Preparing For a Safari
A safari can be a truly memorable and enriching experience for any traveler, whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-time safari adventurer! If you're planning an African safari to Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia, Rwanda, South Africa, Namibia, or another beautiful destination you can be certain that you will witness some of the world's most incredible landscape and wildlife. To have an unforgettable adventure however, it's essential to know what is needed when preparing for a safari to maximize your experience.
When preparing for safari, it is important to familiarize yourself with a number of elements including:
Complying with the necessary travel requirements
Choosing the most appropriate attire for safari
Packing items that will ensure you feel prepared for the experience.
Here, we will take a closer look at what is required as well as recommended to enhance your African safari experience. And we added a printable packing list for you to use to get ready for your next adventure!
Travel Requirements
The travel requirements can vary depending on where you are traveling to, however, most countries will require a valid passport, appropriate visa, and sometimes proof of vaccination(s).
Here are some of the standard travel requirements to know when preparing for a safari (but remember it is critical you check the specific entry requirements with the relevant country’s Embassy many months before you plan to travel):
Cash and Credit Cards
Having the required cash and credit cards before traveling is vital since many of the destinations that you visit are rural areas that have limited access to financial resources.
Cash is often the preferred method of payment for many local businesses and services, such as accommodation, transportation, and meals. Therefore, having a good amount of cash on hand will ensure that you are able to cover these expenses without interruption.
We recommend that you have smaller, newer cash, as change can be hard to come by. Have enough cash for tips, purchasing souvenirs, additional meals, or if something unforeseen comes up.
It is also important to note that some luxury services, such as private safari tours, may only accept a certain type of payment.
Valid Passport
Have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months past your departure and two consecutive visa pages for each country you are visiting are the typical minimum requirements. In order to gain access into some countries, a passport must be valid for at least 6 months. The purpose of this restriction is to prevent tourists from being stranded in the country if their passport expires while they are there. It is also necessary to have two consecutive passport pages for the country you are traveling to since certain countries demand a specific number of blank pages in a passport for entry and visa stamping. This will guarantee that your passport has sufficient room for the stamps and visas needed for arrival and departure.
Consequently, you can have a smooth trip when crossing foreign borders while avoiding last-minute complications.
Visas
Depending on your nationality and the passport that you are traveling on, it is likely that at least some, if not all, countries you plan to visit will require you to have a visa for entry. Depending on the country, most visas can be purchased online beforehand and/or purchased at the port of entry. If you are purchasing at the port of entry ensure you have the exact change.
Each country has its own immigration policies and visa requirements. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in denied entry, significant financial losses, and disruptions to your itinerary.
As such, you can check with the Embassy of the country you are traveling to for more information.
Vaccination
It is highly recommended that you consult with a healthcare professional to determine which vaccinations are recommended or required for your specific itinerary and to ensure that you receive the necessary vaccinations well in advance of your trip. As such, you can check with your doctor, local health department, and the CDC website on what is required for your trip.
Your healthcare professional can also advise you on what emergency medications you can get to protect yourself from any potential illnesses or diseases.
What To Wear
When preparing for a safari, you need to consider the climate and weather of the area when choosing your outfits. We recommend that you pack lightweight, breathable fabrics that are easy to dry and durable enough to handle different kinds of terrain and environment. Most camps offer laundry included in your rate so there is no need to pack a new outfit for every day.
Here are some tips on what to wear for your safari:
Dress for the Wild: Practical, Comfortable, and Safari-Ready
The secret to dressing for safari? Layers, always. African climates can shift from brisk dawns to balmy afternoons and crisp evenings, all in one day.
Top it off: A wide-brimmed sun hat or classic bush hat is essential for sun protection, with a bandana or scarf handy for those dustier trails.
For your upper half: Mix lightweight, breathable short-sleeve shirts (golf-style or sun-protection tees) with a few long-sleeved cotton shirts—perfect for layering or shielding yourself from the sun and bugs.
Bottoms up: Comfortable shorts or longer skirts work well during the day, while long pants are key for evenings and guided walks. A cozy tracksuit is a great companion for those cooler morning drives.
