Going on an African safari is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that immerses you in the untamed beauty of the wild. But to truly enjoy the experience, packing the right gear is key. In this post, I’ll guide you through the essentials of what to wear on a safari, and share some handy finds that will make your journey as comfortable and memorable as possible. Whether you’re preparing for sunrise game drives or cozy nights under star-filled skies, I’ve got you covered! (Last updated 5/25)
Tips for What to Wear on a Safari
Keep It Light & Minimal
Safari vehicles and bush planes often have strict luggage limitations, so it’s best to pack light and opt for soft-sided duffels that are easier to stow. Many lodges provide laundry services, making it easier to rewear items during your stay. Be sure to check with your tour operator about specific weight restrictions—flights to remote safari areas often have limits. For example, on our trip to Kenya, we were only allowed allowed only 33 pounds of luggage on the small planes.
Check the Weather & Safari Type
When finalizing your packing list, consider the time of year and location of your safari, as this will influence your clothing choices. Wet season safaris may require a waterproof jacket and quick-dry clothing, while dry season safaris call for extra sun protection and lightweight, breathable fabrics to stay cool under the powerful African sun. This goes hand in hand with packing light—opt for versatile pieces like quick-dry clothing from brands like Vuori, which are perfect for hot weather and help keep you comfortable throughout the day.
Embrace Neutral Colors
When heading out on safari, it’s important to blend into the environment, both for your comfort and to avoid disturbing wildlife. Stick to neutral, earthy tones like khaki, olive, beige, and tan, which help you stay inconspicuous and even keep you cooler under the sun. These muted colors also hide dust better, making them practical for the bush. Avoid bright colors, especially red, as they can startle animals, and steer clear of dark blue and black, which are known to attract biting insects like tsetse flies. Leave the white at home—it tends to show every speck of dirt!
Packlist
Safari Hats
The Tilley Airflo Hat, which is super comfortable and also really versatile and you can crush it down without fear of ruining it. In fact the hat is guaranteed for life so long as you don’t lose it to an animal in the wild. It also has UPF 50+ sun protection and comes in sizes for men and women. The Panama Jack Safari Hat is also rugged and lightweight, perfect for adventuring.
Bailey has some really great Panama hats to choose from as well. These are a bit more stylish than the standard Safari hat.
Safari Tops
Athletic or hiking gear serves best for being breathable, lightweight, and sometimes has UV protection. Below are some nice options for “the bush” (that’s what they call the expansive plains of Africa outside the cities). Remember to keep it neutral to avoid disrupting the animals who wouldn’t normally see hot pink out in the wilderness.
Safari Pants
Stay lightweight and comfortable. Lightweight joggers or hiking pants are ideal. Yoga pants work too, they just might get a little hot pressed against your skin.
Safari Shoes
Make your decision on shoes based on whether it’s a walking or Jeep Safari. For walking, obviously wear shoes that are comfortable, have good traction, and are broken in. You don’t want to end up a few days in with shoes that are incredibly uncomfortable. For the Jeep excursion, you can get away with something a little more fashion-forward if you prefer.
Safari Bags
This duffel by Eddie Bauer only weighs 14 ounces, is the max size for carry-on at 45L, and is only $19.99. This backpack by Eddie Bauer matches and is also lightweight for anything you might want to bring for the daytime like your camera, binoculars, a scarf, sunscreen etc.
Sunglasses
Don’t forget to bring some shades. Sunski makes sustainable sunglasses by turning scrap plastic into recycled frames. Yay for the planet!
Best Camera Gear for a Safari
If you want to capture some amazing shots of the animals you’ll need a good zoom lens. As far as a camera goes, you can just bring your iPhone but you may not get the epic up close shots you want. I personally rented a zoom lens for my Canon 5D Mark III. If you are going to use an iPhone it’s nice to have a lanyard, this way if you drop your phone it won’t go far, it is also easier to access when it’s hanging around your neck.
Don’t Forget Bug Protection
Insect bites can be more than just an annoyance; they can pose health risks in some areas.
Binoculars
Binoculars are key on a safari, but it’s hard to warrant the purchase when you don’t know when else you’d use them. These binoculars from Amazon are well-rated and relatively cheap.
Packing for a safari doesn’t need to be daunting. With the right wardrobe and essentials, you’ll feel prepared and comfortable for the adventure of a lifetime. By blending practicality with a touch of personal style, you can focus on the magic of the wilderness and the unforgettable moments that await.
Have any favorite safari packing tips or go-to items? Share them in the comments below!
Want to know more about the trip? Check out my post Experience an Authentic Safari in Kenya
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