What to bring on a photo safari:
A pair of binoculars are absolutely indispensable on a
safari trip
, so be sure to pack them in your suitcase if you have one at home. You will see that almost all the guides have some and in many tours they will offer them if you do not have them, but it can be frustrating to have to pass them on to your companions when in reality you would still like to continue enjoying the lion stalking its prey in the distance, or to be able to observe the physiognomy of the animals in detail for a few minutes. If you have a good camera, another option is to use the zoom (take the photo or not), but if you do not have it or prefer to reserve the battery, it pays to carry a good pair of compact binoculars , especially you do not enjoy an eagle view. Along with your camera, we recommend carrying a good tripod for the stability of the photos, although it is not essential and space is limited in cars. In addition, the safari car itself (jeep) is a good point of support for the camera and there are even guides who carry sandbags to support the camera and achieve stability. It is also interesting to carry a manual image stabilizer type DJI Mimo. Mobile phones are a good alternative to cameras because of their smaller size, image correction and internet connection. Many safari cars have a plug for charging and even some cars have WiFi connection to be connected, although we suggest enjoying the safari moment and leaving the mobile for a while.
What clothes to wear on a safari to Africa?
You don’t have to go crazy buying the full safari outfit, just keep in mind that it is better to wear comfortable cotton clothes that do not matter if they are filled with dust and avoid too bright colors. Is the color kaki mandatory? Of course not, but it is recommended that all clothing be a neutral color as it helps to blend with the environment and the chances of good animal sightings grow if we are somewhat camouflaged. Absolutely nothing happens if you wear colorful shirts but remember that you are on safari: you do not need to dress Indiana Jones but it may be better to leave your sequined dress at home.
Casual, comfortable and easily washable clothing is the most useful. It is clearly not necessary to bring a change of clothes for each day and night, and it is recommended to keep luggage to a minimum for your own comfort and ease of transport, especially if you are using light aircraft transfers (which only allow 15 kg/30 pounds per person).
You will spend a considerable amount of time in a safari vehicle, so be sure to bring comfortable clothes. Persimmons are not 100% necessary, but natural colors are recommended. No need to buy new safari-style clothing. Keep in mind that dark blue attracts insects.
Keep in mind that winter in the savannah (April to October) can be quite cold during morning and afternoon safaris.
Remember that winter nights and early morning hours can be cold; Wear warm clothes to wear until the sun warms, the easier to put on and take off the better (handkerchiefs, jackets, layers) since the weather usually varies very quickly from cold to heat in a few hours.
The safari experience
is somewhat relaxed, so you can leave the jewels at home.
Clothing suggestion for a stay of 3 to 5 nights:
- 2 pairs of trousers (Chinese or similar); 1 casual skirt for women
- 1 or 2 pairs of shorts
- 1 stylish but casual outfit for the evening
- 2 t-shirts
- 1 long-sleeved or turtleneck t-shirt
- 1 or 2 short-sleeved shirts or blouses
- 1 long-sleeved shirt or blouse
- 1 sweatshirt or sweater not too thick
- Women may want to include a pashmina in their luggage
- 1 windbreaker or light jacket
- 2 pairs of shoes (a pair of hiking boots is recommended)
- Swimsuit
- Underwear and socks for 3 to 5 days (women are advised to wear a sports bra)
- Sleepwear (it is advisable to bring a light sweatshirt)
- Sandals (optional) for the pool or shower
- Personal hygiene items, including necessary sanitary items
All luxury hotels and safari camps offer same-day laundry service (sometimes at an extra cost, depending on accommodation). This is a good reason not to wear too many clothes.
In general what you should take if you go on safari
- Passport, visas, vaccination certificate, airline tickets, credit card, money
- Small bag or backpack
- Binoculars
- Camera and lenses appropriate to your level of photography
- Adequate memory card (you may need much more than anticipated; it is better to carry plenty than to fall short)
- Hat to protect from the sun
- Antimalarial drugs (if needed)
- Sunglasses
- Personal medicine cabinet with all necessary prescription medications
- Insect repellent
- Unscented sunscreen and moisturizing lotion
- Lip balm
- Travel and wet wipes
- Small flashlight
- Travel alarm clock
- Photocopy of airline tickets and passport
If you are interested in designing a trip to South Africa with Next Destinium, contact us and together we create your dream safari
trip to Africa
.
