The Ultimate Safari Packing List
Proper packing can make or break your safari experience. Here's everything you need (and don't need) for your African adventure.
Clothing Essentials
Colors to Pack:
- Khaki, olive, beige, tan (neutral earth tones)
- Avoid: White (shows dirt), black/dark blue (attracts tsetse flies), bright colors, camouflage
What to Pack:
- 3-4 short-sleeve shirts
- 2-3 long-sleeve shirts (sun and insect protection)
- 2 pairs convertible pants/shorts
- 1 pair long pants
- Light fleece or jacket (morning game drives are cold)
- Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap
- Buff or scarf (dust protection)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sandals for lodge/camp
- Sleepwear
- Undergarments and socks (7-10 days worth)
- Swimsuit (many lodges have pools)
Camera Gear
- DSLR or mirrorless camera body
- Telephoto lens (300-600mm ideal)
- Wide-angle lens for landscapes
- Extra batteries (2-3 minimum)
- Memory cards (more than you think you need)
- Lens cleaning kit
- Bean bag or gimbal head for vehicle shooting
- Protective camera bag
Optics
- Binoculars (8x42 or 10x42 recommended)
- Lens cloth
- Protective case
Health & Hygiene
- Prescription medications (bring extra)
- First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic, pain relievers)
- Insect repellent (DEET 30%+)
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Personal toiletries
- Prescription glasses/contacts (bring backup)
Documents & Money
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- Visa (if required)
- Travel insurance documents
- Vaccination certificates (yellow fever)
- Printed safari itinerary
- Emergency contact information
- Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard widely accepted)
- US dollars (cash for tips, small purchases)
Electronics
- Phone and charger
- Power bank
- Universal adapter (Type G for Kenya/Tanzania, Type C for Rwanda)
- Headlamp or flashlight
- E-reader or tablet
Optional But Useful
- Field guide books (birds, mammals)
- Safari journal and pen
- Ziplock bags (protect electronics from dust)
- Packable daypack
- Dry bag for rainy season
- Laundry detergent (hand wash clothes)
- Earplugs (for noisy camps)
What NOT to Pack
- Excessive clothing (laundry service available at most lodges)
- Formal wear (safaris are casual)
- Valuable jewelry
- Drones (restricted in parks)
- Single-use plastics (many countries ban them)
Luggage Tips
For Fly-in Safaris:
- Soft-sided duffel bags (required for bush planes)
- Weight limit: 15kg (33 lbs) including hand luggage
- Lockable bags for security
For Road Safaris:
- Standard luggage works fine
- Keep day-use items accessible
Packing Strategies
1. Roll clothes to save space
2. Use packing cubes for organization
3. Wear heaviest items during travel
4. Pack medications in carry-on
5. Bring photocopies of important documents
Climate Considerations
Dry Season (June-October):
- Warm days, cool mornings/evenings
- Minimal rain gear needed
- Extra layers for dawn game drives
Wet Season (November-May):
- Rain jacket essential
- Waterproof bags for electronics
- Quick-dry clothing
- Warmer overall
Still Unsure?
When you book with Savanna Journeys, we provide a customized packing list based on your specific itinerary, season, and destinations. We'll make sure you're fully prepared.
Ready to start packing for your safari? Contact us to begin planning your African adventure.
