The Ultimate Safari Packing Guide — What to Bring (and What to Leave Behind)
There's a certain thrill that comes with packing for a safari. It's not quite like packing for a beach holiday or a European city break — this is an adventure into the wild, and what you bring can genuinely make or break the experience.
After years of curating luxury safari experiences across East and Southern Africa, we've seen it all: guests arriving in bright white trainers, suitcases stuffed with evening wear, and — our personal favourite — someone who brought a hairdryer to a bush camp with no electricity.
So here's our definitive guide to getting it right.
The Golden Rules
1. Neutral is Non-Negotiable
Khaki, olive, tan, and beige aren't just a fashion choice on safari — they're a necessity. Bright colours can startle wildlife, and dark colours attract tsetse flies in certain regions. Think earth tones, and you'll blend right in.
2. Layers Are Your Best Friend
African mornings can be surprisingly cold, especially during early game drives. By midday, temperatures can soar. A lightweight fleece, a sun hat, and a good windbreaker will see you through the full range.
3. Less is More
Most light aircraft transfers have strict luggage limits (typically 15–20kg in a soft bag). Leave the hard-shell suitcase at home. A duffel bag is your safari companion.
The Essential Packing List
Clothing:
- 3–4 neutral-coloured shirts (long sleeves for sun and mosquito protection)
- 2 pairs of comfortable trousers or convertible pants
- 1 warm fleece or light jacket
- Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes
- A wide-brimmed sun hat
- Swimwear (many lodges have pools or plunge pools)
Gear:
- Binoculars — arguably more important than your camera
- Camera with a zoom lens (200mm minimum for wildlife)
- Spare batteries and memory cards
- A headlamp or small torch
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and insect repellent
Health & Documents:
- Prescription medications in original packaging
- Proof of travel insurance
- Passport copies (digital and physical)
- Any required vaccination certificates
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overpacking. You'll wear the same three outfits on rotation. Lodges typically offer laundry service — use it.
Forgetting binoculars. A good pair of binoculars will transform your safari. That leopard in a distant tree? You'll actually see the spots.
Wearing perfume or cologne. Strong scents attract insects and can disturb wildlife. Save the Chanel for Cape Town.
Ignoring the camera situation. Phone cameras have come a long way, but they won't capture a lion at 100 metres. If you're serious about photography, bring proper gear — or arrange a photography-focused safari with us.
Our Insider Tip
Pack a small journal. In the age of smartphones, there's something deeply satisfying about jotting down what you saw, how the light fell across the savannah, the sound of a hyena at dusk. These notes become treasures long after the photos fade from memory.
Need help planning your safari? Get in touch — we'll handle everything from flights to packing advice.