Safari Packing List

Many safaris use small aircraft between camps, and their luggage holds only take soft bags that can be squeezed into place. Weight limits are strict and often include your camera bag and handbag. Expect something in the range of 15–20 kg (33–44 lb) per person, but always use the exact limit your operator gives you.

Many camps offer a laundry service, so three or four days of clothing is usually plenty. If you’re combining a safari with a city stay, ask whether extra luggage can be stored in Nairobi, Johannesburg or Arusha. Our fly-in safari glossary entry explains how these flights work.

Wear khaki, olive, tan, brown and soft green. These colors blend with the bush, hide dust and don’t distract wildlife on walking safaris. Bright white shows every speck of dirt, and dark blue and black can attract tsetse flies in some regions.

Leave camouflage prints at home. Several countries, including Zimbabwe and Zambia, prohibit civilians from wearing camouflage clothing, and it’s simplest to avoid it everywhere.

See a travel medicine provider four to six weeks before you go. Many safari regions carry a malaria risk, and some routes require a yellow fever certificate; our safari health guide covers both. Pack repellent with DEET or picaridin and long sleeves for evenings.

Kenya and Tanzania restrict single-use plastic bags, so organize your duffel with packing cubes or fabric pouches instead. If this is your first trip, read our first safari guide before you shop.