Most safari travel specialist will tell you never to leave behind any essential item as they may be difficult to get once you are in the wilderness. It is therefore essential to do a proper inventory of what to carry for your African Wildlife Safari.
1. Safari Clothing
It is important o take note of the clothes you carry on safari as they shouldn’t only be for protection but also for comfortability. Long sleeve shirts and long pants are essential to protect you from annoying mosquito bites and to keep your skin covered from the hot sun. Most safari guides will tell you to avoid brightly colored clothing because it can attract animals the reason why most safari clothing come in khaki, tan, and light brown. Neutral colors are also effective in keeping you cooler during warm days. They are mainly cotton. Always remember to carry something for warmth as the nights might be a little bit chilly.
2. Back Pack
For many people on an African Safari a sturdy, waterproof backpack is an ideal way to bring your essential items. As a rule when packing, try not to have your pack weigh more than 50 kilogram since you will be lugging it around from one safari lodge to the other. Make sure the straps on your pack fit you comfortably. Talk to your travel specialist because you may only need a few days of clothing supply because many of the camps and lodges do have laundry facilities. It is also important to ask your tour operator what to carry when on specialized outdoor activities that include mountain climbing, bungee jumping, gorilla trekking and/ or water rafting
3. Sun and Mosquito Protection
In the wild you will encounter mosquitoes so it is important to have a strong mosquito repellent. Be sure to spray your clothing and any exposed skin. Avoid the use of perfume, hairspray and other scented products because they may attract mosquitoes. Around the equator and especially Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania being located on the Equator the temperatures are high. It is therefore important to have a good sunscreen to protect you from the sun rays
4. Polarized Sunglasses
Another item not to be left out is a pair of quality, polarized sunglasses. Polarized sunglasses are best for the strong, bright sun.
5. Walking Shoes
Remember to have a good and comfortable pair of walking or running shoes that fit you well. Don’t forget to pack quality socks too. You’ll probably want to also bring a pair of comfortable walking sandals.
6. Rain Gear/warm Jacket
Depending on the timing of your African Safari , there is need to bring a light rain gear for short rains (October – Early December) and long rains (March – April) and a warm jacket for the cold season (May – June).
7. Swimming Suit
Many lodges in the national parks and game reserves have swimming pools. Many safari experiences include the opportunity to swim in these pristine pools. Be sure to bring a good quality swimming suit so you can enjoy the water!
Other items you may want to bring include:
a) Personal toiletries
b) Camera equipment – always ensure that the equipment plug and electric cables conforms with that of the country you are visiting.
c) Extra contact lenses or glasses
d) Binoculars
e) Basic medical supplies
f) Waterproof bags – for your camera and other electronic devices
For first timers to Africa, an Africa safari to Kenya, Tanzania and/ or Uganda would be an excellent choice. The countries boast of amazing and magical wilderness with high probability of seeing big game. What you are likely to see here includes:
i) elephants of Amboseli
ii) the Great Rift Valley
iii) Wildebeest migration at the Masai Mara National Reserve
iv) Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro the highest point in Africa
v) Exploring the mankind archeological sites
vi) Explore the cultures of the people
vii) Explore miles of pristine white sand filled beaches
No matter what your interests, aspirations and dreams are, always ensure that you choose a good tour operator to make your African Safari not only memorable but a dream turn reality.
