Packing for a safari could be as simple as you make it. I chose both comfort and fashion, so packing took a bit more effort. I knew I wanted at least 1 picture in a cute jumpsuit I packed, and outside of that I wanted COMFORT – cargo pants please! You also need to factor in the weather. The weather during game drives in the early mornings and evenings are brisk, but the days are sunny and hot. Also, pack in case of rain. Temperatures drop drastically when it rains and I was severely unprepared, which was far from pleasant.
Colors to Wear on Safari. You want to wear neutral colors, such as khaki, olive green, tan, and brown. However, steer clear of black and white. You will be off-roading often and the white clothes will get dirty quickly. Meanwhile, you will heat up and be uncomfortable during the day in black clothes.
Outside Layers. Definitely pack layers such as coats and sweaters, as I mentioned the early morning and evenings are cold. You can borrow blankets from your lodge if you’re still too cold in the mornings.
Pants. You’ll also want a few pair of cargo pants and/or jeans. You’re sitting in a jeep nearly all day, so you don’t want to be in tight clothing, unless you don’t mind. Shorts are fine during the day, but you may be too cold at other times.
Closed-Toe Shoes. I would stick to closed toe boots and sneakers. When having to pee you must do it outdoors, often behind the jeep or a tree, would hate to have open toe shoes for that.
Hats. A bucket hat or fedora will be useful for when the roof of the vehicles is open, as your head will heat up quickly.
Camera and Lenses. You’ll want a good quality DSLR camera if you want to get good shots. You’ll also want a zoom lens. I made the awful mistake of getting a portraits lens, so there were some things I regrettably couldn’t capture. That said, the animals get incredibly close, so I was still able to get some pretty cool shots.
Toiletry Bag. Since there aren’t any bathrooms to stop at, you’ll want wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and napkins.
Bug spray and Anti-Malaria Medication. Both are recommended by doctors, but I didn’t end up needing, or taking, either.
Binoculars. The only timed I wish I had binoculars were as a prop for pictures and when a leopard was on a tree eating his prey.
