Going on your first safari? Whether you’re planning to explore the savannas of Kenya or the plains of Tanzania, here’s everything you need to add to your safari packing list before you head out into the wild.
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Footwear
Unless you’re joining a walking safari, you won’t need heavy-duty hiking boots. You’ll be sitting in a safari vehicle most of the time, so comfortable sneakers are your best bet. Choose a pair you don’t mind getting dusty. I would suggest something with a thick sole in case you encounter thorns. I wore a pair of Reebok Club C sneakers in the chalk color.
Clothing
When it comes to safari fashion, blend in with your surroundings. Earth tones like beige, olive, and khaki are ideal. Avoid black because it attracts heat and insects. Avoid bright white because it stands out against the landscape. I would recommend bringing layers when possible because you might decide you want to cover your arms from the sun. You can find some clothing ideas on my Safari Packing List on my Amazon Storefront.
Accessories
Bring a neck gaiter or scarf because it’ll save you from dust on long drives. Safari hats are kind of dorky, but they will keep the sun out of your eyes while taking photos. Don’t forget to bring sunglasses.
Stay Clean and Comfortable
Carry Wet Ones hand and face wipes to freshen up during the day from the dust. For insect protection, Ben’s DEET Wipes work wonders and don’t count as a liquid in your luggage. Consider packing Travelan to avoid any GI issues.
Camera, Lens, and Binoculars for your Safari Packing List
Capturing incredible wildlife moments is one of the highlights of any safari, so having the right camera gear matters. I bought a refurbished Canon R50, directly from Canon’s website. It’s a great beginner camera with more features than the R100. Canon’s refurbished section has plenty options to meet your budget.
I used a Canon 100–500mm lens for my safari and am so glad I did. Since it was out of my price range, I rented it from Lensrentals.com. The lens arrived in a sturdy protective case with a structured lens pouch inside. I added rental insurance for peace of mind. The process was easy, and the prepaid return label made sending it back simple.
Lastly, I would suggest buying some compact binoculars because you will use them more than you expect.
Make sure to check out my guide on How to Book a Safari and my detailed 9-day Tanzania Itinerary.