A safari is coming up and you would have to pack your things, but you just keep wondering what you should pack. Familiar situation? We’ve been there, too, and that’s why we created this great safari packing list to help you sort it out.

Packing for a safari can be an intimidating task if you don’t know what you’ll need and what you don’t. You could end up dragging things with you that you don’t need and forgetting to pack up something vital. We have learned to pack for the safari ”the hard way” –  through trial and error. But so that you don’t need to do that, we decided to create these safari packing tips to help you out. No need to look for a complete safari packing list anymore!

Where Are You Heading?

Your essential items depend on a bit on where exactly you’re heading. If you’re going to South Africa, you will need a slightly different set of clothes and accessories than if you’re heading to the remote areas of Uganda or the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Tune this list accordingly, but we’ve tried to gather a good, basic list of clothing and accessories as a foundation for you to build on. So far we have been in TanzaniaUganda, Rwanda, Zambia and the DRC, and we’ve gathered this list based on those adventures.

Zebras in the Serengeti, Tanzania

Necessary Safari Clothing

And if you’re heading somewhere where it will be cold (like climb a volcano and spend a night at the top, like we did in DRC), be sure to pack some long underwear and woolen cap to keep you warm when the temperature drops!

In addition to the normal trousers, I usually take one pair (or sometimes two, depending on the length of the trip) of army combat trousers. Those designed for hot/temperate climate, are almost unbeatable in their practicality; they have enough pockets, are made to endure extreme circumstances, and they’re comfortable to wear. What more could you ask for travel pants?!

An elephant and an infant in Tarangire National Park, Tanzania

What Shoes to Take?

It’s also a matter of choice, but we usually carry just three pairs: light trekking shoes, sandals, and barefoot shoes. If we’re about to do some serious trekking, I’d recommend taking the most comfortable shoes you own, which have some support for the ankle. If you don’t have one, I’d consider buying a pair of good, sturdy hiking shoes. Your feet will thank you after the 6-8 hour trek to the top of the mountain, for example. I have these HAIX Black Eagle Athletic 2.0 shoes (with Gore-Tex) and they have been unbeatable so far! HAIX makes shoes for the military and other professionals, so the quality is superb!

Essential Safari Accessories

These will also depend on how much you’re willing to carry around, but I would recommend going with only for the most necessary items for you. These are what we carry:

Fighting wildebeest in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Essential Electricals

The list below is what you’ll find in our bags. However, this section depends wholly on your preferences. Others will always carry their laptop; we take it more lightly. But one item that everyone who is serious about photography should carry around is a portable hard drive to back up all your memory cards on the road, and a sturdy tripod.

As you’re going on a safari, you could consider renting a telephoto lens, if you don’t own one yourself. It’s heavy and bulky to carry around but will give you quality photos. Just weigh the pros and cons, and don’t forget a good insurance if you decide to rent one. The other option is to get a good quality teleconverter for the lenses you already have.

*Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links. If you choose to use them, we may have a small commission from your purchases, but there will be absolutely no additional costs to you. But you will help us bring you more captivating stories and useful tips from around the world. Thank you so much! 

There you have it. This set will get you far. But what you would pack on a safari? Have we forgotten something? Let us know – we’d love to know your survival sets!

And – if you want to read more about packing for a safari, check out our Ultimate African Safari Packing List post here! 

Wondering what to pack for a safari? Check out our ultimate African safari packing list and get excited about your adventure! #safari #packinglist #Africa

You May Also Like to Read:

Elephants in the Masai Mara National Park in Kenya.

The Ultimate African Safari Packing List

What to pack for African safari? Don’t dither – we’re here to help you out with our ultimate guide on how to pack for an African safari.

Read More

Powdery paradise beach called Bwejuu, at the paradise island of Zanzibar

10 Romantic Destinations in East Africa

Arouse your wanderlust with our list of 10 romantic destinations in East Africa!

Read More

Elephants in Tarangire National Park, Tanzania

How to Plan the Best Safari in Tanzania

How to plan the best safari itinerary in Tanzania? What are the pros and cons of the high and low season? Check our safari planning tips before you go!

Read More

Wildebeests in the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

How to Choose a Safari Company in Tanzania: A Comprehensive Checklist

Safari in Tanzania should be the trip of a lifetime. Choose your safari company wisely to get the best out of the gorgeous national parks!

Read More

Privacy Preference Center