring a scarf for modesty, dust, and sun cover.

Do I need vaccinations for Tanzania?
Yes. Yellow Fever (sometimes required), Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine vaccines. Check with your doctor 4–6 weeks prior.

What animals will I see on safari?
The Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino), plus cheetahs, wildebeest, giraffes, zebras, flamingos, and more.

Can I combine safari with Zanzibar?
Yes. Many travelers do 5–7 days safari + Zanzibar beach, spice tours, and Stone Town. Flights take 1–2 hours.

Final Thoughts

Avoiding these mistakes will let you focus on what matters:
📸 Capturing Tanzania’s wild beauty, 🦁 connecting with nature, and 🌍 experiencing adventure with confidence.

At Women in Wildlife Photography LLC, we create safaris by women, for women — safe, inspiring, and unforgettable.

✨ Ready to witness the Great Migration? Join our Tanzania Great Migration Safari 2026 and capture it with expert women photographers.