How to pack for an African safari
Pack lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing in neutral, earth-tone colors to blend into the environment and keep cool. Prioritize layers, as temperatures drop significantly during early morning and late evening game drives.
- Select the right color palette. Stick to khaki, tan, olive, or beige. Avoid bright colors (which attract insects) and dark blue or black (which specifically attract tsetse flies, which can bite through clothing).
- Layer for variable temperatures. Game drives start at 5:00 AM in open-air vehicles, where the wind chill is significant. Pack a warm fleece or windbreaker to wear over a t-shirt, then shed layers as the sun heats up by mid-morning.
- Prioritize high-performance fabrics. Choose synthetic, breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics. Avoid heavy denim or thick cotton, which take days to dry in humid environments and are uncomfortable in the heat.
- Plan for laundry turnover. Most lodges offer daily laundry service. Pack for 5 days of clothing regardless of your trip length to keep your bag weight under the strict 15kg (33lb) limit imposed by small bush planes.
- Do I really need expensive safari-branded clothes?
- No. You just need technical, neutral-colored clothing. Any hiking brand will work as long as it isn't bright or white.
- How strictly is the 15kg luggage limit enforced?
- Extremely strictly. Bush planes are small and weight-balanced; if your bag is too heavy or has a hard frame, they may charge you for an extra seat or refuse to transport it.
- Should I pack bug spray?
- Yes. Bring a repellent with 20-30% DEET. Also, consider treating your clothes with permethrin before you leave home.