safari travel essentials

23 Top Safari Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

Many people view an African safari as the ultimate “bucket list” travel destination—and for good reason! There is a particular enchantment about the open savannah, largely untouched by civilization and inhabited by the most stunning creatures. It is something that has to be experienced to be truly understood.

For most people, the prospect of going on a safari is both exhilarating and intimidating. That’s why I’ve put together this Safari packing list and a section on what to wear on a safari . There’s also helpful information on what NOT to bring, and answers to FAQs. Wherever you are going on a safari, these must-haves are sure to have you covered for just about any situation you might encounter.

What to Pack for a Safari – 23 Essentials

1. neck wallet.

Keep important documents safe with a neck wallet. As you experience long travel days and inevitably get exhausted, it’s important to keep your passports in one place. This organizer can be worn around your neck to minimize the risk of pickpocketing or losing something essential. It can hold passports, phones, credit cards, and anything else you wouldn’t want to risk losing. It even has RFID-blocking material to stop digital thieves from scanning your credit cards.

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Insect Repellent Wristbands

Since most safaris will be in Africa, you’ll want to protect your family from regional mosquito-born illnesses, including Zika, Chikungunya, Dengue Fever, malaria, and West Nile. Instead of being under attack from annoying and potentially harmful bug bites, use mosquito repellent to stay ahead of these pests. We like the wearable option instead of respraying toxic fumes all day.

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Many countries in Africa censor the Internet. A good VPN can help prevent your connection from being blocked. Additionally, a VPN makes it extremely difficult for hackers to access your information or steal your private data. Cybercrime is up by a huge percentage in recent years, with over 100,000 attacks in 2023 in South Africa alone.

Since a great deal of your travel time might be spent putting in credit card information and flight details – not to mention passport ID or social security numbers – having a secure connection is critical. NordVPN is our go-to because they are affordable and will protect you with one click.

View NordVPN.com Options ➜

4. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

Not only is it uncertain that your hotel will provide a towel, but it may not be up to your standards of hygiene. In case you have dirty towels (or no towels) bring along your own for the journey. This one is great for hiking since it’s not big and fluffy like hotel towels. It also dries 10x faster than cotton as a more practical microfiber material. We find tons of uses for it along the way!

5. Binoculars with Phone Adapter

Africa boasts some of the most majestic scenery that planet Earth has to offer, not to mention its most mysterious creatures. One of the most essential items on your list, after investing so much to get here, is being able to take in the sights clearly. These are high-quality so you can get epic views but still maintain a safe distance. These even have an adapter so you can plug them into your phone for views and live-action screenshots.

6. Universal Power Adapter

You will likely be using major cities as the jumping-off point for your safari, and you will want a power adapter to suit these destinations. In terms of the safari itself, many people opt for glamping or camp resort experiences, and these sites usually offer electrical power as well. Come prepared with a universal power adapter that is suitable for anywhere you go. This one works in 100+ popular countries and comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee.

(Note: If you’re headed to southern Africa, you’ll want to bring a South Africa-specific adapter as well).

7. Travel Insurance for a Safari

Accidents do happen and can be even more common when venturing far from home. Traveling for a safari is not cheap anyway, so why wouldn’t you pay a small amount extra to protect your travel investment? The last thing you want is to pay out-of-pocket for international medical bills, expensive medivacs, lost luggage, or flight cancelations. Being that your domestic provider generally will not cover you overseas (Medicare and Medicaid in particular), you have to protect yourself from bills that would be difficult to recover from.

Faye is our favorite travel provider because they make the process a breeze through their mobile app. It’s probably one of the cheapest aspects of your trip and well worth it for the peace of mind alone! Faye even covers entire trip cancelation, which is very rare for an affordable provider.

Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

8. Cooling Towel

One thing there’s no shortage of on a safari – is HEAT! The open savannah doesn’t offer air conditioning, but cooling towels are just about the next best thing. Simply by adding water, this magical towel drops to nearly 30-degrees colder than the outside temperature. It’s such a sweet relief on a hot day, and we wouldn’t travel anywhere warm without these. If the effects start to minimize, just add more water and you’re good to go!

9. High-Quality Filtered Water Bottle

Do not drink the local tap water. It is critical to avoid drinking unsafe water in Africa and many other less-developed areas as well. While many resorts and safari camps offer bottled water, it is best to make sure you have a consistent source of safe drinking water to stay hydrated in the severe heat. This Grayl option is worth the price-tag since it’s such undeniable quality! It will protect you from harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, microplastics, sediment, chlorine, pesticides, and more.

10. Portable Universal Charger

If you are going to be away from electrical outlets for a while, you will need a universal charger to keep your electronic devices fully charged. There are not generally electricity grids in the middle of the savannah, so use this charger to stay on-the-go. It has multiple USB ports so you can charge your devices quickly and efficiently.

11. Motion Sickness Relief

If you’re prone to any motion sickness, the safari land cruisers and game-viewing vehicles can be very bumpy! Use these patches to stay ahead of any nausea. They’re all natural and make a big difference in your comfort level for this exhilarating part of your trip! We also use them on boat rides, driving on windy roads, at amusement parks, and more.

12. Windproof Travel Umbrella

During the summer months especially, rain is common and you’ll want to come prepared with a lightweight umbrella. It’s also brilliant to have for shade protection and just getting out of the sun for a bit on a long day of animal watching! This one is our favorite because it’s good quality and weighs only one pound.

13. Deodorant Wipes

When you are on a safari, it’s not always feasible to take a shower right when you need one. Deodorant wipes are the next best thing. These are refreshing and cooling with scents like mint and cucumber. They cleanse away sweat, dirt, and odors so you can enjoy long days without feeling sticky.

14. Paracord Bracelet

When you are trekking into the middle of the great outdoors, it’s always wise to have a few tools on hand. A paracord bracelet blends style and practicality, providing a few essential tools such as a flint fire starter, emergency whistle, and a compass.

15. Travel Backpack

Safaris often involve side trips, whether that side trip is an extended hot air balloon ride or a jeep drive to catch a glimpse of the Serengeti’s wildebeest migration. Make sure you bring a travel backpack that will carry everything you need for the day (like your phones, water bottles, neck wallet, umbrella, etc).

16. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

We’ve sadly had something stolen out of our checked luggage. Now, anytime our bags are going to be out of sight or exposed to areas with petty theft – we bring these locks. They can be attached to your suitcase, backpack, or lockers in public areas. They’re also TSA-approved, so security won’t give you any fuss over securing your bags.

17. Jet Lag Relief

They say that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Well, a journey to Africa often begins with what feels like a thousand layovers! Jet lag pills will help you be ready to hit the ground running instead of taking days to adjust to the drastic time change. We use them on the way there, and when we return home to get back on track faster.

18. Packing Cubes

Packing your essentials while staying lightweight and organized can be a challenge even for the most experienced of travelers. Use packing cubes to keep everything tidy and well-organized. These come in a variety of colors so every family member can have their own, and even bonus laundry bags to separate dirty and clean items. I can promise that once you try them – you won’t go back!

19. First-Aid Kit

Do not risk a small cut or wound getting infected. While the odds of sustaining a serious injury while on a safari are pretty low, any kind of travel comes with the risk of bumps and bruises. A first-aid kit can help take care of pesky cuts and abrasions and everything you need comes in this compact case.

20. Convertible Hiking Pants

These hiking pants are the perfect safari wardrobe. They allow you to wear longer pants – or unzip them at the knee if you want a cooler shorts-style. It’s nice if hiking and you step in a muddy puddle, you can easily convert these back and forth between shorts and pants. They also have temperature-regulating material to keep you warm or cool, depending on the environment. Smarty pants!

21. Hanging Toiletry Bag

African bathrooms are not generally huge, unless you’re staying in a luxury resort. Regardless of whether you’re in a bungalow or camping outside – this hanging toiletry bag is a game-changer! It can hang anywhere and offer you a built-in storage system for all toiletry items like skincare, haircare, and makeup products. We never travel without ours. It’s one of the best items we’ve come across for consolidating the most regulated items.

22. Activated Charcoal

While traveling to a foreign country, the odds are that you might encounter foods and flavors you haven’t encountered before. In case you get hit with food poisoning or a bad stomach ache – activated charcoal is wise to have on-hand. It is an easy way to help rid your body of unexpected toxins and get back to enjoying your vacation.

23. Camera with Zoom Lens

As an obvious but necessary packing list item, you will definitely want top-notch photos of your safari. Document the moment with this Canon set that includes a versatile kit lens and a powerful zoom lens to capture wildlife in the distance. It will make a big difference to walk away from the trip with images you will treasure for a lifetime, rather than blurry shots on your phone that will likely get lost there forever.

Other Safari Packing List Items

• Discounted tours
• “Just in case” bag
• Windproof/waterproof jacket
• Dustproof camera bag
• Insulated water bottle
• Sunglasses case
• Hand sanitizer
• Travel power strip
• TSA-approved travel-sized bottles
• Polythene-free storage bag
• Citronella soap
• Shampoo bar case
• Flip-flops or sandals
• Waterproof shoe bag
• Lip balm with sunscreen
• Travel umbrella
• Bug bite cream
• Solid shampoo
• Mini hairbrush
• Pocket knife
• Travel laundry detergent
• Clothesline
• Waterproof phone case
• Flotation strap
• Selfie stick
• Memory card
• Flash drive
• Steripod toothbrush cover
• Travel pillow
• Protein bars
• Hat with bug net
• Fleece jacket
• Rain jacket

What to Wear on a Safari

Going on a safari will present you with a range of conditions. In particular, many travelers find it difficult to straddle that line between fending off the heat and the bugs. The bugs will leave you wishing you had better covered up, the heat will leave you wanting to shed longer layers.

The best way to approach this dilemma is to find the perfect blending of the two. During the hottest parts of the day, it is probably okay to wear shorts as long as you properly apply bug spray. During the dawn and dusk hours, when disease-carrying mosquitoes are at their most active, you will want to make sure you are covered by lightweight clothes that have ideally been pre-treated with bug repellant.

Either way, make sure you pack a pair of comfortable shoes with good tread.

In general, women should wear lightweight clothing that comfortably covers knees and shoulders. This is out of respect for local customs and culture as much as it is an added barrier against bugs and sun exposure.

Lightweight, stylish pants that cover your entire legs and ankles work well. Soft, light materials shirts also work well for staying cool. Keep in mind that darker colors are not only worse for heat but also for attracting mosquitoes. And don’t forget to pack at least one nice dress , as there are sure to at least one day or night where you will be relaxing over a nice dinner at your safari lodge or resort.

For men, wearing gear that is both lightweight and rugged is the way to go. As mentioned previously, avoiding bug bites is also of top concern, so the better the coverage you can get (while staying cool) the better.

Cargo shorts are good to have on hand, as well as at least a few changes of soft, lightweight shirts in both long and short sleeves. A baseball cap works well for staying put on your head during safari rides, but a more stylish brimmed hat can be nice for other sightseeing activities as well. Don’t forget to pack at least one set of nicer pants and a shirt as the opportunity for a nice dinner is likely at some point during your trip.

Packing for the Seasons in Safari

Safari in dry season – april, may, june, july, august, september, october :.

Dry months might be warm during the day but can be deceptively cool at night Convertible zip-off pants and a sturdy pair of sandals can allow you to easily go from one to the other without a lot of hassle. Layers will allow you to also accommodate fluctuations in temperature. Don’t forget a jacket to give you an extra layer of warmth when you need it.

Safari in WET SEASON – November, December, January, February, March:

If are traveling during wet season, keep in mind that road conditions might be muddy, which means your walking conditions will be muddy as well Waterproof shoes are a must. Keep in mind that wet conditions don’t necessarily mean cold, so layers are critical to effectively navigating the fluctuations in temperature. A rain jacket and water-resistant backpack will help you keep your belongings (and yourself!) cool and dry.

Glamping or Camping – In many regions of Africa it can be surprisingly cool at night and in the early morning. Wool is a versatile material that will keep you cool when it gets hot, and hot when it gets cold. Packing other favorites such as t-shirts and your favorite yoga pants are good options as well.

Jeep treks – Lightweight clothes, layers, and a brimmed hat that fits snugly and won’t fly off can all help you enjoy the drive without having to pack too much into your day bag.

What NOT to Bring on a Safari

Heavy luggage is a no-no on most vacations, but this is especially true when it comes to going on a safari. The best way to bring your library of books to wile away the long layover hours is by buying a Kindle or other e-reading device

2. Unnecessary valuables:

There’s really no reason to pack fancy jewelry while you are on a safari, and don’t bring too much extra cash either. Not only is there a risk of theft or loss, but the idea of a safari is to get in touch with nature.

3. Too many clothes:

The best way to maximize your luggage is to pack basic outfits that can work in multiple situations, temperatures, and then to hand wash them on the go if possible.

Not only are drones bulky, they aren’t allowed in most regions where you might be going on a safari. If you bring one where they are prohibited, you run the risk of having it confiscated, never to be seen again.

5. Sleeping bags:

Unless your safari journey specifically entails heavy-duty camping and you are in charge of bringing your own gear, a sleeping bag is unnecessary and will only weigh you down.

6. Plastic bags:

Plastic bags have been banned in many African countries. If you are caught with duty-free plastic bags, you might be asked to get rid of them, or worse, receive a fine.

FAQs about Safaris

1. where should i go on an african safari.

There are many options for first-time safari trekkers, but in general, the top 3 most popular destinations include the Masai Mara in Kenya, Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania, and Kruger National Park in South Africa. Choosing which one is best varies from person to person.

Flying is the easiest way to reach Moab, with Canyonlands Field Airport just 20 miles outside of town. It’s a very small airport though, and only has flights to Denver, which are pretty pricey. Otherwise, you can fly into Grand Junction, which is just under two hours away, or the nearest major airport is Salt Lake City, almost four hours from Moab. Fortunately, in either case, there’s some beautiful scenery along the way. Some destinations, such as Kenya, have better safari travel structures in place but often come at a higher cost. Others, such as Tanzania, are a bit more rustic in their approach but can be easier on the pocketbook. Each destination has its own unique beauty to offer, and exploring these offerings is half the adventure!

2. What is the best time of year to go on a safari?

Africa is a huge continent, with safaris available in a multitude of countries. Because of this, there is no“one size fits all” answer to figuring out the best time of year to go on a safari. In general, dry seasons are a safer bet as roads tend to be less likely to close down. Additionally, it can be more optimal for spotting animals because the dry season tends to force your favorite “must-see” animals to congregate around the same watering holes and other water sources, which makes them easier for guides to spot.

Perhaps the most important thing to consider is what matters to you in terms of what you hope to achieve by going on a safari. Popular activities such as witnessing the Serengeti migration or a visit to Kruger National Park can vary wildly in what is considered “peak” season. For example, if seeing baby animals is high on your list, November through March is the season for babies at South Africa’s Kruger National Park.

Making a wish list of the experiences that matter most for your safari will help you better decide the best time of year to visit.

3. Are African safaris ethical?

Going on an African safari is ethical as long as you go about it thoughtfully. Watch for tour providers that focus on ethical tourism meant to provide a safe experience for both you and the animals. While getting the perfect selfie next to your favorite animal might be high on your bucket list, consider choosing activities that are easier on the ecosystem, and respectful of the animal’s natural habits. In general, activities focused on enjoying the animals from a distance are best.

4. Are African safaris safe?

As long as you are following the rules and not participating in blatantly dangerous behavior, yes, African safaris are considered very safe! However, it is always wise to check with your government’s travel site to make sure there aren’t any travel advisories in place, as well as to get advice on proper vaccinations.

5. How much are African safari tours?

The cost of your safari will vary widely depending on the time of year and also which destination you choose. Safaris that utilize a more rugged, DIY approach can be surprisingly affordable. Luxury safari lodges, however, can cost up to thousands per person, per day!

6. Are African safaris good for families?

Safaris offer a rich array of activities for families and are suitable for older children. From hot air balloon rides over the Savannah to see amazing animals in real life, safaris provide unforgettable memories and learning experiences. Keep in mind that some tour companies and lodges do have a minimum age requirement of 6 or 8. A widely accepted rule of thumb is that children should be at least age 8 to be able to appreciate a safari fully.

7. Are African safaris good for solo travelers?

Safaris offer an incredible getaway for solo travelers. Watch for resorts and lodges that waive the supplemental fee that often accompanies solo travel. If you hope to achieve solitude, you can book private drives and activities. If you are hoping to meet new friends, you are sure to meet other travelers at your lodge as well, so you won’t be short of people to share the adventure!

8. How do I pay for things while on an African safari?

The odds are that while you are on a safari, you will visit local villages and towns where you will find a vast array of locally made crafts and goods you will want to purchase. It is preferable to pay for these goods in cash, ideally in the local currency. ATMs are available at some resorts but do your research ahead of time to not only get the best exchange rate but to avoid the awkward situation of having to count out unfamiliar money on the fly when you arrive.

9. What are the African safari big 5?

What is called the “big five” while going on a safari in Africa refers to the most wished for sightings, specifically: lions, buffalos, leopards, elephants, and rhinos.

Asher Fergusson

Luxe Adventure Traveler

Adventure Travel With a Glass of Wine

What to Pack: African Safari Packing List

By Jennifer Dombrowski 31 Comments

Packing for an African safari is vastly different than packing for just about any other trip, and it’s often a challenge for first time safari goers. Not only do most safari goers have weight restrictions on bush flights (a typical weight restriction is 15 kilograms or 33 pounds total per person, including camera equipment and carry-ons), but you also have the challenge of knowing which types of clothes to wear on safari are appropriate. We’ve been on safari twice now in Tanzania and Kenya, and have put together our tips for what to pack for an African safari.

Preparing for an African Safari

What to pack for a safari isn’t just about the clothing, either. There’s a lot of little quirky things about traveling to Sub-Saharan Africa that you need to know before you go. We either got tips in advance from the awesome safari companies we went with, or learned about various policies along the way.

1. Prepare your documents 

Many countries in Sub-Saharan Africa require your passport to be valid for six months beyond your travel dates in Africa. They also have requirements like a certain number of consecutive blank pages being available in your passport. So be sure to pull out your passport well in advance of your trip, and thoroughly review all the entry requirements for each country you’re visiting. US citizens can get the most up-to-date entry requirements on travel.state.gov .

In addition to your passport being in order, you should obtain a Yellow Health Card and have it completed by your doctor. The Yellow Heath Card is an internationally recognized record of vaccinations endorsed by the World Health Organization .

Some countries require visitors to obtain certain vaccinations as part of their entry requirements. These vaccinations should be completed with the date of administration, the date the vaccination is valid until and be certified with a stamp and signature from your doctor.

All passengers on our flight to Tanzania had to present their Yellow Health Cards to an official that boarded the plane to verify the documents the moment we touched down. Some countries won’t even allow you off the plane if you can’t present this card, so it’s equally as important to have as your passport.

The other thing to pay close attention to are visas. Many countries in Sub-Saharan Africa require a visa for entry. Often a visa upon arrival is offered, and you should be prepared to pay for your visa with cash as electricity operates on the grid and connections can be unreliable for card machines. US dollars are widely accepted, though your US dollar bills should be printed after 2006. Additionally, ensure your bills are in excellent condition. US dollar bills with tears or writing on them won’t be accepted.

2. Cash is king in Africa

You won’t find credit card machines in the African bush and you’ll likely visit at least one village where you can pick up some unique souvenirs. US dollars are fairly widely accepted, and you can also easily take out local currency from an ATM when you arrive at the international airport.

Know that tipping is common throughout Sub-Saharan Africa and you should have cash on hand to tips guides and service staff. Your safari company should answer questions and provide a guide on tipping etiquette. In our experience for a luxury safari, you should plan to tip your guide between $20 – $30 per day per couple.

Some of the airstrips also have coolers with drinks for purchase, though if you’re choosing a luxury safari all drinks are typically included.

Note that particularly in East Africa, only crisp US bills newer than 2014 are accepted. This is because banknotes produced prior than in the past 10 years were very easily forged. We definitely ran into this when a bill older than 2006 made it into our mix and was refused. It’s not a myth!

What to Pack for an African Safari

The primary activity on an African safari is going on game drives, which are what safaris are called in Africa. While there are often additional activities like walking safaris offered, the majority of your time will be spent sitting in safari vehicles while you and your guide look for the various wildlife you’ve come to see. That’s why it’s paramount that your African safari clothes are practical and comfortable.

We break everything down for you below with further explanation, but your packing list for safari should include the following essentials and will work no matter if you need a 2-day or 2-week safari packing list:

• duffel or soft-sided bag
• TSA approved clear toiletry case
• 2 pairs of pants in a breathable fabric in earth tones
• 1 – 2 long sleeve shirts in chambray or earth tones
• 3 layering tanks or tshirts
• utility jacket
• light scarf
• wide brim hat with chin strap
• closed toe shoes like trail runners or fashion sneakers with good traction
• waterproof dry bag
• moisturizer
• insect repellent with Deet
• conditioner
• plug adapters / convertors
• USB flash drive
• Memory cards for your camera
• first aid kit

1. Luggage and Packing Essentials

You’ll likely be arriving to safari destinations like the Serengeti or Masai Mara on a bush flight. These are small planes, often only a Cesna Caravan, that have strict weight limits. They also require that passengers travel with soft-sided luggage that can easily be stuffed into compartments.

Some airlines like AirKenya and SafariLink offer luggage storage for a small fee. This can be a convenient option if you’re returning to the same airport. Just bring a duffel bag with you to take along to your safari destination, and store the rest of your luggage. But if you’re continuing on to another safari destination, you’ll have to take everything along with you.

On our most recent safari to the Masai Mara, I opted to take my spinner hard case and store it with AirKenya. I love my Bric’s X-Bag 22″ Folding Duffel . The large duffel bag is made from a water resistant materials, is sturdy and is classy with its leather trim. It easily folds down in to a small zippered pouch that is perfect for packing. The pouch also comes with a strap, so it can be used as a cross body purse.

You can use packing cubes to keep everything organized in the duffel and add a little extra sturdy protection. Choose lightweight ones like these Shacke water resistant packing cubes that come in a 4-pack of different sizes. And you’ll notice a theme where we like things that their pouch can be dual purpose. The pouch they come in makes a great laundry bag.

One other thing to invest in as a TSA approved clear toiletry bag, and this is essential for your Kenya packing list. Some African countries like Kenya and Tanzania have banned single-use plastic bags, inclusive of the ones provided by the airport. Kenya’s plastic bag ban law is the strictest in the world. Not only are plastic bags confiscated, but anyone caught using them faces a maximum penalty of $37,000 or a jail term of up to four years.

