The Essential African Safari Packing List (+ Top Tips!) 2025

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If you’re planning a safari and are unsure what to pack, this essential African safari packing list—crafted from my experience as an adventure traveler who has been on five safaris across three African countries—will ensure you’re fully prepared.

This list covers everything you need for different types of safaris, including game drive safaris, walking safaris, canoe or paddling safaris, horse safaris, gorilla safaris, and mountain trekking safaris. By following my safari packing list and top tips, you’ll pack appropriately while also considering luggage restrictions, weather conditions, and essential gear.

At the end of this post, you’ll find a free printable safari packing list to make preparing for your trip even easier!

Complete African Safari Packing List

Here’s everything you need to bring to ensure a smooth and enjoyable safari experience.

Essential Safari Gear

The absolute must-haves that every safari traveler should pack include the following:

1. Luggage

Choosing the right luggage is crucial. You want to be well-prepared while keeping your luggage within airline weight limits. This is particularly true if you’re going on a fly-in safari and are taking a bush plane with a 33-44 lbs weight restriction, which includes your personal items and carry-on bag.

Here are my recommendations:

• Soft-sided duffle- often required for fly-in safaris
• Small waterproof backpack- to carry essential items while you’re on game drives, walks and safari activities

2. Clothing

Safari clothing should be lightweight, breathable, and neutral-colored to blend with the environment and keep you comfortable in varying temperatures. At a minimum, I recommend these basics:

Tops & Outerwear

• Overshirts or tunics (mid-sleeve or long-sleeve)
• Moisture-wicking tank tops or t-shirts
• Fleece jacket
• Light pullover sweater
• Lightweight rain jacket or poncho

Bottoms

• Lightweight, water-resistant pants
• Leggings or linen pants

Also, pack a casual outfit (slacks and shirt or a dress) for dinnertime.

Undergarments

• Breathable, moisture-wicking underwear
• Breathable, moisture-wicking bra

Footwear

• Blister-proof socks- beneficial for walking safaris
• Lightweight hiking boots
• Sandals – for relaxing around the camp or lodge
• Flip flops- for shower shoes

Accessories

• Buff wrap- to protect your face from dirt and dust
• Wide-brimmed hat-a good safari hat provides full sun protection, especially for the back of your neck, and is breathable, allowing heat to escape
• Scarf- perfect to warm yourself up on chilly morning and evening game drives
• Swimsuit- some lodges have pools
• Sunglasses with polarised lens
• Sleepwear

Pro tip: When packing consider that most camps/lodges provide laundry service, but will not wash your undergarments due to local culture and customs. This means you can re-wear your clothes, making it easier to stick to luggage limits.

3. Toiletries

Most camps provide shampoo, conditioner, soaps, and insect repellent, so you don’t need to bring these unless you have specific brand preferences. Be sure to use travel-friendly bottles to save weight and space. Stick to biodegradable toiletries to minimize your environmental impact.

Skincare & Sun Protection

• SPF 50 sunscreen
• Lip balm with SPF
• Soothing after-sun lotion
• Moisturising lotion

Personal Hygiene

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
• Deodorant
• Hand sanitizer
• Wet wipes
• Hairbrush or comb
• Contact lens fluid (if needed)
• Feminine hygiene products (if needed)
• Shaving accessories

Pro- Tip: Bring a pair of glasses as a backup in case your contact lenses get irritated by dust.

4. First-Aid Kit

To stay prepared for any minor health issues, pack the following to last you your entire trip:

• Malaria medication- Check if your safari camp is in a malaria area and if malaria prophylaxis is recommended.
• Ibuprofen
• Immodium
• Benedryl
• Dramamine
• Cold/Flu medicine
• Antiseptic wipes or cream
• Band-aids
• Blister pads- If you’re going on a lot of walking safaris
• Hydration Packets
• Clinical Thermometer
• Prescription medications-Bring any prescription medications you take regularly. Keep prescriptions in their original bottles and store them in your carry-on bag.

Pro-Tip: Save cost on travel clinic consultation and medication costs by using Runway Health. I used them to cut my expenses on my malaria prevention and traveler’s diarhhea medication for my trip to Kruger National Park.

