Packing the right safari clothing can make all the difference in your comfort and experience while exploring Africa’s breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re tracking wildlife on game drives, exploring bush trails, or relaxing at a lodge, wearing the right gear will ensure you stay cool, protected, and safari-ready.
We want to share with you our top tips to help you pack the best clothing for your safari! Remember there are always variables and countries like Mozambique, Morocco and Egypt certainly have different requirements.
1. Dress in layers
Safaris often start early in the morning when it’s chilly, but temperatures rise as the day progresses. Dressing in layers allows you to adapt easily. Opt for long-sleeved shirts with roll-up tabs and zip-off trousers so you can adjust to changing conditions throughout the day.
2. Don’t forget a warm layer and a waterproof one
Even in the height of summer, early mornings and evenings on safari can be surprisingly chilly, especially in open vehicles. A fleece jacket or safari jacket is a must-pack item to keep you warm. Plus you’ll want a light weigh waterproof layer to protect you from any showers or summer down pours!
In Southern Africa, rains occur from November to April, while East Africa experiences rainy seasons in April/May and November.
Other tips – If you get a cold head, don’t forget to pack a beanie. A scarf always comes in handy too for warmth, a pillow for sleepy kids or covering a camera to protect from gusts of wind and dust!
3. Choose neutral and natural tones
The best safari clothing blends in with the environment. Opt for muted, earthy tones such as khaki, greens, and browns. These colours help you stay inconspicuous during wildlife viewing and also keep you cooler under the sun.
4. Avoid white and black clothing
White clothing stands out too much in the wild if you’re on a walking safari especially and it gets dirty quickly. Meanwhile, black absorbs heat and attracts tsetse flies. Stick to safari-friendly shades that are both practical and comfortable. Having said that I do love a white linen collared top!
5. Say no to camouflage
In some African countries, it is illegal for civilians to wear camouflage clothing, as it is associated with military attire. To avoid any issues, leave the camo gear at home.
6. Pack a wide-brimmed hat
You’ll spend long hours in the sun, so a good-quality, wide-brimmed hat is essential to protect your face, neck, and ears from harsh UV rays. While driving it may blow off so a chin strap can come in handy. We also recommend taking a cap for those other times you need a little face protection.
7. Slip slop slap
Just like Australia, protecting yourself from the sun is hugely important. Slip on a shirt ideally with a collar, slop on sunscreen and slap on that wide brimmed hat or at least a cap!
8. Consider the fabrics
While cotton is breathable, man-made fabrics like polyamide often perform better in safari conditions. They wick away moisture, dry quickly, and provide better sun protection, keeping you cool and comfortable all day.
Having said that, cotton especially good quality and thick can protect you from those pesky mosquitoes and tsetse fly a little better than the man made fabrics. So why not take a few of each!
In this photo I have a man-made fabric skirt and cotton top which served me well for a surprise bush lunch (that I may have had a heads up on!)
So there you have it, what to wear on safari!
Dress in layers, wear shades of the African bush and have fun with your wardrobe!
Personally, comfort is crucial and stylish athleisure wear is perfectly acceptable for those who love leggings!
Just remember your luggage limit oh and for shoes, you never need more than two pairs – one for walking and the other for around camp or safari lodges and hotels!