There is a very specific kind of magic on safari. The sky glows, the birds begin their morning conversations, and you are wrapped in a blanket in the back of an open vehicle, wondering how it can feel this cold in Africa. Packing for that moment should feel effortless. You do not need a brand-new safari wardrobe. You just need a few pieces that keep you comfortable, confident, and ready for the adventure ahead.

Colors and Clothing

Neutrals are your best friend on safari. Shades like olive, tan, cream, sand, and soft browns are comfortable, practical, and photograph beautifully. They help you feel part of the landscape without standing out.

Avoid camouflage patterns. Even though they may feel “safari appropriate,” in many parts of Africa camouflage is associated with military or security forces. Wearing it can make staff or local communities uneasy, which is the last thing you want when everyone is focused on enjoying the wildlife.

Skip black, bright blues, and flashy colors. These tend to attract insects and make you more visible to animals than you might want.

I did wear white a few times. It worked well on self drives in a closed vehicle or when visiting the penguins in Simon’s Town. On open safari vehicles, I usually layered something neutral over it so it didn’t stand out.

Layering is key. Mornings and evenings can be surprisingly cold, especially in open vehicles where the wind hits differently. A light fleece or sweater with a windbreaker makes sunrise drives much more comfortable. Closed-toe shoes are safest for climbing in and out of vehicles, though flat sandals are perfect around the lodge.

Great options for daytime

• Short sleeve shirts or golf shirts

• Light long sleeve shirts

• Shorts or breathable pants

• Comfortable skirt that is easy to climb in and out of a vehicle

• Tracksuit or loungewear

• Swimsuit

For early mornings and evenings

• Fleece or lightweight sweater

• Windbreaker or light jacket

• Rain jacket in summer months

• Scarf, gloves, beanie if you get cold easily

Shoes and accessories

• Comfortable closed shoes like sneakers

• Flat sandals for the lodge

• Sun hat or cap

• Bandana or buff for dusty drives

Nicer outfit if staying at a luxury hotel or taking a train journey

Weather and What to Expect

Late October in South Africa is spring moving toward summer. Days can be warm enough for shorts and tank tops, but mornings and evenings are often chilly. Layering is your best friend. Open safari vehicles make the cold feel stronger, so a scarf or buff really helps. Many lodges keep blankets or rain jackets in the vehicle, but check ahead so you know what to expect.

Laundry on Safari

Laundry is one of those small comforts that can make safari life feel easier. Some lodges include it, some charge for it, and it varies from camp to camp. Your travel advisor can check this for you, or you can reach out to the property directly.

On our trip, one lodge offered six pieces of laundry per person each day and the other charged per item. We saved everything for the lodge that included it and it was wonderful to have fresh clothes waiting after a long day of game drives.

Many national park rest camps have simple washing areas for those who want to do their own laundry. If you plan to wash by hand, pack a small travel-sized detergent. Laundry is never glamorous, but on safari it is a tiny luxury that can make life feel easier and fresher.

Health and Comfort

Some safari regions, including Kruger National Park, are malaria zones. Check well in advance to know whether you need malaria medication.

Many lodges supply insect repellent, so it is worth asking before you pack a large bottle.

Useful items

SPF 30+ sunscreen

Lip balm

Moisturiser

Small medical kit with basics like plasters, antiseptic, and pain relief

Polarised sunglasses

Backup glasses if you wear contacts

Luggage Rules

Small safari aircraft

• These tiny planes are often used for lodge transfers.

• 20 kg total including carry-on

• Soft, flexible bags only, Approx. 70 x 30 x 33 cm, Hard cases are not allowed

Regular flights like Airlink

• Serves Skukuza, Cape Town, Johannesburg, and other hubs

• Standard carry-on plus 20 kg checked bag

• Hard shell luggage is allowed

• Much easier than the smaller bush planes
  
  

Gear for a Better Safari Experience

• Small backpack for walking safaris

• Crossbody or moonbag for game drives to keep essentials secure

• Tote bag for layers

• Camera with extra memory cards, batteries, and chargers

• Binoculars

• Dustproof or waterproof cover for camera/binoculars

• Charging cables and adapters

• Cash for tips (ZAR in South Africa, USD accepted in many other countries)

A Final Note

Safari is one of those experiences that stays with you. The early light. The quiet. The thrill of seeing wildlife just a few feet away. Packing well lets you fully enjoy it. Layers, neutral colors, a little planning for health and laundry, and thoughtful luggage choices are all you need.

If you want help choosing the right lodge, planning your routing, or making sure every detail supports the kind of trip you imagine, we would love to design it with you. Reach out to us and we will guide you through every step with care and clarity.