What baggage should I take on safari?

I highly recommend packing as light as possible as you are generally moving from place to place and staying at multiple lodges. I also recommend taking a soft sided bag as these can fit into the back of a safari vehicle and light aircraft. For your day bag I used an over shoulder bag which was big enough for my phone, passport, purse, sunglasses, small sun lotion, insect repellent and tissues. If you have a larger camera or binoculars, then a rucksack would be more suitable.

What clothes should I take on safari?

You will spend a lot of time in a safari vehicle driving from place to place and sitting watching animal encounters. Therefore, it’s essential that you have comfortable clothing. Khaki/neutral coloured clothing is also recommended so you blend into the environment rather than stand out.

In the morning and evening the temperature can drop and it can be a bit chilly, a lightweight fleece is handy for these moments and won’t take up too much space in your bag.

A buff or scarf helps to avoid the sun and keeps your face warm and is also handy to avoid the dust.

Long shirts and trousers are good for the evening to keep warm and to avoid getting bitten.

Safari hat or cap is also useful to shade you from the sun whilst in the safari vehicle as the sun comes through the top when the roof is open.

Breathable sandals which are comfortable to wear all day whilst out on safari are highly recommended, something like Teva or Birkenstocks. Trainers or light walking boots are recommended for the evening and for walking safaris.

Don’t forget your swimming costume as lots of the lodges have swimming pools and it’s lovely to have a relaxing swim between game drives.

What gadgets should I take on safari?

If you have an SLR camera it is definitely worth taking this with you or investing in one before you leave. The images you can capture of the incredible animal sightings are memories that will last forever. It is also worth taking binoculars with you so you can spot animals from a distance. Sunglasses with polarised lenses can cut down on the glare when searching for animals in the bush.

What toiletries should I take on safari?

Insect repellent is a must! You may also need to take anti-malaria tablets so please do research this in advance. Sun lotion with a higher SPF than you would usually go for; Africa is closer to the equator which means you will get burnt a lot easier, even when the sun doesn’t appear to be out.  I would also recommend only taking small toiletries with you as most of the lodges/camps have their own body wash, shampoo and conditioner and this saves on packing and additional weight. You may also want to take rehydration salts in case you get a bit of a poorly stomach which can help you to feel much better!