[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]A safari is an essential element in enjoying a memorable holiday in East Africa. To get the most of your adventure, you should be very smart about what you pack. The type of clothing to take on your safari holiday will depend on the time of year and what type of safari you are going on. Nevertheless, there are some essential tips that are universal. Here is a little guide that will clear your ambiguities about what to wear on a safari.
The main things to consider when deciding what to wear on safari are comfort, ease, temperatures, colors and styles. A good idea is to pick items that can be easily mixed and matched together, in order to create a good number of outfits with just a handful of items.
A good idea is to pick clothes that are neutral, breathable and can adapt to the changing temperatures throughout the day. The weather in East Africa is not constantly warm, but tends to get colder, especially at nights. For that, visitors must consider the weather, before dressing up for their safari!
Here are a few important tips!
- Light-weight, breathable fabrics minimize noise when walking.
- Neutral colors, such as khaki, beige, taupe or grey, are recommended for safari adventures, as driving around exposes the visitor to dust, and white clothes might get dirty quicker. Also, dark colours attract insects such as mosquitoes and Tsetse flies whose bite is fierce.
- A light jacket or fleece is great for protection from the cold.
- Comfortable trainers are suitable, especially for walking safaris. Visitors can expect to be climbing in and out of the safari vehicle frequently, and some light walking around the bush.
- Combat trousers are perfect, as they have plenty of pockets to store the camera, sunscreen, binoculars etc.
- Cotton clothes are preferable as they are easily hand-washed and dry quickly.
- Carrying a scarf, a hat and gloves as it will protect you from changing temperatures.
- Carrying sandals or flip flops is also recommended, for comfort at the end of the day.
- Red clothing should be avoided as predators identify red with wounded animals.
- Avoid bright coloured clothing and busy patterns, as this may draw unnecessary attention and scare off the wildlife.
- Heavy hiking boots take up too much room, and should not be taken unless the itinerary includes walking through harsh terrain.
While packing for clothes, tourists should also ensure that they have all the necessary items, such as a large towel, binoculars, torch, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, sunglasses, a plug adapter, batteries, necessary medication, power bank, a sleeping bag (for camping trips), a flask, as well as a DSLR or camera. Baggage should be light-weight and medium sized soft duffel bags are recommended as they take up less space and can be easily stored. When packing, tourists should leave extra space for souvenirs, and keepsakes.
A safari is a great experience to have during any trip or vacation! To ensure comfort and fun, one must be very careful about what they’re wearing! Safaris in East Africa offer scenic views of varying landscapes, as well as excellent game viewing, being home to the Big Five i.e. lions, elephants, rhinoceros, leopards, and buffalo, as well as animals such as zebras, meerkats, mongooses, hyenas, antelopes, gazelles, giraffes, and exotic birds! A safari in East Africa is a must-have experience for any traveller![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