Before you arrive: I pre-treated my safari clothing with Permethrin to keep mosquitoes at bay before packing.

5. Electronics

• A small, LED flashlight or a compact headlamp- Great for sunrise and evening game drives
• Travel plug adaptor- Africa generally uses 3-prong round or square plugs
• Travel-sized power strip- Charge multiple devices at once
• Camera or mobile phone- For all those epic photo opportunities
• Power bank- For extended time away from charging sources.
• Chargers for your electronic devices

6. Travel Essentials

• Apple Airtag- Place in your checked luggage to track your bags when flying
• Shoe Covers –Keep your clothes clean from dirt and dust
• Compression Packing Cubes – Organize luggage and save space
• Binoculars – 8×40 / 8×42 is recommended for birding and mammal viewing
• Copies of your travel documents- including travel insurance policy, passport, and visa
• Travel Journal
• Reusable water bottle
• Money belt

Gorilla Trekking Essentials

For gorilla trekking experiences, pack these specific items:

• Garden gloves – Protect your hands when gripping tree roots and branches
• Long waterproof socks & gaiters – Prevent scratches and protect from army ants
• Light raincoat – rain is common in trekking areas
• Water-resistant pants – Protects against stinging nettles and mud
• Sturdy hiking boots – Ensures good ankle support and traction
• Lightweight, foldable backpack – Carry essentials easily

What Not To Bring On Safari

Avoid packing unnecessary items that could cause issues during your trip. Here’s what to leave at home:

❌ Camouflage-patterned clothing – In some southern African countries, wearing camouflage is restricted to military personnel.

❌ Bright or dark-colored clothing – Dark colors like black and blue attract tsetse flies, and bright colors can disturb wildlife.

❌ Single-use plastics – Many countries in East Africa have banned single-use plastic bags (zip-lock bags are acceptable).

❌ Heavy makeup– Safari conditions make minimal makeup more practical—pack only essentials like sunscreen, concealer, and tinted lip balm.

❌ Strong fragrances – These can attract insects and aren’t practical for safari conditions.

❌ Drones- Not allowed at most camps.

❌ High-voltage beauty tools like hairdryers and straighteners- Many camps can’t support electricity for these devices.

❌ Expensive jewelry

Helpful Safari Packing Tips

Packing efficiently can make your safari experience smoother and more enjoyable. Keep these expert tips in mind:

Neutral Clothing

Wearing earth-tone colors like khaki, olive, and tan helps you blend into your surroundings, making it easier to observe wildlife.

Breathable, Lightweight Fabrics for the Heat

Temperatures can get scorching during the day, so opt for moisture-wicking, breathable fabrics like linen or performance synthetic blends to stay cool and comfortable.

Layers for Chilly Mornings & Evenings

Morning game drives can be surprisingly cold, even in the hottest countries. Pack a lightweight fleece or puffer jacket that you can easily remove as the day warms up.

Comfortable, Waterproof Footwear

Whether you’re walking through savannah grasslands or trekking through the mountains, waterproof hiking boots or sturdy sneakers will keep your feet protected and comfortable.

FAQs

Still have questions about your safari travel checklist? Here are some common concerns:

Is grey okay to wear on safari?

Yes, grey is fine, but earth tones like khaki, olive, and tan are best for blending in with nature.

Is it okay to wear jeans on a safari?

Jeans can be uncomfortable in the heat and take longer to dry, so lightweight travel pants are a better option.

Can I wear sneakers on safari?

Yes, sneakers work well for game drives. However, hiking boots are recommended for walking safaris or gorilla trekking.

Can I wear leggings on safari?

Leggings are great for layering, but may not be ideal for hot weather. Consider lightweight, loose-fitting pants instead.

Final Thoughts: What to Pack for an African Safari

Packing for an African safari doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Focusing on practical, comfortable, and lightweight essentials will prepare you for an unforgettable adventure. Use this guide as a reference, download the free printable safari checklist, and get ready to experience the breathtaking landscapes and incredible wildlife Africa has to offer!

Happy Safari Planning!

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