What to Pack for a Safari

The golden rules

Pack light, pack neutral, pack in layers. Internal flights have strict luggage limits (often around 15kg in soft bags), mornings are cold and middays are hot, and bright or dark colours work against you in the bush.

Clothing

• Neutral tones — khaki, beige, olive, brown
• Lightweight long-sleeve shirts and trousers (sun and insect protection)
• A warm fleece or jacket for cold early-morning game drives
• A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and a buff for dust
• Comfortable closed walking shoes; sandals for camp

Colours to avoid

• Blue and black: attract tsetse flies.
• Bright white and bold colours: conspicuous and quick to show dust.
• Camouflage: restricted in many African countries — leave it at home.

Gear that matters

• Binoculars (one pair per person ideally)
• Camera with a zoom lens and spare batteries
• High-SPF sunscreen, lip balm and strong insect repellent
• A small first-aid kit and medication in carry-on
• Soft-sided duffel (hard cases do not fit bush planes)

A Kilimanjaro climb needs additional kit — we send a full climb-specific list on booking. See route guide →