So you’re all booked and counting down the weeks until your big African safari adventure. As departure day approaches and you’re thinking about what to take, bear in mind our handy tips on what to pack for an African safari.
A safari is a vacation like no other. From unique daily routines and diverse activities to ever-changing surroundings and up-close wildlife encounters, it’s an experience that requires thoughtful preparation. If your African adventure includes travel by light aircraft, be aware that luggage weight limits are strict, so it’s essential to pack strategically. Even if you’re not flying in a small plane, traveling light is still a smart move, as most safaris involve moving between locations.
When deciding what to pack for an African safari, it’s important to consider the climate of your specific destination. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not always hot. While daytime temperatures can soar in many safari regions, evenings and early mornings (especially during the cooler months) can be surprisingly chilly. Be sure to pack layers to stay comfortable no matter the weather.
Essentials include travel documents, insurance details, cash, and medication, and if you’re flying on a small aircraft, consider using a lightweight soft-sided holdall with a maximum packed weight of 20 kilograms.
Read more: The 7 best safari adventures in Africa
Layering is key on safari. Game drives in open vehicles can be breezy and cool in the early morning or in certain locations, while other times of day and destinations can bring hot, dusty conditions. Your safari wardrobe may vary significantly depending on where and when you’re traveling. Our local partners are experts in the unpredictable weather patterns and microclimates of each region.
Lightweight layers that cover most of your skin, along with a warm hat, sun hat, down jacket, and a light waterproof jacket, will prepare you for most weather conditions. However, if you’re trekking through the forests of Central Africa to spot primates, you’ll need to be especially prepared for rain. Shorts are great for daytime heat, but be sure to cover your arms and legs in the evening to protect against mosquito bites.
Bright colors aren’t ideal for safari clothing, neutral tones that blend into the landscape are much better. If tsetse flies are common in the area, avoid wearing navy blue, dark gray, or black, as these colors tend to attract them. Camouflage prints are also best avoided due to their military associations, which could lead to confusion or unwanted attention from local authorities. Instead, go for pale browns, beige, cream, and muted green tones.
Sturdy and comfortable are the key words here, and it goes without saying that your footwear should be broken in before your trip. Shoes with good ankle support are a smart choice, as exploring the African wilderness often involves uneven terrain. Most experienced safari travelers also pack a pair of flip-flops or similar sandals for relaxing around the lodge. If you plan on hiking in the forest, a solid pair of waterproof boots that dry quickly is a wise investment.
When thinking about what to pack for an African safari, sunscreen and insect repellent are absolute essentials. Wet wipes and lip balm are also incredibly handy. It’s smart to bring a basic first aid kit stocked with bandages, adhesive strips, pain relievers, antihistamines, antiseptic cream, and medications for upset stomachs. Remember, you’ll often be far from shops, although most safari lodges can provide basics if needed. If you wear contact lenses, be ready for dusty conditions, bring saline solution, your glasses, and a few extra pairs of lenses just in case.
In many safari destinations, water is a limited resource, so keep showers short and be mindful of your consumption. Since you’ll be packing light, avoid bringing too many bulky toiletries. Instead, streamline your travel kit with refillable containers and multipurpose items, like a combo shampoo and body wash or a hand and body moisturizer.
Devices and their chargers might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning a safari, but many travelers do bring them, and some lodges even offer Wi-Fi. Cell service can be spotty out in the African wilderness, but if you can’t go without your phone, most permanent safari camps have charging stations available. Camera gear is a top priority for safari vacations. You can usually recharge batteries overnight, but it’s smart to bring spares for long days out spotting wildlife. Dust can be a major issue for camera lenses, so make sure you pack a high-quality camera bag for protection. You’ll also need the right power adapters, so check with our expert local partners for exact details, as electrical outlets vary by country.
Read more: Top tips for booking an African safari
A good pair of binoculars is essential for the best wildlife viewing on safari. Sunglasses are another must-have under the bright African sun, along with a sun hat. A swimsuit is great for a refreshing afternoon dip at your lodge, and a small flashlight can come in handy after dark around camp. A lightweight scarf is surprisingly versatile, helpful for keeping dust at bay on windy game drives, securing your hat, or adding an extra layer when it’s cool. If you’re wondering what to pack for an African safari, don’t forget some entertainment for downtime; a Kindle or a great book can be a lifesaver on long drives or flights, which are common in Africa.
If your itinerary includes a few nights in the city, you may want something a bit more polished for dining out. One simple, space-saving outfit that doubles as evening wear for the lodge or a night out is a smart addition. And if you enjoy shopping, plan your city stop at the end of your trip, you’ll have space to pick up a vibrant scarf, shirt, or dress from a local boutique as both a statement piece and a souvenir.
Leave expensive jewelry and accessories at home, along with any camouflage-patterned clothing or brightly colored outfits. It’s always smart to do a pre-trip try-on to make sure you’re comfortable with your outfits. Once you’ve chosen everything, lay it all out and see if you can cut 2–3 items. Resist the urge to overpack, you’ll be glad you did when you’re repacking in a hurry or picking up souvenirs at the end of your trip.
Now that you know what to pack for an African safari, let TravelLocal’s handpicked local partners help bring your dream adventure to life. With expert knowledge on the ground, they’ll tailor every detail of your trip to match your needs. Reach out today to start planning your custom safari experience.
Join our mailing list for travel inspiration, trip recommendations, and insights from our local experts.