DO NOT bring any sort of plastic bag in to Kenya or Tanzania. Instead, especially if you like to carry on, get a TSA approved clear toiletry bag. I have the Lermende clear toiletry bag I’ve used for a while. It’s been accepted at many airports and I’ve never had an issue using it to carry on my liquids.

2. African Safari Clothes

Know that the 15 kilo weight allotment adds up quickly. When it comes to what to wear in Africa, comfort should be prioritized over anything else when you’re spending time in the African bush. But packing sensibly doesn’t have to mean frumpy, either.

Laundry Service

Another perk of luxury safaris like SkySafari and Angama Mara is that laundry service is included at their camps and lodges. Knowing we had laundry service available helped us pare down to the essentials for our 10-day safaris in Tanzania and Kenya.

With laundry service available, you don’t need to pack any more than 2 pairs of pants, 2 long sleeve shirts and one pair of pajamas. We recommend bringing enough underwear for your entire trip or washing them out yourself since it is considered taboo to include your underwear in your laundry in Africa (and some camps or lodges like Loisaba Lodo Springs will not wash them). Soap flakes are usually provided to wash out whatever you’d like yourself in your tent or room.

Where to Buy Safari Clothes

You don’t need to head out to any special store to buy clothes for an African safari. Chances are you have some perfectly suitable things already in your wardrobe. If not, we recommend your favorite outdoor retailer for safari appropriate clothing.

We like Columbia Sportswear , personally, since their outdoor clothing is made with their special material. Look for pants with Omni-Shield that keeps you dry by repelling moisture and stains and Omni-Shade with built in SPF 50 to protect you from the sun, like the women’s Saturday Trail stretch pants .

Then I add pieces like tank tops that I layer under an Old Navy classic chambray shirt . Chambray is stylish and lightweight enough to wear even during the hottest months. Roll the sleeves up to just below the elbow, and you can roll them down if/when you start to sunburn.

Pants and Long Sleeves

If you’re going on safari in East Africa in places like Kenya or Tanzania, then you’ll be just a few degrees away from the equator where the sun is strong. Even though it might seem counter intuitive to pack pants and long sleeves when the weather will be hot, you’ll be glad you did for protection from the sun. Even Tim learned this lesson when he opted for shorts and ended up with painfully sun-burnt knees after a game drive in the hot sun in Meru National Park.

Long sleeves and pants also help minimize bites and protect you from scrapes on walking safaris. Shorts, skirts and tank tops can be fine around the camp or lodge, but for game drives and bush walks stick to lightweight pants and long sleeve shirts.

Earth Tones

Clothing in earth tones is essential. Africa has a fly called the tsetse fly, which is a biting fly. They are attracted to dark blue and black, and tsetse fly traps are a blue or black cloth strung up in the trees where they are active.

Wearing blue or black makes you a tsetse fly trap and they can (and will) bite right through your clothing. Insect repellent is not effective in keeping tsetse flies away and the tsetse fly has been linked with a disease called sleeping sickness.

Utility Jacket

Game drives typically begin early and you’re out and about by 5am – 6am. The temperatures between night and day can be drastic, and you’ll practically experience all four seasons in one day.

Mornings are cool and a jacket is necessary. A cute utility jacket is also functional since all the pockets come in to use for easy access to lens cleaning cloths and lenses for your camera. You don’t have to spend a fortune – my Old Navy utili t y jacket was perfect.

Don’t bother with packing a rain jacket. Most safari companies provide ponchos for guests if you do have a rainy day. The safari vehicles also can be closed up. So skip the extra weight of a rain jacket that you may only need once or twice.

Light Scarf and a Hoo-rag

I also like to pack a light scarf . Wrap up it in to keep warm in the early morning, then use it to protect yourself from the sun when you strip off some layers under the hot midday sun.

In addition to a light scarf, which can whip in the wind and get snagged on bushes, I also recommend packing a hoo-rag . If you don’t know what a hoo-rag is, it’s a tubular bandana outdoor enthusiasts have included on their essential gear lists forever. You’ll definitely want one for going on safari because of the hoo-rag’s many purposes.

Ladies can use it as a headband to keep hair off your face on windy days. It will protect your head from the hot African sun no matter if you’re a man or woman. And it can serve as a scarf to keep your neck warm in the early morning or late evening when the air can have quite a bit of chill to it.

Safari Dress

I recommend only bringing along one casual dress for the evenings around camp. I do like to have one dressier outfit to make a night feel a bit more special. Columbia Sportswear Super Bonehead II Sleeveless Dress is 100% cotton, casual enough for wearing around a city like Nairobi during the day and can be dressed up for a night out.

Nearly every evening we arrived back around sunset and went straight to drinks around a campfire, a bush barbecue or hung out having a drink in the common lodge areas before dinner. We almost never went back to our tent or room to change first.

One ladies safari clothes essential is a sports bra . Trust me. The roads (or more likely dirt tracks) are bumpy and you will thank me for adding a sports bra to your safari packing list essentials.

Safari Footwear

You definitely don’t need to tote along heavy hiking boots. Not only will they be too hot, but hiking boots are clunky to pack. Really, any pair of sturdy closed-toe shoes will do.

Tim was perfectly fine with his usual Merrell Moab hiking shoe in Gortex , even on the bush walk we did along the Grumeti River in the Serengeti. These also held up like a champ in super muddy conditions, and were easy to clean after.

I prefer to wear a good pair fashion sneakers that I can dress up a bit with a cute dress in the evening. I like the Reef Cushion shoes since it has anatomical arch support and a cushioned foot bed that keeps me comfortable, even though I suffer from plantar fascitis. The tread is also good, so the Reef Iris can also be worn for bush walks.

I also like to bring a pair of lightweight waterproof hiking shoes like my Merrell Siren 3 . You’ll be thankful for a pair of waterproof shoes with good traction like this, particularly on wet days. Some parts of Africa don’t see rain often, and when it does rain the ground can quickly turn into a muddy river. This exact thing happened to us on a pretty wet morning in Nairobi at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.

In Africa, flip flops are worn only around the pool. Bring a pair for walking around in your tent and going to the pool at your camp or lodge.

There’s really no special African safari hat you need, either. Stick to a wide brim style with a chin strap. The wide brim will help keep the sun off your face and neck. The chin strap will keep the hat from flying off when your guide gets word on the CB radio about that leopard or rhino sighting, then goes rushing off to make sure you see it.

I love the Columbia Global Adventure Hat because it’s packable. The hat retains its shape no matter how you stuff it in to your bag. And bonus that the hat has Columbia’s Omni-Wick technology with a sweat band inside and Omni-Shade SPF 50 protection. It definitely helped to keep my scalp from getting sunburned, which is a problem I always have being blonde.

Swim Suit and Casual Clothes for Around Camp

Many camps, especially luxury camps, have pools these days. There’s no better place to be than lounging in the pool during the hot afternoons between game drives. Don’t forget a swim suit!

You can also be more casual around camp in a pair of shorts and a tank top or tshirt. It’s not necessary to stick to neutral colors either, like when you’re out on game drives.

We like Old Navy , where you can find a variety of linen and linen-blend clothing items, at reasonable prices. Linen is perfect as a breathable fabric on hot afternoons.

Amazingly, we still saw tons of people inappropriately attired for safari. Not only will you stand out to other people, packing your favorite jeans or black shirt could also make you a magnet for tsetse flies. And your neon yellow trainers could scare off the animals on a bush walk.

3. Waterproof Bag

Dust is a problem and hard on your camera equipment. And if you have any rainy days like one we had, you’ll be combating both rain and sticky mud. Having a waterproof dry bag large enough to stick your equipment and anything else you want to stay dry or dust/mud free will definitely come in handy. It folds down small and weighs basically nothing, so is easy enough to pack.

4. Skin and Hair Care

The African bush is dry, so don’t leave home without your favorite moisturizer and a good conditioner. Even though all of the Elewana’s camps and lodges and Angama Mara provided shampoo and conditioner, I always prefer to bring my own.

You don’t need to bring the big bottle of your favorite shampoo and conditioner. I have a set of Cool Gear Go-Gear Silicone Travel Containers that are TSA approved and that I love. I just fill them back up with my L’Occitane Aromachologie Repairing Shampoo and Conditioner (which is sold in environmentally friendly refill bags) to keep my hair healthy at home and on the road.

For an incredible moisturizer, I love Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Cream . It doesn’t make my combination and sensitive skin breakout. And even in very dry Sub-Saharan Africa, my skin doesn’t get flaky and dry as long as I use moisturizer. A little goes a long way and I pare down from the somewhat heavy 2 oz jar the product comes in by scooping some out to fill my travel containers with.

Our lips also get very dried out and cracked in such dry conditions. I like Dr. Lipp’s Original Nipple Balm . It’s famous for being an ultra rich moisturizer that actually absorbs in to your lips to hydrate them and I’m a convert since I started using it.

The one other thing I’ve come to love to keep my skin at its best is my FOREO Luna Mini . It’s a facial cleansing brush that uses t-sonic pulsations to clean below the skin’s surface, remove dead skin and make-up and unclogs pores. It’s rechargeable and charging it up at home before a trip lasts around 30 days. It’s small and light enough that it’s easy to travel with. You use it for one minute each time you wash your face, and it’s seriously like getting a mini facial daily.

5. Plug Convertors

One of the things I love about Elewana Collection and Angama Mara is that all of their camps and lodges provide several universal plug adapters for your use in your room or tent. We always bring one of our own anyway, just in case. Plus having an extra means we can charge up all our electronic devices and camera batteries without having to pick and choose.

Africa uses 220 – 240 volt electricity at 50hz. Each country can be different with the plug type, so verify the plug type for the countries you’re visiting here before your trip.

Many electronics these days are dual voltage, meaning they can operate on the 110 volts that the US operates on as well as 220 – 240 volts that much of the rest of the world operates on with only a plug adapter. Cell phone chargers, camera chargers and even laptop chargers are all dual voltage these days and you need nothing more than a plug adapter to plug them in. Things like hairdryers and flatirons often are not dual voltage and require a convertor in order to use them.

6. USB Flash Drive and Memory Cards

Capturing some incredible photos to remember your time on safari by and share with family and friends back home is likely important to you. Some luxury safari brands like Angama Mara are offering guest experiences like photography workshops with their photographer in residence, or even just the opportunity to rent cameras or lenses.

The opportunity to borrow equipment is an excellent amenity to look out for, as good lenses appropriate for photographing wildlife can cost nearly as much as the trip itself. Just remember to pack a USB flash drive to save any photos from the cameras you borrow or bring your own extra memory cards to use.

7. Insect Repellent with Deet

Another thing Elewana and Anagama Mara were both terrific about was providing insect repellent and sunscreen in the safari vehicles. We would still encourage you to pack your own, though.

An insect repellent with deet is best since there are several diseases that biting insects in Africa can carry, including malaria. But if you’re concerned about the effects of deet, an all-natural citronella repellent will also get the job done. Just be sure you consistently spray yourself.

We were definitely diligent with spraying ourselves on both our skin with an all-natural citronella repellent and then again on our clothes every couple of hours. We had very minimal insect bites between dressing appropriately with long pants and consistently using repellent.

There is a risk of malaria in both Tanzania and Kenya. Malaria prevention is important when traveling to malaria endemic areas and in preparation for all of our safari trips, we have taken preventive malaria medication prescribed by a doctor. Runway Health is a service that makes routine doctor visits for things like preparing for safari travel a breeze. With just a short questionnaire about your travel plans and health history, Runway gives you an online consultation with a physician and ships your prescribed medications to you directly in just a few days.

8. First Aid Kit

Remember that you are in the African bush and the nearest town or village might be hours away by plane. Be sure to pack yourself a first aid kit with medications you might need like aspirin, cold medicine in case you do catch a bug, an antihistamine like Benadryl for reactions to insect bites, diarrhea medication like Immodium, sunscreen and cough drops or throat lozenges.

If you want to take something to head off diarrhea before it can start, try Travelan . You take it as a dietary supplement before meals to assist with traveler’s diarrhea prevention. Especially when traveling to Africa where your stomach isn’t conditioned to resist things that could be in treated and potable water, it’s a good preventative measure to take. Bathrooms are basically non-existent in the African bush and it’s not the place where you want to experience tummy woes.

Shop This Post

This article contains affiliate links. When you purchase anything on Amazon, Zappos, Old Navy, L’Occitane, FOREO or Columbia Sportswear through our affiliate sites, we earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Loved this post? We love when you share our content! ~ Jen & Tim

About Jennifer Dombrowski

Jennifer Dombrowski is an independent travel publisher and an American expat who has lived in Bordeaux, France since 2016. She previously lived in Northern Italy in a small village near Venice for seven years where she fell in love with wine and wine tourism. She is an award-winning travel writer. She is also a travel correspondent on Traveling on the American Forces Radio Network. Luxe Adventure Traveler was named one of the top travel blogs to watch by the Huffington Post and TripAdvisor, and has been featured by top publications such as National Geographic, CNN, Buzzfeed, and Business Insider. Jennifer's photography has also been featured on publications such as USA Today and Travel + Leisure and on the Travel Channel.

March 5, 2014 at 10:53 AM

Definitely a handy-list there, thanks for sharing. I would definitely have not thought to bring a fleece. BTW that one photo of “what not to wear on safari” is awesome LOL 😉

Jennifer Dombrowski says

March 10, 2014 at 3:17 PM

I really considered just leaving the fleece home. Surely I wouldn’t need it during Tanzania’s hottest month! But I ended up wearing it on a few occasions, so I was glad to have carried it with me in the end.

Heather says

March 5, 2014 at 5:07 PM

Great tips! I really need to get myself a waterproof bag, even just for rainy Europe.

And I second Derek, that “what not to wear’ photo is hysterical! Who would dress like that on safari? I’d be covered from head to toe to avoid insect bites! (And now I know not to wear blue or black!) 🙂

March 10, 2014 at 3:18 PM

Worst of all, we snapped the lovely lady in the floral jumper on a day that it was pretty chilly! She had to have been absolutely freezing in that get up.

Devlin @ Marginal Boundaries says

March 5, 2014 at 7:29 PM

Really good tips, I’ll make sure to leave my black shirts at home, don’t need to become a walking fly trap.

March 10, 2014 at 3:22 PM

No, you certainly don’t want to be a walking fly trap! Those tse tse flies really hurt when they bite and they will bite right through your clothes.

Val-This Way To Paradise says

March 6, 2014 at 5:21 AM

Great and helpful packing list! I would have to go shopping…almost everything I own is blue or black!

March 10, 2014 at 3:23 PM

I did a little safari shopping myself before the trip. Now I’m prepared for our next safari!

Travel with Kevin and Ruth says

March 6, 2014 at 4:39 PM

A yellow fever vaccination is NOT required for Tanzania unless you are arriving there from a country that has a risk of yellow fever.

March 6, 2014 at 6:40 PM

We didn’t say that the vaccination is required. We said that the yellow health card is required, which you must present upon arrival and lists your vaccination records.

March 6, 2015 at 9:46 PM

I read this blog too soon before my trip to do anything about the yellow fever issue. My wife and I just passed through immigration at JRO this morning so I thought I’d share my take, since this had me worried.

It’s true that they ask for the cert before your passport, but if you tell them you’re coming from the US, you don’t need it. That said, I think it’s a really good idea to get the shot before leaving the US, and it isn’t for any paranoia about contracting yellow fever or BS altruistic reason.

In our case, our connecting flight to JRO was from Kenya. Normally you wouldn’t have to go through Kenya immigration for this, but since our flight to JRO the previous night was cancelled, we did have to as we spent the night in Kenya. I think we were pretty lucky the official at JRO a didn’t ask too many questions or check our passports for the Kenyan visa.

You can also pay $50 USD at JRO to get the shot if you need it, but at that point you’re deciding to let someone in Africa stick a needle in you. Just get the shot in the US (or whatever first world country you’re visiting from) so you don’t need to worry about it further if your travel plans go south.

March 6, 2014 at 9:05 PM

What exactly is a “yellow fever health card”?

March 10, 2014 at 3:26 PM

It’s an official record of immunizations by the World Health Organization. Your primary care physician will have them on hand and properly fill them out for you after reviewing your medical records. This card is required and you must show it to officials upon entering Tanzania.

Suzanne says

March 7, 2014 at 5:40 AM

Great list! I had a ten day safari subject to a medium duffel bag only so I had to be super attentive to pack only what was needed. Surprised by so many people with multiple bags of luggage and all with the wrong clothes – blues, black, prints, hot pink, etc. I second the sports bra – a necessity! I would also add a few power bars or snacks for early morning game drive before breakfast – we often skipped our game drive coffee break as we were at a sighting.

March 10, 2014 at 3:28 PM

Good tips Suzanne! That was something else that we really enjoyed about SkySafari – our vehicle was also packed with drinks and snacks so we didn’t have to worry about the extra weight of bringing snacks with us. And even though you are mostly just sitting, you do still get the munchies!

Arianwen says

March 9, 2014 at 4:13 AM

Great tips! I made the mistake of only having two long-sleeved tops – one was blue and one was black. Those tsetse flies sure do sting when they bite!

March 10, 2014 at 3:30 PM

No kidding! Even with the earthy tones, a couple tse tse flies got me. And you sure do know when they bite! What a nuisance those things are.

March 9, 2014 at 8:24 PM

Thanks for sharing this really helpful list. I will definitely make use of it when I take part in my first Safari!

March 10, 2014 at 3:31 PM

I hope you make it on a safari soon, Stef. You will absolutely love it!

Ron | Active Planet Travels says

March 27, 2014 at 8:51 PM

Nice packing list! I’m going to have to look back on this in the Fall when I finally make it to Africa. So stoked!

Marsha says

April 11, 2014 at 8:13 PM

Great post. This list is very helpful. I’ll be keeping this in mind as I’m starting to plan my trip for the African safari next year. This will be so helpful…..awesome! And something I can keep in mind while I start planning. 🙂

Ellen Blau says

December 28, 2017 at 1:57 PM

From the Center for Disease Control Canada, here is the link: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/tanzania Proof of Yellow Fever Card is only needed from countries not on this list.

August 11, 2018 at 2:19 AM

Thanks for the great tips.

I totally understand the confusion on the yellow fever card being required or not. I thought it was not needed since we were coming from the US and headed directly to Tanzania. The issue was we were coming via Nairobi (although only there a day). If you come from Kenya, you will need the yellow fever card. I am so glad I figured that out before our trip as we were crossing into Tanzania on the boarder and not through an airport.

July 30, 2022 at 1:51 AM

Hi! This is so helpful! I was wondering if you think that shoes and backpacks should also be in light or neutral colors? Or does that not make as much of an impact in keeping the tsetse flies away?

July 31, 2022 at 12:20 PM

Yes, you should avoid black and navy at all – even for shoes or backpacks. You’ll see tsetse fly traps while in safari and these are just a piece of navy or black cloth hung up because these colors are that effective in attracting the flies. And unfortunately, there’s no spray or anything that deters them other than not having dark colors anywhere near you.

Hope that helps answer your question!

March 11, 2023 at 4:22 AM

Hi there! I’m planning for our trip in August. I’m wondering about the water. Do you think it’s wise to invest in one of those water bottles that has an internal filter? Also, I’m very prone to bug bites, and was considering bringing my portable diffuser (really small) and placing it by my bed with citronella oil to help with any night bites. Any helpful tips for sleeping and bug bites? Thank you!!!

Karol Young says

March 11, 2023 at 9:19 PM

You mentioned the all natural citronella repellent. Is there a particular brand to use. Also what about an after bug bite spray or lotion? Just in case

Anne MacKenzie says

September 21, 2023 at 10:31 PM

Great blog. I won’t be wearing my black trainers! Thank you so much for all the useful comments.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

23 MUST-HAVE Items on your African Safari Packing List

• Updated on January 15, 2024
• No Comments

This post may contain affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, we may receive a commission (at no additional cost to you). As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more about disclosures.

First trip to Africa? You’re in luck!

Having recently been on Safari in Tanzania, we can provide you with first-hand, reliable and up-to-date information on how to make your trip stress-free, with this ultimate African safari packing list.

Packing for your first safari can be a daunting task. It is not just about taking the essentials, but also understanding what to expect from this new and exciting experience. 

Most people don’t realize that African safaris are not just limited to a few hours in the wild.

You need to be prepared for lots of travel, long drives, and a great deal of time outdoors.

If you want to know exactly what to take and the practical reasons WHY you need them, then you’ll find this safari packing list incredibly helpful!

Safari Clothing Essentials

The following list of safari clothing is based on the assumption that you will be sat in a vehicle for the majority of the day, which makes your safari packing list a tad easier.

Note: We are all for sustainable travel and find no need to splurge on expensive safari gear that will only be used once!

Tips for Safari Clothes Packing

• Material Choose clothing that is easy to pack, dries quickly, and wicks moisture away from the skin. Man-made fabrics (such as polyimide) perform better than natural fabrics (such as cotton) and keep you cooler.
• Laundry Services Laundry services are generally available at camps and lodges, so only pack what you need as luggage space is precious.
• Wear Earth Tones The African Tsetse fly is ferocious and is attracted to dark blue and black colors. With bites similar to horseflies, they can and will make your trip a living nightmare! Choose khaki green and brown colors where possible. It’s best to avoid pale colors as you will get rather dusty and dirty during the day!
• Organize Your Clothing Organizing your safari clothing makes life so much easier, particularly if you have onward travel to another destination. Use packing cubes to place your safari clothes on the top for easier access and less mess.

Read More: Riu Palace Resort Zanzibar – Our Honest Review

Clothing for your African Safari Packing List:

1. safari shirt.

If there is one thing worth investing in, it is a proper safari shirt. We were the only ones in our camp that didn’t get bitten to bits by those relentless tsetse flies!

Tsetse flies can bite through thin or penetrable fabric, and a quality safari shirt will prevent them from doing so.

The best safari shirts will have built-in anti-insect treatment.

You can thank us later…!

2. T-Shirts

Layering is key to keeping warm and/or cool. Wearing t-shirts (under your shirt) also means you only need to fork out on the one expensive safari shirt.

3. Boots or Shoes

You don’t need specific safari boots or shoes and you certainly don’t need to spend a fortune on them. As you’ll be in the vehicle all day, a sturdy pair that you can wear with socks (that you can tuck your pants into) will do just fine.

