The 15 kg Soft Bag Rule — Why It Matters
Every fly-in safari from Zanzibar operates on light aircraft — typically Cessna Caravans or similar propeller aircraft seating 8–12 passengers. These aircraft have strict weight limits that are enforced by Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority regulations, not the tour operator. The standard allowance is 15 kg per person, in a soft-sided bag only. This is not negotiable and not something we can override.
The weight limit exists because overloading a small aircraft is a safety issue. The rule applies to every passenger on every flight, every time.
What "Soft-Sided Bag" Means
- Fabric duffel bags — ideal
- Canvas or nylon backpacks (without rigid external frames) — acceptable
- Soft fabric overnight bags — acceptable
- Hard-shell suitcases — not permitted
- Rigid-frame carry-on cases — not permitted
- Large hard-shell backpacks with external frame — not permitted
What to Do With Your Main Suitcase
If you are staying in a Zanzibar hotel, leave your main suitcase or hard-shell luggage securely at the hotel. Every hotel in Zanzibar has luggage storage facilities. Pack what you need for the safari into a separate soft bag and take only that. For a 1-day trip, this requires very little.
What Fits in 15 kg?
More than you think. For a 1-day safari, you need a light day bag only — camera, water bottle, sunscreen, jacket, snacks. The 15 kg limit is genuinely not restrictive for day trips. For overnight safaris of 2–3 nights, 15 kg in a soft bag accommodates everything you need comfortably if you pack neutral-coloured, lightweight clothing.
Overweight Luggage
Excess weight above 15 kg will either need to be left at the airstrip (not recommended as storage is limited) or left at your Zanzibar hotel. It cannot be loaded onto the aircraft. Please plan accordingly — this rule is communicated at booking and at check-in.
Day Pack for the Game Drive
You will carry a small day pack in the vehicle during game drives. This should contain: camera and extra batteries, water (we provide mineral water throughout), sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, personal medication, and any snacks you prefer beyond the provided lunch.