What to Pack for Safari: Your Guide to Comfort, Style, and the Wild Unknown
There’s a special kind of excitement that builds when you're preparing for a safari. Whether it's your first adventure into the African wilderness or a return to a beloved landscape, there's a moment when it hits you: What do I even pack for this?
At Sundowner Safaris, we believe that great journeys start with feeling prepared — and packing right is half the adventure. African safaris, whether in the vast savannahs of Kenya, the bushveld of South Africa, or the misty mountains of Uganda, come with their own rhythms. Days can start icy and end sweltering, dusty roads can turn muddy, and game drives might stretch from dawn into the evening. So let’s break it down.
The Secret Is in the Layers
If we had to give one golden rule for packing, it would be this: layer like a pro.
Visual learner?We got you covered, just click and watch!
Southern Africa in particular can swing wildly in temperature. Mornings might greet you with a brisk chill that calls for a fleece or insulated jacket, only for the midday sun to have you peeling down to a t-shirt. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are your best friend. Long-sleeved cotton shirts with roll-up tabs, zip-off trousers, and fleece pullovers will serve you well.
Don't underestimate the winter months (May to August) — you’ll want thermal layers for those early game drives. For summer (September to April), think airy but sun-smart. A compact rain jacket also earns its place in your daypack, especially if you're heading into East Africa where the climate leans tropical.
Earthy Tones, Practical Style
While it may be tempting to channel your inner fashion blogger, safari style is best when it’s subtle. Choose muted, earthy tones like olive, khaki, or beige — not just for aesthetics, but because they’re practical. Bright colors can scare off wildlife, while blues and blacks attract pesky tsetse flies. And camouflage? A no-go in many African countries where it’s reserved for military use.
Comfort is key. Pack a few short-sleeve shirts, long pants, a pair of comfy shorts or skirts, and something warm for the evenings. A trusty wide-brimmed hat or bush hat with a neck strap will shield you from the sun, and a bandana can be a game-changer on dusty drives.
Camouflage clothing is illegal in Zimbabwe and discouraged elsewhere.
Shoes Matter (More Than You Think)
You’ll likely spend a lot of time seated on game drives, but that doesn’t mean your footwear doesn’t matter. Sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes or sneakers are perfect for light walking or bush treks, while a pair of low-heeled sandals will be a welcome relief at camp. And if you're doing gorilla trekking, swap those for well-broken-in waterproof hiking boots — the trails can be steep, muddy, and unforgettable.
Safari Gear That Makes a Difference
It’s often the little things that make your safari smoother. A good pair of polarized sunglasses is a must, as is high-SPF sunscreen and insect repellent (trust us on that one). Throw in a small flashlight or headlamp, binoculars (8x40 or 10x42 are ideal), and a camera with extra batteries and memory cards.
Packing cubes and mesh bags will keep you organized and make the daily shuffle between morning drives and sundowners that much easier. And don’t forget your daypack — perfect for carrying layers, water, and your camera gear on the go.
Toiletries and Health Essentials
Most safari camps and lodges are wonderfully equipped, but there are a few personal items you’ll want to bring yourself. A small first-aid kit (think antiseptic, painkillers, motion sickness tablets) will go a long way. Add hand sanitizer, wet wipes, SPF lip balm, and some after-bite cream for good measure.
Many camps offer eco-friendly toiletries, but bar soap might not always be standard — worth checking ahead. And for those with sensitive skin or specific medical needs, consult your doctor about prescriptions and vaccines well before departure.
A Note for the Gorilla Trekkers
If your journey includes gorilla trekking, pack like you’re heading into the jungle — because you are. It’s cooler, wetter, and a whole different kind of beautiful. Bring gardening gloves (yes, really), long pants tucked into socks (to fend off ants), and a breathable rain jacket. The hikes can be long, steep, and muddy — but meeting a gorilla eye-to-eye makes every step worthwhile.
Important Travel Notes
Plastic Bag Bans (Kenya, Namibia & Rwanda): Plastic bags — including duty-free bags — are banned in these countries. Use clear toiletry pouches and remove any plastic before arrival to avoid fines.
Luggage & Laundry: Check luggage limits, especially for fly-in safaris. Most camps offer same-day laundry, weather permitting. Underwear may not be washed for cultural reasons — detergent is provided.
Travel Insurance: Always carry a printed copy of your insurance policy with emergency contacts — just in case you’re off-grid.
Your safari is more than a holiday — it’s an immersion in the wild. So pack light, pack smart, and come with open eyes and an open heart.
Download our free, printable Safari Packing List to keep everything in check — and don’t miss our quick video guide for visual tips on what to bring and why it matters.
