Do I need a specific type of clothing for game drives?

Yes. Stick to neutral colors like khaki, tan, or light olive. Avoid dark blue or black, as these colors attract tsetse flies, and avoid bright colors which can startle wildlife.

Is it worth bringing a satellite phone?

If you are planning on driving remote routes like the Skeleton Coast or Damaraland, yes. Cellular coverage is non-existent in many areas, and a satellite device (like a Garmin inReach) is a crucial safety backup.

Packing for a Self-Drive Safari in Namibia

Pack for extreme temperature fluctuations and dust by focusing on breathable, neutral-colored layers and specialized vehicle recovery gear. Stick to soft-sided luggage to save space in the trunk of a 4x4.

Choose the right luggage. Use soft-sided duffel bags rather than hard-shell suitcases. They are easier to cram into the back of a 4x4 alongside your water canisters and camping gear.
Layer for desert extremes. Temperatures can drop from 30°C at noon to near freezing at night in the desert. Pack a high-quality fleece or down jacket, even in summer.
Prioritize dust-proof protection. Namibia is incredibly dusty. Bring Ziploc bags or dedicated dry bags for cameras, electronics, and charging cables to prevent grit from destroying your gear.
Prepare vehicle basics. Bring a high-quality headlamp for night tire changes, a portable tire pressure gauge, and a 12V multi-port car charger to keep GPS devices running.

Do I need a specific type of clothing for game drives?: Yes. Stick to neutral colors like khaki, tan, or light olive. Avoid dark blue or black, as these colors attract tsetse flies, and avoid bright colors which can startle wildlife.
Is it worth bringing a satellite phone?: If you are planning on driving remote routes like the Skeleton Coast or Damaraland, yes. Cellular coverage is non-existent in many areas, and a satellite device (like a Garmin inReach) is a crucial safety backup.