I realize tastes differ from person to person, but I'm hoping for ideas for some of the more "essential" souvenirs to bring back from Tanzania?

Vivid memories, clear photographs. There is nothing really essential. If you see something you like in one of the stores then go for it. I tend to like spice mixtures from Zanzibar for cooking at home, maybe a couple of beer bottle labels from a Kili or a Serengeti bottle.

Don't know where you're staying - but if you stay in the Seacliff take a walk up to the first floor of the shopping village..... there's a silversmith & jeweller up there who has just taken the shop next door and he plans to start selling such things as Masai spears and shields and good quality hunting based leather goods etc. He'll also be able to pack them so you can put them in your rifle case to take home.......

Hope that helps

Masai shields, spears (both blade types), blood gourds, Masai beaded necklaces, arrows in smoke tanned quiver with bow, some paper money with animal depictions and tanzanite.

I forgot about Tanzanite - there's a lady who specialises in good quality tanzanite who visits the Seacliff to show buyers a choice of stones and tell them about the various quality stones etc.......

Lesser kudu, Grant's gazelle, Tommy, gerenuk, fringe-eared oryx and of course a 45+" buffalo... but as you said tastes may vary.

Sorry, I couldn't resist.

The Masai shield and spears would be really neat.

Kyler

While in Kenya I was offered a nice Massai spear as a swap for my Courteny shoes, although I declined the offer due to to much laggage already I have always wanted one. Next time I will bring some peaces of 2" pvc tub like fishing rod tube to bring one home.
Also in Kenya we bought some beauitful game engraved crystal scotch glasses. Not sure if they are available in Tanz though.
ozhunter

Here are some examples:

Thanks for the ideas and the pics. Any problems bringing these kinds of things back?

I was curious about the same thing, Dennis. Thanks for starting the thread.

How long are Masai spears? Some buddy who knows?

Cheers,
Canuck

My spears measure 66" - 71", but the tips on both ends come off making them about 38". Mine were all wrapped in a large box. Customs didn't seem concerned, but don't take that as definitive.

These easiest thing to do with curios is send them back with your trophy shipment.