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Mahlatini clients often ask what they should wear on safari, and the answer is usually simpler than expected.
You don’t need specialist outfits or a completely new wardrobe. What matters is packing for comfort, practicality and changing conditions. Early mornings can be cold, the middle of the day can be warm, and evenings cool down again.
If you get the basics right, you’ll be comfortable throughout and able to focus on the experience.
What Should You Wear on Safari?
When advising clients on what to pack for safari, we always come back to the same essentials.
You should aim to pack:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Neutral colors
- A few layers for temperature changes
The above covers most situations you’ll encounter on safari. If you’ve packed for all conditions, you’ll be far more comfortable and able to focus on the experience rather than what you’re wearing.
Safari Packing Checklist
If you prefer to keep things simple, this is what we recommend bringing:
- 2–3 lightweight shirts in neutral colors
- 1–2 pairs of trousers or zip-off pants
- 1 fleece or warm layer
- 1 lightweight waterproof jacket
- Comfortable closed shoes
- A wide-brim hat with a strap
- Polarized sunglasses
- A scarf or bandana
- Light sleepwear
If you’re travelling by light aircraft, luggage allowances are often limited and soft-sided bags are usually required. Most camps offer laundry, often daily, so there’s no need to overpack.
What Colors Should You Wear on Safari?
Neutral colors work best. Khaki, green, beige and brown are all good options. They help you blend into your surroundings to better your chances of remaining “unseen” by animals if you want to observe their natural behavior. They are also very practical in dusty conditions.
What Colors Should You Avoid?
We recommend you avoid white or very light colors, as they show dust easily and stand out. According to Steve Adams from the Safari Store, white is the worst color to wear on safari because if you "think of the color prey species display when they alarm call or are running away from predators and are trying to stay in a herd—it is white. White stands out the most."
It’s also best to avoid bright colors, which can draw attention and camouflage, which is reserved for the military in many African countries and is often not permitted.
If you are planning a walking safari, neutral clothing is essential and white will not be allowed. Learn more about what not to pack on the Safari Store.
What to Wear on Safari by Time of Day
Game Drives
You’ll spend most of your time on safari in a vehicle, usually early morning and late afternoon.
In places like the Maasai Mara or the Okavango Delta, mornings can be surprisingly cold, especially in open vehicles. We recommend starting with a fleece and a light jacket, then shedding layers as the day warms up.
Zip-off trousers are a practical option and often more useful than expected.
Evenings
Evenings on safari are typically very relaxed, so there’s no need to worry about packing formal wear.
Most safari camps and lodges encourage a casual atmosphere. At many of the lodges we send clients to, guests often head straight from the game drive to dinner without changing. The focus is always on unwinding after a day in the bush, not dressing up, so smart-casual clothing is more than sufficient.
If you’re dining outdoors, practical clothing is best: cover your arms and legs to avoid insect bites, and choose neutral shades rather than black or blue, which can attract bugs. Evenings often bring a noticeable drop in temperature, particularly in East Africa, so packing a fleece or light jacket will keep you comfortable.
For indoor dining, the atmosphere is equally relaxed, and you’re free to wear whatever you feel most comfortable in.
Walking Safaris
If you are planning a walking safari, clothing becomes more practical:
- Closed shoes or boots are essential
- Neutral colors are required
- Lightweight, breathable clothing works best
You can explore walking safaris to understand how these experiences are structured and when they can be included in your trip.
What Clothes Work Best on Safari?
Choose clothes that are light, easy to move in and comfortable to wear for long periods in a vehicle. Breathable fabrics are best in the heat, and quick-drying materials are useful if you are travelling between camps or washing items as you go.
Technical fabrics like MaraTech and BUGTech are good options, as they’re designed for breathability, durability, and insect protection, and can be purchased from The Safari Store. They specialize in safari wear and gear, including clothing, luggage, binoculars, books and accessories, all of which are rigorously tested in Africa.
What Accessories Should You Bring?
A few simple additions make a big difference:
- Shoes: For game drives and light walking, trainers or sturdy sandals are usually sufficient. If you’re planning a walking safari, closed shoes such as safari or hiking boots are strongly recommended for better support and protection.
- Socks: Don’t forget to pack well-fitting, breathable socks.
- Hat: Take a lightweight, waterproof hat with a wide-brim for sun protection along. For open vehicle game drives, opt for a hat with a chin strap so it doesn’t blow away in the wind. A packable hat that folds flat is also worth considering to save space.
- Sunglasses: Polarized lenses help reduce glare.
- Scarf or bandana: Useful for dust and sun protection.
What Should Children Wear on Safari?
The same principles apply. Children should wear:
- Comfortable, practical clothing
- Neutral colors
- Items you don’t mind getting dirty
Safari can be dusty and active, so it’s best to keep things simple. Explore our guide on what to pack for children on safari for more information.
Planning Your Safari
Packing for your African safari doesn’t need to be overwhelming. By following these expert tips, you’ll be well prepared.
If you’re unsure what to bring for your specific trip, we’re always happy to guide you. What you need can vary depending on destination and time of year.
If you are ready to start planning, you can speak to one of our safari specialists or explore our trip planner. Recently named among the Top 10 World’s Best Tour Operators in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2025, we focus on getting the detail right so your trip runs smoothly from start to finish.
