Can I do laundry on safari?

Most lodges offer laundry service, but it can take 1-2 days and may not be available in very remote areas. Pack enough clothing for your entire trip, or plan to wear items multiple times.

Do I need malaria medication?

Consult your doctor 4-6 weeks before travel. Most safari areas in Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, and Zambia are malaria zones requiring prophylaxis. South Africa's safari areas vary - some are malaria-free, others aren't.

Should I pack formal clothes?

Some luxury lodges have dress codes for dinner (no shorts, collared shirts required), but most are casual. Pack one nice outfit if staying at high-end properties. Check your lodge's specific requirements.

How much cash should I bring?

Bring $200-500 in small US bills for tips, souvenirs, and areas without card readers. Tips are typically $10-15 per day per guide and $5-10 per day for camp staff. Newer bills (post-2009) are preferred in many African countries.

How to Pack for an African Safari

Pack neutral-colored clothing in layers, prioritize sun protection and insect repellent, and bring a good camera with extra batteries. Keep luggage soft-sided and under 33 pounds for small aircraft transfers. Focus on functionality over fashion.

Choose the right luggage. Use a soft-sided duffel bag or backpack. Small aircraft on safari routes have strict weight limits (usually 33 pounds including hand luggage) and limited storage space. Hard cases don't fit in overhead compartments on bush planes.
Pack neutral-colored clothing. Stick to khaki, olive, brown, and beige. Avoid bright colors (especially red and orange) that can attract insects or startle animals. Black and navy blue attract tsetse flies. White shows dirt immediately and is impractical.
Layer for temperature swings. Mornings and evenings can be 40°F cooler than midday. Pack lightweight long pants, short-sleeve shirts, a warm fleece or jacket, and a light rain jacket. Merino wool base layers work well for temperature regulation.
Prioritize sun and insect protection. Bring SPF 50+ sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and DEET-based insect repellent (minimum 20% DEET). Pack long-sleeve shirts and pants for evening when mosquitoes are active. Consider permethrin-treated clothing.
Prepare camera gear carefully. Bring extra batteries (cold mornings drain them fast), multiple memory cards, and a dust cover for your camera. Dust is everywhere. Consider a beanbag for stabilizing shots from vehicle windows instead of a tripod.
Pack practical footwear. Bring comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots that you've already broken in, plus sandals for lodge areas. Avoid new shoes. Your feet will be in vehicles most of the time, but you'll walk on uneven terrain during stops.

Can I do laundry on safari?: Most lodges offer laundry service, but it can take 1-2 days and may not be available in very remote areas. Pack enough clothing for your entire trip, or plan to wear items multiple times.
Do I need malaria medication?: Consult your doctor 4-6 weeks before travel. Most safari areas in Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, and Zambia are malaria zones requiring prophylaxis. South Africa's safari areas vary - some are malaria-free, others aren't.
Should I pack formal clothes?: Some luxury lodges have dress codes for dinner (no shorts, collared shirts required), but most are casual. Pack one nice outfit if staying at high-end properties. Check your lodge's specific requirements.
How much cash should I bring?: Bring $200-500 in small US bills for tips, souvenirs, and areas without card readers. Tips are typically $10-15 per day per guide and $5-10 per day for camp staff. Newer bills (post-2009) are preferred in many African countries.