Safari Packing List & Equipment Guide

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Below is my list of items that you should take on Safari holidays in Africa. it is divided into essential items and then equipment and clothing that you need to take on specialist types of safaris. My main advice would be to travel as light as possible, without compromising your safety. There is nothing worse than having to carry around too much luggage on holiday!

Essential Safari Packing List

This equipment and clothing is essential for pretty much any type of safari that you go on in Africa. Check out my article for advice on exactly what clothing to to take on safari, including colours materials and styles tht work best on safari.

• Short & Long Sleeve Shirts - Long can be for warmth, protection fro the sun and insects in the evenings.
• Shorts & Trousers - Long cotton trousers even in summer can protect from the sun & insects in the evenings.
• Safari Hat - wide brimmed work best, but a cap is better than nothing!
• Safari Jacket - you may go out for a game drive before sunrise when it could be chilly even in summer.
• Shoes - Be sensible, you will be in the bush, so no high heels! You will need some type of hiking or safari boot if you plan on any walking safaris.
  

 

Essential Safari Equipment

• Binoculars, even more important than a camera, for why see my guide to the best binoculars for safari holidays.
• Camera - my guide to the best digital cameras for safari holidays.
• Mini first-aid kit, though your safari guide and lodge should have them and a first aid certificate.
• Malaria prophylaxis: consult your GP/travel nurse. Essential if you are traviling to a malaria area.

 

Walking Safaris Equipment

What to take with you if you are going to go on a walking safari or atleast go on a guided bush walk during your stay at the safari lodge

• Safari Boots - Either specialised safari boots or hiking boots will do. Walk them in before coming on holiday
• Compact Binoculars - Easy to carry with on a bush walk
• Compact Camera - Especially if you also have your binoculars.

 

Accessories

I would highly reccomend that you take the items listed below, whilst not completely essential they will make your trip more enjoyable

• A small day pack which you should be able to carry on your back.
• A pair of shades
• Sunscreen
• African Mammals book
• Bird book - if you want to know more about the birds around you
• Money belt - Good idea for keeping your money safe, though a good lodge will have a safe.

Other Accessories

If you are staying at a top end safari lodge, they should provide you with many of the items below, but if you are either going on a self drive safari or to a cheaper lodge they may not have the following items which are recommended and so if you have space I would carry:

• A flashlight
• A water bottle
• Insect Repellent
• Adaptor Plugs: Many countries in Africa, including Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe ans South Africa are the same as in the UK (3 prong rectangular) but take just incase.

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