What should I pack for my safari?
You’ve browsed destinations, talked with our experts, and booked your dream safari. Your plane tickets are reserved; your visa application is done. There’s just one thing left to do: pack.
While no two safaris are exactly the same, there are some essentials that apply for just about any journey into Africa’s wilderness. Game drives across the Serengeti? We’ve got you covered. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest? Just check out the list below. Whether you’re exploring national parks across Uganda or lounging on the island shores of Zanzibar, see our tips below for packing for an African safari.
Pack Light
We recommend packing light on safari, especially when traveling between multiple parks. And if your itinerary includes flights while on safari, be mindful of your airline’s baggage policies.
- Most domestic airlines limit travelers to 15 kg (33 lb) per person total for all luggage, handbags, and camera equipment. Excess luggage may not be permitted and, if permitted, may be subject to additional fees.
- Hard-sided suitcases are typically not permitted; soft-sided suitcases are best.
- While the weight limits for flights can vary slightly between airlines, we recommend checking the pre-arrival information we send with every booking, and contacting your Hornbill Travel Consultant if you have any questions about your particular trip.
What to Wear on Safari? Think Layers and Neutrals
Early mornings and nights can bring cooler temperatures in the wilderness, so we recommend dressing in layers. That long-sleeved shirt or jacket that seemed essential on your early morning game drive might feel unwieldy in the midday sun, so it’s a good idea to be able to layer up and down as you move about. Light- to midweight breathable fabrics are best—think cotton or lightweight fabrics designed for the outdoors.
We always recommend neutral-colored clothing when possible. Colors like khaki, olive green, and brown can handle the inevitable dust on a safari, and also help you blend in with the natural environment. Bright colors are likely to draw attention to you, the traveler, rather than to the wildlife you want to see.
Consider the Elements
It’s a good idea to pack sunblock or sunscreen before heading on safari. And insect repellent is always recommended to ward off mosquitoes and other potentially pesky insects in the bush.
Even if you’re not traveling in the rainy season, it can be a good idea to pack a lightweight rain jacket—especially if your trip takes you to rainforests like Kibale Forest National Park or Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, where rain is common even in the country’s dry seasons.
Safari Packing List: The Basics
As part of your overall packing list, consider the following when packing for your safari. Be sure to see our tips above for layering & dressing in neutrals.
Clothing
- Long trousers (2-3 pairs)
- Shorts (1-2 pairs)
- Long-sleeved shirts (2)
- T-shirts (3-4)
- Light rain jacket
- Fleece/sweatshirt or similar
- Swimsuit/bathing suit
- Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes
- Socks
- Sandals
- Sunglasses
- Safari or other wide-brimmed hat
Additional Recommended items
- Binoculars if desired
- Camera and related equipment (chargers, extra memory cards, etc.)
- Converter/outlet adapters if needed
- Sunscreen
- Bug repellent
See additional recommendations below if your itinerary includes gorilla or chimpanzee trekking, or if you’ve planned a beach stay after your safari.
What to Pack for Your Gorilla Trekking Safari
If your itinerary includes gorilla trekking or chimpanzee trekking, in addition to the above list, we recommend bringing the following:
- Comfortable hiking boots (We highly recommend breaking these in ahead of time!)
- Hiking socks
- A light backpack/daypack
- Comfortable hiking trousers
- Rain jacket for layering
- Optional: outdoor/hiking gloves and walking stick (These are mainly suggested for gorilla trekking. Hand-carved natural walking sticks are often available for trekkers to borrow at the trailhead, as well.)
- Warm layers and sleepwear for your overnights if gorilla trekking (Temperatures in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park can get quite cool at night and in the early mornings.)
What to Pack for Your Safari Beach Excursion
Beach excursions to Zanzibar or the Kenyan coast are popular additions to a wildlife safari in East Africa. If your safari lodges include a pool among their offerings, a bathing suit is likely already on your list. Nevertheless, when heading to the beach, we typically recommend adding the following to your packing list:
- Swimsuit/bathing suit
- Sandals/flip-flops
- Warm weather clothing, including a few t-shirts, tank tops, and shorts/dresses/skirts
- Beach cover-up
- Reef shoes/water shoes (These are often available for rent at accommodations, as well.)
For guests heading to Zanzibar, moving about in a swimsuit is generally accepted at the beach resorts, but it’s considered respectful to the island’s largely Muslim culture to dress modestly when moving beyond the shores.
Whether your dream safari includes bush walks in Maasai Mara, primate trekking in Uganda, or snorkeling in the Indian Ocean, planning your ideal adventure doesn’t have to be complicated. Booking with us allows you to share the inspiration for your custom safari and then relax as we handle the rest. All of you have to do is pack…and show up!
Interested in booking a safari? Explore our sample itineraries or contact us to create your own private, custom tour at no added cost.