When you’re walking around camp you won’t want to wear open-toe sandals, especially once you’ve seen all the sunspiders scattering around! Eeeek!

4. Safari Hat

Don’t forget your safari hat! You want full coverage – preferably one with a large brim that keeps your face and neck in the shade. Even with a pop-up roof, the sun will still manage to beat down on you, and it’s one heck of a sun!

Tip: Make sure your safari hat fits you snugly or has a neck cord – your rides will pick up speed and you don’t want to lose it with an unexpected gust of wind!

We love this packable safari hat that always bounces back to life (in featured photo).

5. Safari Pants

Long, lightweight, and enough to cover up those legs but not too hot or bulky. You’ll be sitting for a large proportion of the day so they’ll need to be comfortable.

You probably won’t want to wear shorts after you’ve encountered those tsetse flies.

Read More: The Lodge in Ngorongoro that has Spectacular Views

Lightweight, comfortable, and preferably water-resistant. Early starts can get chilly, so don’t be fooled – even if you’re the hardiest of people!

African Safari Packing List Essentials

7. soft-sided luggage.

If you’re traveling on bush flights you’ll be limited to 15kg on your luggage, plus you’ll need a soft bag (no hard suitcases allowed) that can be stuffed onto small planes. A duffel bag is an essential item to get your safari packing list going!

8. Packing Cubes

If you’ve never used them before, you’re in for a treat! Packing cubes made life so much easier on safari!

These provide the perfect way to organize your clothes and toiletries. Plus, you’ll be able to quickly see what’s in them which makes it easy when you’re looking for something specific without having to unpack everything. A total game-changer for organized travel!

Note: Plastic bags are now banned in many African countries and will be confiscated at airports. Sealable silicone bags are a perfect alternative for your leaky toiletries.

9. Universal Travel Adapter

Be sure to bring the correct travel adapters for Africa so you can charge your essential batteries. There are two types of outlets, European and British – this universal travel adapter will have you covered in any eventuality! 

10. Insect Repellent

It’s important to keep biting insects away from you, both during the day and at night. They can carry dangerous diseases such as malaria, so don’t be tempted to leave this out.

The best type to use is one that can be sprayed over clothing. I know this may sound peculiar, but that’s what they all do in the bush! 

Choose a natural repellant that does not damage clothing – this is the insect repellent we used and our safari guides absolutely loved it!

11. Tiger Balm

African tsetse flies have a nasty bite on them. This tiger balm will help take the edge off any itchy or swollen skin and should not be missed off your safari packing list. We first discovered this in Thailand and it’s by far the best relief for insect bites

12. First Aid Kit

Remember that you’re a while away from any emergency medical care. A simple first aid kit can take the stress out of any minor accidents along the way. Plus, you won’t have to rely on calling the staff to your tent at night if you have your own kit.

13. Sunscreen

Being so close to the equator means that you’re going to be exposed to a lot of UV radiation. Pack sunscreen and wear it when outdoors, even when you think you don’t need it.

On our first day, we thought the pop-up roof in our vehicle would provide enough protection from the sun – we were very wrong!

Read More: How we found The Best Safari Tour Guides in Tanzania

14. Sunglasses

UV protection is essential in Africa! Protecting yourself from intense sunlight will make your safari experience so much more comfortable. If you want to avoid squinting all day, then sunglasses are a must!

15. Flashlight

It gets pretty dark at night when you’re in an environment with zero light pollution. Most camps should provide you with a flashlight, but we would always err on the side of caution and have one handy.

16. Mosquito Net

It goes without saying that tented camps will lack any air-conditioning that ordinarily keeps mosquitos at bay! Check if your accommodation provides mosquito nets around beds before you book, if not – take one with you.

17. Power Bank

A power bank is essential if you’re on safari for more than a day. It’s always handy to have an external charger that can work anywhere in Africa.

Most safari vehicles will have USB ports that can be used with charging cables, but if you’re staying in tented camps then I wouldn’t rely on charging anything too quickly!

18. Selfie Stick

Wait, I know what you’re thinking… selfie sticks are soooo NOT on-trend!

But when you’re up close to a pack of lions feasting, or that cheetah that’s slowly walking behind your vehicle, you’ll be incredibly pleased you had something that could reach around to capture the all-important moment (rather than hanging your arms out of the jeep!)

19. Anti-Diarrhea Tablets

Being on the go in Africa can result in some stomach upset, so it’s best to have a supply of anti-diarrhea tablets with you. The last thing you need is for your bucket list safari trip to be ruined because you can’t part with the bathroom!

20. Binoculars

Check whether your safari vehicle provides a sufficient number of binoculars for all travelers. 

If not, you might want to bring your own as there’s nothing quite like hurrying up the person next to you so you can cop a look at the action!

21. Microfibre Towel

These smart microfibre towels are light and packable for when you’re not staying in a hotel. They dry quickly too and won’t cause a stench when you’re on the go! 

22. Toilet Paper/Wipes

Depending on your safari destination, there may not be any bathrooms within a 2-hour radius, so be prepared by packing toilet paper/wipes and hand sanitizer! These are absolutely essential items for your safari packing list!

23. Anti-Malaria Tablets

There is a risk of malaria in most parts of Africa. Speak with your travel clinic about the pros and cons of taking anti-malarial tablets, sometimes the side effects can be off-putting if you have existing medical conditions or a sensitive tummy. 

You may decide that taking the tablets is not an option and therefore need to re-evaluate whether an African safari is the right choice for you.

Read More: How Plan an Affordable Serengeti and Ngorongoro Safari

Other Handy Safari Packing Tips:

• Take sufficient cash You may be surprised to hear that there are no ATM machines out on safari! Make sure you bring enough cash for the duration of your safari for souvenirs, additional snacks, drinks at your camp/lodge, and tips for your safari guide
• Drones Drones are not allowed by any camps in East Africa due to the effects they have on wildlife (and also for security reasons)
• Hairdryers Hairdryers and other powerful appliances generally cannot be used if you’re staying in tented camps as electricity is scarce
• Avoid any military/camo clothing It’s a safari, not the SAS! Just kidding. The real reason to avoid military-style clothing is that it may land you into trouble in some territories, especially in Kenya. Governments are wary of anyone posing as a military officer and will question your intentions. A situation we would all just rather avoid!

READ: Zanzibar Travel During Covid-19 – What You Need To Know

Your Safari Packing List Covered!

Packing for a safari can be stressful, especially if you have no idea what to expect.

Hopefully this African safari packing list will help to make your experience as stress-free as possible, so that you can focus on making great memories instead!

You may also be interested in our post about Safari Anxiety: 19 Things That Freak People Out

Further Reads:

• Things People Worry About on Safari
• How to Save $$$ on an African Safari
• 9 Luxury Safari Tented Camps in Serengeti

Related Posts

African Safari Anxiety: 19 Things People Worry About!

Riu Palace Zanzibar Review: Best All-Round Luxury Hotel

Roy Safaris Review: Best Tour Operator in Tanzania?

11 Smart Tips: How to do Affordable Luxury Travel

Luxurious destinations are little to do with how much they cost and everything to do with how they make us feel –  long after the journey ends. That’s the essence of Roaming in Luxury. We’re a group of people who have mastered the art of LuxVenturing – a blend of adventure and affordable luxury travel. Our aim is to share our insights, resources, and stories, so you can focus on crafting the best, most affordable luxury experiences on your own travels. Read more about us…

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Remember Me

Become a Luxventurer with us!

Don’t miss out on the thrill of luxury adventure! Sign up for our newsletter and get insider tips, exciting destinations, and inspiration for your next luxurious adventure, all delivered straight to your inbox.

Quick Links

• Cookie Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

Search the site

Copyright © 2024 Roaming in Luxury | All Rights Reserved

Unlock the Secrets of Affordable Luxury Travel!

Are you an adventurer with a taste for comfort? Join our newsletter and receive weekly tips on experiencing  luxurious destinations without breaking the bank.

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

What to Pack for An African Safari, According to Trip Organizers

Packing is hard. Especially when the destination might involve giant mosquitoes or Instagram-worthy hiking trails. What do frequent travelers to these spots — the ones who best know how to prepare for the conditions — put in their suitcases ? We’ll be tackling this in our series “ The Trip List .”

Going on an African safari and spotting animals like lions and zebras in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Since it’s not something most people do very often, it’s also not the easiest trip to pack for. For those lucky enough to have a safari in their future, we’ve rounded up a group of experienced tour guides and travel planners (with hundreds of safaris collectively under their belts) to help you out.

“People always overpack. I think that’s the biggest mistake,” says Deborah Calmeyer, founder and CEO of the safari trip organizer Roar Africa . She explains that, in terms of clothing, you generally just need a few casual pieces, as there aren’t many occasions to dress up on safari. Most lodges also offer laundry service with a quick turnaround time, so there’s no need to pack a new outfit for each day of your trip. Instead of prioritizing style, safari experts say to focus on layering , as you’ll spend most of your time outdoors on game drives in open-air vehicles. It might be chilly when you leave your lodge in the early morning but heat up quickly when the sun comes out. “If you’re out after sunset when the temperature drops, those layers will come in handy again,” says Calmeyer.

Before you start packing, learn the luggage requirements of your particular trip, which will determine how much you can bring. Even if you fly to Africa on a major international airline, once you’re in the bush, you’ll travel from site to site on small aircrafts with limited space. “The portal leading into the luggage compartments is quite small, and the bags have to be smushed and manipulated into these little cargo areas,” explains Kota Tabuchi, the managing director for African travel at the trip-planning consultancy Travel Beyond . Depending on your destination, weight limits can range from roughly 33 to 42 pounds, with lower limits more common in East Africa and higher maximums generally seen in South Africa. Choose a soft duffel bag (check your airline’s rules to confirm whether wheeled bags are allowed), as you can’t bring hard-sided luggage on many small planes.

You’re likely going on safari to encounter wild animals (especially the big five: lions, leopards, rhinoceroses, elephants, and buffalo), so don’t scrimp on binoculars and cameras that will help you get the best view and capture the best memories of your sightings. Below, our experts share their top picks for the gear that’ll make your trip comfortable and memorable, plus everything else you’ll need for a perfect safari.

As stated above, a soft-sided duffel bag is your best bet for traveling on safari. Tabuchi has owned this North Face bag for more than 15 years now and has brought it on multiple safaris each year. He calls it “absolutely bombproof.” The lightweight and roomy duffel should hold everything you need, and it is compliant with most African airline requirements. If you want another option, Tabuchi also likes the very similar Patagonia Black Hole bag (a longtime Strategist favorite ).

At under $100, this bag is an affordable pick that was mentioned by several safari pros, including Ina Steinhilber, president of tour operator Thomson Safaris . It’s lightweight, too, clocking in at just over two pounds, leaving plenty of room under the weight allowance for your stuff.

If you’re allowed to bring a soft duffel with wheels, this Osprey bag gets rave reviews from Wil Smith, founder and director of travel organizer Deeper Africa . “Make sure the bag is water resistant and has a storm flap over the zipper,” he says. “On a safari, you’re out on bumpy roads, and you never know if your bag’s going to end up out in the rain, dust, or dirt. It probably won’t, but you want to prepare for anything.” He says this bag checks all his boxes and even has lockable zippers.

“These are a must for finding clothing easily in the soft-sided duffel,” says Kristina Jackson, a senior safari and Kilimanjaro travel consultant at Thomson Safaris. Many frequent travelers have recommended packing cubes to us in the past (including the eBags set) because they compress your gear to save space — even more crucial when you have a tight luggage allotment. “After safari, you may find yourself using them more often,” says Jackson. “They make traveling so easy.”

According to Joel Cody, sales and marketing director at Thomson Safaris, you’ll also want a backpack for your daily game drives to carry things like extra layers, bug spray , and binoculars. Because it folds down into a compact pouch, he suggests this Paravel backpack, as you can easily fit it into your larger luggage.

“Layers are the most practical way to cope with fluctuating daytime and nighttime temperatures,” says Sherwin Banda, president of the safari trip operator African Travel , and pretty much all of our experts agree. A basic tee is a good first layer, and in the summer you might not need more than a long-sleeved shirt on top for the chilly morning and evenings. “We all have one of these,” says Ali Riley, art director of Thomson Safaris, of this polyester button-up. She likes that it’s comfortable, moisture-wicking, and offers UPF 40 protection from the sun.

If you prefer natural fibers, Cody recommends these linen long-sleeved shirts from Uniqlo. “They’re lightweight and comfortable, and you can wear a T-shirt or tank underneath for layering,” he says. “They look good after they’re washed and are available at an excellent price point.”

Patagonia pieces came up a lot among our experts, who like how they’re made sustainably and designed for travel and adventure. For a slightly warmer second layer, Cody likes this half-zip, which is made from a moisture-wicking fabric and locks in body heat. He tells us it “provides warmth without bulk, and doesn’t take up much room in a backpack.”

An even warmer jacket is a good option to have with you even in the summer. Elizabeth Gordon, co-founder and CEO of the safari company Extraordinary Journeys , explains that many popular safari locations, such as Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater, are located at high altitudes and may be chilly year-round. For cold nights and mornings, she loves Patagonia’s Nano Puff jackets. “They weigh practically nothing and somehow always keep me at the right temperature,” she says. For a less-expensive option, Gordon also likes ultralight down jackets from Uniqlo, available for both men and women .

“A light rain jacket can double as a windbreaker, so it’s good to bring no matter the time of year, [especially] with the changing rain patterns,” says Gordon. She says spring and fall are typically the rainy seasons in East Africa, but climate change has made the weather less predictable. To make sure you’ll have coverage in the event of an unexpected storm, she recommends this packable, lightweight Patagonia jacket.

There’s no need to go out and buy special pants for your safari — chinos , leggings , and shorts are all generally fine (though some experts advise against jeans because they’re heavy to pack). If you want to really get in the spirit, however, Riley suggests these convertible pants from Eddie Bauer. You can wear them as long pants in the morning and then roll them up into capris when the weather heats up. “They’re extremely comfortable, if not overly stylish,” she says. Here’s a similar style for men that unzips into shorts. Even if it’s warm out, our experts like having the option of long pants in the evenings when mosquitos are out.

Leggings and yoga pants are especially popular on safari because they’re lightweight and comfortable, especially if you’re going to be sitting in a Jeep all day. If you anticipate being cold, a fleece-lined pair is good to have too. “In case you get a cold night in Ngorongoro, these are great to sleep in, are inexpensive, and don’t take up a lot of room,” says Cody.

Although most lodges have laundry services — often complimentary for guests — many won’t wash women’s underwear because of cultural norms in certain countries. Since you may have to wash your own underwear in your bathroom sink, go with pairs made for exercise or travel that are designed to be fast-drying. “Ideally you want clothing that is easy to wash and dry,” says Smith. He includes underwear in this category, especially for women. Ex Officio (which makes some of our favorite men’s and women’s underwear) specializes in quick-drying materials that’ll make it easy for you to do your own wash.

Gordon points out that most lodges have pools, and getting in an afternoon dip is a great way to cool down after a long day out in the bush. Obviously, go with whatever swimsuit you love, but if you want some Strategist-approved picks, check out out recommendations for men and women (plus bikinis ). Here are two crowd-pleasers that earned our seal of approval.

Unless you’re trekking through the mountains to see gorillas, safaris are mostly sedentary experiences spent on Jeeps or Land Rovers driving through wildlife preserves to catch a glimpse of the big five. Our experts say there’s no need to waste precious luggage space on heavy hiking boots , as you’ll likely be doing only a bit of walking outside the vehicle. Jackson suggests wearing Toms. “They’re perfect to slip on and off while in the vehicle throughout the day and are also very lightweight.” Similarly, her colleague Cody swears by Vans, telling us, “They’re so easy to take off and on and are washable. I wore these all the time.”

If you do anticipate doing more active walking on your trip, both Smith and Tabuchi recommend trail-running shoes. They’re not as bulky as hiking boots (which our experts say aren’t necessary for most safari terrain) but still offer stability and traction. “They’re very sturdy,” says Smith. “You want good traction because if you get out of the car and it has been raining, the ground may be a little slippery.” Tabuchi says any trail runners with a solid rubber sole should do the trick. The lightweight Hoka One One Torrent is popular among trail runners and should be rugged enough to get you through your safari adventure.

Although our experts recommend closed-toe shoes while you’re out on game drives, they say to also bring a pair of flip-flops or sandals for when you’re relaxing back at your home base. “It’s great to have some comfortable flip flops for your tent or your lodge or around the campfire,” says Smith. You’ll also want to wear your flip-flops at the pool if your lodge has one. Brazilian-made Havaianas are an affordable yet stylish option that we’ve written about before .

Accessories

In the past, we’ve covered how merino-wool socks are ideal for all types of activities including running , biking , and hiking . Their temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking properties also make them perfect for safari. Steinhilber says Smartwool socks will “keep your feet warm on cool nights” and, given their lightness, will also be comfortable on daytime game drives.

Calmeyer says a shawl or pashmina will “never go to waste on safari” because it’s an all-in-one piece that you can use to stay warm, block out the sun, or even zhuzh up your casual clothes for a candlelit dinner back at the lodge. Gordon agrees, telling us she always brings a scarf “to dress everything up, or protect from dust.” Nicole Scherr, a former marketing project manager at Thomson Safaris, likes this specific shawl because it’s lightweight, quick-drying, and has UPF sun protection. “It’s great for the plane because it becomes a small blanket, and it’s also light enough to drape over yourself in the vehicle to protect from getting a burn,” she says.

If you’re not into shawls, a bandana or multipurpose gaiter can help with sun protection and keeping dust off your face. These two are favorites of the Thomson Safaris team. The UV-protective Buff also has built-in insect repellent, which you’ll appreciate when the mosquitoes come out.

Since you’ll be out in the sun for most of the day, all of our experts recommend a hat — both to prevent burning and to keep the sun out of your eyes so you can focus on the wildebeest migration or whatever amazing sight you’ve come across on your drive. Tabuchi recommends “a baseball cap at the very minimum,” but if you want even more coverage, several of our experts suggested a wide-brimmed hat like this one from Tilley, which is a top choice among Thomson Safari guides. It’ll cover the front and back of your neck, and it’s also packable, so you can cram it into your luggage and it will retain its shape when you take it out.

While the classic safari hat above is practical, Gordon admits it’s not the most stylish; she prefers a Panama hat like this one. You’ll get nearly as much sun protection in a bit more fashionable of a package.

Binoculars and cameras

“You can’t go on safari without these,” says Steinhilber, and nearly all of our experts agree that a good pair of binoculars will enhance your trip. How close you’re able to get to animals will depend on where exactly you’re going on safari, but Tabuchi explains that in many national parks and game reserves, vehicles are restricted to the road networks, so your driver won’t be able to go off-road to follow a pride of lions or elephants bathing in a river. That’s when binoculars will really come in handy. Although some lodges and game drives provide loaner pairs, Calmeyer says you’ll often end up having to share these with other guests, so it’s worth bringing your own. Gordon adds that “not having binoculars holds you back.”

All binoculars are labeled with two numbers. The first represents the magnification power (for example, “10” means objects will appear ten times bigger than they actually are), and the second is the lens diameter, which determines the field of vision. Binoculars can range in price from under $100 to well into the four figures for a Swarovski pair that Smith calls “the envy of every safari guide and bird enthusiast.” For a safari, Smith says to look for a pair with minimum specs of 8x42, like this mid-range model from Zeiss. With these, Smith says you’ll be able to zoom in on incredible sights like a rhinoceros 1,000 yards away.

If you’re willing to make more of an investment, the Vortex Viper 10x42 are Smith’s personal favorite binoculars. “Those are really good binoculars at a very reasonable price,” he says. “I think the glass is good; it’s stable. I’ve had people compare them with much more expensive binoculars.”

Smartphone cameras are so high-quality these days that experts say you’ll be able to get a lot of great shots with your iPhone — but on safari there are occasions when you’ll want a traditional camera. Like binoculars, a camera will be useful when your drive can’t get close to an animal and your phone camera’s zoom isn’t strong enough to shoot a clear picture from 50 yards away. Tabuchi adds that there are some areas where smartphone photography is banned to protect rhinoceroses, as poachers have used geotagged photos to track down the animals. And, as Gordon points out, if there’s any occasion to break out your fancy cameras and lenses, it’s Africa. Experts say you’ll want a minimum of 300-400mm zoom lenses for shooting at typical safari distances.

This Sony is a favorite of both Smith’s and Tabuchi’s. A bridge between an entry-level point-and-shoot and a high-end DSLR, it has an adjustable telescopic lens that zooms out to 600mm, more than enough to capture lion paws or the eyes of an elephant from a distance. Compared to a DSLR camera with multiple lenses, this one “takes up less space,” Smith says, “and you don’t have to mess around changing lenses.” Tabuchi calls it “stellar,” telling us “it’s got the functionality and zoom capabilities of a DSLR but has enough automatic features in there for dummies like myself.” (If you do choose to go the DSLR route, Tabuchi recommends renting additional lenses from Lensrentals.com to save money on expensive kits you might not use after your safari.)

Here’s a more affordable bridge camera that made Calmeyer’s list of recommended models for Roar Africa safari guests. She admits it won’t be as powerful as a DSLR, but for the price it’s a solid option for capturing both close-ups of animals and sweeping landscape shots.

Even pre-pandemic, experts recommended packing hand sanitizer, since you might be eating lunch straight off a game drive or need to take a bathroom break out in the bush and far from running water. Of course, by now we all have our own sanitizer preferences, but Steinhilber especially likes this lavender one because she says it “doesn’t have that terrible antiseptic odor.” (Interestingly, it’s also Sarah Michelle Gellar’s favorite .)

“The African sun is brutal,” says Calmeyer, and a good sunscreen is an absolute must. Any type you prefer will work as long as it has a high SPF, but if you want a safari-approved pick, Jackson says Badger is a solid “all-natural brand to use all day long.”

Don’t forget lip protection. Steinhilber says any lip balm you choose must have a strong SPF. She uses this one from Dermatone.

Mosquitos, tsetse flies, chiggers, and other critters are often unavoidable on safari, but a good bug spray can reduce your chances of getting bitten. Now’s not the time for organic essential-oil-based repellents that experts say won’t be up to the task. Instead, you’ve got to bring in the DEET. Brittany Silva, a safari trip manager at Thomson Safaris, says this 30 percent DEET spray is one of the best. Another good option is to wait until you land, so that you can buy bug spray from an African company and feel confident that it’s designed to repel the local insects. Calmeyer suggests the brands Peaceful Sleep and Tabard . “They work better than anything I’ve ever got from anywhere else,” she says. Gordon agrees, calling Peaceful Sleep “magical.”

