in ,

A Wild Packing List: The Ten things you Really need on an African Safari

What do you need to take on an African safari?

What to Pack for An African Safari

Whether you’re headed on an African adventure to Kruger National Park or the Masai Mara or seeking safari stardom in Chobi or Etosha, there are some things you just can’t do without.

African Safari
African Safari By Simone Roda (Adorenomis) from Italia (Flickr) [CC-BY-2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

They might just not be what you’re expecting…

Sunblock

Note that we say block and not cream or screen. The African sun is harsh for most of the year and is often blazing hot on safari. At least for the first few days of exposure, factor 50 is advised; factor 30 is essential.

Catching a tan is not the priority here, and sunburn – the most likely outcome of not protecting yourself adequately – is just not fun on safari, where there is no escape from the heat.

A good torch

Finding your way between tents at night can be tricky in the wilderness, and you don’t want to lose your way in the wild! Try an LED option for brightness and battery life – you won’t be sorry.

Flip Flops

While sturdy walking or hiking boots are essential for long days spent seeking out a glimpse of that elusive endangered species you so wanted to see, a pair of flip-flops is pretty high on our list of safari must-haves too.

Trust us, there’s nothing better than hanging your dirty boots outside your tent and letting your feet breathe in a pair of lightweight flip-flops.

A camera

On safari, you will make memories you’ll want to treasure forever, so make sure your camera is up to the job! If you’re looking to buy something new but aren’t too specialist or high-tech, a Canon EOS 1 with appropriate accessories is a great place to start.

Binoculars

A good pair – at least 8 x 30 magnification – of binoculars are none negotiable for those serious about spotting some wildlife. Go a little more pro than you were planning with yours – we promise you won’t regret it. For the best value, check out the range of Zeiss binoculars at uttingsoutdoors.co.uk – they seem to be around two-thirds of the price of equivalent models of Leica or Swarovski models and are just as good.

A waterproof bag

We say waterproof, but really we mean dustproof! Dust is a silent killer, and expensive gadgets are its victims of choice. Protect your valuables intelligently, and keep them safe from the rain too…

A dose of malaria cure

Experienced safari goers don’t generally take malaria prophylactics like Maralone. Instead, they keep a supply of Coartem of Cotecxin handy at all times, which works effectively to cure a fever just as well as Malaria. (Obviously, you should discuss your options with a healthcare professional before taking any medication.)

A sports bra

This is one for the girls (sorry, guys), but a good and well-fitting sports bra is essential for a successful safari! Rides can often get a little bumpy, especially if time is of the essence of the terrain is rough, which it so often is on game drives.

Your iPad

While obviously, not everyone is lucky enough to own an iPad or tablet, they are great for safari! Easily reference species of plants and animals, use it to keep a journal of this once-in-a-lifetime experience, or just listen to music on it when it’s time to relax each evening.

A sense of fun

The most important thing you need to bring on an African safari is the drive to have an adventure – everything else pales in comparison!

Want more updates about new package tours and tourist spots in South Africa? Follow #TeamOutofTown, on Facebook, TwitterInstagram, Bloglovin, and Pinterest for more travel ideas.

Also read:

Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

What do you think?

Comments

AirAsia Zest opens direct Manila to Miri, Malaysia route

AirAsia Zest offers free seats to celebrate new Manila to Macau route