When it’s time to rest: Choose sleepwear based on the season—think breezy for summer, thermal for winter chills.
Long Pants and Long Sleeves
Plan to dress in layers. It can get very cold on morning and evening game drives and warm up throughout the day.
High temperatures during the day can also lead to sunburn and insect bites. Therefore, you need to cover as much skin as possible to protect yourself from the sun and insects. Long pants and long sleeves can come in handy in such situations.
On Your Feet: Footwear That Goes the Distance
For exploring: Closed-toe walking shoes (sneakers are great) are your best friend on bush walks and camp strolls.
For relaxing: Flat sandals or slip-ons are perfect around the lodge.
Cold weather tip: Pack a few pairs of thermal socks to stay snug on early drives.
Hat and Sunglasses
During your safari adventure, you will have increased exposure to the sun whether it be on a game drive or a bush walk. As such, we recommend that you bring a hat with a wide brim or a built-in neck flap for extra protection from the sun. Also, select sunglasses with adequate UV protection and polarized lenses that can reduce glare from the sun.
Useful Items to Bring on Safari Adventures
A medium-sized backpack is ideal for carrying extra items during the safari. As a result, you will only need to carry the essential gear and equipment to avoid being overburdened. Here are some essential items you need to pack before setting out:
Health & Toiletries: Stay Fresh, Stay Protected
Sun care: Pack a high-SPF sunscreen (30+), moisturizer, and lip balm to combat the strong African sun.
Bug defense: Insect repellent is a must, especially for evenings.
First-aid basics: A small kit with antiseptic cream, pain relievers, and any personal medication covers most needs.
Toiletries: Many lodges provide eco-friendly essentials, but bring along anything specific you can’t go without
Travelers are also often exposed to long hours of direct sunlight while on game drives, nature walks, and other outdoor activities. Opt for a high-Sun Protection Factor (SPF) sunscreen, of at least 30 or higher, to protect your skin. Apply it generously and reapply it every two hours or after swimming or sweating. It is also important to choose a sunscreen that is broad-spectrum, protecting against both UVA and UVB rays.
First-Aid Kit
Ensure to pack a first-aid kit containing basic medical supplies such as antihistamines, bandages, antiseptic cream, and emergency medications. It can help you treat any minor injuries you might sustain during your safari.
Camera and Binoculars
Capturing memories and having the ability to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the safari is an important aspect of preparing for a safari adventure. A high-quality camera and binoculars will help you capture stunning photos of the breathtaking landscape and get closer views of the animals during your safari. So, select a good camera with a long lens and binoculars for the best safari experience.
Extra Water
It is also important to bring a good supply of water.
Most of the camps provide a water bottle that you can fill before leaving camp. The safari vehicles you will be riding in are also outfitted with coolers on them so that you can have an ice-cold drink when it’s hot!
Many of the camps also provide snacks for their guests. We generally recommend that you don’t pack your own snacks when going on a safari. If the snacks are not packed well, they can end up in your tent and attract the attention of unwanted friends (trust us, you don’t want to find out!).
Pro Packing Tips from the Bush
Stick to Neutrals: Khaki, olive, and beige not only blend in with the natural surroundings but also help keep bugs at bay.
Laundry is Available: Most lodges offer quick laundry services—so you can pack less and travel lighter.
Layer Wisely: Even in summer, mornings and evenings can surprise you with a chill.
Leave the Plastic Behind: Countries like Kenya, Rwanda, and Namibia have banned plastic bags—pack reusable alternatives.
Prepare To Set Out For Your Safari Today
Going on a safari is a thrilling and unforgettable experience. However, preparing for a safari before setting out for the wilderness is essential. Proper preparation is key to ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable safari adventure.
It is essential to understand the travel requirements, what to wear, and what to pack prior to leaving for your adventure. This can help you make the most of your safari experience and can also help ensure that your trip is an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Ultimately, with advanced preparation, you can have a fantastic time in the African wilderness. So, book your safari today and experience the adventure of a lifetime.
Don’t want to forget a thing?
We’ve got you covered with a printable checklist—just hit download and you’re one step closer to the wild.