If you’ve read our coverage of the best tick repellents , you know we’re already big fans of this permethrin spray, which can be used to treat clothing and gear. Smith, along with the team at Thomson Safaris, also uses it and likes the extra protection it provides. You can spray it on your shoes, your hat, and anything else you might be wearing to keep bugs at bay.

If you really don’t want to use DEET (which can be smelly and irritate skin), Smith suggests the non-toxic ingredient picaridin as an alternative. “It comes in nice, soft lotions that smell good,” he says, “and it’s just as effective as high-concentration DEET.” He says this Sawyer lotion feels gentle and non-greasy on your skin.

Even if your lodge has a laundry service, if you’re moving between places quickly and won’t be at a specific lodge for more than one night, Smith recommends packing soap for washing your own clothes. He says, “You can just wash your stuff and hang it up to dry while you’re sleeping, so you always have something clean.” Also, bringing your own soap is a must if your lodge won’t wash your underwear. Jackson recommends this eco-friendly, biodegradable soap for easy cleaning.

Additional gear

“On glamping safaris to the Serengeti, charging opportunities are generally limited to the vehicles and central lounge areas,” says Andrew Doherty, manager of special-interest travel at Thomson Safaris. Since you might not have a personal charging station in your tent or lodge, he recommends bringing a power bank that you can charge up when you’re near an outlet and then use to keep your phone and other gadgets running when you’re out of reach. “That way, you can continue to scan through selfies and edit safari shots on your phone while lying in bed listening to lions roaring in the distance.”

“There are three different plugs in Africa,” says Gordon. “A universal adapter is good to have because if you’re entering different countries, you’re just going to want to have all three in one.” This adapter will work in popular safari countries like South Africa, Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.

Similarly, not all tents and lodges will have lights and electricity at all times. “A lot of places are on generators or solar panels that aren’t going to be on all day or all night,” says Gordon. “The lights are getting better, but they’re not super-strong.” While she used to bring a flashlight on safari, she says she now just uses the one on her phone, but still packs a book light for reading at night. A headlamp works too, if you prefer, and we’ve recommended our favorite one here .

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

• packing and gear
• the strategist
• the trip list

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

Deal of the Day

Micro sales, greatest hits, most viewed stories.

• The 11 Very Best Shampoos
• What Ariana Madix Can’t Live Without
• The Strategist’s Two-Day (Actually Good) Sale Is Over — Here’s What You Missed
• This $17 ‘Concrete’ Planter Is So Great I Bought 8 of Them
• 9 Things That’ll Almost Definitely Sell Out: From Sandy Liang to Bluey
• The 17 Very Best Work Bags for Women

Shop with Google

The Ultimate Packing List for Your African Safari

Packing for an African safari is somewhat different to most other trips you'll take. Navigating rural roads in an open-top jeep means that you'll get covered in dust, so you'll need clothes that hide dirt well. Because temperatures can change dramatically throughout the day, layers are essential (after all, pre-dawn game drives are often chilly even in the height of summer). If your itinerary includes flights in a bush plane between different parks or camps, you'll need to pack extra light to comply with charter flight baggage restrictions.

In this article, we provide a comprehensive packing list that should cover most 7-10 day safaris (while still leaving room in your suitcase for a few curios ).

Dressing for Your Safari

Safaris are generally casual affairs, so you can leave your evening-wear at home. The best clothes are loose-fitting and lightweight, so that they keep you cool and dry quickly if you get caught in a rain shower. Make sure to bring at least one good fleece or jacket for warding off the chill on early morning game drives. At night, there will usually be a campfire to keep you warm, but you'll want to wear long sleeves and trousers to protect yourself from mosquitoes . This is particularly important in malarial areas.

When it comes to colors, pick neutral tones over brighter shades for optimum camouflage in the bush. Khaki is a safari favorite for a reason: it's cool, camouflaged and hides dirt well. If you're in tsetse fly country, avoid wearing blue – it's an attractant for the disease-carrying insects.

Clothes and Accessories

• 2 long-sleeve shirts
• 1 sweatshirt or fleece
• 1 lightweight raincoat 
• 1 pair of comfortable shorts
• 2 pairs of cotton trousers/pants
• 3 pairs of socks
• 4 pairs of underwear (cotton, so that you can easily wash and dry them overnight)
• 1 pair of sunglasses (preferably with UV protection)
• 1 warm woollen hat 
• 1 swimsuit 
• 1 pair of lightweight, durable walking shoes or hiking boots
• 1 pair of flip-flops or sandals (for wearing around camp)
• A supply of Ziploc bags to keep your dirty laundry separate from your clean clothes

Top Tip: Ladies, on the bumpy roads of Africa, a decent sports bra is your best friend. 

Toiletries and First Aid

Every camp or lodge will have at least a basic first aid kit , and most safari vehicles will too (especially those operated by higher-end camps). However, it's always a good idea to bring your own small supply of hygiene and health essentials. 

• Personal toiletries, including travel size shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, moisturizer, toothpaste and toothbrush
• Sunscreen (minimum SPF 30+)
• After-sun cream
• Antiseptic gel (for washing your hands when there's no water around)
• Sanitary products for ladies
• Contraceptives (including a supply of the pill, if you're on it)
• Mosquito repellant (the most effective includes DEET)
• Malaria pills (if needed)
• Antihistamines for bug bites and allergic reactions
• Painkillers, e.g. aspirin or Tylenol
• Cold and flu medicines 
• Diarrhea medication, e.g. loperamide
• Antiseptic cream
• Prescription medicines
• A spare pair of glasses for those that wear contact lenses (it's often too dusty to wear them comfortably)

​Electronic Devices

• Camera (this can be a basic point-and-shoot or an SLR with detachable lenses and a tripod, depending on how serious a photographer you are)
• Spare memory cards 
• Spare camera battery (consider a solar charger if you're going to be camping)
• Binoculars (if you have them, otherwise your safari guide will likely have a pair you can borrow)
• Spare AA and AAA batteries
• Electrical adaptor 
• Small flashlight (to use inside your tent or to find your way around camp at night)
• iPad or tablet for storing e-books, photos and handy travel apps

Pack For a Purpose

Many safari camps and lodges now support local community initiatives in and around the wildlife parks, reserves and concession areas. If you want to make a positive difference during your time away, ask if you can bring any supplies that will help these projects (usually school supplies, medication or clothing). Check out  Pack For a Purpose  for lists of specific requests from lodges around Africa as well as suggestions on how best to pack the items they need. 

Before you start packing, make sure to research your options carefully. If there are two parts to your trip, you may be able to pack a separate duffel or backpack for the safari section and leave your main suitcase with your tour operator or hotel back at base. This keeps things light for your bush flight to Ngorongoro Crater , for example, while still allowing you to pack your scuba gear for your second week on the beach in Zanzibar .

You should also try to find out ahead of time whether your safari camp or lodge offers a laundry service. If not, you can recycle clothes by packing a small bottle of travel detergent and a length of thin nylon rope to serve as a makeshift laundry line. 

When choosing your suitcase, a soft-sided duffel is almost always a better bet than a rigid hardshell case. Duffels are easier to fit into narrow overhead compartments or into the back of a safari vehicle – and they're more likely to withstand the wear and tear of life in the bush. Because poverty and corruption lead to theft at many third world airports , we recommend plastic wrapping your bags before your flights and investing in a decent luggage lock. Always pack your valuables (and especially your camera with all your precious memories) in your hand luggage.

This article was updated by Jessica Macdonald on March 20 2019. 

Essential Items to Take on an African Safari

Everything You Should Pack for a Hiking Trip

The 14 Best Survival Kits of 2024

The 8 Best Bags and Backpacks for Disney of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Vacation Packing Checklist for France

The 9 Best Carry-on Luggage for Men of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Rolling Duffels of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

How to Go on Safari in Tanzania

The 9 Best Packing Cubes of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Where to Go in 2021: 10 Future Trips You Can Start Planning Now

The Best Women’s Travel Pants of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

5 Ways to Make a Luxury African Safari More Affordable

The 11 Best Beach Bags of 2024

Bali Packing List

The Ultimate Carry-On Packing List

Independent Trekking in Nepal

• You are here:

10 Things You Must Pack for Your Safari

Patrick has been an Africa travel specialist, based in Australia, for over 10 years and prior to that was a safari operator in Mana Pools in Zimbabwe.

You’ve waited months for your safari to finally come around. And now you have to decide what you must pack for your safari. Decisions, decisions, decisions. SafariBookings is here to help. Below are a few of our tips.

10,752 African Safaris

1. Passport, Itinerary, Travel Insurance Docs & Etickets

It seems obvious, but we would be remiss if we didn't put this at the top of the list of what you must pack for your safari.

2. Prescription Meds

Remember to put your prescription medications in your hand luggage (in case your check-in bag goes astray... it happens!)…and make sure you have enough of each type to last your entire safari.

3. Prescription Glasses (Sunglasses, Hat, Sunblock Et Al)

If you wear prescription glasses, be sure to pack more than one set (in case you lose one or they get broken). You will be outdoors for much of the time, so be prepared. Pack a hat, sunblock, long sleeves, and lip balm.

4. Camera, Video and Binoculars

Whilst most people will remember to take their camera and/or video (or will use their mobile phone), not everyone thinks they need to take binoculars! Binoculars are ESSENTIAL for optimum wildlife viewing on safari (and a GOOD pair of binoculars will make a BIG difference to your safari). We strongly recommend a pair of binoculars on safari. Get the most expensive you can afford (at least 8x or better still 10x magnification).

Africa is a photographer’s dream. Not only does the boundless wildlife come in all shapes and sizes, but the continent is also blessed with stunning landscapes, colorful people and fabulous light! Don’t miss out. Buy a camera, if you don’t already have one.

5. Clothes & Toiletries

Of course you’re not going to forget clothes! But are you taking the right clothes…and are you within those weight restrictions your travel agent told you about for those light aircraft flights? Most international airlines will restrict your check-in luggage to around 20 to 30kgs (55lbs). However, if your safari itinerary includes any light aircraft flights, then this can mean as little as 12 to 15 kgs (sometimes including your hand luggage!).

Don’t panic! Remember, a same-day laundry service is usually available in most safari camps and lodges. This means you DO NOT need a change of clothes for each day you are on safari! The exception will be for mobile tented safaris where it is often difficult, due the mobile nature, to offer a laundry service. It may also be possible to leave a bag with the charter company, or person meeting you, for the duration of the safari portion. When in doubt, ask your travel agent.

Casual but Comfortable

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable throughout the year when on safari. Whilst you may elect to start a completely new safari ‘wardrobe’ it is really not necessary to look like an extra on the set of Out of Africa! 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.

Layering Is Key

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:

• A) T-shirt, shirt or blouse - long sleeves and collars help to protect from the sun and mosquitoes
• B) Fleece or warm jacket
• C) A pair of safari trousers - those that zip off at the knees are very handy, too
• D) Comfortable walking shoes (or boots) and socks
• F) Bandanna or cotton scarf and a sarong (kanga, pareo, kikoi)
• G) Maybe a pair of open sports sandals for general daytime use in warmer months
• H) Swimsuit -  a number of lodges and camps have swimming pools
• I) An elegantly casual outfit for dinner at the smarter hotels
• J) A light, compact raincoat if it is likely you will encounter rain (gorilla and chimp trekking)
• K) And, of course, your undergarments

Dull and/or neutral colors are more suitable for safari, white and/or bright colours are not practical as they tend to stand out – definitely not advisable on a walking safari. Cotton clothing is recommended although the newer synthetic safari clothing lines are quick drying and extremely comfortable.

Check the Weather

Ask your travel agent (or check online) and find out what the weather will be like where you are going. You may not need any serious cold weather gear at all (and that will really help with the luggage limit!). Alternatively, if you are going anywhere in winter where the temperature drops dramatically when the sun goes down, you may need gloves, a scarf, a thick jacket and a beanie!  Places like Hwange, Okavango, Linyanti and even Kruger are freezing in the early morning and late evening during the winter months (June through August). And this is magnified by a significant wind-chill factor that you'll feel when on the back of an open game-drive vehicle.

6. Phone, Music, Tablet or Laptop

What you must pack for your safari are your phone, music, tablet or laptop - and their respective chargers,  country-specific adaptor plugs.

7. Preventative Pharmaceuticals

This is just a fancy way of saying ‘meds’ – stuff you need, just in case the worst happens: diarrhea, headaches, heartburn, insect repellent, hand sanitizer, bites (antihistamine), indigestion, sore throat (lozenges),  eye drops, and most important – anti-malarial tablets.

8. Odds & Ends

A good torch (flashlight) is a must. It can be pitch black in the bush or in your tent in the middle of the night. A rechargeable torch is ideal but a small battery-powered torch is sufficient. The new LED miner’s lights that fit on your head (and leave your hands free) are also a good option. A smaller (pencil) torch for emergencies or looking at star maps is also worth considering. Most camps will provide a torch, or will walk you back to your tent as required, but being self-sufficient is always a good idea.

A good book. It never hurts to have an interesting book when travelling. You never know when you are going to be delayed at the airport or fall victim to Africa time! A travel diary or journal is something we recommend. You will see and experience so much in such a short period of time on safari, that the only way to maintain a good record of it will be to write it down. It does require discipline, but will serve as an invaluable record of your safari adventure.

9. Hand Luggage

Firstly, try to restrict your hand luggage to one item only, if for no other reason than more than one item makes travel that much harder. And, yes, a handbag qualifies as a second item! Obviously, that one item should be of a size that is acceptable as carry-on luggage by the airlines. If you are a photographer, then this will mean you must have sufficient space in your camera bag for travel documents, your prescription medication and/or glasses, binoculars and even a change of clothes. Bear in mind that restrictions on what can and cannot be taken on board an aircraft are still in place – including for liquids, flammables and sharp objects. The rules change frequently, so please double-check and take heed.

10. Finally, Don’t Forget Your Sense of Humor, Patience and Some Common Sense!

It is not advisable to wear any form of clothing that may be construed as “camouflage”. By this we mean any form of brown/green “combat” style coloring. Even if it is the latest fashion statement – and even if it is your 14 year old wearing it – and even if it is just a cap. Many African authorities have a disproportionate phobia about such garments and this could conceivably result in you being questioned or harassed by the police. It has the potential to cause you grief, so don’t do it. Do not take any expensive personal jewelry on safari. Be minimalist or take only those everyday items that you normally wear, like your wedding band, inexpensive earrings.

With regard to securing your luggage, we would strongly suggest using one or more combination locks to secure zips together if your suitcase does not have its own locking mechanism. Luggage tampering in airports does occur, unfortunately. Luggage straps that wrap around your suitcase can also deter, whilst shrink-wrapping facilities are available at some airports.

Want To Go on an African Safari?

Click on the button below to compare African safaris offered by top-rated tour operators.

About SafariBookings

SafariBookings is the largest online marketplace for African safari tours. Easily compare offers from top-rated tour operators. Make decisions like a pro by using our 103,234 reviews and 223 destination guides. More About Us

Safaris by Type

• Luxury Safaris
• Budget Safaris
• Gorilla Trekking
• Chimp Trekking
• Family Safaris
• Private Safaris
• Group Safaris
• Photo Safaris
• Overland Tours
• Camping Safaris
• Fly-in Safaris
• Walking Safaris
• Birding Safaris
• Self-drive Safaris
• Canoe Safaris

Most Popular Blog Posts

• Best Time for African Safari
• Best Safari in South Africa
• Family Safari in South Africa
• African Safari Tips
• Game Reserves Near Cape Town
• What to Pack for a Safari
• Best African Safari Parks
• Top 5 Best African Honeymoon Safaris
• Top 5 Best Tanzania Family Safaris
• Best Places to See Cheetahs in Africa
• How Much Does an African Safari Cost?
• Best Places To Visit In Africa in 2024

Blog Categories

African safari tours.

8-Day Safari to Most Celebrated African Parks

$3,740 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Central Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha (End)

Tanzania Roadside Expeditions

5.0 /5  –  248 Reviews

7-Day Murchison Falls, Chimps & Gorilla Trekking

$2,572 pp (USD)

Uganda: Private tour Lodge & Guest House

You Visit: Entebbe (Start) , Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch, Murchison Falls NP, Kibale NP (Chimps) , Queen Elizabeth NP, Bwindi NP (Gorillas) , Entebbe Airport (End)

Tubale Safaris

5.0 /5  –  31 Reviews

8-Day Great Migration Safari

$3,135 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Central Serengeti, Northern Serengeti NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Foothills of Mt Kilimanjaro, Arusha (End)

Safari Soles

5.0 /5  –  246 Reviews

• South Africa
• The Ultimate Safari Planning Guide
• Safari Packing List
• Safari Luggage
• Safari Budget Guide
• Safari Reading List
• First-Timer’s Tips
• A Typical Day on Safari

Africa , Botswana , Kenya , South Africa

Safari packing list: what to pack & wear on safari in africa.

What to pack for a safari is something many travellers and safari-goers agonise over. 

The weight limits of small planes, the need to squeeze your bag into tight spaces and the changeable weather conditions can make it tricky to choose what to wear in Africa, let alone what to pack.

This safari packing list shares my favourite travel products and safari clothes to take on your next wildlife trip. And make sure to read on to the end to find your free downloadable packing checklist!

What to Pack: Safari Clothes

Long-sleeved shirts are considered safari staples for good reason. Not only do they protect you from harmful bug bites and sun rays, but they’ll also make sure you look the part! 

Pick a slightly tailored style for a more flattering fit, and opt for neutral colours to help you blend in with the landscapes.

My favourite safari shirts for women:

• This Craghoppers safari shirt is made from a mosquito repellent material, and also keeps you cool thanks to the light, moisture-wicking design. The pockets are large enough to store your essentials when out on a game drive too. But if this one isn’t quite your style, Craghoppers has plenty of other options to suit your tastes.
• My favourite type of shirt to wear on safari, this Tentree button-up can be layered over t-shirts for extra warmth or simply on its own too. Being a less traditional option for safari, it’s ultra-stylish too!
• Cotswold Outdoor has plenty of options for safari shirts from well-known outdoor brands. This Jack Wolfskin khaki shirt is very flattering and fashionable enough to wear when you’re not on safari, while the Columbia version is ideal for hiking too.

T-shirts should appear on every packing list for a trip away, but especially a safari one! Not only can they be easily layered under shirts and over long-sleeved tops on cooler days and on their own in hot weather, but they can also be dressed up with a skirt or smart pair of trousers for candlelit dinners. 

Opt for an airy t-shirt made from organic cotton and you’ll have a safari staple that doesn’t cost the earth. 

My favourite t-shirts for women:

• As it’s made from a special mosquito repellent fabric, this Nosilife short-sleeved t-shirt is a great choice to wear on safari. Plus, it’s moisture-wicking too so you’ll stay comfortable even under the heat of the African sun.
• Tentree does the basics very well, and this t-shirt is no exception. Available in a range of colours and made from organic cotton, it’ll keep you looking and feeling great. What’s more, every item purchased from Tentree plants 10 trees in the areas that need it most, so you’ll be doing good too. 
• Ayacucho’s basic t-shirt is in a flattering striped pattern. It’s also made from organic cotton to keep you cool and odour-free too.

Long-sleeved tops

Long-sleeved tops are versatile pieces of clothing that make layering really easy for those unpredictable weather days. As well as warmth in the early mornings and late nights, they also provide protection from the sun and biting insects when they’re most active.

Cotton tops are a great choice, as they’ll keep you cool and comfortable. I tend to go up a size for extra airiness. 

My favourite long-sleeved tops for women: 

• My stripy long-sleeve tops quickly became my favourite thing to wear on safari. I loved how light and baggy they are, keeping me cool on hot days but also covered on cold ones. The slouchy fit was also really flattering and kept me feeling stylish on game drives. Even better, this top is also made of mosquito repellent material to keep you safe when travelling. 
• This essential long-sleeved t-shirt from Tentree is made from a mixture of organic cotton, recycled polyester and the tree fibre, Tencel. They call this mix their treeblend, which means you’ll be looking good while doing good too. 
• This long-sleeved t-shirt by Icebreaker is made of a blend of Tencel tree-fibre and merino wool that boasts moisture-wicking and odour-resistant properties, as well as Cool-Lite technology, which helps regulate your temperature and keep you cool in warm climates. Perfect for a safari! 

Sweaters/Hoodies 

An unexpected essential in any safari packing list is a warm sweater or hoodie to keep you protected from the cold weather of early mornings and late nights. 

My favourites for women:

• Tentree’s cotton crew sweater is a really flattering fit made with 100% organic cotton. It’s really soft and cosy too and, remember Tentree will plant 10 trees for every item purchased.
• If you want a light hoodie to take the edge off on a cold morning, look no further than the HeiQ Viroblock hooded jacket from Craghoppers . The anti-microbial coating keeps you protected from bacteria, mould and mildew, while the SolarShield fabric is equivalent to SPF40. 
• This classic sweatshirt from Patagonia is made from organic cotton, using 82% less water and 12% less CO2 than traditional production methods. It’s a really comfy fit and is designed to keep you warm while out in the bush or around the campfire.  

An absolute must if you want to rock safari guide chic, a pair of shorts makes a great addition to your packing pile. Not only can you store lots in the pockets, but you’ll look good doing so! 

My favourite shorts for women:

• As with all Craghoppers Nosilife clothes, these navy shorts are designed to protect you from insect bites while keeping you comfortable and stylish out in the bush. Pair with a long sleeve shirt for ultimate protection.  
• These high-waisted organic cotton shorts from Tentree make ideal safari wear. Their flattering fit and range of colours mean you won’t just want to buy one pair! 
• ​​Barbour makes great quality outdoor clothing, and these shorts are no exception. The comfortable cotton material has a hint of elastane for a slight stretch, making them wearable for everyday use as well as on safari.  

You’ll need at least one pair of full-length trousers to wear as a staple on safari. By buying some that cover your ankles, you’ll be protected from biting insects and the sun, as well as any other creepy crawlies you might come across when on a walking safari.  

