Safari Packing Tips

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable throughout the year when on safari. Apart from selecting reasonably neutral or ‘non-bright’ colored clothing, safari-wear is generally casual and practical. Be sure you take clothes that you feel comfortable in – especially when it comes to your walking/hiking boots. The newer quick-drying fabrics, shirts with ventilation and trousers that convert into shorts are all worth considering.

Wearing clothes in layers is the most practical way to cope with fluctuating day/night temperatures and cool evenings whilst on safari. As the day warms up you can peel off another layer. Then as it begins to cool toward evening, you can put them back on. Here’s the “must-haves” to pack for your safari:

• T-shirt, shirt or blouse – long sleeves and collars help to protect from the sun and mosquitoes
• Fleece or warm jacket for early mornings and evenings when the temperature dips
• Pants/Trousers. Hiking trousers are good, as well as cargo pants. Longer pants are recommended rather than shorts
• Comfortable walking shoes (or boots) and socks
• Slip on shoes for walking around camp or lodges
• Hat
• Swimsuit –  a number of lodges and camps have swimming pools
• Casual outfit to wear in the evenings at the lodges
• Undergarments

Other items you may want to bring

• Basic first aid kit with medication for diarrhea, headaches, heartburn, bites (antihistamine), and hand sanitizer
• Insect repellent
• Anti-malarial tablets (Check with your doctor)
• Chapstick and sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Headlight or torch
• Binoculars
• Book/kindle/ipad for evenings at camp