Planning an African safari is an exciting adventure that promises unforgettable moments and breathtaking wildlife encounters. However, knowing what to pack can feel a bit overwhelming. The right gear can not only enhance your experience but also ensure you’re prepared for the diverse conditions you might encounter. Here’s a comprehensive list of essentials to help you get ready for your safari, along with some personal insights to make your trip even more enjoyable.
Clothing
1. Lightweight, Neutral-Colored Clothing
Opt for breathable fabrics that wick away moisture. I found that wearing neutral colors like khaki, beige, and olive not only kept me cooler in the sun but also helped me blend into the surroundings, making wildlife sightings even more thrilling. Lightweight long-sleeved shirts are great for sun protection and also help keep bugs at bay.
2. Layering Options
Temperatures can vary dramatically from morning to evening, especially in savanna regions. I always packed a lightweight fleece or sweater for those chilly early morning game drives, and a light jacket for the cool evenings under the stars. Layers allow you to adapt to changing temperatures easily.
3. Comfortable Pants and Shorts
Quick-drying pants are a must. I recommend cargo pants with plenty of pockets for storing small items like sunscreen and snacks. You might also want to bring a couple of pairs of comfortable shorts for the warmer parts of the day. Just remember to avoid bright colors, as they can attract unwanted attention from insects.
If you plan to go into town then definitely wear long pants as the locals are more conservative in this part of the world.
4. Sturdy Footwear
Invest in comfortable, durable walking shoes or boots with good grip for game drives and walking safaris. Bring a pair of sandals for relaxing at the lodge. I personally buy water shoes as a form of sandals. They tend to have a stronger grip and last through a lot of wear and tear. My last pair of water shoes lasted me over two years on continuous use.
5. Sun Protection
A wide-brimmed hat or cap can shield your face and neck from the intense African sun. Keep in mind that not all safari cars have a good overhead covering. I also recommend packing sunglasses with UV protection; you’ll want to protect your eyes while you soak in the stunning landscapes. Bring sunscreen with you. I figured that I would buy my sunscreen once I landed, and I was hit with an expensive reality very quick. The sunscreen found in stores is typically only 30 SPF and always around $30-$40! I was stunned. I always checked the sunscreen aisle when I overlanded from Nairobi, Kenya to Cape Town, South Africa and this was the case for 90% of the journey.
Accessories
6. Binoculars
I was very surprised to learn that the safari companies don’t supply their drivers with a good pair of binoculars. A good pair of binoculars is essential for spotting wildlife from a distance. If at least one passenger has binoculars, then the guide could also borrow them to steer the car in the right direction. Look for models with a magnification of 8x to 10x for the best experience.
7. Camera and Gear
Bring a quality camera to capture the breathtaking scenery and incredible wildlife. Make sure to pack extra batteries and memory cards, as you’ll likely take more photos than you expect. A zoom lens is invaluable for getting close-up shots of animals without disturbing them. I also recommend bringing a small tripod for those stunning sunset shots. Of course, you can always take photos on your smartphone, but in my opinion the quality difference is very visible. If you want to share your memories right away, I recommend buying the SD card to phone adapter. The adapter allows you to transfer the photos automatically from camera to phone.
8. Backpack or Daypack
A lightweight backpack is great for carrying your daily essentials like water, snacks, and camera gear during game drives or hikes. My favorite foldable backpacks roll up to the size of your palm so it takes up very minimal space in your suitcase.
Health and Safety
9. Insect Repellent
Mosquitoes can carry diseases like malaria, so use a strong insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin. Visit a travel clinic before your trip to receive a prescription of malaria pills.
11. First Aid Kit
Pack a basic first aid kit that includes band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications you might need. It’s always better to be prepared, as you never know when a little cut or headache might pop up. The all-day game drives typically last 8 hours.
12. Toilet Paper
You don’t have to purchase this before your trip, but just remember to have toilet paper with you. Some safaris do bush stops where there’s no facility but just the great outdoors.
13. Feminine Hygiene Product
Pads are easily accessible all-around Africa. Tampons are a little harder to come by. If you are used to tampons, then I would bring a few from home for your travels just in case.
14. Travel Insurance and Health Documents
Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. I use Safetywing since it has coverage in multiple countries. Carry copies of important health documents, including vaccination records and the yellow fever vaccination.
Hydration and Nutrition
15. Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated by carrying a reusable water bottle. Many lodges and camps provide clean drinking water to refill your bottle. Never ever drink water from the tap. That’s a disaster waiting to happen.
16. Snacks
Pack lightweight snacks like granola bars, nuts, or dried fruits for energy during long game drives.
Travel Essentials
17. Travel Adapter
Check the plug types for the country you’re visiting and bring a suitable travel adapter for your electronics. If you are going to do a safari in South Africa buy a specific adaptor for that region because most universal adapters exclude South Africa.
18. Identification and Documents
Keep your passport, visa, and any other necessary travel documents organized and accessible. I made digital backups of all my important documents, just in case, which provided peace of mind in the worst case scenario.
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