Whether you are a local in Africa or come from another part of the world, African Safari’s are a wonderful way to spend a holiday. With plenty of options for a variety of animals, countries and locations, choices are limitless. But once you’ve booked your ticket, and chosen your tour operator, the question of what to pack becomes the next thing, especially if you are not familiar with African weather or landscaping.
Most safaris are generally done inland, with possibilities of lakes, rivers or dams, with the weather being usually fairly hot, especially in the summer months. Sun-cream is the number one thing that should go into your backpack. Preferably chose sunscreens with a high SPF level, for example 40+.
Binoculars are also a handy thing as a lot of animals/birds might be in the distance. Most of the African animals are well camouflaged in the bush and having a zoom lens will help you spot them more easily.
Cameras are also a good thing to carry to document your experience. Having said that, you might want to invest in one with a zoom lens as well, else once the photo has been developed, to try and spot the Kudu amongst the thorn trees on film will become even more difficult then it was when you were on the safari itself.
When a person thinks of going on a safari and what clothes to pack, the first thing that pops into your head might be kaki shorts and a beige shirt. Visions of being a colonial explorer, hacking back the bush and taming an elephant might work well in the movies, but not so well in reality.
Light clothes are better then dark, as you will be cooler and wearing a good pair of hiking boots is also a good idea, however you can leave the colonial helmet at home, along with the Machete knife. And although having a penknife is a good compensation for a bush knife, chances are your guide will have that angle covered.
Evenings are generally a lot cooler then during the day, so warm long pants and tops are always good for when you are huddled around the campfire. It is also suggested that packing a good wide brim mosquito hat, or a peaked hat will do nicely instead, repellent is probably also a good idea, especially in the more northern side, as well as if there are any swamps or lakes near to the place you will be staying.
Some parts of Africa have a bit of a reputation for raining on short notice. It will probably also rain for a short amount of time as well. A light rain jacket, therefore, is also probably a good idea.
Most of the time tour operators usually bring with them all the essentials such as first aid kits, but you might just want to check with them if there are any additional items that you should be thinking of with regards to that area, such as malaria tablets.
If you pack well and in advance it will take a lot of stress out of your travelling. Safaris are a fantastic way to spend a holiday, as not only will you see a different country, but also it’s animals, birds and scenic beauty.
Celeste writes for Lathita Expeditions, which is a African travelling tour operator.