My favourite trousers for women:

• These lightweight jogging bottoms were pretty much the only trousers I needed on safari. And also now I’m home for that matter! They are light and baggy enough to keep you cool in the African heat, but also warm enough that you wouldn’t need another layer underneath when it turns cold. 
• Craghoppers’ Kiwi Pro trousers are the choice of many safari-goers and outdoorsy folk, and it’s easy to see why. They’re made incredibly well from recycled materials, and the straight leg gives a flattering fit when paired with walking shoes.  
• These slouchy jogging bottoms from Patagonia are the ultimate in comfort. The stretchy waistband and drawstring tie will keep you cosy no matter what you wear them for, while the hemp and recycled polyester fabric make them an ethical choice too.  

A good pair of leggings will keep you warm and comfortable when travelling on aeroplanes, but can also be paired with safari shirts and long-sleeved tops for a stylish look on a game drive.

My favourite leggings:

• If you’re travelling in winter, these Nosilife leggings are a great choice to keep you warm when out in the bush. I wore them underneath a long skirt in the evenings and on their own with a top during the day. 
• Though designed primarily as activewear, these Tentree leggings are a great choice for when you want to combine comfort, style and sustainable practices. Now available in a range of colours, you’re sure to find some you love! 
• These North Face leggings are a classic choice for wearing on safari as they’re breathable and lightweight. They’ll easily slip into your safari luggage! 

Skirts & Dresses

Dresses & Jumpsuits

A shirt dress is the favourite piece of clothing for many influencers on safari. They’re stylish and comfortable, and they come in a huge range of colours and styles. Though you might be tempted by a black or navy blue shirt dress, nothing says safari quite like khaki! 

Equally, jumpsuits are a great way to dress up on safari. You might have a candlelight dinner or sundowner where your standard safari wear just doesn’t cut it. Stay practical and stylish with a jumpsuit, but do remember to wear a vest underneath just in case you need a bush wee – they can be hard to get in and out of when relieving yourself behind a tree! 

My favourite dresses and jumpsuits :

• You can’t get more safari classic than this Nosilife Savannah Dress for Craghoppers. The shirt dress is finished perfectly in a range of khaki colours, while the supplied belt adds a fashionable touch.   
• The Cypress dress by Tentree has a flattering halterneck style, and an elasticated waistband for a slouchy, casual fit. It’s a great choice for safari as the Tencel fabric is sustainable, while the side pockets can keep your phone handy for those perfect shots! 
• If you’re a jumpsuit fan, look no further than the Slater Jumpsuit from Tentree . Like the Cypress dress, it’s made from Tencel fabric, which is soft, sustainable and very lightweight to keep you cool in the hottest of locations. Just remember it can be tricky to take off if you need to answer the call of nature out in the bush! 
• The Ayacucho Goa shirt dress is my ideal choice for safari as it’s made of a linen blend, making it breathable and really soft too – perfect for warmer days! The length is very flattering, while the longer sleeves will keep your arms protected from the sun too. 

For more advice on choosing your perfect safari dress, check out my dedicated guide to safari dresses and jumpsuits next.

Perfect for evening meals when you want to look a little fancy, a skirt pairs perfectly with a plain t-shirt. Just remember to wear mosquito repellent or a pair of leggings underneath if you’re prone to bites.

My favourite skirts:

• The paper bag waist and mid-length fit on this Tentree skirt is incredibly flattering. Its Tencel fabric is made for warmer climates, while the elasticated waist is very comfortable no matter what you’re up to. 

Depending on the season you’re travelling in, a raincoat can be absolutely essential. For example, the rainy season falls in the summer months in South Africa. This can make game drives and bush walks uncomfortable if you don’t take your waterproofs. It’s better to be prepared and take one with you!

Pack one made from light material to keep you cool, even in tropical downpours. 

My favourite raincoats:

• This lightweight waterproof jacket is ideal for moderate to heavy downpours and is made from recycled materials to help you do good for the planet too. 
• The Nimbus short rain jacket from Tentree is packed with features, from the pack away hood and plentiful pockets to the fully waterproof and recycled fabric. 

If you only choose to pack one thing from my safari packing list, make sure it’s a fleece! If this is your first time going on safari, you’ll be shocked at how cold it can get in the early morning when you’re racing through the bush to reach a sighting. And after the sun goes down, a warm fleece is the perfect antidote to those chilly night drives after the sun goes down.

My favourite fleeces:

• The Stromer fleece jacket from Craghoppers is the perfect choice for a safari. It has a really flattering fit and kept me really warm and toasty, even on the coldest mornings in South Africa. Plus, it comes in a choice of beautiful colours, so there’s one for you no matter what your style. 
• Jack Wolfskin is well-known for its outerwear, and with good reason. This classic fleece jacket is really well designed to keep you warm thanks to its hand-warming pockets and insulating fleece fabric. Ideal for any weather! 

Remember it can be really chilly at night in Africa, so you’ll want a pair of pyjamas to stay toasty in bed. Choose jersey shorts and short-sleeved tops if you prefer, but long sleeves and bottoms will keep you snug and protect you from mosquitoes during the night. 

My favourites:

• The destination tank is a comfortable sleeveless option if you prefer having your arms free during the night, while the long-sleeve version will keep you warm and toasty under the covers. 
• Tentree – These jersey shorts are ideal for sleeping in. They are soft, and comfortable and the elasticated waistband means they’ll stay on all night. Though if you’re after longer bottoms, try the joggers . 

Comfortable shoes 

Don’t forget your feet! Though you may spend most of your time on safari in a vehicle, drinking around a campfire or relaxing in your tent, you may be lucky enough to stay somewhere that allows bush walks. You’ll definitely want comfortable shoes for that! 

My favourite shoes to wear on safari:

• You’ll know from my travel blog’s review of Allbirds that they’re my favourite shoes to wear in most circumstances, and that includes safari! The Wool Pipers will keep your feet toasty during cold mornings, without being too sweaty when it gets hot. But if you prefer a thinner, more airy and breathable fabric on your feet in hot climates, try the Tree Skippers . 
• Merrell makes great walking shoes, and these Siren 3 sneaker-style shoes are perfect for safari. They’ll keep your feet protected from nasties on the ground, but are also really comfortable no matter what you choose to do in them. 

Even though most safari holidays don’t include time at the beach, flip-flops are still a great idea to pack in your suitcase. If your lodge has an outdoor shower or swimming pool, flip-flops will make getting back to your room really comfortable.

My favourite flip-flops:

• These North Face flip-flops are a classic choice, but you can’t really go wrong! 

Accessories

A large, lightweight scarf has many uses on safari: place it over your knees on a game drive and it’s a blanket; wrap it around your waist over your swimsuit and it’s a sarong for the pool; use it to cover your shoulders as protection from the midday sun, or simply wear it as a scarf to protect from the biting cold before the sun comes up and after it goes down.

My favourite scarves for wearing on safari: 

• This NosiBotanical shawl is large enough to use as a blanket, but also light enough to wear around your shoulders in the heat. The NosiBotanical technology keeps you protected from biting insects too, so it’s a great choice for your safari packing list. 
• The Tentree Peaks blanket scarf , as its name suggests, is multifunctional as both a blanket and a scarf and the pattern is really stylish and perfect for safari too. 
• The Bart’s Witzia scarf is the most traditional style scarf on this list, meaning it’s designed to keep your neck warm. This makes it a good choice for colder weather. 

On really cold days, you’ll be so glad you packed your beanie hat! In fact, I was so cold the last time I was on safari in South Africa after leaving my beanie at home. Thankfully, the lodge had an onsite store so I could stock up. But don’t be like me – make sure you’re prepared in advance!

My favourite beanies:

• I love bobble hats, and this Craghoppers bobble hat is adorable. It’ll absolutely keep your ears and head warm in the cold, but you’ll look great at the same time! 
• The Kurt beanie is a plain but very insulating choice. Available in a wide range of colours, it’ll provide an essential extra layer on cold mornings and evenings in the bush. 
• The Rab Braid Beanie is the ultimate in winter hats. Not only is it stylish thanks to the braiding pattern on the outside, but the fleece lining will keep you really warm and toasty on even the coldest of days.

Baseball Cap

Another one of my essentials, a good baseball cap will both protect your head and shield your eyes from the sun when on safari. I wore mine every drive, without fail, and really felt the part each time I wore it. 

My favourites: 

• The Cork Icon Elevation hat is available in a range of safari colours and will protect your eyes and scalp from the sun in style. 
• This North Face cap is made from recycled materials, making it a sustainable choice, and a good one too! 

Fedora/Sun Hat

Another influencer essential, a fedora hat pairs perfectly with the shirt dress for those back-to-the-camera photo shoots. 

• The Festival Hat is incredibly popular. Every time it came back into stock, it’s quickly snapped up, so make sure you’re speedy if you want one! Available in a great choice of colours, it’s made from sustainable fabrics and will complete your safari look perfectly. 
• This Kiwi Ranger Hat is a traditional safari-style hat, made from recycled plastic bottles and finished with a water-resistant coating. Even better, it’s a NosiLife hat, meaning it’ll keep your head safe from insect bites too. 
• This bucket hat has a wide rim to protect your eyes and face from the sun, while the chin strap will keep it firmly in place in windy weather.

For more safari hat inspiration, check out the dedicated safari hat buying guide next!

I don’t tend to wear gloves on safari as I like to keep my hands ready for taking photos. However, if you know your hands get cold, gloves can be a good idea. 

• The Montane Powerdry gloves for women are touch-screen compatible, thanks to the ingenious fabric and design. Plus, they’re really lightweight but still keep your mitts warm on cold days. 
• These North Face gloves are made from sustainable materials, and also have an e-tip feature, which means you’ll still be able to use your touchscreen phone while wearing them. 

If you’re lucky enough to stay in a safari lodge with a swimming pool, you’ll want to have your swimwear on you! 

• This Speedo bikini set features a flattering longline bikini top as well as a classic striped pattern. The swimsuit is incredibly quick-drying, which makes it a breeze to pack away in your luggage before your flight. 
• This Briganha swimsuit is a one-piece design with a plunging neckline. The best part? The fabric is treated with Craghoppers’ Nosilife technology that is designed to protect you from insect bites while you swim. Perfect for an African safari! 

Other Safari Packing Essentials

Entertainment

When not on a game drive, you’ll wish you had a good book with you to while away the hours. Lucky for you, I’ve shared all my favourite books to read on safari in another post, so read that next. 

But if you’re after a sneak preview, here’s my top 3:

• A Year in the Wild – James Hendry : A tale of two brothers who are sent away to work at a safari lodge by their parents in hopes that it’ll teach them to get along. A wonderfully entertaining and fitting read for safari! 
• Back to the Bush – James Hendry : The sequel to A Year in the Wild, this book follows the brothers in their second year away. If you liked the first one, you’ll love this follow-up! 
• The Elephant Whisperer – Lawrence Anthony : A true story that’s both heartbreaking and uplifting at the same time. It tells the story of a herd of elephants that arrived on the author’s reserve and what they taught him about love, loss and friendship. Just make sure you’ve got tissues ready when you read. 

A good game is another way to enjoy your free time when not out on a drive. Of course, you don’t want to take anything too heavy or bulky to squeeze into your safari duffel bag, but I’ve got you covered with some good options. 

• A Pack of Cards – The options are endless with a good pack of cards. You can play anything from Go Fish to Gin Rummy. 
• Uno – One of my favourite card games, and it’s easy to play in a pair or in a larger group. Perfect for an after-dinner activity!  
• Mini-games – Lots of traditional games are now available in smaller formats, including Battleship , Connect4 and Clue .   

A real travel essential, headphones will keep you entertained on long journeys as well as back in your tent. Get a noise-cancelling pair for the most comfortable journey on board flights, or even a pair that’s suitable for sleeping in to drown out the noise of the bush at night.

• My Bose QuietComfort headphones have kept me entertained since I bought them over 10 years ago (granted I have the wired version from back then!). Their noise-cancelling technology is second to none and can drown out the noise of jet engines on international flights, as well as the propellers of a bush plane. So if you’re bothered by noise when trying to relax or get comfortable flying, you’ll want a pair of these! 
• I struggle to sleep without having something to listen to, so these Sleephones were one of the very first things I put on my safari packing list. Sleephones are very thin headphones, encased in a headband that you can sleep comfortably in, even if you’re a side sleeper. It means I can listen to something throughout the night without disturbing my husband. 

Camera & Accessories 

If you enjoy wildlife photography, you won’t be surprised to hear that cameras and camera accessories are absolutely essential when on safari. Though which camera to buy for safari is an entirely personal choice, I’ve included some of my recommendations here. 

The items to take on safari include:

• Camera – I love my Fujifilm XT3 as a wannabe professional, but if you’re a beginner, the Fujifilm XT100 is a great place to start.   
• Lenses – For the best wildlife photography, you’ll want a telephoto or zoom lens to get in really close. My Fujifilm 100-400mm is a great choice, but take a look at Amazon’s selection for a wider choice.  
• Memory Cards – You’ll want at least a couple of memory cards with lots of storage to let you take lots of photos without having to delete some later in your trip. This 128 GB has plenty of storage.  
• Batteries – It’s surprising how quickly you’ll get through camera batteries when out on long game drives and bush walks. Make sure you pack spare batteries so you’re not caught short with a fantastic shot and no power! This is the battery for my XT3 . 

Travel Adapters & Chargers

Of course, electronics are only usable when charged, so you’ll want to make sure you’ve got plenty of travel adapters and chargers to keep your things boosted. 

My pick of the bunch: 

• Universal > South Africa & Botswana – for travellers from the US, UK, EU, Australia and more to use in South Africa and lodges in Botswana . 
• US > Kenya – for travellers from the US to use in Kenya. 
• Phone charger – Hopefully this will have already been on your packing list, but remember your phone charger! If you need a spare one, check out Amazon’s selection here . 
• Camera charger – Even with spare camera batteries, make sure you remember your camera charger or battery charger, like this one for Fujifilm .  
• Portable charger – Less essential, but still a great idea is a portable charger. Some safari jeeps have charging stations on them to keep you powered up on the drive, but a portable charger or power bank can be a life saver if you’re stuck in the middle of nowhere with no electricity.  

Binoculars 

If you’ve been on a safari before, you’ll understand that often you can only see animals far in the distance, or your guide will point out a fascinating insect that’s too small to spot with your eyes. Do yourself a favour and pack a pair of binoculars, and thank me later! 

• These Olympus binoculars are a great value option if you still want good performance. They’re comfortable to use and with an 8x zoom, they provide a great view of animals far away. They are also easy to adjust to your eyesight, providing a crystal clear view no matter what your prescription.  
• These Swarovski binoculars are the same type you’d get on an &Beyond safari. They’re a little pricey, and you may be unable to justify the price when you get a decent enough performance from the Olympus model. That said, the step-up in clarity is huge and an even bigger zoom in a much smaller, more lightweight package. 

In my opinion, toiletries are the hardest things to get right when packing for a safari. Take too many and you’ll likely go over your weight limit. But too few and you may be stuck out in the bush without your home comforts. 

Here are my essentials: 

• Sunscreen  
• Mosquito repellent  
• Allergy relief  
• Malaria tablets (get these from your doctor!)
• Toothbrush & Toothpaste. 

Even though most documents are now available digitally and can be stored on your phone, there are a number of documents where physical copies are best. 

Make sure you remember to pack:

• Yellow Fever Vaccination certificate
• Any Visa evidence or required documents 

I highly recommend packing all your belongings in a safari duffel bag, like the ones I have reviewed in my article for the best safari luggage . Make sure to check that out, next!

• This traditional-style duffel bag is an ideal choice for a safari. There’s plenty of room inside for all the stuff on this packing list, and more besides! It fits all safari lodge and bush plane requirements as it’s soft-sided and doesn’t have wheels, making it slightly awkward to carry but easy to squish into luggage compartments on the smallest of planes. 
• If your comfort when carrying your luggage is important, opt for a soft-sided wheelie case like this Craghoppers option . The internal pockets will keep everything organised, while the fact the fabric is made from recycled bottles means you’re doing your bit for the environment too. 

Downloadable Packing List

The part you’re all here for, I’m sure! Click here to download your free packing list and make sure you don’t forget any of those essentials on your next trip.

• Long-sleeved Tops
• Sweater or Hoodie
• Dress or Jumpsuit
• Baseball Cap or Sunhat
• Memory Cards
• Travel Adapters
• Phone Charger
• Camera Charger
• Portable Charger
• Mosquito Repellent
• Allergy Relief
• Malaria Tablets
• Toothbrush & Toothpaste
• Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate
• Visa evidence or other required documents
• Camera Bag or Backpack

Now you know exactly what to pack for your next safari, all that remains is to countdown the days until your trip. Have an incredible time! 

Anna is the founder of Really Wildlife. She's a 30-something lover of wildlife travel, vegetables and listening to the Lion King soundtrack on full blast.

What to pack for safari in Africa? Detailed Safari Packing Guide

Neutral-colored safari -style clothing and camera gear are a must to pack for a safari, but what else and what do you have to take into account while packing for an African safari ? In this complete safari packing guide, I share exactly what to pack for a safari in Africa . It helps you choose what to wear on safari, what not to wear, and which safari essentials are important to bring on a game drive . It also includes a complete African safari packing list  and practical information to get prepared for your safari trip, like important travel documents, appropriate safari clothing, shoes, handy gadgets, electronics, and type of camera.

Important travel documents in preparation for your African safari

It is crucial that you prepare all the necessary travel documentation (print or digital) before you hop on a plane to your African safari destination. Your travel document checklist should include your passport  (valid for at least 6 months after arriving back home), visas  if needed, airline tickets , vaccination certificates (Yellow Card), insurance documents, accommodation vouchers, car-rental reservation forms, and an international driver's license if necessary.

Visas for Sub-Saharan Africa

Many Sub-Saharan countries in Africa require a visa to enter . Check the visa requirements of your African travel destination (s) and make sure if you need a visa, what kind of visa, and how to apply for a visa. More and more countries want you to apply online, in advance, while other African countries ask you to pay cash on arrival. Most countries accept US Dollars, printed after 2009 and in good condition.

Check the local currency of the African country you're planning to visit. To most accepted foreign currencies are the US Dollar and the Euro. Bring US Dollar bills if you need a visa on arrival. I would always recommend taking a credit card and cash money. Don't exchange money with locals on the street. It’s illegal and risky. I would recommend withdrawing local cash money at an ATM machine upon arrival or exchanging your own currency at an exchange office. Cash is king in Africa as power cuts or blackouts are normal and you can't pay with your bank or credit card everywhere. Cash is also handy for souvenir shopping and tipping guides and general staff as tipping is common in Africa and very much appreciated by the locals.

Vaccination certificates

Required vaccinations vary per country in Africa. Most African destinations require Hepatitis A and Yellow Fever . If you’re traveling in an area with a risk for malaria, consider taking anti-malarial tablets. My best and only advice is to plan a consult with a medical travel clinic, 4-6 weeks before departure, to know exactly what’s needed for your safari trip.

Make sure your International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), also known as the Yellow Health Card , is updated with the recommended vaccines (including the date and validity of the vaccine, stamp, and signature of the doctor). It's an official vaccination report created by the World Health Organization (WHO) and is basically a kind of medical passport that is internationally recognized to enter certain countries with health risks for travelers. Personally, I've been asked for my Yellow Health Card only once during all my Africa travels and it was about the Yellow Fever certificate.

Depending on the government regulations you either need a COVID-19 vaccination certificate, a negative COVID-19 PCR test result , or a recovery certificate. For details about the latest COVID-19 regulations, it’s advised to visit the official websites of the country you are traveling to and the airline you are flying with.

Checklist of important travel documents to bring on safari

• Valid Passport (required to be valid for another six months after returning)
• Visa (if needed)
• Airline ticket(s)
• Vaccination certificates / Yellow Health Card
• COVID-19 proof of vaccination, negative (PCR) test result, or recovery certificate
• Insurance documents
• Accommodation vouchers
• Car rental reservation forms
• International driver’s license (if needed for a self-drive)
• Bankcard, credit card
• Cash money, also in the local currency (withdraw money on arrival: it’s not always possible to pay by card plus it's useful for tips)
• Photocopy of your passport

What clothes to wear on an African safari?

The best safari clothing is comfortable, lightweight, and durable. That’s necessary to adapt to the environmental conditions in Africa like heat, moisture, dust, and insects. The best clothing for an African safari offers sun and anti-insect protection and dries quickly. It’s advised to pack neutral colors, like earth tones.

Best colors to wear on Safari

Khaki, brown, sand, and green are the best colors to wear on safari . Neutral-colored earth tones work best to become part of the African bush. Dark clothes like black and blue attract heat, biting tsetse flies, and other insects. Colors you should not wear on safari are too bright or neon colors can scare the animals away. Avoid camouflage clothing, as in some African countries it’s worn by military personnel only. Also, avoid busy patterns as you don't want to draw the attention of the wildlife to you.

Wear layers on your game drive

The weather in Africa can change very quickly. It can be cold and windy in the morning, and hot during the day, plus you can always be surprised by an African rain shower. For that reason, wear layered safari clothing on your game drive and bring a hat and scarf. Wearing lightweight pants (or zip-offs) and a long sleeve light-weight blouse also helps with extra protection from insect bites and the sun. Roll up your sleeves or zip off your pants if it gets warmer.

  RELATED: I also wrote a guide to game drives including 15 things to know about going on a game drive in Africa .

Safari clothes for women

Finding suitable safari clothing for women can be challenging because the clothes made for safari are often focused on men but sold as unisex. I definitely get that most women like to pack stylish safari clothing, but do realize your safari clothing still needs to be comfortable. Imagine going to the bush toilet on a game drive and you’re wearing a jumpsuit, or you need to climb in the vehicle with a short skirt. You get the point.

RUGGEDWEAR’s Tayla Jane Range

Women should definitely check out RUGGEDWEAR’s Tayla Jane Range . The clothes offer exceptional comfort, breathability, rapid drying, and a fashionable appeal. It’s one of my favorite safari clothing brands for women with the Parka as my fave item.

I also always make sure to pack RUGGEDWEAR’s blouses when I go on safari. Thanks to the breathable material, I can comfortably wear them for multiple days in a row without worrying about unpleasant odors. Plus, these clothes require no ironing after washing, and even dirt, such as mud, can be easily removed, making them a convenient and essential choice for my journeys.

Colmar for urban styles, and outdoor activities

The luxury Italian clothing brand Colmar primarily specializes in outdoor skiwear. However, their high-quality clothes are also well-suited for safari adventures. Colmar's commitment to durability, protection from the elements, functionality, breathability, and the versatility of layering make their clothing an excellent choice for both skiing and safaris.

