A savannah safari is quite different from the other kinds of trips you go for. Here, you have to spend most of the time in the wild, navigating through the vast landscape of Africa on a jeep, and you would face tremendous dust. Thus, it would help to pack clothes that combat dust or hide the dirt. Also, the temperature in these regions changes drastically; in the morning, it might be sunny, and by night, there might be downpours. So, you have to take different layers and also rain cover.
Don’t get overwhelmed. This guide has all the details about what you must carry on your serengetti savannah safari.
Clothes and accessories
Always opt for lightweight and loose-fitted clothes to dry off quickly, even if they get caught in the shower. If the nights get chilly, you must bring at least one fleece jacket. Get long sleeves and trousers for early-game drives to protect you from insect bites, particularly mosquitoes. Also, when picking the colors, go for neutral shades and camouflaged clothes so that the dirt can hide. Do not wear blue as it can attract tsetse flies or other disease-carrying insects.
- T-shirts, both long and short long-sleeve.
- sweatshirt or fleece.
- lightweight raincoat.
- comfortable shorts.
- cotton trousers/pants.
- Socks.
- Swimsuit.
- Cotton underwear and pajamas.
You would also need sunglasses, a spare pair of glasses (if you wear contact lenses), a sunhat and warm woolen hat, lightweight, durable walking shoes or hiking boots, flip-flops or sandals, a money belt, and Ziploc bags to keep the dirty clothes separate from the rest.
Toiletries and first aid
You must carry a basic first aid kit, readily available at any lodge. But for your safety, you must bring along:
- Personal toiletries, including – shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothpaste and toothbrush.
- Deodorant, moisturizer, sunscreen (SPF 50+) and after-sun cream.
- Antiseptic gel.
- Sanitary products (for ladies).
- Mosquito repellant (including DEET).
- Malaria pills.
- Antihistamines for bug bites and allergic reactions.
- Painkillers (aspirin or Tylenol).
- Medicines for colds, flu and diarrhea.
- Antiseptic cream and band-aids.
- Prescription medicines, if any.
Electronic gadgets
Do not forget the electronic devices that you will need on the safari:
- Camera (with detachable lenses and a tripod).
- Spare memory cards and camera battery.
- If possible, get a solar charger.
- Binoculars.
- Spare AA and AAA batteries.
- Electrical adaptor.
- Small flashlight.
- Phone or tablet for storing photos and handy apps.
Pack for purpose
You must pack for the purpose if you want to support the local communities and help them maintain the wildlife parks, reserves, and other concession areas. You can bring along supplies, such as medications, clothing, or school supplies) which can be used in conservation and protection projects. To make a positive impact, you can ask the lodge you have booked to help you or suggest what items would be best and what they need.
Summing it up
You must always pack light, as many flights have baggage weight restrictions. You must also spend enough time researching and choosing all your options carefully. Also, ask whether laundry service is available at the safari camp or lodge. After packing all your valuables, invest in a decent lock.
