Can I wear jeans on safari?

Avoid heavy denim. It is hot, takes a long time to dry if it gets wet, and is uncomfortable for long hours in a vehicle. Stick to quick-dry technical trousers.

Do I really need a malaria prescription?

Yes. Most safari regions are high-risk malaria zones. Consult a travel clinic at least 4 weeks before you leave to secure the correct anti-malarial medication.

How do I handle laundry on safari?

Most lodges and camps offer same-day laundry service for a small fee or included in the room rate. Pack enough for 4 days and wash the rest.

How to pack for an East African safari

Focus on lightweight, neutral-colored layers and carry everything in a soft-sided duffel bag. Aim for a total weight of 15 kilograms (33 lbs) to comply with strict weight limits on small bush planes.

Select a soft-sided bag. Bush planes have small, rigid cargo holds. Use a 60-liter soft-sided duffel bag without wheels or hard frames. Most operators will not accept hard-shell suitcases.
Master the neutral color palette. Pack khaki, tan, olive, or beige. Avoid dark blue and black, as these colors attract tsetse flies. Avoid bright colors, which can startle wildlife.
Prioritize layering. Mornings on game drives are cold (often 10°C/50°F), while afternoons hit 30°C/86°F. Bring a breathable base layer, a fleece or mid-weight jacket, and a windbreaker.
Optimize for dust and sun. Pack a wide-brimmed hat with a chin strap (it gets windy) and a buff or scarf to cover your nose and mouth from dust during game drives.

Can I wear jeans on safari?: Avoid heavy denim. It is hot, takes a long time to dry if it gets wet, and is uncomfortable for long hours in a vehicle. Stick to quick-dry technical trousers.
Do I really need a malaria prescription?: Yes. Most safari regions are high-risk malaria zones. Consult a travel clinic at least 4 weeks before you leave to secure the correct anti-malarial medication.
How do I handle laundry on safari?: Most lodges and camps offer same-day laundry service for a small fee or included in the room rate. Pack enough for 4 days and wash the rest.