Packing for an African safari? I’ve gathered my top safari essentials that I brought or (wish I brought) when I went on safari in South Africa’s Kruger, Zimbabwe’s Zambezi, and Botswana’s Chobe Nationals Parks.
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Top Safari Essential Items
Going on an African safari is an exciting once-in-a-lifetime experience. It offers the amazing opportunity to witness wildlife in their natural habitat and see the vast lands of Africa. To ensure you make the most out of your safari, it’s best to be prepared so that you can enjoy your experience with comfort, safely, and stress-freely! Here’s a comprehensive list of the top 15 essentials you should pack for your next African safari.
1. Binoculars
This is probably the most vital item to pack: binoculars! They allow you to observe animals that are in farther off distances, and also protects you and the wildlife by viewing them from safe distances. Binoculars with 8x, 10x, or 12x magnification is ideal.
These have a strong magnification at 12x, but it also comes with an attachment to hold your camera phone to view through the eyehole. Of course you can use the binoculars without the attachment but I thought this was such a cool feature! It came in handy when I didn't have a fancy high-quality camera and wanted some cool zoomed in shots with my camera phone.
2. Camera
Capture all the breathtaking moments of your safari with a high-quality camera. Be sure to bring extra memory cards, batteries or its charger and a power bank. These items made sure I didn’t miss any incredible photo opportunities. To photograph wildlife from afar, I also had a zoom lens, which is extremely useful to captures amazing close-up shots.
3. Portable Charger / Power Bank
This power bank seemingly lasts forever and can charge my phone multiple times before the power bank needs its own recharge. It's slim and compact size is also perfect to bring with you everywhere.
4. Reusable Water Bottle
When out in hot climates (such as on safari), it’s important to stay hydrated. I recommend bringing a durable and reusable water bottle that you can refill up! A bottle with insulation also ensures it keeps the water cool when you need a hydrating sip.
Hydro Flask has been my go-to water bottle since its insulation is top notch! It keeps the water so nice and cold for such a long time, I was so glad I had this with me on safari.
Perfect for maintaining the temperature of your drinks, these bottles are a must-have for staying cool and hydrated, especially during long outdoor activities
5. Cooling Towel
A cooling towel is a great addition to your safari gear. It is a simple yet effective way to quickly cool down on hot days. Simply wet it, wring it, and place it around your neck or head for instant cooling.
I can’t say how many times these cooling towels have saved me on hot days, especially on safari, so I just can’t recommend them enough!
33" x 6.5"
The dimensions are perfect to hang around your neck or tie into a headband
RELATED: Top Items to Keep You Cool
6. Dissolvable Soap Sheets
I literally bring these with me everywhere!! Extremely convenient when I'm in need of soap. Some public restrooms may not have soap, so these are great to stay clean for exactly these moments. Also, they’re super compact and easy to pack and bring with you everywhere.
7. Tissue / Toilet Paper
Some public restrooms on safari may also not have toilet paper, so pack a small tissue or toilet paper. Additionally, if you need to “go” while out on safari, the guide may have to find a safe area for you to where having a pack of tissue will definitely come in handy. This will ensure you’re prepared for any situation and add a layer of comfort to your adventure. Just make sure to bring a small bag for trash to dispose of the paper afterwards.
I tend to have a ..smaller bladder.. than most, so I ended up needing to relieve myself while on a game drive, so having toilet paper on me was super handy and I was so glad I brought these!!
8. Small Bag for Trash
To keep all your waste in one place and not litter, bring a small trash bag. This will also be helpful when you need to potty and throw your soiled papers away as well. While I was on safari, I was so glad I had one of these. One, I unexpectedly had a runny nose, and two, I ended up needing to relieve myself while on a game drive… Because of these experiences, a small plastic bag really came in handy to hold my tissues/toilet papers.
9. Insect Repellant
On safari, you may go into areas with high mosquito activity. Be prepared with insect repellent which will keep you safe from bites and reduce the risk of any insect diseases (like malaria).
I have been scarred both mentally and physically by mosquito bites so I always make sure to bring some with me, especially when camping or lodging out in the African wilderness.
10. First Aid Kit
Contains a variety of items including bandages, gauze, and antiseptic wipes. This is super helpful for minor injuries or cuts
11. Sunscreen & SPF Lip Balm
When out in the African sun, be sure to apply sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from sunburn. Also, don’t forget a lip balm with SPF too to keep your lips from sunburning and drying out. I usually bring the below sunscreen and lip balm since they are non-greasy and provide the necessary sun protection!
12. Backpack
To hold all your safari essentials, bring a sturdy and comfortable backpack. I brought the size Small of this backpack on safari and it was small enough to easily fit on the safari truck with me but also had enough space to hold all my belongings.
13. Hats & Sunglasses
When out on safari, wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your eyes and face from the harsh sun. Some safari trucks will have covers, but the sun’s rays will still be able to reach you, so best to be prepared and bring protection.
Having these easily accessible were so handy for me when the sun was BEAMING. I usually sat at the outer sides of the safari truck so the sun always directly hit me so I was SO glad I had a hat and sunglasses to help shield from the bright and strong sun rays.
14. Comfortable Footwear
Wear shoes or sandals that will last the day! On some safaris, you will be mostly sitting on a safari truck, and there are walking safaris where you’ll be on your feet exploring the lands. In either case, wear footwear that’s comfortable and can last you the whole day.
For an open-toed option, I swear by Crocs’ Brooklyn Collection for women. They provide the famously sought-for comfort that Crocs is known for, and they’re cute and goes with any outfit! I have brought these to almost every destination (non- cold weather) and I can last all day on my feet in them. The extra height boost from the 1.9-inch (4.8-cm) platform is an added bonus for a shortie like me too.
15. Lightweight Clothing
When packing for a safari, it’s best to wear colors where you’ll blend in with the environment. Light-colored earthy tones such as beige and olive green will blend nicely. It’s also best to avoid wearing vibrant and bright colors since they may startle the wildlife or maybe even see you as a threat.
Additionally, layer your clothing while on safari. Early morning and evening safaris can get chilly so dressing in layers allows you to adjust to the changing weather. I always brought a light cardigan with me just for the early morning and evening game drives and it was such a good idea! Especially since the safari trucks were open-air so it felt way colder than it was.
Final Words
By packing these safari essentials, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable safari adventure. Additionally, the key to a successful safari is preparation and respect for the natural environment. Enjoy the journey and the incredible wildlife encounters that await you.
Do you have go-to Safari Essentials you swear by?
Share it in the comments — I’d love to hear about them!
(shona “thank you!”)
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