My favorite Colmar item is this casual lightweight jacket with a fixed hood. It's convenient, comfortable, and made of thermal and water-repellent material. The side pockets and a practical adjustment drawstring make the jacket feminine and functional for safari.

Safari Clothing List

Below is a safari clothing list to use as a guideline for your safari trip. Most lodges or accommodations offer a laundry service at a small rate or even free of charge. My advice: pack light and make use of the laundry service. It’s also a great way to support (local) employees.

• 5-6 neutral-colored shirts and/or tops
• 2 long sleeve safari blouses (light and breathable)
• 2 sand or khaki-colored shorts
• 2-3 light-weight long trousers (optional are zip-offs)
• a light jacket like a soft shell (water- and windproof, luxury lodges provide ponchos on their game drives)
• One fleece or warm vest
• Scarf or buff/bandana (handy for colder drives as well as protection from the sun)
• 4-6 pairs of neutral-colored socks
• Underwear (take enough for 5-7 days, then do your laundry)
• Swimsuit or swim shorts for the lodges that have a pool
• Safari hat (I love Rogue Hats, but any neutral-colored hat is fine)
• Stable safari shoes and flip-flops
• Gaiters (for walking safaris )
• Sport-bra for women
• Ziploc bags to keep your dirty laundry separate from clean safari clothing

Formal evening wear

Formal evening wear is not necessary on safari, as most safari lodges and camps have a casual safari-style dress code . Some people like to change before they go to dinner. However, in reality, almost no one is going to their room to freshen up after the afternoon game drive as you arrive back in the dark. Most of the time you have a drink at the fire when returning from the game drive and go for a cozy Boma dinner straight after. On my first safari in Africa, I went back to the room to have a shower and change but I learned quickly that most people stay around the fire after the game drive, have dinner and go to bed early because of the early start.

I've had several safaris in various African countries. There were times I also packed two dresses but in reality, I almost never wore them. Sometimes around the camp in between the two game drives. It obviously depends on the kind of safari trip you're doing, but if you are in a lodge doing two game drives per day you usually wear suitable safari clothing for game drives. If you also visit a city during your safari trip, like Cape Town, I would also pack one or two dresses.

What shoes to pack for safari in Africa?

On a safari in Africa, you need to bring sturdy footwear. Hiking boots or hiking shoes aren’t always necessary and take up a lot of space in your suitcase or backpack. If your safari trip includes walking safaris or hikes, do bring hiking shoes or trail shoes that provide enough grip and protect you from thorns.

Otherwise, comfortable, closed, and sturdy shoes are more than enough. If you are in an area with lots of insects or snakes, a higher-rise boot is recommended, or wear gaiters for extra protection. For me, insects and thorns are the main reason why I prefer to wear closed safari footwear on a game drive plus you are better protected during comfort breaks, coffee stops, and the afternoon sundowner . Normal sneakers are not the best option as thorns go straight through these soles.

Safari Shoes

My favorite safari shoes are the Authentic South African Veldskoen boots . Veldskoen boots are handmade and stitched in South Africa and often worn by local field guides. Choosing a Veldskoen means comfort and style. It will definitely complete your safari outfit. Apart from closed shoes, bring a pair of flip-flops or sandals to wear around the camp.

Safari First aid kit and toiletries

Professional medical care isn't always close when on safari. For that reason, it’s important to be prepared for medical issues. Your guide or tour operator will always have a first aid kit available. However, it’s advisable to bring a basic medical kit yourself. The most basic and crucial medical safari essentials are insect repellant, after bite, anti-malarial tablets, painkillers, and blister band Aids. In case you have any medical issues or if you use any medicines, it’s necessary to inform your guide on forehand.

Your first aid kit for safari should contain:

• Prescription medicines / Antibiotics (if you currently take any)
• Malaria medication (if necessary)
• Paracetamol or other painkillers
• Anti-diarrhea pills for food poisoning
• Oral Rehydration Salts in case of diarrhea or dehydration
• Anti-histamine for allergic reactions
• Cough drops
• Insect repellant (eco-friendly)
• Lavender essential oil (functions as after bite and many more purposes like a good night of sleep)
• Pads for blisters

Other toiletries to pack for your safari:

• Soap, shampoo, conditioner
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss
• Feminine hygiene products
• Contact lenses and fluid
• Wet wipes (handy on camping trips or long drives)
• Lip balm for the dry air
• Face mask and hand sanitizer
• Hand and body lotion
• Shaving kit or razor

What camera gear should I bring on safari?

Having the most expensive camera doesn’t mean you’ll shoot the best photos because whatever camera you bring on safari, it’s critical to know how to use it. You will be disappointed if you invested a lot of money in camera gear and your pictures are too dark or blurry.

If you do know how to use a camera or if you have the time and motivation to learn how to use a camera, I would advise bringing a DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) camera with exchangeable lenses. The best zoom lenses for wildlife photography are in the range of 200-600 mm with a minimum of 200mm zoom to capture wildlife.

As a travel and wildlife photographer, I always bring different zoom lenses to photograph wildlife and a more wide-angle lens to capture Africa’s gorgeous landscapes, for example, the Canon 16-35mm 2.8.

To practice and learn how to use your camera, you can read the instruction manual, watch some tutorials on YouTube, take a class, and most importantly practice with different settings and conditions before departure. If you don’t have the time, motivation, or skills to learn how to take (better) photos with a DSLR, then save your money and enjoy the experience on its own.

You can try to take photos with your smartphone. Nowadays, the cameras on smartphones are pretty good, but you will definitely lose quality when you try to zoom in with your smartphone camera. Important to know about photographing in Africa is that it is considered rude in African culture to take photos of people without asking them first.

Packing list for camera gear on safari

I would suggest bringing the following camera gear on safari:

• A DSLR camera plus a long-range zoom lens (70-300 mm, 28-300 mm, 18-400 mm). If you bring a camera with a long-range zoom, you don’t need to switch lenses or bring different bodies
• Memory cards (plenty)
• Cleaning equipment (it will be dusty, so bring cleaning cloths)
• Charger (you don’t want to run out of battery)
• Extra batteries
• Rain cover or towel (to protect your camera from rain, dust, and moist)
• Ziplock bags (to protect equipment from dust)

Curious about the photography equipment I use? Check out my photography gear collection .

For the more advanced photographers , I recommend bringing:

• An extra body
• Different lenses (wide angles lenses, zoom lenses, etc.)
• A tripod to photograph the beautiful night sky or a monopod for extra stability on your game drives
• Camera remote
• External hard drive
• A sensor cleaner and blower brush (important when you often change lenses)
• Filters (optional)

In case you are interested in a photography-focussed safari, you might want to read my blog about planning a photo safari in Africa, including 7 essential tips to consider before booking your photography safari .

Electronics to pack for safari in Africa

Power can be limited in the bush, but there are some must-have safari gadgets, like your camera, batteries, and phone that require frequent charging. In Africa, you sometimes need to deal with power cuts or blackouts .

The location or type of accommodation can influence the availability of power. Some budget accommodations or eco-lodges only offer solar lights in the tents, no individual plug-in options, and use time slots for power . In those accommodations, a shared charging station is usually available in the main building. Most mid-range or luxury accommodations have charging stations in the room or tent. Africa uses 220-240 volt electricity at 50hz. Check which plug converter is needed for the country you're traveling to.

I always bring my own solar energy source because I use a lot of technology on safari. One of my favorite safari essentials is the WakaWaka Solar Panel combined with the Power 10 . It’s one of the most powerful solar panels and power bank-combination that can charge up to five electronic devices at once. In Africa, it is relatively easy to make use of the sun for energy, and it’s also sustainable! Other electronics I usually pack for safari are a headlamp, a torch, and my laptop for photo editing.

Useful electronics to pack for safari are:

• A solar power panel
• A portable Power Bank (to charge devices in lodges without electricity or during the game drives)
• Torch and/or headlamp (very useful in the evening and night)
• Mobile phone unlocked for international use (you can buy a local sim card on arrival)
• Charger for your phone, including charging cables
• Tablet or laptop plus charger (for a game, writing, or photo editing)
• An e-reader (optional for free time in between game drives)
• International plug converter
• Optional travel hairdryer, however, most lodges have hairdryers in the room

Safari essentials

To complete your safari packing list, there are a few safari essentials you should not forget, like binoculars , and a  thermal water bottle . When I pack my bag for safari, I won’t leave my Celestron TrailSeeker Binocular and my Stanley coffee percolator . Those are two of my favorite safari essentials. Other practical things to bring on safari are bird and animal books.

Other important essentials you should bring on a safari in Africa:

• Carry-on daypack for your game drives
• Thermal water bottle
• Stanley coffee percolator (if you're a coffee lover like me)
• Snacks if the usual meals a day are not enough
• a small notebook and pen (or use your notes on the phone)
• waterproof dry bag to keep important stuff or electronics away from water, sand, and dust
• Bird and animal checklist or book (or use apps like the Roberts Bird App to document and read about sightings)

The complete safari packing guide

After reading this complete safari packing guide , you know exactly what to pack for safari in Africa. I recommend using packing cubes to organize your bag. For traveling in Africa it's advisable to travel with a soft bag or suitcase. Charter flights to for example airstrips in the Maasai Mara have a maximum weight allowance and not a lot of space to store heavy hard suitcases.

If this packing guide is helpful for you, you could help me in return by sharing the link of this article on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter or pinning it on Pinterest for your future safari trip to Africa. Have a great safari in Africa!

We Are Travel Girls

A Community Created To Inspire, Connect, Educate & Empower Female Travelers

PACKING GUIDES , SAFARI , TRAVEL GIRLS GETAWAYS · February 15, 2020 Last Updated on March 15, 2024

PACKING GUIDES: WHAT TO PACK FOR A SAFARI

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may receive a small commission when you make a purchase using our link.

After booking a safari trip the next thing you need to plan is what to pack. Having been on a number of safari trips in Sri Lanka , Africa and India I have refined my safari wardrobe but it took me a few trips to realise all the essentials that I needed.

You don’t want to arrive and realise you forgot your safari hat, or you should have brought an extra pair of safari shorts so it’s important to plan out what you want to bring with you well in advance.

In this guide, I share some of my favourite travel essentials for a safari trip, including what clothing you need to bring, safari luggage, cameras and other equipment and toiletries. 

Safari Packing Checklist

Once you have read the article make sure to download my handy printable safari packing checklist from the We Are Travel Girls Travel Library so that you don’t forget any important items in your luggage.  

The library is also packed with free eBooks, Destination Pocket Guides, Packing Lists and Bucketlist Checklists.

Safari Luggage

Let’s get started with the type of luggage you will need for a safari trip. Based on my experience having soft bags rather than hard shell suitcases is far easier for transferring between lodges, taking river boats or travelling by small plane. Depending on your destination you may even find that hard sheet is not permitted so make sure to check this for your specific journey, airlines and safari.

Large Checked Luggage

I am big fan of the Osprey luggage for this type of trip because of its durability. I have had my Osprey rolling luggage for 7 years, and I have my backpack from my first backpacking to Asia, I loved this one because it had a detachable day pack too – both are still going strong! 

Another great brand with durable design, fabrics and wheels is Eagle Creek and they have a range of large duffels suitable for safari or any other adventure trip.

Pro Tip: Don’t bring your most beautiful cream luggage on safari, it will get dirty. Choose a darker colour, or safari colour luggage so you don’t ruin your favourite luxury luggage!

Hand Luggage Small Duffels 

If you are a light packer then opting for a rucksack plus a small duffle (within the weight and size dimensions of a carry on) is the ideal. On many flights you are permitted to have a small backpack / personal item and a hand luggage item so you might be able to avoid checking anything at all. 

I always carry a small foldable duffel in my luggage on any trip and have had my Samsonite duffle for years, the exact version I have is no longer available but this Samsonite duffel is very similar and I highly recommend since its made of super sturdy material.

My other favourite is my Lo and Sons Catalina Tote (pictured above) which is smartly designed with a section at the bottom for shoes.

Hand Luggage Rucksacks

Lost luggage is a thing in Africa. We run a Travel Girls Getaways trip to Malawi every year, and every year at least one bag is delayed and on our last trip four bags were delayed! The bags always make it in the end usually coming in on the next flight, but since you might be moving between camps or lodges it can take days for the luggage to reach you and can be stressful to coordinate getting it. 

So I always pack as much as possible into my carry on. This is where it gets a little complicated because there are weight restrictions on many African airlines and often you might be flying on small prop planes that require everything to go in the hold. 

Pro-Tip: If the person at the check in desk weighs your hand luggage and says you need to repack it. Go and pretend to repack, then go back to a different counter and try again. Chances are you might get away with the overweight bag with a different representative!

Packing Cubes

In addition, I always use a set of compression  packing cubes to organise my items within my luggage, putting tops and jumpers in one and trousers or dresses in another. Not only do these help to keep your bags organised, but it means you can fit more into your luggage! 

On a recent trip to Malawi, I was able to pack ALL my safari clothes, plus my huge camera and lenses, and laptop, into my carry-on backpack by using compression cubes. Honestly even I was surprised how much I got in this bag!

I have tried a few different packing cubes and the best ones I have found are from Muji  and Eagle Creek . There are plenty of cheap pretty looking options available on Amazon but to in my experience they break quickly so look for a durable option or one of the more expensive ones – it will be worth it in the long run!

What To Wear On Safari

The best thing about a safari wardrobe is that once you have invested in it, you can use it year in year out! The styles don’t really go in and out of fashion which means you won’t need to buy new things every year.

During the day you will most likely be out in a safari vehicle, boat or if you are lucky hot air balloon or small plane over the Masai Mara! Whichever transport you are in the outfits will likely be the same and you will want to opt for neutral tones and plain fabrics. 

• Shorts: Keep cool with a pair of khaki safari shorts teamed with some tan boots for a classic safari look. Athleta has a great selection of lightweight and eco friendly shorts.
• Trousers:  I like to wear trousers on safari as this can be more comfortable than sitting in shorts. It also means you are covered up at dusk and the evening when the mosquitoes come out. 
• Jumpsuit: A comfy jumpsuit is a great option for safari days! Bring one along to mix up your style throughout your trip. 
• Tops & Layers:  Bring along several vests, t-shirts and layers. Safari gets hot and dirty so you will want to be able to change each day, sometimes more than once!
• Jackets: Depending on the time of year and safari location you might need something a bit warmer to throw other. When I went on Leopard safari and Yala National Park we started at 5am and it was freezing, a windbreak and a light layer did the trick!
• Scarf: A scarf can both style up your outfit, giving you some variation each day and double as a wrap to keep you warm!
• Dress: Safari evenings can be quite fancy depending on your lodge, so bring along a nice dress or two to pair with some flat sandals.
• Maxi Loose Dress:  Bring a couple of comfy dresses for evening sundowners and dinner at your lodge. 
• Long Skirt: A maxi skirt is excellent on safari to wear day or evening. I have a basic khaki lightweight maxi skirt which is lovely and cool to wear on game drives.

Accessories

• Hat: I bought this Jaxon and James hat on Amazon for my last trip and I LOVED it. It is light-weight, held its shape well and is also UV resistant. Hats are essential in the sun and for your safari IG pics!
• Sunglasses: A pair of tortoise shell sunglasses are a must!

Pro-Tip: Bring along a couple of carabiners to attach your hat to your backpack when you are not wearing it. These are also helpful for hanging hand held lanterns if your camp does not run electricity 24 hrs.

Footwear & Boots

• Hiking Style Boots: A comfy pair of hiking boots are essential. I bring along my pair of Timberland Courmayeur boots which are good year round for other trips too.
• Trainers or Tennis Shoes: I usually travel with a pair of Converse or slip on tennis shoes which are great for travel days and on safari too. 
• Smart Sandals: One pair of nice sandals for evenings or you might want to opt for a closed toe espadrille which you can also wear during the day. 
• Hiking Socks: If you are wearing a pair of boots, you will want to team these with some comfortable socks. 

Swimwear & Cover Ups

After your morning safari and long lunch, you will be ready to take a dip in the pool at your lodge. So make sure to bring your safari chic to your swimwear wardrobe with a khaki one piece, an animal print bikini, and a loose cover-up. 

Cameras & Gear

When you spot your first elephant or big cat you will want to have a camera with you to capture the moment! This is all the gear I take with me on my trips.

• Camera: I use a Nikon D850  DSLR camera body for all of my photography with a Tamron 24-70mm lens , Sigma Art 35mm lens which is great for video. But on safari you will need some lenses that work to get close up nature shots. I also have a little handbag Panasonic DMC LX100 that is nice for quick snaps in the evening. 
• Video Equipment: I personally shoot video mostly on my DSLR, but bumpy jeeps mean a  Go Pro Hero 8 and Karma Grip for stabilisation are essential kit on your safari!
• Binoculars: Your guide will have some you can borrow, but it’s always nice to bring your own along so you can spot birds and wildlife as you drive.

Looking after your skin and staying hydrated when you out on safari every day is really important! High SPF and facial oils are key to keeping your skin glowing throughout your trip.

• A High Facial SPF:  My personal favourites are Skinceuticals Sport UV Defense Active Factor 50 , Clinique Face SPF 50  and Coola Mineral Face SPF Factor 50 . 
• Body SPF: For the body I also love Coola , SunBum and La Roche Posay sunscreens – always Factor 50! 
• Cleansers: Safaris can be dusty and dirty, chances are you have been in and out of the jeep and touching your face so you want to clean your skin thoroughly at the end of the day. I am a big fan of Eve Lom and Drunk Elephant cleansers. 
• Facial Oils: My favourite facial oil is Boscia Tsubaki Beauty Oil which I have been using for many years, along with a few other Boscia products. Another favourite is Elizabeth Arden Overnight Oil

Other Essentials

• Reusable Water Bottle:  One of the easiest things that you can do to be a more responsible traveller is to carry a reusable water bottle instead of using multiple plastic water bottles. I have a large Tru Flask bottle, and some a set of different Avana bottles  which come in different colours and patterns.
• Reusable Cup: My preferred cup to keep drinks hot is the Avana Sedona cup , but to save space you could also bring a collapsible Stojo reusable cup – I like this, but it does not keep the drinks hot very long. 

Travel Insurance 

It is really easy to forget to check your travel insurance coverage when you are caught up in the excitement of booking your safari, but this is something you definitely should not overlook! 

Travel Insurance is something you should never leave home without and in fact something you should purchase as soon as you book your trip should unforeseen circumstances stop you from going on your trip. Safaris are very expensive so you don’t want to forfeit flights and lodge expenses if you have to cancel at the last minute!

My recommendations for insurance coverage are: 

• World Nomads: I have used World Nomads for many years for long term travel coverage and short trips. I have had the need to make claims with them and found the process easy and quick.
• SafetyWing: The world’s first International Travel Medical Insurance developed to meet the needs of entrepreneurs and remote workers travelling or living abroad. Coverage with SafetyWing starts at US $37 for four weeks and since it is subscription-based you won’t forget it when you travel!
• Insure and Go: If you are based in the UK, Insure and Go is a great choice for annual travel insurance. I had coverage from Insure and Go at the time of my ski accident and they were very helpful with organising my repatriation back to England. I had the annual Gold coverage which also included coverage for a plus 1, so my husband was covered to come and help me get home. 
• Camera Coverage: If you are carrying lots of photography equipment I highly recommend getting separate insurance for your electronic and photo gear – especially if you are taking them with you on the mountain! I have been using Photoguard for a few years and love that you can build your insurance based on the value of your exact set of photographic equipment, but suggest checking specific insurance coverage for your region.

I hope that you have found this article helpful to plan what to pack for your next safari. Please share your own safari trip packing tips with our readers in the comments below. 

Want to share your own travel tips by guest writing for We Are Travel Girls? Go to our Contribute page for guidelines and to submit your article.

Subscribe to get access to our FREE eBook with tips for saving money when you travel!

We Are Travel Girls Founder Becky van Dijk of  BeckyvanDijk.com Connect with Becky  Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Instagram  |  Pinterest  |  YouTube

Pin For Later

This website may use affiliate links in our articles. Please see our Disclosures for more information.

You’ll Also Love

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

• Travel Girls Getaways
• DESTINATIONS
• TYPE OF TRAVEL
• TRAVEL RESOURCES
• AMBASSADOR PROGRAM
• TRAVEL GIRLS GIVING

Get Access To The Travel Resources Library

Subscribe to receive free access!

• Work With Us
• TESTIMONIALS
• DISCLOSURES
• TERMS OF SERVICE
• PRIVACY POLICY
• ACCESSIBILITY

COPYRIGHT © 2023 WE ARE TRAVEL GIRLS

Exclusive Member of Mediavine Travel

• The Savvy Traveler’s African Safari Packing List

by Nichole | Last updated Mar 29, 2024 | Safari Packing List , South Africa

Aw, the African safari. No matter if it’s your first or tenth safari trip, the safari drive is exhilarating and new every time you set foot in that jeep. What you pack is very important in order to make your experience comfortable and memorable. My husband and I have done two safaris: one in Chobe in Botswana and one in Lion Sands in South Africa . Here are my ultimate 24 items on my safari packing list that I was glad I had.

* Some of the links in this post contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All recommendations are from first-hand experience that I feel will deliver value to you! Thank you for your continued support.

FOLLOW & SHARE WITH A FRIEND!

01- Lightweight Safari Clothes

02- safari scarf , 03- safari hat, 04- safari shoes , #1- saucony trail runners, #2- rothy's slip on sneaker, #3- cole haan flynn sandal, 05- light travel jacket, 06- polarized sunglasses, 07- bathing suit , 08- lots of underwear, 09- small daypack, 10- binoculars, 11- soft-sided suitcase, 12- poncho or rain jacket , 13- deet + permethrin, 14- quick-drying travel towel, 15- best camera your money will buy, 16- dslr lens, 18- sunscreen with zinc oxide, 19- water bottle + gatorade packets, 20- disinfectant wipes, 21- medicine cabinet, imodium + azithromycin, malaria pills, motrin + tylenol, allegra + benadryl, topical steroid + low-dose steroid pack, fabric bandages + bactroban ointment, 22- white noise machine, 23- female urinary device, 24- thank you notes, final thoughts , related content.

Safari packing list essentials: sporting our lightweight sun protective clothing at Chobe National Park

Struggling to figure out what to wear on your safari trip?

You are not alone. I had no clue where to begin. My initial searches showed all the same clothing. Khaki colors, lots of pockets, boxy styles. Blah.

Then I started searching for companies specializing in travel and outdoor activities like fishing, camping, and hiking. Ok, now I was on to something.

