Safari Guides

WHAT TO PACK WHEN GOING ON SAFARI

Our Travel Experts have put together a standard packing list for safari. This guide is a good starting point, but we recommend writing out your own check list and adding all your personal items.

SAFARI PACKING TOP TIPS

There are three things you need to remember when beginning to think about packing for your individual safari:

Luggage. We recommend you use a large soft bag for safari, keeping the weight at 15kg (33lb) or less. If your safari includes a light aircraft flight in Africa, as many do (particularly in East Africa), you cannot use a hard suitcase or one with wheels and a pull handle.
The season you will be travelling. Please remember the Summer (wet months) are generally September - April and Winter (dry months) are May - August. During the Winter months it can get cold at night and in the early morning, particularly when on safari. We would suggest that you pack accordingly. In the Summer months, rain can be common in most safari regions, so remember to pack a light, waterproof jacket.
Do not over pack. Remember our lodges tend to offer laundry services, which are often complimentary.

CLOTHING

Man-made fabrics, such as MaraTech and BUGTech shirts or other light breathable fabrics like organic cotton
Long sleeve shirts and t-shirts
Shorts and, or skirts. Remember, very short skirts are not practical for getting in and out of game drive vehicles
Long trousers or slacks
Long-sleeve and full-leg Pajamas. Remember, lightweight for summer and warm for winter
Underwear. Remember, a sports bra is recommended for games drives as the roads can be bumpy
Swimming costume if your camp or lodge has a pool
Lightweight jersey or fleece in summer
Light rain gear or jacket for summer months
Warm jersey or fleece in winter
Smart-casual outfit for the evenings, if you like to dress for dinner
A hat that provides excellent protection is important on your travels. One that is waterproof, breathable and can be packed flat is suggested
A light, neutral scarf

FOOTWEAR

Hiking or comfortable socks
Comfortable footwear is essential. We recommend trainers and sandals with a thick heel if you will mostly be doing game drives and the occasional walk
For walking safaris sturdier footwear is required, such as closed walking or safari boots.

PACKING FOR CHILDREN ON SAFARI

Two pairs safari trousers, preferably ones that can 'zip-off' into shorts
One pair of shorts
Jeans as an option for cooler nights
Two long-sleeve, fast-drying shirts
Two short-sleeved, fast-drying shirts
Closed-toe, thick sole sandals
One optional 'dress' outfit
Walking shoes if you will be doing more than game drives
Underwear. We suggest cotton or thermal vests depending on season
Socks
Sun hat
Swimsuit and goggles if your camp has a pool

ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTS

Mahlatini Booking Pack
Tickets for flights
A passport that is valid for at least 6 months
The required visas for where you are visiting
Required vaccine certificates
Children's birth certificates if required
Foreign currency and credit cards
Travel insurance
Emergency contact details and phone number
Additional form of ID in case of passport loss

MUST HAVES

Packing cubes (to keep everything organized)
Reusable cabin liquid bag. Remember, single use-polythene bags have been banned in many East African countries
Good quality sunglasses, preferably UV protected and polarized
Camera equipment including spare batteries, chargers, flash cards, memory cards and a cleaning kit for lenses
Waterproof or dustproof cover for your camera
Good LED torch
Binoculars. Lodges can provide these but it's good to bring your own pair
The correct plug adapter for the country you are travelling to
Sunscreen in the warmer months
Hairbrush and hair ties for longer hair
Hand sanitizing gel
Face masks
Eye drops