African Safari Packing List

Suggested Packing List for Your First African Safari

Wondering what to pack on your first African safari adventure? Here is a suggested packing list:

1. sunglasses are vital Good quality (Preferably polarized. Tinted fashion glasses are not good in strong light)
2. Sun hat
3. Shirts (Golf-shirts, T-shirts and long-sleeved cotton shirts)
4. Shorts/skirts
5. Long trousers/slacks
6. Long underwear (for travel in winter months)Get a natural fiber
7. Tissues (the dust from the game drives can cause sneezing)
8. Underwear and socks (sports bras are recommended on game drives as the roads can be bumpy and uneven)
9. Good walking shoes (running/tennis shoes are fine)
10. Sandals
11. Bathing suit
12. Fleece
13. Warm Anorak or Parka and scarf/gloves (for the cold winter months of May to September)
14. Light rain gear (for summer months, late November to April)
15. Camera equipment and plenty of film
16. If you wear contact lenses, bring along a pair of glasses (in case you get irritation from the dust)
17. BINOCULARS - ESSENTIAL
18. Newman's bird book (if you are a keen birder)
19. Personal toiletries (basic amenities supplied by most establishments)
20. Malaria tablets
21. Moisturizing cream & suntan lotion
22. Insect repellent (camps also provide this)
23. Basic medical kit (aspirin, Imodium, antiseptic cream and antihistamine cream)
24. Wet wipes or anti-bacteria cleanser
25. Waterproof/dustproof bags/cover for your cameras

Tips:
Bright and white colors are not recommended for safari. The key is to pack light as many small planes in Africa have a weight restriction (often around 20 pounds). Most safari camps include daily laundry service in their room rates.

African safari packing list courtesy Wilderness Safaris