ClothingIt is always difficult to give advice to clients about what clothing they should and should not wear.
The following is the rationale behind our guidance and a list of suggested items is supplied for those undertaking a wildlife safari but applies equally to those undertaking other activities.Sun Glasses
The sunlight in Africa is always bright and it is advisable to protect your eyes. A pair of sunglasses, whilst not essential, will make your eyes more comfortable. If you wear prescription glasses then a pair of photo chromatic prescription glasses will be invaluable.Hat
It is essential to wear a hat when out in the African sun. Even those with thick hair will find that their head gets very hot when exposed to the sun. A wide brimmed hat is best as it protects the face, ears and the back of the neck from sunburn.Shirts/Blouses
Short sleeved shirts/blouses are best for day wear. A blouse with long sleeves is useful at night to prevent insect bites to the arms and may be useful if on a boat trip to prevent sunburn. The material should be thick enough to prevent the penetration of the sun and to prevent easy tearing if snagged on a thorn. Nylon or high quantity synthetic garments are too hot to wear in the hot African climate. A light cotton mix material is most suitable.If your safari includes time in the city then perhaps a smart casual shirt would be useful for dining out in the evening.
Shorts
Shorts are by far the most practical garment to keeping cool in a hot climate.
A cotton mix material makes them easy to wash and they crease less than all cotton garments. Make sure they have a high percentage of cotton (60/40). Man made fibres are more likely to be hot to wear and cause sweating and chafing.
Ladies' shorts that are too short may attract unwanted attention and may be uncomfortable to wear.Suggested colours: khaki, light olive green. Blues, reds, white and yellows are not good for camouflage and are easily seen by wild animals.
Trousers
Lightweight trousers are ideal for wearing at night when on safari. They protect the wearer from insect bites and if required can be worn in the early morning if there is a chill in the air, or during a boat trip when the sun may cause sunburn. Suggested colours: khaki, light olive green (serviceable colours). Blues, reds, white and yellows are not good for camouflage and are easily seen by wild animals. Denims are generally too hot to wear during the day and are not recommended.
Underwear
Your underwear is your personal choice. Cotton mix is cooler to wear and less likely to chafe and cause sweating.
Shoes/Boots
If you are intending to walk any distance then a strong pair of leather boots are best. They should have a thick sturdy sole to prevent the penetration of thorns. Please make sure that they are well walked-in before your safari, as new boots can cause blisters that are not only painful. They will also affect your mobility and may restrict your activities. Avoid boots made of synthetic materials.
If you prefer to wear shoes whilst travelling by car or air then a comfortable pair of shoes will be useful.
Pullover/Sweater
A lightweight sweater/pullover is useful for wearing in the evening.
Jacket/Coat
A light weight shower-proof jacket is useful if the weather turns chilly or if it rains. We suggest a drab colour khaki or olive green is more suitable.Soft Carrying Bag
You clothes should be packed in a soft canvas type bag. Hard suitcases are difficult to pack into a vehicle and may not be accepted on some of the smaller charter flights. Choose a bag that is large enough to contain your clothing and small enough for you to carry comfortably. Two smaller bags may be easier to handle than one large one.Photographic Equipment
Binoculars
Having constant access to a good pair of binoculars is a must on any safari. There is so much to see and having the ability to "zoom" in on the animals and birds is a real bonus. The convenience of carrying binoculars far outweighs the hassle of carrying them. Carry them in your hand luggage.Night Vision Binoculars
If you are going to do any night game drives then a pair of NV binoculars will be most useful.
Camera
An easy to use 35mm camera or similar digital camera is a must. If you do not own a camera I would suggest that you purchase a good quality digital camera. Buy some additional memory (the larger the better) and a spare battery too. Do not forget to bring a battery charger.
Note:
The South African standard plug is a 15amp with three round pins. Make sure that you bring a suitable adaptor for your photographic equipment.
Video Camera
For wildlife photography a digital videocamera is a must. If you are going to purchase one then make sure it has the ability to record in low light and that it has a good optical zoom facility (x20 is good). If you have the option to purchase one seriously consider one that you can use add on lenses with and buy a good telephoto lens and a wide angle lens.
35mm film
If you intend to use a 35 mm camera make sure that you bring sufficient film with you. 35mm film is not readily available in many of the remote areas. Store the film in a cool place.Toiletries and Medication
You should plan to bring your own toiletries with you. Most things are available but your preferred brand may not be.If you take medication make sure that you bring enough with you to last the duration of you stay. Always carry your medication with you in your hand luggage. Ensure that you keep it in a safe place at all times so that it does not get lost or stolen. Make sure that you carry a letter from your doctor stipulating what medication your are on so that, if necessary, replacement medicine can be purchased.
Some useful items are listed below:
Talcum powder
Elastic plaster (in a roll)
Sunscreen to suit your skin (factor 15 minimum)
Insect repellent containing "deet" (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide)
Anti malarial tablets (as prescribed by your doctor)
Tablets for headaches
Anti histamine cream for insect bites (H1-receptor antagonists)
Nail scissors
Emery boards
Eye dropsNote: It is the responsibility of the clients to ensure that all members of their party are not alergic to any item that they bring with them on safari. We regret that we are not able to supply any medication to our clients.
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