Do I really need malaria pills?

Yes. East Africa is a high-risk malaria zone. Consult a travel clinic 6 weeks before you leave to get a prescription for preventative medication.

Can I wear jeans on a safari?

Avoid them. Jeans are heavy, take forever to dry, and are uncomfortable in the heat. Stick to lightweight synthetic technical fabrics.

How do I charge my devices in the bush?

Most safari camps have generators that run in the morning and evening. Bring a multi-port USB wall charger so you can charge multiple devices from a single outlet.

How to Pack for an East Africa Safari

Pack lightweight, moisture-wicking layers in neutral colors and limit yourself to a soft-sided duffel bag weighing no more than 15 kilograms (33 pounds). You need to prioritize versatility and functionality, as bush planes and 4x4 vehicles have strict size and weight constraints.

Select the right luggage. Use a soft-sided duffel bag without a rigid frame. Bush planes strictly enforce a 15kg weight limit including your camera gear, and hard-shell suitcases will not fit into the storage compartments of safari vehicles.
Choose your clothing colors carefully. Stick to khaki, tan, olive, or beige. Avoid dark blue or black, as these colors attract tsetse flies, and avoid bright colors which can startle wildlife.
Layer for variable temperatures. Early morning game drives are freezing; mid-day is hot. Pack a lightweight fleece or windbreaker for the morning, a long-sleeved shirt for sun/insect protection during the day, and zip-off trousers.
Protect your electronics. Bring a dedicated dry bag or dust-proof case for your camera gear. The fine red dust in regions like the Serengeti will infiltrate every zipper and seam.

Do I really need malaria pills?: Yes. East Africa is a high-risk malaria zone. Consult a travel clinic 6 weeks before you leave to get a prescription for preventative medication.
Can I wear jeans on a safari?: Avoid them. Jeans are heavy, take forever to dry, and are uncomfortable in the heat. Stick to lightweight synthetic technical fabrics.
How do I charge my devices in the bush?: Most safari camps have generators that run in the morning and evening. Bring a multi-port USB wall charger so you can charge multiple devices from a single outlet.