Going on a safari for the first time is an incredible adventure, one where you’ll create lifelong memories to cherish. Before you set off, it’s essential to know what to pack – to ensure you’re ready for anything and everything. From the gear you’ll need to help you spot the wildlife you came for, to the clothes you’ll need to keep comfortable, this is the ultimate packing list for a first time safari.
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Comfortable, lightweight clothing
Clothing is one of the most important things to get right on a safari. Make sure you pack plenty of light, comfortable clothes with long sleeves to protect you from both the sun and insects. Go for breathable, natural materials like cotton or linen to keep comfortable when temperatures peak. Favour neutral or muted colors over bright tones, so you’ll blend in with your surroundings and avoid spooking nearby wildlife. And don’t forget good quality sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to keep your face and neck out of the sun.
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Good quality footwear
Depending on the type of safari you’re going on, it may involve a lot of walking or hiking across rocky and uneven surfaces. Even if you’re mostly in the back of a jeep, there will be occasions when you’ll need to stretch your legs. So it’s essential to pack comfortable, breathable walking boots that have great traction and grip, and good ankle support. Trainers won’t cut it, as they’re permeable to thorny brush or spiked burrs.
Whichever you Don’t forget to break in your shoes before your trip to avoid blisters, and consider bringing extra pairs of socks to keep your feet dry and fresh throughout your adventure. While your walking shoes have to be closed-toe, you could also bring a pair of flip-flops or sandals for relaxing at camp.
Binoculars for wildlife-spotting
Look the part (and spot the action) with a good pair of binoculars that are lightweight and easy to carry. You’ll likely be taking them with you on game drives and walks, so you don’t want anything too heavy or bulky. With binoculars, quality matters. A higher-quality pair will generally provide a clearer, sharper image, and may also have additional useful features like waterproofing or fog-proofing. If you’re going to splash out on one item, this is it.
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Camera and extra batteries
With any luck, your first time on safari will be full of incredible photo opportunities. While we’d encourage you to take a moment, camera-free to soak in the magic, if you are planning on snapping some action, you’ll want to bring a telephoto lens to pick out wildlife at range. Don’t forget to pack spare batteries (recharging on the go is less than ideal) and plenty of memory cards, to ensure you don’t run out of space when you run into that herd of elephants. A good-quality camera bag will help to keep your gear protected from the dust, as will a cleaning kit with cloths and and an air brush.
Sunscreen and insect repellent
A safari can involve long hours spent outdoors, often in direct sunlight. To protect yourself, bring high SPF sunscreen and apply it regularly throughout the day. Choose a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and make sure it’s waterproof, as you may be sweating or splashed with water while on a game drive.
Insect bites are also a common issue on safaris, particularly in areas with lots of mosquitos. To avoid being bitten, bring insect repellent with you. Look for a product that contains DEET, which is a highly effective insect repellent. You may also want to pack mosquito netting or mosquito coils for additional protection, particularly if you’re staying in a tented camp.
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A water bottle and plenty of snacks
Staying hydrated on safari is crucial, particularly during the hotter months. You should aim to drink at least 2-3 liters of water per day to avoid dehydration. Pack a reusable water bottle and refill as needed. Go for something made of a durable material, such as stainless steel or BPA-free plastic, to withstand any rough handling during your trip. Don’t forget to bring small snacks like energy bars or fruit to keep your energy up, especially during long game drives.
Personal medication and first aid kit
When it preparing for your first time safari, it pays to be a bit over-cautious. With the rough and rugged terrain, bringing a first aid kit will make sure you’re prepared for any bumps and scratches you pick up on the way. Your first aid kit should include standard items such as adhesive bandages, gauze, pain relivers, antiseptic wipes, and blister pads. In case of an emergency, you can use these items to treat minor injuries and wounds.
As well as your first aid kit, pack any medication you might usually take, labelled with your name and dosage information. It doesn’t hurt to also bring a copy of your prescription. When packing your medication and first aid kit, keep them in a waterproof and sturdy container to make sure they keep safe.
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Warm clothing for the cool nights
It may be surprising, but warm clothing is one of the most important things to pack for a safari. Even though it’s hot during the day, temperatures can drop significantly during the evenings and early mornings. To prepare for these temperatures fluctuations, make sure to layer your clothing well. This means bringing lightweight base layers, insulating materials, warm mid-layers like fleeces or sweaters, weatherproof outer layers, and protecting extremities with headwear, warm socks, and gloves.
Cash for small purchases
No matter where you go for your first time safari, it helps to bring a bit of cash in case you want to pick up any souvenirs or do extra activities. In Africa, while places are becoming more accepting of credit cards, it’s still a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially if you’re visiting more remote areas to pay for small purchases and tips.
While most hotels, lodges, and larger establishments accept major credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express, it’s important to check with your bank before you leave to ensure that your credit card will work in the country you’re visiting. Some banks may also charge international transaction fees, so it’s worth checking this as well. It always helps to contact your bank and let them know where you’re traveling and for how long.
A sense of adventure
Lastly, don’t forget to pack your spirit of adventure and a willingness to try new things. Your first time safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so make the most of it and enjoy every moment.
Embrace the unknown, whether it’s trying new foods, activities, or exploring new areas. Remember to keep an open mind and be spontaneous, as a safari can be unpredictable. This may mean changing your schedule to follow a herd of elephants, or staying up late to observe a pride of lions on the prowl.
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Leave it to the experts
Going on your first time safari is an unforgettable experience, but it requires careful planning and preparation. Researching this can be pretty daunting, which is why guided tours are fantastic for getting rid of the struggle of doing everything yourself. With Trafalgar, you can take specialised safari tours like the African Safari Adventure, where you’ll unlock the best of your first time safari with the support and guidance of safari Travel Experts. With all the research, planning, and booking done by our team, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime.
Unlock your first time safari with Trafalgar’s safari tours