African safaris primary comprise game drives (by definition) with a lot of time spent in safari in the search for, usually, hard to trace wildlife.

Travelling light is highly recommended, as the safari vehicle may not have a large capacity for luggage. This is also true for the small aircrafts used for safari destinations.  

Key essentials include safari pants (jeans), scarfs, moisturizer, sun screen and emergency need medicines. Accessories such as power back-ups for phone recharges are highly recommended. 

Water proof bags are highly recommended as it should be noted that some countries, including Kenya, have banned the use of plastic bags.

Comfort is king should be prioritized over anything else when you’re spending time in the African bush.

Laundry Service

Laundry service is available in many medium to premium camps and lodges, save for underwear washing. DIY is highly recommended for this.

Pants and Long Sleeves

Long sleeves pants and shirts shield one from the sun and prevent painful sunburns. They also safeguard against insect bites and tree scratches if hiking. Shorts, mini-skirts and sleeveless tops can be fine around the camp or lodge.

Jackets & Scarves

The best game drives are usually in the early morning 5am – 6am when the temperatures are really low, hence requiring a jacket.  Scarves help protect one from the sun when the early morning clothing is no longer applicable.

Casual Dresses

Recommended for life around the lodge, bonfires etc.

Sports Bra

Enhance comfort in the rough off-road driving.

Any pair of sturdy closed-toe shoes are great. Avoid heavy footwear.

Flip flops are great around pools and for enjoying walks at the lodges/camps.

A wide brim style hat with a chin strap protects against the sun. The strap keeps the hat from flying off in the wind.  

Swim Suit and Casual Clothes for Around Camp

Medium to premium camps have swimming pools, with a great opportunity for relaxation.  Shorts and a casual shirts/t-shirts are great here.

Waterproof Bag

Keeps the dust and overflows away from equipment.

Skin and Hair Care

In the dry African bush good moisturizers and conditioners are invaluable. In some upmarket lodges small shampoo and conditioner units may be provided. Lip balms ensure the lips do not dry out.

Other Accessories

Plug Convertors

Regular voltage I Africa is 220-240 volts (50Hz), with medium to premium lodges/hotels facilitating other voltage levels for international clients use of their personal equipment in their individual accommodation rooms.

Mobile universal plug adapters for one’s  use are highly recommended to avoid surprises. We always bring one of our own anyway, just in case. Plus having an extra means we can charge up all our electronic devices and camera batteries without having to pick and choose.

While many electronics are dual voltage (can operate on the 110 volts that the US operates on as well as 220 – 240 volts) specialized plugs for special equipment may require add-ons to facilitate connection to the room plugs.

Hairdryers and flat-irons often are not dual voltage and require a convertor in order to use them.

Insect Repellent

Insect repellents are highly encouraged to avoid illnesses, such as malaria. If traveling to malaria endemic areas preventive malaria medication prescribed by a doctor are also recommended.

First Aid Kit

Highly recommended to include stomach upset, head-ache, coughs and other small ailments.

This list is not conclusive, but a good starting point for a general safari.

Enjoy your travels.

Click here for travel solutions offered by Chania Hikes, our group unit (www.chaniahikes.com)

Email: info@chaniahikes.com

Sam Kagiri (Chania Hikes)-Tours Agency in Nairobi-Kenya