Can I wear shorts on game drives?

Not recommended. Even in hot weather, long pants protect from sun, insects, and thorns during walking safaris. Choose lightweight, breathable fabric instead.

What about camouflage clothing?

Avoid camouflage patterns. They're illegal for civilians in some East African countries and can cause problems at borders or with local authorities.

Do I need special boots?

Regular hiking boots or sturdy sneakers work fine. You don't need expensive safari boots unless doing serious walking safaris. Focus on comfort and ankle protection.

How many changes of clothes should I bring?

Plan one outfit per 2-3 days. Safari lodges often provide laundry service. Clothes get very dusty, so having backup shirts and pants is smart.

What to Wear on Safari Game Drives in East Africa

Wear neutral-colored, lightweight, long-sleeved clothing in khaki, olive, or beige to blend with the environment and protect from sun and insects. Layer a fleece for early morning drives when temperatures drop to 50-60°F, and bring a wide-brimmed hat and closed-toe shoes.

Choose neutral earth tones. Pack clothes in khaki, olive green, brown, or beige. Avoid bright colors (especially red and orange) and white, which can spook animals and show dirt immediately. Black attracts tsetse flies.
Layer for temperature swings. Start with a lightweight long-sleeved shirt as your base. Add a fleece or light jacket for 6 AM game drives when it's 50-60°F. You'll strip layers as it warms to 75-85°F by mid-morning.
Cover your skin. Wear long pants and long sleeves even when it's hot. This protects from sun, thorns when walking, and insects. Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking blends.
Protect your head and neck. Bring a wide-brimmed hat or cap with a neck flap. The equatorial sun is intense, and you'll be sitting in open vehicles for 6-8 hours. A buff or light scarf works for extra neck coverage.
Choose proper footwear. Wear closed-toe shoes or boots - never sandals. You'll walk on uneven terrain during rest stops and need protection from thorns and insects. Lightweight hiking boots or sturdy sneakers work best.

Can I wear shorts on game drives?: Not recommended. Even in hot weather, long pants protect from sun, insects, and thorns during walking safaris. Choose lightweight, breathable fabric instead.
What about camouflage clothing?: Avoid camouflage patterns. They're illegal for civilians in some East African countries and can cause problems at borders or with local authorities.
Do I need special boots?: Regular hiking boots or sturdy sneakers work fine. You don't need expensive safari boots unless doing serious walking safaris. Focus on comfort and ankle protection.
How many changes of clothes should I bring?: Plan one outfit per 2-3 days. Safari lodges often provide laundry service. Clothes get very dusty, so having backup shirts and pants is smart.