Safari Packing List

The Perfect Safari Packing List

Less is more! Safari vehicles and bush planes have limited space. Most camps offer free or cheap laundry service.

Clothing

• Colors: Khaki, beige, olive, gray, brown. NO white (gets dirty quickly, reflects light), NO black (attracts tsetse flies), NO camouflage (forbidden for civilians in some African countries).
• 2–3 long-sleeved shirts/blouses (sun protection + mosquitoes)
• 2–3 long pants (zip-off ideal)
• 1 fleece/sweater (it's COLD in the morning on the vehicle, especially Ngorongoro)
• 1 lightweight rain jacket
• Comfortable closed shoes (no open sandals on safari!)
• Wide-brimmed hat/cap with sun protection
• Buff/scarf (against dust)

Equipment

• Binoculars: THE most important safari item! 8×42 or 10×42. Loaner binoculars available in lodges, but having your own is better.
• Camera: With telephoto lens (200–400 mm ideal). Enough batteries and memory cards!
• Bean bag: For camera stabilization on the vehicle roof. Better than any tripod.
• Headlamp/Flashlight: Essential at night in camp (paths are not lit).
• Power bank: In simple camps, electricity is limited (solar/generator).
• Dustproof bag: For electronics. Dust on safari is ubiquitous!

Pharmacy

• Malaria prophylaxis (prescription required)
• DEET mosquito spray (50%)
• Sunscreen SPF 50+
• Diarrhea medication (Imodium + electrolytes)
• Plasters, disinfectant
• Headache tablets