SAFARI GUIDES

Packing List for Your First African Safari

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First-time safari-goers almost always overpack the wrong things and underpack the ones that actually matter. Here’s what genuinely earns a spot in your bag, based on what we see clients actually use — and regret not bringing — trip after trip.

Clothing

Neutral-colored clothing (khaki, olive, brown) — avoid bright colors and pure white

A warm layer for early morning game drives, even in dry season

Breathable long sleeves and trousers for sun and insect protection

Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes, broken in before you travel

A wide-brimmed hat

Health & Comfort

Insect repellent with DEET

Any prescribed antimalarial medication, started on schedule before travel

Sunscreen, high SPF

A basic personal first-aid kit

Reusable water bottle

Gear Worth Bringing

Binoculars matter more than most first-timers expect — many camps have a few to share, but your own pair means you’re not waiting your turn during a good sighting. A camera with a longer zoom lens is worth it if photography matters to you; phone cameras struggle at safari distances. A headlamp or small torch is genuinely useful at bush camps after dark.

“The single most common regret we hear isn’t something people brought – it’s binoculars they didn’t. Everything else is replaceable in-country; that usually isn’t.”

What to Leave at Home

Camouflage clothing is restricted for civilian use in several African countries and best avoided entirely. Heavy luggage is a genuine problem on light aircraft transfers between camps, which often have strict soft-bag weight limits — we’ll tell you the exact limit for your specific itinerary before you pack.

Written by the Predom Team

We brief every client on exactly what their specific itinerary requires before they travel — this list covers the essentials that apply almost universally, but always check your personal packing note against us first.

PLAN YOUR TRIP