What to pack for African safari

Safari essentials for an unforgettable adventure

Your safari essentials include travel documents, insurance, safety items and a camera. These carefully selected items ensure you're not only comfortable but also ready to fully immerse yourself in the adventure of a lifetime.

These are more than just the basics. They are the tools that allow you to fully embrace the raw beauty of the landscapes and wildlife.

Travel documents and insurance

Packing for a safari journey begins with the essential travel documents: your passport, visas and travel insurance. These might not seem glamorous, but they're the gateway to your entire adventure. We recommend always having copies of each document on hand and ensuring everything is up to date well before departure.

We highly recommend travel insurance for your safari, both to provide peace of mind for those unexpected moments and to cover any cancellation costs. At ROAR AFRICA, we can facilitate travel insurance for residents of the U.S.; please contact us for more details.

Do you need a visa to go to Africa? It ultimately depends on where you are traveling from and where you are going to, but generally speaking, yes visas are widespread, easy-to-obtain requirements. For instance, South Africa allows visitors from the United States and Europe to visit for less than 90 days without a visa.

Our expert team of African specialists will seamlessly guide you through all the steps needed to set your safari in motion. We provide clear and detailed information to every guest on visa requirements, passport pages and any other documentation needed well in advance of a trip to Africa with clear instructions on how to seamlessly complete the steps needed.

Health and safety items

Make sure to bring any personal medications or prescriptions you may need, along with key health essentials like anti-malaria tablets, if recommended for your destination. Since countries do differ, you should consult your doctor regarding the vaccinations needed for safari travel. Nothing should stand between you and the full embrace of Africa's vast, wild landscapes.

The African sun is as relentless as it is radiant, so sunscreen is an absolute must. Protecting your skin ensures you can fully bask in the warmth of each new day without a care. Keep insect repellent close at hand, particularly for the early evening hours.

Whilst most of the lodges you will stay at will have a first-aid kit on hand, it is a good idea to bring your own supplies like band-aids, antiseptic wipes and headache relief. This will ensure that you're prepared for any minor mishap along the way. We also recommend a bottle of hand sanitizer to keep you feeling fresh on the move, allowing you to enjoy the day's adventures with a sense of ease.

Camera and binoculars

A high-quality camera with a zoom lens and preferably polarized is essential for capturing those unforgettable moments on safari. The experience is as much about what you see as it is about what you remember—a lion's slow, majestic movements, the vivid hues of a lilac-breasted roller in flight or the vibrant colors of a scarlet-chested sunbird darting through the sky. For avid photographers, we recommend bringing a long lens (300mm), a spare camera battery and a spare memory card. Two of our favorite recommendations are the Nikon COOLPIX P1000 Super-telephoto Digital camera or the Sony Alpha 7R Full-frame MirrorlessInterchangeable Lens Camera.

Pair your camera with binoculars to bring even the most distant wildlife up close. Whether it's the quiet grace of a giraffe grazing or the soaring majesty of an eagle in the desert sky, binoculars will allow you to fully appreciate every detail.

What clothes should I take on safari in Africa?

Africa's landscapes are diverse and your clothing should adapt to the changing environment. Africa is a continent with great contrasts in economicstanding and ways of life. Local clothing and attire reflecta community’s economy, culture, and religion. Even thoughclothing styles vary, informal and comfortable clothing isthe most common way of dressing. Most restaurants havean informal atmosphere; men are not required to weara tie or jacket, but most places expect collared shirts andclosed-toe shoes.

Lightweight clothes, neutral colors and layers are key when packing for safari. Think of your wardrobe as a simple, practical collection that supports your experience while keeping you comfortable.

Layers and fabrics

Neutral, lightweight layers should form the base of your safari attire. Stick to earthy tones like khaki, olive and beige. These colors blend seamlessly with the environment and make sure you don't disturb the wildlife. The tones also reflect the African landscape—rich, grounded and timeless.

Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen are best, offering both comfort and protection from the sun. In the early mornings and evenings, when the temperature can drop, a light fleece or puffer jacket will keep you cozy while you witness the stillness of the dawn or the desert's breeze.

It's also wise to include a lightweight, waterproof jacket. The African bush can surprise you with sudden showers, especially during the green season. A packable, breathable waterproof layer will keep you dry without compromising on comfort or mobility.

Your clothing should enhance your connection to the wild, allowing you to move freely, stay protected and feel at ease in the magnificent landscapes around you.

Essential accessories

A wide-brimmed hat is a must on your safari packing list.It serves to shield you from the sun but also to add that touch of safari elegance. And don't forget sunglasses—protecting your eyes from the powerful sun will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the landscapes as they unfold before you.

A scarf can provide extra protection from the wind and sun. A small backpack is perfect for carrying all your essentials (sunscreen, bug spray, camera extras, a hat, layers to add or remove depending on the temperature, bird and wildlife guidebooks, phone, sunglasses, tissues etc).

What footwear should I pack for safari?

The right footwear is crucial for an unforgettable safari. Sturdy hiking boots are essential, especially if you plan to explore rugged terrain or embark on a walking safari. These boots will keep your feet protected as you navigate the wild, guaranteeing you're ready for whatever the adventure brings.

But don't overlook the quieter moments. Pack a pair of comfortable sandals or light shoes for those afternoons at the lodge or for meandering along the scenic paths that lead you deeper into the African landscape.

Whether you're unwinding by the campfire or enjoying a sunset walk, the perfect footwear will let you move with ease and grace through every aspect of your journey.