Look for lightweight, breathable, and sun protective clothing from stores like the ones below:

I have a whole article dedicated to the best safari clothing for women. The best safari shirts and pants are included PLUS multiple outfit examples.

Photographing a rhino while on a South Africa safari at Lion Sands River Lodge

Three reasons why you need to put a scarf (love the fun colors from Orvis !) on your safari packing list:

✔️    #1- WARMTH

Our morning safaris were cold!

It was in the mid-50s°F in the mornings when we went at the end of September. The Lion Sands River Lodge did provide warm blankets in our jeep, but you need to layer up!

The scarf comes in handy to give you that extra layer of warmth around your neck.

There was one very cool, windy morning, in particular, that I even contemplated if I should have brought my beanie and gloves.

Check the weather and consider a few more cold-weather accessories for your trip if it looks like it is going to be chilly.

✔️    #2- DUST

Remember, at least in South Africa, you are sitting in an open-top jeep fully exposed to the elements. If you get a little dusty, the scarf comes in handy to do a quick wipe-off.

It also doubles as a wipe for your camera lens if you need it.

✔️    #3- SUN PROTECTION

You will feel that sun on the back of your neck. The scarf also serves to protect your skin from UV radiation.

✔️   SCARF ALTERNATIVE

If you anticipate your safari location will include eating a lot of dust, consider a neck gaiter .

It is a piece of bunchy UPF 50 fabric that can be worn in multiple ways: a headband, neckerchief, face mask, hood, hair tie, and the list goes on.

It helps to block the sun, give you warmth, and keep dust off your face.

Wearing my safari hat and taking photos of elephants in Chobe National Park Botswana

Your skin will literally cook if you do not bring a hat.  Please put this on your safari packing list. There are so many great cute options out there.

One of my favorites is my packable J.crew hat . It “squishes” down nicely in my luggage. I’ve used it all over the Caribbean and for two African safaris: Chobe in Botswana and Lion Sands in South Africa.

Orvis Women’s Saddle Packable Felt Hat

Blundstone Chelsea Boots

Unless you are doing a walking safari or trekking through the forests of Rwanda looking for gorillas, you do not need clunky boots.

Most blogs will tell you that you need them.

I disagree.

Plus, why pay for something you are going to use once, and then it just sits in the closet?

I brought three pairs of shoes for our safari experience. Remember you need to pack light! Those little planes taking you to your safari destination are tiny and have weight limits.

Now, if you are doing a walking safari, then the Blundstone Chelsea boots pictured above are a great option.

Saucony Peregrine Trail Runners

Trail running shoes work great as part of your safari outfit. They are lightweight and have a little bit of tread for rougher terrain.

They can also double as a running shoe for the gym (if your lodge has one) or a spontaneous hike (if other locations like Cape Town are part of your itinerary). We also hiked Lion’s Head in Cape Town , so my trail runners worked out great for both situations.

The Saucony Peregrine is a great choice and comes in fun colors.

Rothy’s Slip On Sneaker in Sand 

Ok, so how does this fantastic shoe work into your safari outfit?

Sometimes my feet just needed a break from socks/trail running shoes (I hate wearing socks!).

I wore Rothy’s Slip On Sneaker on two days of our safari. If they get dusty, remember you can wash them! Also, they work out as a great shoe just lounging around the safari lodge.

The only time I would not wear these is if you are going on a walking safari or if you are going on an evening safari drive (the mosquitoes will find your ankles).

Cole Haan Flyn Sandal in Pecan Leather

My favorite super comfortable,  go-to travel sandal is my Cole Haan Flynn sandal . They feel like butter on my feet. Super comfortable. 

I wore these sandals around the safari lodge, going to the spa, and for dinners when I wanted to dress up an outfit a little bit. They were a great way to give your feet a break at the end of a long day.

Wearing my light down jacket with our safari ranger and tracker at Lion Sands River Lodge

Of course, the decision to bring a jacket will depend on the time of year you are going. When we went to South Africa in September, the mornings were chilly!

Layer, layer, layer.

Consider the REI lightweight down jacket that has a durable water resistant coating. 

Anatomie Kenya Safari Jacket

Another alternative I love that is comfortable and very stylish is the Anatomie Kenya Safari Jacket .

Wearing Ray- Ban sunglasses

Love polarized sunglasses!

They reduce eye strain and cut down the glare especially when you are looking for animals in the distance on your safari.

My favorites are from Ray-Ban . I did not take a photo of my sunglasses while on safari, so I included the one I took while we were in New Zealand. 

Swimming in Devil’s Pool at Victoria Falls on the Zambia side

If your safari lodge has a pool, don’t forget the bathing suit!

We did one of the most epic experiences I have ever done … swimming in Devil’s Pool on top of Victoria Falls , the world’s largest waterfall! So I was already planning on bringing a bathing suit.

When we were in Sabi Sands at the end of September, it was too chilly to swim in the lodge’s pool. Check the weather before you go.

ExOfficio Thong Underwear 

You may want to check with your safari lodge first before deciding on how much to bring.

The alternative is to bring a little packet of laundry detergent and hand wash them in the sink and air-dry.

PRO TIP: If you have a dermatologist, they will often have samples of hypoallergenic laundry detergent. Ask for a few samples. Great for travel.

There is a thing called “travel underwear.” My husband swears by the ExOfficio men’s boxer brief . It is made of quick-drying, breathable mesh fabric and has been treated with an odor-reducing antimicrobial treatment.

ExOfficio also makes chafe-free, high-performance women’s underwear.

Chalkley Treehouse at Lion Sands River Lodge in Sabi Sand

They are lightweight and come in multiple colors.

I used the daypack to carry my camera, lenses, GoPro, hat, sunscreen, sweatshirt, water bottle, binoculars, wet wipes, and a little brush. It is washable (wash on a delicate cycle and then air dry). This is important because it will be sitting on the bottom of the jeep floor and may get dirty.

I would not bring an expensive bag for the safari because of that reason.

I practice what I preach!

Using binoculars to scan the Chobe River in Botswana trying to find some animals

When we did a safari with Lion Sands River Lodge in Sabi Sand in South Africa, binoculars WERE provided.

So, check with your safari lodge first if they provide binoculars because that may be one less thing to bring!

Travelpro Platinum Magna 24 Expandable Rollaboard in Sienna

Why a soft-sided suitcase?

✔️    LIGHTWEIGHT

Safari vehicles do not have much space, and those little safari planes cannot carry too much weight.

We took South Africa Airlink from Cape Town to Skukuza Airport in Sabi Sand, and our weight limit was 20 kg (44 lbs). I have read some countries have an even lower weight limit of 15 kg (33 lbs).

If your safari lodge transport is one of the small propeller planes, then it is highly suggested to only bring a soft-sided duffel.

Some airports (like Skukuza Airport) allow you to store your main luggage for free and then you can transfer your “safari clothes” into a duffel for the small plane ride.

The plane we used to get from Cape Town to Lion Sands River Lodge via the Skukuza Airport was small, but it was not one of those small propeller planes.

South Africa Airlink Baggage Requirements

✔️    WHY I LOVE TRAVELPRO

I brought my trustworthy durable soft-sided Travelpro Platinum Magna Rollaboard that I have had since 2013. The name of the line has now changed from Platinum Magna to Platinum Elite.

The TravelPro brand is a flight crew favorite. It was even featured in the movie Up In The Air with George Clooney.

It also has a Lifetime Limited Worry-Free Warranty.  

I have traveled to 32 countries and have had to perform a repair only ONCE.

When I was wheeling my luggage around in Rome, I took it across several sections of cobblestone (oops, this was my fault) which damaged one of the wheels.

Because I had purchased from the Travelpro Platinum line, the wheels were covered under the lifetime warranty.

Weather is unpredictable. You never know when it may suddenly change and you end up soaked like what happened when we were hiking around Machu Picchu in Peru. Luckily, our guide was kind enough to provide ponchos for us.

This is a must on your safari packing list: Sawyer Permethrin spray and Repel Deet roll-on stick

Malaria does exist throughout Africa!

Forget the lemongrass, citronella, and mosquito bracelets. You will need the strong stuff. The travel clinic I saw before our trip advised a Deet concentration of 30%.

Higher concentrations of Deet do not mean it will work better but it will last longer.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Deet concentrations of 50% or higher do not offer a substantial increase in protection. CDC recommends 20% Deet or greater.

Now you can apply this bug spray in a lot of different ways: sprays, wipes, lotions, or a stick. My preferred method of applying is the roll-on stick or bug spray .

Why? Because it is portable, does not drip, and it will not get all over my fingers and hands.

The other way you can fight off these mosquitoes is by spraying Permethrin on your clothing and allowing it to dry. A lot of hikers swear by this ingredient.

The highly-rated Sawyer Premium Permethrin Insect Repellant can last up to 6 weeks or 6 washings. You can spray it on clothes and outdoor gear without damaging or staining them.

Other common-sense measures to avoid mosquito bites are wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, avoiding dusk and dawn if possible, and avoiding standing water where they like to breed.

Quick drying microfiber towel

Do not forget this safari packing list item: Canon Rebel DSLR

We bought a Canon Rebel DSLR camera and then just stopped using it because it was heavy and a pain to lug around.

Plus, the iPhone kept coming out with better and better cameras making it easy to get amazing shots while traveling.

However, I promise you that taking photos on your iPhone while on a safari will not cut it.

The safari is the one travel experience you do not want to leave your DSLR camera behind. A fair amount of shots you take will be from a distance, and you are going to need that telephoto lens.

After taking photos again with our DSLR camera , I was reminded of how I initially fell in love with this camera.

The photos you take are so crisp and sharp. I have included the same shot of two lionesses taken with both the iPhone and DSLR camera to show you the difference in what you can achieve. Pretty drastic if you ask me!

Canon DSLR: 2 lionesses chowing down on a giraffe while on a safari drive in South Africa

iPhone: Same shot but using an iPhone instead. You can see the iPhone photo becomes “grainy” with longer distances

We love the Canon Rebel camera, which is at an affordable, entry-level price point.

Canon camera lenses

We brought 3 lenses for our safari trip. As seen from left to right:

• Wide-angle lens
• Normal lens
• Telephoto zooms lens

Chalkley Treehouse: photographed with the Canon Rebel DSLR and wide-angle lens

The photo below (right) shows you how close up you can get (which is not very close!) with an iPhone without looking pixelated.

Telephoto Lens : Turtle hitching a ride on a hippo in Sabi Sand South Africa

iPhone : Turtle riding a hippo in Sabi Sand South Africa

The iPhone is ok at taking videos, but my GoPro definitely surpasses it in video quality. With its stabilization (important for bumpy jeep rides) and wide-angle views, it worked great for our safari drives.

As mentioned earlier, we had the unique opportunity to sleep under the stars in a treehouse at Lion Sands River Lodge in Sabi Sand, South Africa. I took awesome video footage of our treehouse experience with the GoPro.

In addition, I used it to film while hanging over Victoria Falls at Devil’s Pool in Zambia .

Elta MD UV Clear sunscreen

The African sun is no joke.

One of my favorite sunscreens is Elta MD UV Clear . It has zinc oxide that rubs in SHEER on the skin. It’s not oily, so don’t worry about breakouts.

This little skin protector should definitely be on your safari packing list!

Embrava water bottle and Gatorade low sugar packets

You do not want to get dehydrated and faint.

Safari drives are long (usually 3 hours in the morning and afternoon), and you will be sitting under the hot sun.

Bring a water bottle or ask if your safari lodge provides one for the drive. Our lodge, Lion Sands River Lodge, provided every guest with a water bottle for their use during their stay.

The other item I always take on trips is low-sugar Gatorade packets . They are great if you feel dehydrated or had a little too much wine the night before. Just add to water and shake.

I call it my “Hummingbird juice” because if I am feeling a little bit off, it usually perks me back up.

Purell Disinfectant Wipes

Even before the COVID-19 craziness started, we have always carried disinfectant wipes .

Great for plane rides, before and after eating, hiking, or for safari rides when you feel dusty and need to wipe off before you eat an energy bar for a snack. Don’t leave home without them.

My medicine cabinet I bring for trips

I tend to bring my own pharmacy for every trip, so I am prepared for all situations and ailments. The below items are what I personally included on my safari packing list.

But PLEASE CONSULT WITH YOUR DOC OF WHAT YOU SHOULD/SHOULD NOT TAKE.

Traveler’s diarrhea is no joke. Ask your travel clinic for an antibiotic in case it hits you, and you are stuck out in the middle of the African bush.

Also, I haven’t had to use Imodium often, but it comes in very handy if you are in an awkward scenario like sitting on a plane or a jeep for hours on end. Be prepared.

I recently came across a new travel friend called Travelan .

This pill may help PREVENT traveler’s diarrhea. I used it all over a recent trip to Mexico City while doing our own taco tour and never got sick. Pop a pill or two before a meal, and you’re good to go.

Placebo effect? I don’t know. All I can say is I didn’t get sick, and I usually end up puking once anytime we travel to a new country and eat new foods.

Here’s the NIH medical study if you are skeptical.

Unfortunately, I discovered this miracle worker after our trip to Africa. Luckily, I didn’t get sick while we were in South Africa.

There are several choices including Doxycycline, Malarone (Atovaquone-Proguanil), Mefloquine, and Tafenoquine.

Check with the travel clinic to see which one is right for you.

Consider asking your travel clinic for a topical steroid and a low-dose steroid pack if you are like me and get massive reactions to mosquito bites.

I tend to swell up and form huge blisters. It’s great to have these meds on hand if that mosquito happens to find that one inch of skin that is uncovered.

My husband travels internationally frequently and swears by melatonin for jet lag and insomnia.

I never took it until I developed severe insomnia right before our Africa trip. Looking back, I was probably not sleeping because I was worried about our upcoming activities which included swimming in Devil’s Pool on top of the world’s largest waterfall and shark cage diving with great white sharks.

Melatonin was my saving grace not only for my insomnia before this trip but also for jet lag.

Luckily, the safari experience was at the end of our trip, so we had already acclimated to the time zone. But it certainly helped at the beginning of our trip that we started in Victoria Falls.

Also, do not get the “budget” bandaids.

Bandaids are like toilet paper; you’re going to notice if you opt for the cheap stuff.

My LectroFan white noise machine twisted closed

My LectroFan white noise machine twisted open to reveal the Bluetooth speaker

I get it. Most travelers will think this is a weird item to have on an ultimate safari packing list, and some may think this item is a little diva-ish.

That is ok. I am going to tell you why this makes #22 on the list.

The older I get, the more I realize how important a good night’s sleep is. When I was in my 20s, I could pull all-nighters and bounce back the next day. Not anymore.

Need to drown out the street noise from the Airbnb you just rented right next to the highway? What about the noisy neighbor above you in your condo? Or what about trying to muffle the roaring from the lion who has decided to alert everyone he is there?

And this is where my favorite travel product comes into the picture. Weighing only 3.6 ounces, LectroFan  is my best sleeping buddy.

It also has a BlueTooth speaker, which you can sync with your smartphone to play your favorite music.

And, yes I used this amazing machine in our safari lodge! Thanks to the LectroFan, I was able to feel rested when I got that 5 am wake-up call from our safari guide letting us know to get ready for the morning safari!

Freshette Urinary Device

As I started to pack, I began to think how in the world does a female go to the bathroom while out “in the bush?”

When I performed a quick Google search, I found there is a contraption called a f emale uri nary device .

It is a funnel-shaped device that forms a seal so you can urinate without it going down your leg. You can use it camping, at concerts, and even on safari!

I have not used one, but a kind reader highly recommended the Freshette brand and said the hard plastic is better than the flexible device.

I decided I was not going to the bathroom on our safari drive. I accomplished this by hydrating like crazy 1 hour before our safari drive (so I would not get dehydrated). Then I went to the restroom one more time at the lodge before getting on to the jeep.

Then I was nice and comfortable. I still don’t get how females use the restroom in the trees when camping without urinating down their legs. More power to you!

Thank you note cards

Your safari guide and tracker puts in long hours. They get up well before you do and go to bed after you.

They spend 6+ hours with you sharing a wealth of information and finding some of the most amazing wildlife you will ever encounter.

I know the safari lodges cost a small fortune, but consider showing a little love and appreciation by writing a short thank you note  and providing an appropriate tip.

It will be much appreciated by the staff.

Wow, you got through my ultimate safari packing list! Well done. If you are like me, I had no idea before my first African safari what items made sense to bring and what items to leave.

I really hope this detailed article helps you navigate that process. Enjoy this incredible life experience!

Our Self-Guided Wine Tour in Stellenbosch & Franschhoek 

by Nichole | Last updated Apr 4, 2024

South Africa is known for some exceptional wines,...

How to Choose an African Safari Lodge: 11 Things to Consider

by Nichole | Last updated Apr 2, 2024

How to choose an African safari lodge that’s right for you...

7 Top Safari Destinations in Africa: Pros & Cons

by Nichole | Last updated Apr 7, 2024

Your first trip on an African safari will seep into your...

Sabi Sands vs. Kruger: Here’s How to Decide

by Nichole | Last updated Apr 1, 2024

If you are planning a South African safari, one of the...

REACH OUT, FOLLOW, OR SHARE THIS POST WITH A FRIEND!

Any African safari packing list items that I missed? Questions on what to bring?

Let me know in the comments below!

Love your style and information! Heading to South Africa and 3 safaris next month, now I know what to bring! Thank you!

Just a quick note about female urinary devices, I have tried them all, the only one that works is hard plastic NOT flexible, Freshette brand is the ONE!I use it camping all the time! Game changer!

Oh wow, 3 safaris! So jealous. Please report back what you thought and have an amazing trip!

Thank you for the feedback on the device. I updated the post with your recommendation. I’ll definitely have to give it a try now.

Enjoy your trip! 🙂

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Submit Comment

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Products

I’ve Been on Almost 50 African Safaris, and These Are the 16 Items I Never Travel Without

From game-changing gadgets to sun-protective clothing, you'll be so happy that you packed these products.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Reese Herrington

Africa has been one of my favorite continents to travel to since college when I got to study abroad in Zimbabwe. It was here that I experienced my first safari, and since then, I've returned to Africa 17 times and racked up close to 50 safari days in eight different countries.

My most recent safari experience was in Kenya's Masai Mara, which has the world’s highest density of wild animals. I spent a week with Basecamp Explorer , an ethical and eco-friendly African safari tour company dedicated to conservation, visiting three of their safari camps in Masai Mara National Park and the adjacent Mara Naboisho Conservancy. During my week in the bush, I saw a wildebeest being born (a first for me!), a leopard eating its kill in a tree, and more lions and elephants than I could count.

However, choosing the right safari operator is often easier than packing for the trip itself, which is truly an art form because most safaris require you to arrive and depart via small aircrafts — and there's always a weight limit for what passengers can carry.

Over the years, I've perfected my African safari packing list and am happy to say that on my most recent trip, I brought just the right combination of clothes, camera gear, and essential toiletries and extras like, a sun hat, a pair of boots, and binoculars to make the 44-pound bag weight limit. Here are my top 16 must-pack items to take on safari. I’ve also included recommendations from my travel writer friends, who are equally passionate about following big cats across the African savannah. 

And one note on what not to pack: camo clothing. In some African countries it is actually illegal for anyone not in the military to dress in camouflage. In East Africa, it is also best to avoid wearing black, as this can attract parasite-carrying tsetse flies. This is less of an issue in Southern African countries.   

Comfy White Sneakers 

As part of Basecamp's conservation efforts, the safari outfitter encourages visitors to plant a tree in the Basecamp Tree Plantation and Nursery , which I made sure to do during my trip.  And, I did so in a pair of ACBC sneakers made from recycled materials. 

I always pack stylish sneakers for safari so you can dress them up and down as needed, and the ACBC Evergreen Sneakers are incredibly versatile and sleek. The shoes are really comfy, and I love the breathability factor. They keep your feet cool on hot days and are trendy enough to pair with a long skirt, shorts, or jeans. Sizes for the ACBC Evergreen Sneakers are limited at Amazon, but your feet will be equally supported and stylish in a pair of Adidas Cloudfoam Pure-2.0 Running Shoes or Kufeiti Low-Top Canvas Sneakers . 

To buy: amazon.com , $59 (originally $75) 

Jack Wolfskin Routeburn Jacket

A lightweight technical jacket that can compress in your luggage is my favorite safari travel hack. Morning safaris head out before sunrise, and while it heats up fast once the sun comes up, for the first hour or so it’s cold and windy in the open vehicles.

I love my Jack Wolfskin Routeburn Jacket and take it with me pretty much everywhere I go. It is feather-light and packs down super small, but it is also very durable with its tear- and water-resistant construction. I’ve been to Kenya twice in the last year with this coat and I’m hard on my travel clothes, but it hasn’t shown any signs of wear and tear yet. And best of all, when zipped up with the hood on, it is entirely windproof and keeps me toasty on even the chilliest morning drives. The jacket also fits great; I’m short and curvy, so I love how the side panels are made from a stretchy material and the chest never feels too tight.  

To buy: amazon.com , $133

Occer Compact Binoculars

A good pair of binoculars is another safari must-pack item, especially if you are interested in birdwatching. While you do get quite close to many animals, others are still a considerably far distance away, and binoculars can quickly bring them into your field of vision. I was super happy I had a pair of binoculars on me, for instance, when I witnessed the extremely rare sight of twin baby elephants who were just a few hours old. 

The ones that I used had low-light vision focus capability, which is also a key feature of the Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars that available at Amazon. The high-power, easy focus binoculars work for adults and kids, offering 12x magnification so you can get as close to the action as possible without missing a thing. They are also super compact and portable, making them easy to pack for a safari flight. 

To buy: amazon.com , $66

Ray-Ban Erika Round Sunglasses 

Whether you are on safari in South Africa, Botswana, or Kenya, one thing remains the same: you'll be closer to the sun (probably than you've ever been before). Polarized sunglasses are something that I never leave home without, and always make sure to have on deck for safaris. After all, you spend a lot of time looking through a camera lens on game drives, which causes plenty of eye strain on its own. Don’t let the sun add more. Polarized lenses not only increase clarity and contrast of your surroundings, but they also reduce glare and, in some cases, offer UV protection. 

Ray-Ban is known for making some of the best polarized sunglasses in the industry and the Erika style works great for a safari. I love how the Light Havana/Dark Green frame and lens combo even has animal print flair.

