What to pack for your privately guided African Safari?
Planning a private African safari is an exciting step toward experiencing one of the world’s most breathtaking adventures. Packing the right gear for a privately guided safari ensures you’re prepared for both adventure and comfort, allowing you to focus on the incredible wildlife and scenery. Here’s the ultimate guide on what to pack for your personalized African safari.
1. Safari Clothing: Lightweight, Comfortable, and Protective
When packing for your private African safari, prioritize lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral tones such as khaki, beige, and olive. These colors help you blend in with the natural environment, enhancing your game-viewing experience. No loud colours that will scare off the African wildlife and your fellow safari goers. Short sleeved shirts and pants are essential for protection against the sun and insects, especially during early morning and evening game drives.
Make sure sure your clothes are loose and comfortable and resist the urge to buy anything expensive; it won’t be designed for the African bush and you’ll be sad when it gets torn on an acacia thorn. Your clothes will get beat up and dusty. Choose moisture-wicking fabrics or cotton that will dry quickly, as some areas can be hot and humid during the day. Long sleeve shirts and pants are great to keep the mosquitoes off in the evenings. By all means bring something nice for dinner. We encourage some safari chic, but don't expect your guide to be quite as stylish!
Don’t forget to bring a warm jacket or fleece for cooler mornings and evenings. Especially from June to August. You will need a waterproof in the wet season (November - April).
A wide-brimmed safari hat and UV-protection sunglasses will shield you from the sun’s harsh rays.
As to respect local culture, you must cover your knees and shoulders in predominately Islamic areas such as the coast and islands of Tanzania.
Key Tip: Most safari camps we visit do laundry, so you can get away with not checking luggage if you’re extra clever at packing.
2. Best Safari Footwear for Walking and Game Drives
For privately guided walking safaris, pack sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes or boots with good ankle support. Comfortable footwear is crucial when exploring the bush on foot or embarking on game drives. Sandals or flip-flops are perfect for relaxing around your lodge or camp after a long day of adventure. Reef shoes are great if you are going in the ocean.
Key Tip: Break in your hiking boots before your trip to avoid blisters and discomfort during bush walks.
3. Essential Safari Gear: Binoculars, Camera, and Daypack
Invest in high-quality binoculars to enhance your wildlife-spotting experience. A private safari guide will tailor your game drives to your interests, so having binoculars ensures you never miss a close-up of rare animals. Find out more about those here. A good camera with extra batteries and memory cards is a must for capturing the awe-inspiring landscapes and wildlife moments. More on camera packing here.
Carry a lightweight daypack for your essentials during game drives—water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, and your camera.
Key Tip: Our private safari guides are expert photographers, so don’t hesitate to ask for tips on getting the best wildlife shots.
4. Health and Safety Essentials
Pack insect repellent (preferably with DEET), sunscreen with high SPF, and any prescription medications you may need. Depending on your safari destination, consider bringing anti-malaria tablets—we can advise you based on the season and location. A compact first aid kit is useful for minor injuries or insect bites (painkillers, antihistamine, re-hydration salts, Imodium).
Key Tip: Pack travel-sized versions of your toiletries and health items to keep your luggage light and quick through security.
5. Luxury Touches and Practical Items
For a more enriching experience, consider bringing a journal to capture your thoughts and reflections during your safari. This can be a special way to remember unique moments shared with your private guide, friends and family. A waterproof bag for your electronics is essential for safaris that may involve water activities or unpredictable weather. Phone and charger. Information on Wifi can be found here.
Remember a power bank to charge your devices in remote areas, and check with us regarding the types of electrical outlets at your accommodations. A small flashlight or head torch is very useful.
On the lightweight aircraft we use to fly to remote safari areas, luggage is limited to 15kgs per person. Preferably in soft shelled bags that are easier to carry and don’t fall off the back of game viewers.
If you are gorilla or chimpanzee trekking, going on a longer walking safari, diving or another specialised activity on safari, make sure to contact us for specific packing advice.
Key Tip: Don’t forget a good book!
By packing these essentials, you’ll be fully prepared to enjoy every moment of your luxury, privately guided African safari. With personalized attention from your boutique safari guide, you’ll experience Africa’s wilderness like never before—ensuring unforgettable memories and spectacular wildlife encounters.