Pith helmet, huge zoom lens, garters – there’s a lot of gear you could bring for your safari. But it’s really unnecessary to go out and do big shopping in preparation for your big African adventure. For the most part, you want to be comfortable, so wearing the clothes you’re used to and having something warm to wear when the sun goes down is enough to get you by. But if you want some winning tips on what the experts pack for your safari, read on.
safari clothing
There’s no need to wear a full khaki, but colors that blend in with the environment rather than bright colors make wildlife feel more comfortable. If you’re in a vehicle on safari, the color you wear doesn’t make a difference, but if you’re venturing on safari on foot, you’ll be able to get up close to the animals if you’re somewhat camouflaged. This is particularly important if you are going to follow mountain gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda (or Congo). There is a chance for close encounters with these incredible creatures if you don’t look too menacing in a bright red jacket.
Bright blues and purples attract tsetse flies, which are very painful when they bite and can carry African sleeping sickness.
In the bush, guides don’t care too much what their guests wear, but if you plan to spend time in rural towns or cities along Africa’s east coast, these areas are more conservative. You will find it more comfortable if you have clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
Of course, a wide-brimmed hat is a must as you spend your days in open vehicles.
Torch/Flashlight: We don’t recommend going for a nature walk at night, but just getting from the dining room to your bedroom after dinner can be more challenging than you think. If you opt for the quintessential safari experience and stay in a tented camp, you will have to walk from the dining room to your tent. Most camps have security escorts who have torches, but it’s nice to have your own torch so you don’t trip over a stray rock or something. Also in the light of dawn, when venturing from your tent to your play driving vehicle, a flashlight comes in handy.
Insect repellent: with DEET. Malaria is the leading cause of death in Africa and should not be taken lightly. Your travel doctor will probably suggest taking antimalarials, but the best prevention against illness is not getting stung in the first place. So covering up with long sleeves and long pants at night and slathering yourself with bug spray will keep you safe.
Binoculars: Many safari guides will carry a pair of binoculars (or two) in their vehicle, but you’ll share that pair with everyone in the vehicle. Bring your own to see the wildlife in its entirety.
Wet wipes: It can be hot and dusty in the African bush. Baby wipes keep you fresh, clean your hands before devouring a picnic lunch, and dust off…well, anything! It’s not on many packing lists, but you’ll appreciate remembering them after a great day of riding.
Bonds 6the item for ladies – Sports bra: African roads are nothing you can imagine if you come from a western country. A sports bra will make the trip bearable.
