Clothing on Safaris

On safari, most people wear shorts and a T-shirt during the day and put on long sleeved shirts and long pants in the evening for warmth as well as protection from mosquitoes. Should you be particularly sensitive to the sun a loose cotton shirt is essential during the day. Khaki, brown, olive and beige colours are best for and safaris and game walks.

White is not a suitable colour for these activities, as it increases your visibility to wildlife you want to get a closer look at and it will get dirty very quickly. Fleece or sweater and a windbreaker for game drives, because it is highly possible that you may go out on a hot day, but be faced with a chill evening on your return. Remember that layering your clothing will keep you warmer than relying on one thick item.

Clothing to bring along

•    2 pairs khaki cotton pants
•    2 pairs khaki shorts
•    Hat with a brim (baseball caps might cover your nose but not your ears and neck)
•    2 long sleeved shirts/ blouses (for sun protection as well as warmth)
•    1 light sweater or sweatshirt
•    1 lightweight, waterproof windbreaker
•    Swimming costume
•    Sturdy walking or hiking boots
•    Sandals
•    3-5 short-sleeved shirts or T-shirts
•    5 changes underwear and socks
•    Gloves (if you really feel the cold)
•    Down vest or jacket (if you really feel the cold)
•    A sarong or kikoi type garment
•    Most lodges and safari camps offer laundry as part of their service. Hotels all offer laundry, at additional cost.
 
Be Certain to Have with You:

•    Valid passport
•    Valid visa - if required
•    Air tickets
•    Comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy
•    One other picture identification (e.g. driver's licence)
•    Photocopy of passport page to carry in wallet
•    Expense money


Essentials:

•    Binoculars
•    Toilet kit including shampoo and soap
•    Insect repellent
•    Good quality sunglasses plus protective case
•    Personal first-aid kit (headache pills, antihistamine cream etc)
•    Hand wipes or 'Baby wipes'
•    Spare batteries. Film and batteries can generally be obtained at lodges, but at a price of course, so please be sure to have sufficient supplies for your needs
•    Stuff-sacks or plastic packets; to compartmentalise items within your travel bag
•    Repair kit: needle and thread, nylon cord, rip-stop tape
•    Camera, film or memory card
•    Paperback reading, writing material (keep weight at a minimum)
•    Sunscreen or block
•    Moisturizer, lip balm
•    Large towel and washcloth (thin, quick-drying) – if required for camping/overland safari

If you take prescription medication, be sure to bring a sufficient supply with you. If you are on a lengthy holiday, we suggest that you carry a copy of your prescription with you.

Packing for a Mobile Safari

For Safari travel, the best type of luggage to bring is a soft bag, or backpack with an internal frame. As packing space in Safari vehicles is limited, only one bag is allowed, but you should also have a daypack for all of your personal items/camera/binoculars. Hard suitcases are usually scuffed or damaged in transit and are inappropriate for a game safari.