To buy: amazon.com , $115 (originally $140)

Travel + Leisure / Becca Blond

Kelty Asher 55-Liter Backpack 

Remember the bag limit I mentioned before? Well, I might also add that certain airlines typically won't allow you to bring a traditional suitcase with wheels. So, how are you expected to pack all of your gear? You'll need a trusty duffel bag or backpack to do the trick. I’ve traveled with both, but I prefer a backpack; I like to be able to carry my weight on my back as there is usually some walking with your bag required at the airport. Lately, I’ve been using the Kelty Asher 55-Liter Backpack, which is really comfy to wear, comes with a ventilated back panel, and is hydration compatible.  

It is made with the company’s Fit Pro technology that allows the backpack to conform to your torso shape. It also is super easy to pack, and I love how the top is wider than the bottom, allowing you to stuff bulkier items in and out with more ease. This backpack comes in three other sizes (35L, 65L, and 85L), but I think the 55-liter option is a great size choice for travel. Plus, you can also use it for hiking, backpacking, and other activities.  

To buy: amazon.com and backcountry.com , $150

Artfish Women’s Sleeveless Tank Top

My travel writer friend Lola Méndez was on the Basecamp Explorer safari with me, and I admit that I was super envious of her wardrobe — particularly this one tank top that she brought, which paired so well with all of her outfits. It was also breathable and great for layering, a.k.a. key elements for safari clothes.

“I packed an assortment of mix-and-match neutrals, the tried-and-true safari uniform," Méndez shared. "I stuck with lightweight fabrics, including cotton and linen, and breathable-but-appropriate styles such as midi skirts and tanks with thick straps. I wore my ribbed beige tank constantly in Kenya and then on safari in Tanzania with Sabubu Safaris .” 

Taking a cue from Méndez's safari style, I'll be adding the Artfish Sleeveless Tank Top to my next packing list. It has a flattering square neckline and is made with a soft polyester material that's also very breezy. 

To buy : amazon.com , $22

Outdoor Research Sunbriolet Sun Hat 

This is proving a popular year for travel writers to go on safaris in Africa because my other industry friend and fellow Travel + Leisure contributor, Katie Jackson , is heading off to Botswana in a few weeks for one. She’s super organized, so she’s already packed. One item that she says she's definitely bringing is a sun hat.

“Per my dermatologist’s recommendation, I’m packing the best-selling Outdoor Research Sunbriolet Sun Hat on my safari with Natural Selection ," she said. "In addition to the 360 degrees of UV protection, I love the side vents that keep my head cool in the African sun and the chin strap that I can adjust with one hand. I want to have my other hand free so I can snap photos of the lion cubs I hope to see."   

To buy: amazon.com , outdoorresearch.com , and rei.com , $45

Lululemon Convertible High-Rise Hiking Joggers 

Another item that Jackson packed for her Botswana adventure that I recommend packing are these two-in-one high-rise hiking joggers from Lululemon, which are designed for hiking and are made with water- and tear-resistant materials. 

“At $198, Lululemon’s Convertible High-Rise Hiking Joggers aren’t cheap, but considering they turn into shorts in a matter of seconds, they’ll always have a place in my bag," she explained. “When I’m on safari in Botswana next month, it will be 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, but likely to drop close to freezing at night. I’ll wear these as pants in the cooler mornings, zip off the bottoms and stash them in the cargo pockets midday when I want shorts, and turn them back into pants in the evenings. Basically, you get two looks/vibes for the space of one!”

To buy: lululemon.com , $198  

Tinsley Patchwork Romper

Every year I bring a different splurge outfit on safari, and this year, my showstopper look was the Tinsley Patchwork Romper from Cleobella. It folds up super easily, fits great, and pairs well with sneakers, lace-up sandals, and ankle boots. 

Yes, this romper is white, which you might think is a bad color choice for a trip where you have to re-wear clothing, but not on safaris. Most camps launder and iron clothes daily for guests, so you’ll be able to drop it in the dirty linen basket in the morning and have it back for dinner.

  To buy : cleobella.com , $268 

Hotouch Cotton Button-Down Shirt

Just like with any vacation wardrobe, packing clothes that can be worn on multiple occasions will take you far (and help lighten your load). For me, that one versatile item is a cotton button-down shirt like this Hotouch one from Amazon. 

I like to pair a shirt like this with leggings or shorts. The sleeves roll up and down, so you can adjust it for temperature variations, and it's always good to keep in your bag for when you'll need extra coverage from the sun.  Plus, the shirt is made from 100 percent cotton, which makes the fabric durable, breathable, and not see-through.

To buy: amazon.com , $29

International Travel Adapter 

I used to carry different travel adapters for different countries, and then would just make peace with the giant collection that I'd acquired over time. Once the mismatched adapters became too much to bear, I knew I needed to condense. So, you can only imagine how stoked I was when I found the Jmfone International Travel Adapter that has configurations for plugs around the world in one compact little cube. This smart travel adapter covers more than 160 countries, including all the African safari destinations.

My favorite part is that you can charge up to five devices at once thanks to its multi-USB design. It works great for charging my phone, camera, computer, and backup battery pack together so I don't have to keep changing them out or worry about limited outlet space. Note: It is not designed for high-power appliances like hairdryers and straighteners. 

To buy : amazon.com , $20

Charles River Apparel Women’s Bristol Vest 

If one thing is for sure, it's that you won't regret packing a layering piece like the Charles River Bristol Vest. I always bring the transitional outerwear staple along on safari, and usually pair mine with leggings and a scoop neck T-shirt so I'll be comfy. Vests are also a must-have because they're usually loaded with pockets, which you'll quickly find are unexpected perks when wrestling with smartphones and camera gear on a safari. After all, no travel wardrobe is complete without stylish-yet-functional items, right?  

What's more, the Bristol utility vest by Charles River Apparel is flattering to a variety of body types with its longline silhouette, and I love the drawstring waistline that lets me feel confident in photos. 

To buy : amazon.com , $48 (originally $57)

SteriPen Ultralight UV Water Purifier 

I bring the UV water-purifying SteriPen with me everywhere I travel, especially if my destination doesn't have water that's safe to drink. While safari lodges will always have purified water for guests on hand, I’ve been in situations before where I’ve run out of water in the middle of the night and just wanted to grab a glass from the tap. This genius pen uses ultraviolet light to destroy over 99.9 percent of bacteria, viruses, and protozoa in just 90 seconds. 

I’ve used it for months at a time to purify my drinking water, everywhere from Madagascar to Thailand. It hasn’t ever let me down. And, it is so small and lightweight to pack; it slides easily into my luggage and adds only 2.6 ounces of extra weight. Not to mention that it's also simple to use, with its one-button operation and rechargeable USB battery to re-power itself. 

­ To buy: amazon.com , $88 (originally $110) 

Hi-Tec Apex Lite Mid WP Hiking Boots 

If you are traveling during the muddy season, or planning to include walking safaris (these are truly a special experience that should not be missed if possible) into your itinerary, then a solid pair of lightweight hiking boots are a great thing to pack.

I like the Apex Lite Mid WP Hiking Boots by Hi-Tec for safaris because they are incredibly durable with their waterproof constructions and come stocked with cushioned memory foam midsoles for long-lasting comfort. They also feature good traction and steady grips on rough terrain, and have fork shanks to help with stability while still remaining flexible. Their mid-height silhouettes also protect your ankles from sharp objects and bug bites. And, not only are they great for safaris, but you’ll definitely be able to wear them on the trails back home as well. 

To buy: amazon.com , $60

Repel 100 Insect Repellent

Every safari experience is different, but you can often expect to run into pesky insects on your trip. While some bugs are more annoying than dangerous, others like mosquitoes can carry potentially deadly diseases. Malaria is a reality in many parts of Africa and you should definitely consult with your doctor about the pros and cons of taking anti-malarial drugs on your safari. You can also up your defense by packing bug spray. My go-to is the Repel 100 Insect Repellent, which is currently $8 at Amazon. 

I’ve used Repel 100 Insect Repellent before, and so have thousands of Amazon shoppers, 6,695 of whom give it a five-star rating. The pump spray bottle is easy to use and provides up to 10 hours of protection. I also highly recommend carrying a hydrocortisone cream with you in case you do get bit; it relieves the itchiness and redness. 

Pro tip: Apply bug spray liberally, especially on dawn and dusk safaris as the mosquitos that carry malaria tend to bite when it's dark out. If your safari lodge has mosquito netting in your room, make sure to use it at night — in areas with mosquitos these will almost always be draped over beds. 

To buy: amazon.com , $8 (originally $17)

REI Co-op Sahara T-Shirt

Like I've said before, the African sun is no joke. And while safari vehicles tend to have closed tops to block some of it out, you are still getting hit from the open sides. If you are prone to sunburn, a functional UPF shirt like this one from REI Co-op is a good choice. 

It comes in a tank top and t-shirt style, both of which provide UPF 50 sun protection and are made with quick-drying fabric that have a soft and comfy stretch to it. Once you travel with the Sahara T-Shirt, you'll quickly find that it'll be the most versatile piece of clothing in your suitcase. You can wear it for sporty activities, beach days, and casual outings. And, you can even dress it up when your itinerary calls for it. 

To buy : rei.com , $30

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

See More T+L Shopping Deals

• Join Our Travel Insiders Newsletter
• FREE Points & Miles Crash Course
• Points & Miles
• Family Travel Tips
• Saving Money Tips
• Destinations
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Start here!
• FREE Resources

10 Safari Essentials You DO NOT Want to Forget

Thinking about or getting ready to go on a safari or visiting a destination for families in Africa? Lucky!!! (And we might be a little jealous – wink!) You do not want to miss our list of safari essentials that you would be remiss to leave home without.

Will you also be traveling around South Africa for a bit? Be sure to check out this excellent itinerary from The Boarding Call Blog on the fabulous South African Garden Route .

Table of Contents

10 Safari Essentials You Do Not Want to Forget

To be honest, most of these I learned the hard way from, haha you live and you learn right???

I have just recently returned from an amazing Spring Break trip on an African Safari in Kruger National Park and let me tell you, we had the time of our lives.  It was one of the greatest adventures we have ever had!! We felt like some of our animal encounters were straight out of a Nat Geo movie – seriously!

*See some other family-friendly Spring Break Ideas here !

While we had a fabulous time, we also learned that there are safari essentials that mustn’t be forgotten. And like I said, all of these things were items that I realized I wish I had had or wish that I would have been aware of before we had left. To save yourself some serious itch, (mosquito bites anyone?) or some corneal sunburns (okay I exaggerate), make sure to keep reading…

My 10 Safari Essentials

In the spirit of full disclosure, this list has a few Amazon Affiliate links. We only ever link products that we use and swear by. 

1-TWO Pairs of Sunglasses

Yes, two!!  I lost my only pair while in transit to the safari lodge.  I wasn’t too concerned thinking that in their small gift shop I could just buy a cheap pair to get me through.  WRONG.  They didn’t even carry sunglasses so I went without a pair of sunglasses for a few days until a new friend that we met at the lodge lent me a pair of hers.  The sun is bright and strong!  You do not want to get stuck without eye protection.

I usually like to have nice sunglasses but taking SUPER nice sunglasses on a bumpy, dusty, and rugged safari (that I lost) was not my best idea. So we have linked one of our favorite brands that offer lower prices and still have high-quality protection. My daughter has a couple of pairs for days at the pool and loves them. You can see them here – Quay Australia Sunglasses .

2-Prescription Glasses

Don’t forget them, and if you need them, make sure they are secure. You don’t want to loose them out on the bumpy game drives. You will need your eyes sharp for searching for the animals in the early morning and evening.

3-Sunscreen

Similar story to the sunglasses.  We misplaced our sunscreen somewhere before our arrival at the safari lodge and again, the little curio shop did not even carry sunscreen.  I ended up wearing long sleeves most of the time in an effort to avoid sunburn.  That was less than ideal, so be prepared.

We are kind of picky about sunscreen at our house, our favorite sunscreen is the Neutrogena Beach Defense Spray. You can pick it up at any grocery store or pharmacy or find it here on Amazon .

4-Closed Toe Shoes

If you are wanting to get out of the vehicle and do game walks, closed toe shoes are required. Bring some that you are fine with getting dirty. I spent most of the time in some Nike Trainers and thought they were perfect.

5-Light Weight Scarf

I noticed several of the guests wearing lightweight scarves around their necks and I figured out why.  When it’s chilly, in the early mornings and after the sun goes down, they help keep you warm.  When it is hot and the sun is strong, the scarf protects your neck from the sun.  A little extra protection never hurt anyone:)

6-Binoculars

Please don’t forget these and make sure they are of good quality.  We wished we each had our own pair but weren’t sure it would have been worth the extra weight or space taken in our luggage.  In the end we did fine, one pair shared between two people should be adequate.

This is my number one safari essential! You do not want to have the experience of a lifetime and be stuck without a camera or with one that doesn’t work. Whatever camera you own and are proficient at using, bring it.  If you are not entirely familiar with the settings and have to spend a good deal of time fiddling to get them right, you will miss fleeting moments and that would be soooo sad.  I only had my cell phone camera and that worked just fine for me.

A note on cell phones:

Some game reserves ask their guests to NOT carry cell phones, android phones, or iPads on game drives.  Unfortunately, these devices have been known to passively assist poachers in finding the location and identification of endangered animals.  It is so sad but true.

MAKE SURE YOU KNOW IF YOUR GAME RESERVE ALLOWS CELL PHONES ON GAME DRIVES.

8-Insect Repellant

Bring it and use it. The higher the deet, the better. My daughter also loves the lemon eucalyptus oil sprays and finds them more effective for her.  Some times of the year are worse than others for mosquitos.  While we were on safari in the first part of April, the mosquitoes weren’t bad at all, but that did not keep us from slathering this stuff all over us; especially on the evening game drives!  Malaria??? No Thanks.

This is my daughters favorite natural repellant – Badger Natural Bug Spray, just to be on the safe side you might want to bring a couple of different types of bug spray. Call us crazy, but we have found that depending on where we are traveling, misquitos react differently to different types of sprays.

Bring either a short-brimmed safari style hat or a baseball type hat.  It will be beneficial against the sun’s rays.  In my opinion, wearing a wide-brimmed hat would be rude and inconsiderate to the people who may have to sit behind you and see over you in the vehicle. Everyone on the drive wants a good sight of whatever it is you may be viewing and a wide-brimmed hat would simply get in the way. However, I didn’t bring a hat and I was wishing the whole time that I would have grabbed one of my husband’s old baseball caps.

10-Jacket or Coat

Bring a lightweight jacket (or a warm coat, depending on the season) for early morning and evening game drives.  It did get super chilly.  Dress in layers, so you can be comfortable throughout the day.

A Couple of Tips on Colors

*One other tip- Our safari ranger suggested for us to not wear white clothing while in the truck.  Not only do white articles of clothing get dusty and dirty (I ruined a cute pair of white keds), but while doing bush walks, it was required to wear darker neutral colors (think grey, green etc.) because it is less distracting for the animals.  I ended up wearing many of the same neutral clothes on the drives in an effort to avoid wearing my white clothing.

Also, at certain times of the year and at certain parks and countries the Tse Tse flies can be really bad! They are attracted to blues and blacks so you want to be prepared. Know if the reserves you are going to have an issue with the Tse Tse flies and pack accordingly. (The Tse Tse flies were not a problem where we were for this safari, but they can be. Do some homework and be prepared.)

I hope this list of safari essentials helps you prepare for a travel experience that is hopefully one of the best you will ever have!!! 

*Considering taking an African Safari? See our other post on why you should take the leap and go on Safari here !

*Click to check out our darling Safari coloring page for kiddos! Its so easy to download.

Don’t forget to pin this and to subscribe to our newsletter and get your FREE #coloringtheworld starter kit NOW! 

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Please enter an answer in digits: ten + four =

4 thoughts on “ 10 Safari Essentials You DO NOT Want to Forget ”

Yes…definitely all must haves! I have never been on a safari but all of these things would be extremely necessary. Thank you!

That is really fun, the real safari, totally different than a zoo. So that is why people wear the neutral safari outfit, I had no idea, hehe

Great post. Africa is definitely on my bucket list and I’ll be sure to bring a camera. I hate that those poachers can track cell phones!

The color issue is so true. I found myself gravitating towards neutral browns, both dark and light. They don’t get as hectic as white clothes. Also, light cotton is my favorite for maximum aeration under the hot sun.

7 Ways to Prepare Children for Upcoming Trips

Why go on a safari – 4 reasons safari rocks, travel consent letter – when and why you need one, discover more.

• Earning Points
• Using Points

How to Travel on Points and Miles – Reward Travel for Beginners

Advertiser Disclosure

Our Family Passport operates within an affiliate sales network and may earn compensation for directing traffic to partner sites, such as MileValue.com and CardRatings.com . The arrangement of links on this site may be influenced by this compensation. Please note that not all financial companies or offers may be featured on this site. Terms and conditions apply to American Express benefits and offers, and enrollment may be necessary for certain benefits. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more. For Capital One products mentioned on this page, some benefits are facilitated by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary depending on the product. Refer to the respective Guide to Benefits for specific details, as terms and exclusions apply.

Editorial Disclaimer – The opinions expressed on this site are solely those of the author and do not reflect the views of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been endorsed, reviewed, or approved by any of the entities mentioned.

Going for a safari in Cape Town? Pack these essentials

Cape Town , a radiant city at the southernmost point of Africa , is the perfect starting point for a variety of eco-conscious safari adventures. Here, travelers have the unique opportunity to observe the stunning array of African wildlife in their natural settings. These safaris not only offer unforgettable experiences but also emphasize the importance of preserving the intricate balance of these fragile ecosystems.

Sustainable safari attire

Pack for your Cape Town safari with clothing made from natural fibers such as cotton or linen, which are breathable and environmentally friendly. Choose light colors that reflect the sun's heat and blend with the natural landscape. Your safari gear should be durable and comfortable, ensuring you are well-prepared for the adventure that awaits in the wild.

Eco-friendly gear must-haves

Opt for high-quality, eco-friendly gear that withstands numerous safaris. A reusable water bottle is key to stay hydrated without adding to plastic waste. Ethically produced binoculars are essential for wildlife observation. Solar-powered chargers are also vital, allowing you to use the abundant African sun to power your devices. These items are not only practical but also support environmental sustainability on your travels.

Responsible wildlife watching

On your safari, it's vital to watch wildlife from a safe distance and heed your guide's advice. Silent camera shutters are a must to avoid startling the animals. Never feed them or try to touch them. Your actions should be unobtrusive, preserving the animals' natural behaviors and their habitat. This respect ensures a genuine experience while safeguarding the environment you're there to enjoy.

Supporting local conservation efforts

Opt for safari tours run by companies that are deeply involved in local conservation. This choice means you're investing in the protection of Cape Town's diverse wildlife and habitats. Additionally, when buying souvenirs, seek out those crafted by local artisans. Your purchases will aid in promoting sustainable tourism and the economic growth of the community, further supporting the region's unique cultural and natural heritage.

Leave no trace behind

When visiting, it's crucial to adopt the "Leave No Trace" ethos. Carry out all trash, ensuring nothing is left behind. Dispose of waste responsibly once you're beyond the safari bounds. Always use marked trails to reduce your impact on animal homes and vegetation. Heed your tour guide's instructions about conserving the environment to maintain the area's natural beauty and wildlife.

Radiators fail once more: Moscow suburbs residents appeal to Putin

R esidents across the Moscow suburbs are besieged by a heating problem, for which they plead direct intervention from President Vladimir Putin. These individuals have yet to experience any semblance of home heating since winter started due to a dwindling supply of heating oil. The issue, one largely avoided by local authority communication, has left residents desperate to the point of directly appealing to the president.

While plots have been uncovered to disrupt Ukraine's infrastructure for a second consecutive winter, thus depriving civilians of heating, it seems Russians are now mired in their crisis. Irony drips from the fact that those under Putin's leadership are looking to cause turmoil in Ukraine, yet at home, they face a similar predicament.

Many dwellings within the Moscow agglomeration are presently without heat. The capital's residents are desperate, directly appealing to President Putin due to a perceived lack of alternate avenues for assistance. The absence of suitable heating functionality since winter commenced pushes them towards desperation with no relief in sight.

This seems improbable, but in Russia, it appears that anything can happen.

It remains uncertain if Vladimir Putin is actively addressing the heating crisis. Some experts suggest that Russia's heating oil reserves are depleting, which negatively affects residents' quality of life. Plagued by cold radiators and plummeting winter temperatures, these citizens have directly addressed their pleas to their head of state.

This heating crisis is happening in Elektrostal, a town approximately 71 miles from Moscow.

Ironically, Russia has constantly aimed to destroy the Ukrainian infrastructure since war broke out, deliberately trying to leave Ukrainians without heating during the harsh winters, aiming to break their strong will. It's an irony they now struggle with a domestic heating crisis, particularly near Moscow, their largest and most pivotal city.

Desperate individuals are reaching out to Vladimir Putin. They question his knowledge of the heating infrastructure conditions in the Moscow suburbs and the dire situations residents face there. Sundown brings no relief from the harsh Russian winter and without heating, their houses turn cold. With elections nearing, more and more residents find themselves reaching out directly to their president.

"Since winter's start, we've been without heating. This has been a yearly occurrence for the past three years. Despite paying for heating, we don't have enough. We implore you, help us!" - these are the desperate pleas from the heavily dressed populace dealing with the Russian winter conditions.

Experts attribute the heating oil shortage to international sanctions and surging demands for diesel fuel, pivotal to military operations. Russia now grapples with a dearth of raw materials essential for boiler and heating plant operation. As supplies dwindle, houses grow cold with little hope of any immediate corrective intervention.

It would be adequate if the war ceased, residents were prioritized, and attention accorded to their welfare.

Russians report Ukrainian drone shot down near Moscow

Putin faces strategic dilemma in prolonged Ukrainian war

Former Ukrainian deputy Kywa assassinated in Moscow amidst war tensions

Plan Your Trip to Elektrostal: Best of Elektrostal Tourism

Essential elektrostal.

Elektrostal Is Great For

Eat & drink.

• Elektrostal Hotel
• Apelsin Hotel
• Mini Hotel Banifatsiy
• Apart Hotel Yantar
• Restaurant Globus
• Amsterdam Moments
• Cafe Antresole
• Viki Cinema
• Statue of Lenin

Turn Your Curiosity Into Discovery

Latest facts.

11 Facts About National Numeracy Day May 22nd

9 Facts About Workers Memorial Day April 28th

40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.

Share this Fact: