What to Pack for an African Safari in Summer

If you're planning a Southern Africa safari between October and March, you're heading into the Southern Hemisphere summer. Expect hot days, afternoon thunderstorms, lush vegetation, and temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to over 100°F depending on the region.

Choose lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors such as olive, khaki, brown, or tan. Avoid bright and white clothing.

Recommended clothing 

• 3–4 lightweight long-sleeve collared safari shirts

• 2–3 pairs of lightweight long trousers

• 2 -3 pair of lightweight waterproof shorts 

• Long sleeve Kaftan or 2 for the ladies. My favorites have a collar

• Practical underwear

• Lightweight scarf

• Kikoi / wrap 

• Swimwear

• Wide-brim hat or cap

• Lightweight fleece or waterproof jacket for early mornings/evening drives

  
  

Long sleeves and a collar or a light weight scarf can help protect against sun exposure, insects, and thorn bushes while remaining surprisingly cool.

Footwear

A common mistake is bringing heavy mountain boots, rather pack:

• Comfortable, broken-in walking/hiking shoes/boots

• Quality hiking socks

• Lightweight closed camp shoes for evenings - mosquitoes love to bite open toes 

• Flip flops for around the pool / spa

Essential Gear

A quality pair of 8x42 or 10x42 binoculars is one of the most valuable pieces of equipment you'll bring.

A small squashable backpack is useful for taking on game drives, excursions or to the pool.

Day Pack and things to put in it

• Camera plus charger, battery, cables and sim cards if relevant  

• Sunscreen

• Lip balm 

• Insect repellent - some lodges supply, I prefer to bring my own

• Light Rain jacket

• Light fabric scarf - versatile for sun protection, night drives, even protecting your camera from dust 

• Tissues

• Eye wear (if you wear prescription sunglasses and need to change over when the light changes)

• Glasses/lense cleaner

• Book/journal and pen 

• Waterbottle - most lodges provide but its good to travel with one for in transit

Travel Essentials

Don't forget:

• Passport with enough pages in it to travel and valid 6 months post trip

• Travel insurance documents

• Prescription medication

• Charging cables and adapters/converter plug 220v

• Camera batteries 

Keep important documents in your carry-on luggage and copies in your checked luggage.

What You Don't Need

• Heavy winter jackets

• Multiple pairs of boots

• High heels 

• Bright clothing

• Heavy scented perfumes, lotions and body sprays (animals are highly sensitive to smells)

  
  

Final Thoughts

African safaris are surprisingly simple when it comes to clothing and equipment. Comfortable shoes, lightweight clothing, quality binoculars, and a practical foldable day pack with some essentials will cover most situations.

Focus on being comfortable rather than packing for every possibility. Remember you are in the wild, respect the animals natural habitat and behavior.