Imagine you’re only a couple of weeks away from your dream Safari in Africa, and in between counting down the days you start thinking about what you’ll need to pack. Here’s a few things to consider based on years of experience travelling to the African continent.
How you are travelling will have a huge bearing on what you pack.
Light aircraft is one of the most exciting ways to move between African game reserves. Flying lower than commercial jets over breathtaking landscapes makes for some spectacular views. In Kenya and Tanzania, your route may take you past Mount Kilimanjaro, across the width of the Great Rift Valley and over the plains of the Masai Mara or Serengeti, whereas in Botswana, the flooded Okavango Delta from the skies will be a sight you’ll never forget.
The small downside is luggage allowance. Light aircraft have strict take-off and landing weights determined by factors such as aircraft type and runway length. This means allowance can be as strict as 15kg total per person, packed into soft sided bags, rather than a rigid suitcase.
If you are on an overland safari in a private 4x4 the allowance will likely be more lenient but our advice would still be to pack light to make moving days easier.
Neutral colours are best for safari; khaki, dark greens and light browns etc. Bright reds and yellows may distract wildlife and black, dependent on location, can attract tsetse flies.
Sturdy shoes and a sun hat are necessities, particularly if your itinerary includes or has the opportunity to add on a walking safari.
A waterproof jacket just makes good sense as does a warm windproof layer (a stuffable down jacket is my personal favourite). It’s hard to think of Africa getting cold but in game reserves like Kruger National Park, South Luangwa and Chobe, the dry season is also Southern Hemisphere winter. This won’t matter when the sun is high in the sky but for an early morning game drive in an open sided vehicle, layers are essential. It’s also worth considering a beanie and a buff if you’re heading to these cooler climes.
Camera equipment, binoculars, adaptors, insect repellent, sunscreen and a good book round off the essentials, plus swimwear if there are any swimming pools or beach on your itinerary.
There is good news!
Dressing smart for dinner in the middle of the bush surrounded by wildlife just isn’t necessary. With very few exceptions, even the most luxurious lodges and camps wouldn’t bat an eyelid at you coming to dinner in the same casual attire you might wear out on a game drive. Safari really is the epitome of relaxed luxury.
Also, most camps and lodges offer same day or early next day laundry service so you can recycle your safari clothes as much as you need. Many of the camps and lodges we offer include this at no extra charge.
Tailored Journeys also provides all our safari clients with a country specific packing guide with advice on how to squeeze the most out of your allowance, as well as expert tips and advice to make the most of your holiday. It’s all part of our top rated and attentive service we offer all our clients.
So what are you are waiting for? Start packing!
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