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Be prepared and cut down the risk of running into any problems; sound advice if you're planning to head to Africa on safari.
Know what to take along. If you don't know and figure things will take care of themselves along the way, then you're asking for trouble. Ask those who do know such as a travel agent.
Making sure you're going to not only have an enjoyable trip but importantly, a comfortable one. There is a pre-safari checklist you can make.
What to bring along on a safari?
Casual wash-and-wear clothing you feel most comfortable in, are very useful. Fancy jackets and ties are only required in a few restaurants or golfing clubs. Hotels and lodges usually provide laundry service and you can get your clothes cleaned within a few hours. Therefore, you don't have to worry about bringing separate clothes for each day. You should actually try not to take more than is necessary.
Other essentials to add to you kit bag:
- Sunblock
- Anti-malaria prophylactics
- Comfortable and thick-soled boots
- Sandals
- Casual and neutral colored cotton clothing
- A sweater and warm jacket for cool evenings or game drives
- Swim wear
- Shorts and T-shirts
- Wide brimmed hat
- Personal toilet products, sunscreen cream and lip balm
- Binoculars and camera with extra batteries
Winter months
Winter and summer months vary from one safari destination to another. In South Africa there are two seasons, a cold season from May to September and a warm one the rest of the year, while in Tanzania, for example, there are three seasons. For winter months you need to pack warm clothing, such as thick jackets and a scarf for evenings. For midday you will only need a light sweater.
Summer months
For warm months you will need T-shirts and shorts during the day, jeans and safari trousers for evenings, swim wear and sandals.
What to wear on the road?
The helicopters usually have air conditioning, so you should just dress comfortably. The pilot will tell you the previous evening if you will be landing at high altitudes and you need to pack a sweater.
Luggage
The luggage limit is 12 kg per person for both camping and lodge safaris. You should carry a soft bag, especially if you will be using light aircrafts to get to your camp or lodge.
Packing too many things is not recommended and you should try to keep your luggage as light as possible. However, leaving necessary things at home, such as a swim wear or a photo camera, is also something you might regret.
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