First safari? First of all, welcome! Secondly, let’s make sure you get the best experience, which starts with what to pack for a safari.
Hi, I’m Steph, a South African who has been going on safaris for almost 3 decades. So, I’d say I’ve got the packing list down! Today, we’ll cover your safari travel essentials and some bonus tips.
Go check out my safari_with_steph TikTok for more fun content ♥.
Without further ado, let’s jump into it.
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What to Pack for a Safari in South Africa (Ultimate Packing List)
1. What to Wear on Safari in South Africa
Let’s start with the basics: Clothing.
Pack for any weather. You can get cool days, and then days you feel like you are melting. Also, don’t forget to account for rainy weather.
WHAT I PACK
So, this really depends on the season, but we tend to go in the summer. In a nutshell:Â
- Tops and t-shirts
- Shorts (for the summer)
- Jeans or trousers
- Underwear (obviously)
- Jacket or hoodie
- Pyjamas
- Hat (essential)
- Sunglasses
- SocksÂ
- Comfortable shoes
- Closed boots (crucial for a game walk)
- Hair tie or clip (trust me, you’ll want your hair up)
WHAT YOU CAN ADD
I usually skip these, but if you’re not used to the climate, they can help:
- Scarf or buff – great for sun and dust
- More long-sleeved shirts and trousers if sunburn is a major concern.
2. Toiletries to Pack for a Safari
HERE’S THE CATCH
Please check with the lodge before assuming basic toiletries (body wash, shampoo, conditioner) are provided.
Most tourists stay in luxury lodges, and they tend to have all the basics, robes, etc. But self-catering accommodation (like the main camps in the Kruger National Park) does not provide these things. They will only lay out towels and one bar of soap; that’s it.
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3. Safari Tech Essentials
These are the most commonly forgotten items.Â
- Travel adapters –South African plugs are different
- Power bank – Your phone will die, especially if you’re like me and film everything
- Camera – This could include a GoPro or other gear, such as a gimbal. Here’s the gear I use:
- Camera: Canon EOS 800D
- Lenses: Sigma DG 150-500mm, Canon EF-S 18-55mm, and Canon EF-S 55-250mm
- Extra batteries and SD cardsÂ
- Laptop – if you need to clean storage space
- Binoculars – a game changer! I use the Nikon Action 16×50
- Headlamp or flashlight – for walking at night
- Spotlight (optional but amazing).
- If you’re staying along a fence or riverbed, you can spot animals at night. We see hyenas all the time, and once watched a full takedown of a kudu right in front of our tent. Imagine missing that because you couldn’t see properly!
Important note: DO NOT bring a drone. They are not allowed in the game reserves. It is a strict rule, and you will be fined.
4. Medications For A Safari
We never travel without a small meds bag. Think basics, like:
- Personal chronic medicationsÂ
- Pain meds
- Antihistamines
- Antibacterial ointment
- Stomach meds
- Basics like Band-Aids, gauze, antiseptic cream, etc
- Cold/flu meds (for in case)
LET’S TALK MALARIA
Some regions, like the Kruger National Park, are malaria areas.
Please consult your doctor before your trip. Personally, we do not take malaria meds for our holidays, but this is a PERSONAL choice, and not medical advice.
5. Experience Enhancers For Your Safari
Not essential, but fun to have:
- Birding or animal guides. These even play sounds! BUT do not use these around animals (especially predators). They are territorial, and you can put your life in danger
- A day bag or tote for drives
- Reusable water bottle (hydration is key)
- Notebook to journal all your memories and sightings.
Conclusion
Let me know if this is your first safari, and where you are going! You can DM me with any questions @coffee_with_steph, I’m always happy to help!
That’s a wrap on what to pack for a safari in South Africa. With this packing list, you will be more than ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Also, go check out my safari TikTok here!
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Have a great day wherever you are in the world!
Love, Steph ♥
