Sun Destinations

The change of seasons is here. The air is thick and crackles with the tension of the rains that hover over the horizon.  The dry, dusty earth lies parched, eagerly awaiting the showers that will transform the landscape in a matter of days. Every shower bringing fresh hope and new life to the land. Animal dynamics are at an all-time high — predator and prey gather at the scarce, shrinking waterholes, playing out scenes worthy of a Nat Geo documentary. Days are getting longer and hotter while the morning chill still shows your breath in its icy air.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned safari-goer, packing can be challenging when temperatures range from 3 to 30 degrees. An overstuffed bag full of things you might or might not need is never ideal.  Packing smart and light is key (and makes you feel like an intrepid and well-versed explorer!)

Discover the ultimate packing list for the African bush – from breathable layers to bug spray. Here is a practical, field-tested guide on all you need to know when getting ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

Layer like a pro

Spring mornings can still be surprisingly crisp in the bush. Think fleeces, jackets, base layers or hoodies. As soon as the sun is fully out – it quickly becomes full on summer! Pack a small bag/tote that you can put your layers into on the drive

• Lightweight fleece, base-layer, jacket for early drives

• Breathable long-sleeve shirts. The best shirts are cotton, linen, or capilene. They’re breathable and good for heat (bonus: sun + bug protection)

• Tees or tanks for midday heat

• A wide-brimmed hat. Great if it has a drawcord so it doesn’t fly off as the safari vehicle goes.

Stick to bush neutrals like khaki, olive, and beige. Not only do they suit the ~safari aesthetic~ they actually help you blend in with the surrounding environment (better for sightings!) and avoid attracting bugs.

Layer so you’re cosy before the sun rises and can strip off as it gets hot. Also – camera at the ready!

Comfort Meets Camo

Bumpy rides and bush walks call for clothing that moves with you, not against you. Last thing you want to worry about while watching a lion make a kill is your uncomfortable clothing. You might also need to hope off the vehicle in the middle of the bush for a quick comfort break so make sure things are easy on and off. Comfort above all, is key.

Bring along:

• Zip-off pants have their place. As do cargos and guess what!? They’re even kind of fashionable again. Even so, they’re uber practical and you’ll be grateful for them when the day starts to heat up

• Comfy pants or shorts for midday relaxation. Even lightweight cotton dresses for lounging around camp.

• Linen is really a winner on safari – it’s breathable, comfortable and looks chic. Long, loose pants or shirts will transition you into the evenings and protect you from bugs.

Avoid: White (dust magnet), blue (attracts tsetse flies) and anything too tight.

Footwear: Functional, Not Fancy

No, you don’t need hiking boots unless you’re going full-on trekking. But your flip-flops from 2012? Leave those at home.

Essentials:

• Closed-toe walking shoes, boots or trail running shoes – whatever you’re most comfy in

• Sandals or Birkenstocks for camp downtime

• Wool-blend socks (no blisters, no drama)

Gators can be useful if you’re going on bush walks but are not essential

Sun, Bugs, and All That Jazz

Spring into summer in Africa = intense sun and enthusiastic insects. Protect thyself.

Must-haves:

• Good SPF sunscreen (and lots of it)

• Insect repellent (whatever your skin tolerates)

• Lip balm with SPF (no one likes having cracked lips!)

• Sunglasses (polarized = better for game viewing)

• Lightweight scarf/kikoi or buff (dust protection + sun shield = win-win)

• A wide-brimmed hat or peak cap. We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again.

Gadgets & Gear 

You don’t need to bring the entire contents of your house but a few smart gadgets go a long way.

Pack these:

• Binoculars (trust us, you will want your own!)

• Power bank (Always good to have as it will be the day with the best sightings that your phone is dead!)

• Camera with zoom lens or a good phone (check out this post for pro-photography tips from a camera-savvy guest)

• Headlamp (no light pollution means it is v.v.dark, you’ll thank us later)

• Dry bags (for dust or potential downpours)

• A bird book (the inevitable path for all those that become safari aficionados! Don’t resist it, start young!)

Toiletries & Little Luxuries

Our safari camps have the basics covered, but if you’re picky (or just know what you like!) then pack the creature comforts you need

Consider bringing:

• Biodegradable wipes

• Moisturiser – your skin might feel extra dry in the dry, low veld heat. Avoid crocodile skin.

• Travel-sized shampoo/conditioner

• After-sun lotion (hello, aloe)

• Fave tea bags, snacks, or electrolyte powders

• Journal – core memories are about to be made. It’s great to write down your experiences. A picture only captures one moment, there’s a whole story behind what happens both before and after a snapshot.
• Travel watercolours/paints – it can be amazing to tap into your creative side during downtime on safari. Draw or paint the beautiful scenery surrounding each camp

Don’t Forget These Spring-to-Summer Extras

• Lightweight rain jacket – early rains can surprise you!

• Swimsuit – many camps have pools and nothing feels better post-drive.

• Kikoi or sarong for lounging in around the pool.

• Small daypack

• A good book – read our list of safari-inspired stories here

Packing for safari in spring and summer isn’t about stuffing your suitcase like a buffalo into a mini. It’s about being prepared but still leaving space for souvenirs, dusty boots, and a memory card full of leopard sightings.

Most of all, it doesn’t really matter if you have all the “right” things or not. The most important thing you can bring is your presence and open awareness. The more in tune you become with the bushveld, you more you’ll see, the more you’ll feel and the more you’ll awaken to its wonders. One thing is for sure, you’ll leave with a wild appreciation for the wilderness, its magic and the incredible creatures that still roam this earth.

Let the bush surprise you. Let it change you. And whatever you forget to pack? Don’t fret — nature has a way of giving you exactly what you need.

To book your next wild escape or for any questions or queries, contact our reservations team here