Planning & Packing for Your Safari : What to Bring on Safari

Africa Travel essentials: Not to be forgotten items

• Valid passport


• Valid visa - if required


• Copies of passport and other essential documents


• Air tickets


• Spending cash


• Comprehensive travel insurance

Safari dress

Generally the days on safari are warm and shorts and t-shirts are ideal, but nights can be cold in some regions so long-sleeved shirts, long trousers and pullovers are essential. During the warm months the long trousers and long-sleeved shirts act as a protection from mosquitoes.

It is important to note that clothing should be in earthy colours such as khaki, brown, beige and olive as bright colours may affect animal behavior. This is important for all safari activities. Night-time wear can be of colour of choice.

Footwear is a very important part of an African safari – especially for walking activities. Comfortable and practical footwear is recommended. High heels and flip flops are not recommended for a safari.

Safari Essentials

• Personal Toiletries


• Personal first-aid kit (headache pills, antihistamine cream etc


• Insect repellent


• Protective eye-ware – the sun can be harsh on the eyes


• Hygiene wipes


• Sewing / repair kit


• Photographic requirements – batteries and chargers, film, memory cards


• Binoculars


• Lightweight reading and writing material


• Sun protection for skin


• Lip balm

Important note: Prescription medicine

For any special medicinal needs – it is essential to bring sufficient supplies of prescription medicine with you for the duration of your safari. It is also very important to bring the prescription with you in case of emergencies.

Luggage on safari

A soft bag or backpack is recommended luggage for an African safari as the space on safari vehicles and aircraft is limited. Hard suitcases are bulky and difficult to pack in the airplanes and safari vehicles. A daypack is advised for carrying personal items such as binoculars and cameras. Special luggage concessions can be made for people on a private or specialist safari – particularly regarding photographic equipment.

Important note: light aircraft luggage

For itineraries that include a light aircraft flight there are serious weight restrictions – varying from place to place. The restrictions range from 10 – 22 kg per person and a soft bag is essential. Pilots and tour guides can refuse to load bags that do not comply to the restrictions.

Your Siyabona consultant can advise on all baggage restrictions.

Important: Photographic Equipment

Supplies such as photographic accessories can be obtained at lodges and shops whilst on safari but it is advisable to bring sufficient for the whole trip as they can be expensive and difficult to find here.

African Safari FAQ

Find out about wall plug adaptors, safety on safari, malaria, currency requirements, or personal medical prescriptions, and travel visas.

When to go: Safari Seasons

From area to area, game viewing may be good in the wet season or good in the dry season. See the best time to visit your chosen destination.

Which Safari is for You?

Between family safaris and high-end specialist safaris, the style of a safari trip depends on your needs, or level of fitness.

Safari Planning. What to Pack

A checklist of items considered most essential, plus a guide to taking care of your personal needs, all in 12 kilograms or less.