Packing for an East Africa Safari
Stick to lightweight, breathable fabrics in neutral tones like khaki, tan, or olive to stay cool and minimize dust visibility. Avoid bright colors and dark navy or black, which attract tsetse flies and stand out to wildlife.
- Prioritize layers. Early morning and late evening game drives are cold, often dropping to 50°F (10°C). Bring a lightweight fleece or a softshell jacket to wear over a moisture-wicking base layer.
- Choose the right material. Wear linen, merino wool, or synthetic blends. Avoid denim, as it is heavy, hot, and takes days to dry if it gets wet.
- Stick to neutral colors. Pack shades of beige, tan, and olive. Blue and black clothing should be avoided because they attract tsetse flies, which carry painful bites.
- Prepare for dust. Everything will be covered in fine red dust within an hour. Bring a light neck gaiter or bandana to cover your nose and mouth during long drives on unpaved roads.
- Limit your luggage. Most bush flights have a 15kg (33lb) limit, strictly enforced in soft-sided bags. Plan for a 3-day rotation of clothes and use lodge laundry services, which are usually fast and inexpensive.
- Do I really need to buy expensive 'safari' clothes?
- No. You just need clothes that are neutral in color, comfortable, and made of synthetic or natural fibers that dry quickly. You don't need expensive tactical gear.
- How often should I do laundry?
- Most lodges in Kenya and Tanzania offer same-day laundry service. Plan to wear items twice and have them laundered every 3 days to keep your bag weight under the strict 15kg limit.
- Are shorts okay to wear?
- Shorts are fine during the heat of the day, but long pants are recommended for early morning and evening to protect against mosquito bites and thorns.