The Ultimate African Safari Packing List: What You Really Need to Know Before You Go!
Introduction
Setting out on an African safari is a dream adventure for many, offering the chance to witness some of the most stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife on the planet. However, planning such a trip requires careful preparation, especially when it comes to packing tips for an African safari. As an experienced safari operator, with decades of experience, I’ve seen travelers struggle with what to bring on their impending safari, so I’m here to help you pack like a pro for your safari. Let’s jump into what you really need to make your African safari both comfortable and memorable.
Clothing Essentials
Safari Shirts and Pants
When it comes to clothing, lightweight and moisture-wicking fabrics are your best friends. Choose neutral colours like khaki, green, and brown to blend into the environment and avoid attracting unwanted attention from insects.
Long-sleeved shirts: These are great for sun protection and keeping the bugs at bay too. I remember one trip where a fellow traveler got badly sunburned because they underestimated the African sun and didn’t wear the correct clothing – so don’t make that same mistake!
Convertible pants: These are a godsend for changing weather and minimising the amount of clothes you pack. They can be zipped off into shorts when it gets hot, which is super handy, and zip back on again if the sun is blistering or the biting insects come out in the late afternoon and evening.
Comfortable Footwear
Your feet will be doing a lot of work, so comfort is key here.
Hiking boots: Invest in a good pair of broken-in hiking boots that are waterproof if possible and provide ankle support and grip, which is crucial for uneven terrain.
Sandals: Perfect for downtime at the lodge or hotel. After a long day in boots, slipping into a comfortable pair of sandals is pure bliss and your feet will thank you.
Jackets and Outerwear
African mornings and evenings can be surprisingly chilly, even in the hotter months.
Lightweight fleece or down jacket: Pack something that’s warm but easy to stuff into your daypack. I always carry a lightweight fleece jacket; it’s cozy without being bulky.
Wind and/or rain jacket: These jackets are great if the wind picks up and it is too hot to wear a warmer jacket, just enough to keep you that little bit warmer and the wind off you. This will also keep you dry if it rains or you visit Victoria Falls on your safari.
Accessories
Wide-brimmed hat: This is non-negotiable. It provides shade and protects your face, ears and neck from the sun. On my first safari, my hat was my best friend – it saved me from the scorching sun and it doubled as a hand fan in the shade.
Sunglasses: Polarized lenses are ideal for reducing glare and keeping your eyes in top shape to enjoy all the animals and landscapes you will come across.
Scarf or bandana: Versatile for protecting your neck from the sun or covering your nose and mouth during dusty drives, and keeping flies off your face.
Personal Care Items
Toiletries
Stick to the essentials and opt for travel-sized versions to save space and weight.
Biodegradable products: They’re better for the environment and many lodges request them. You’ll need the basics: toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and soap, however make sure you bring what you need to be comfortable and self-sufficient as there are no chemists or stores in the African bush whilst away from towns and cities.
Health and Hygiene
Sunscreen: SPF 30, higher if possible. The African sun is really intense, and it’s easy to get sunburned even on overcast days. Remember that a lot of non-coastal African countries are high above sea level and that adds to the sun's radiation hitting your skin.
Insect repellent: Look for one with DEET or a natural alternative if you prefer.
Basic first aid kit: Include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications. On one trip, a guest had a minor scrape that could have turned nasty without a quick antiseptic wipe.
Travel Gear
Luggage and Bags
Durability and practicality are key.
Duffel bag or backpack: Choose something sturdy and easy to carry. Wheels are great for airports but not so much for dirt roads.
Soft bags: These are mandatory if you are catching charter flights to your safari destinations, as space is limited on these smaller planes and they cannot accommodate hard case luggage.
Daypack: Essential for daily excursions. A small, comfortable backpack to carry your water, camera, and snacks.
Packing Organisers
Packing cubes or compression bags: They help save space and keep your items organized. Trust me, they make a big difference when you’re trying to find that one specific shirt. They also keep your dirty laundry from soiling your clean clothes.
Water Bottles
Reusable, insulated water bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial. I always have mine filled up before heading out – you never know when you’ll find your next water source. I recommend a 1L bottle as a minimum, or a camelbak type hydration bag with larger capacity, this can also double as a daypack too.
Electronics and Gadgets
Photography Equipment
Capturing those magical moments is a must.
Camera: A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a good zoom lens is ideal. Don’t forget extra batteries and memory cards. One guest once ran out of memory card space just as we spotted a rare leopard climbing out of a tree – not a mistake you want to make!
Binoculars: For those far-off sightings. A good pair can make all the difference.
Camera cleaning kit: We always recommend you bring a small multi-purpose cleaning kit in case you get dust or other forms of dirt on your lenses or on your sensor.
Communication Devices
Smartphone: With offline maps and essential apps like translation tools, photographic editing apps and currency converters.
Portable charger: Power sources can be scarce in remote areas, especially if those camps only have solar power during the day.
Safety Devices
Personal GPS tracker or satellite phone: Useful for remote areas without cell service. It’s a good safety net, especially for more adventurous travelers. Most private camps have at least one satellite phone in that rare case of an emergency, however if you have one, it won’t hurt to pack it.
Safari-Specific Gear
Binoculars
High-quality binoculars: Essential for spotting distant wildlife. I always carry a pair, and they’ve come in handy more times than I can count.
Guidebooks and Maps
Field guides: For wildlife, plants, wildlife and birds. They enhance your experience and knowledge about what you’re seeing. These are also available as apps on smart devices. All the professional safari guides will have these, so don’t worry if you don’t.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance: Make sure it covers medical evacuation. It’s better to have it and not need it than the other way around. This is mandatory for most remote and isolated safari destinations.
Documents and Money
Important Documents
Passport and visa: Double-check the requirements for the countries you’re visiting.
Vaccination certificates: Some countries require proof of certain vaccinations.
Copies of important documents: Keep digital copies on your phone and physical copies in your luggage.
Money and Payment Methods
Cash in local currency and US dollars: Useful for tips and small purchases.
Credit/debit cards: Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with your cards not working.
Comfort and Entertainment
In-Flight and Downtime Items
Travel pillow, eye mask, and earplugs: For long flights and noisy nights.
Books, e-reader, or travel journal: Great for downtime. I always have a journal with me to jot down memories and sightings of what I have seen on my safaris.
Snacks
Non-perishable snacks: Nuts, dried fruit, and energy bars are perfect for long drives. *Check with your safari operator, as some national parks do not allow certain types of fruit due to the wildlife.
Packing Tips from the Experts
Maximizing Space
Roll your clothes: It saves space and reduces wrinkles.
Use every compartment: Stuff socks and small items into shoes and gaps.
Staying Organised
Keep similar items together: It makes it easier to find things.
Label bags and pouches: Quick identification saves time and frustration.
Conclusion
Packing for an African safari doesn’t have to be daunting. With this ultimate packing list, you’ll be prepared for anything the wild throws at you.
Remember, the key is to pack smart and light, focusing on essentials that will keep you comfortable and ready for your adventure.
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Contact us to start your unforgettable adventure!
And don’t forget to download our printable packing checklist to ensure you have everything you need.
Additional Resources
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Downloadable Safari Packing Checklist
Click here to download our printable "Ultimate Safari Packing Checklist!