Over-packing is easy when you’re excited about seeing lions for the first time; under-packing can leave you sunburnt or soggy. Use this tried and tested packing list—refined by our guides after hundreds of tours—to make sure you bring exactly what you need and nothing you don’t.
1. Documents & Essentials
| Item | Why You Need It |
| Passport (valid for 6+ months) | Entry into the country |
| Valid visa (if required) | Some countries require an approved visa to enter South Africa |
| Travel insurance certificate | Hospitals or doctors may request proof if you fall ill |
| Credit card & small cash (ZAR) | Useful for tips, curios, refreshments. Make sure not to bring excessive amounts of cash. Majority of places in South Africa accept credit cards. |
Guide's tip: Photocopy or scan all documents to cloud storage in case you lose the hard copies, e.g. accommodation bookings, flight details, etc.
2. Clothing
South African bushveld temperatures can swing from chilly dawns to warm afternoons. Be sure to check the weather before hand and ask for advise regarding packing for the time of year. It's a good idea to pack layers that can be easily put on or taken off. Consider:
- lightweight long-sleeve shirts
- T-shirts
- A fleece jacket/coat
- A lighweight rain jacket
- Khaki or convertible pants suitable for the bush
- Comfortable pants or shorts for travel and city visits.
- Wide brim hat
- Sturdy walking shoes and socks
- Lightweight trainers and flip-flops
Remember, when out in the bush, it's best to blend in with the surrounds so as not to scare away the wildlife, so avoid bold and flashy colors. Neutral or natural colors such as khaki, olive, green, light brown, or similar are best.
Guide's tip: Leave camo prints at home. South African law prohibits civilians wearing military style camo in public.
3. Health & Hygiene
Aside from your typical health and hygiene items, remember to pack the following:
- Any prescription medicines & copies of scripts
- Malaria prophylaxis (consult us and your doctor for guidance)
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen, sunglasses & lip balm
- Personal first-aid kit
- Reusable water bottle (no single-use plastics while on safari)
Guide's tip: Avoid highly perfumed soaps and deodorants; these can spook wildlife and result in fewer up-close encounters.
4. Camera & Tech
In preparation for once-in-a-lifetime encounters that you will want to share with family and friends when you get home, consider packing some of the following:
- Digital camera with a variable zoom lens
- Extra batteries and SD cards
- Smartphone with at least 64GB free
- Powerbank & charging cable
- Binoculars
- Universal travel adapter (Type M & C; 230V)
Guide's tip: While lodges typically have WiFi, consider buying a local sim with a data plan or a travel E-sim for staying in touch and sharing photos with loved ones back home.
5. Optional but recommended
Other optional items that might spice up your trip include:
- Lightweight tripod or bean bag (for the photographers, an essential!)
- Journal & pen
- Small backpack for day trips out
- Swimming costume (some lodges have pools or swimming holes)
What NOT to bring
To make your trip more enjoyable and avoid disappointment, take note of the following items we recommend not to bring.
- Hard suitcases - soft duffels are easier to carry and pack in safari vehicles
- Drones - sorry, these are banned in national parks to protect wildlife
- Bright and flashy clothing
- Excess jewelry and makeup - dust and risk of losing items means you should leave valuables at home
In summary, pack smart, travel light, and leave space for souvenirs. If in doubt, get in touch with us and we will happily talk you through what to pack for your specific tour!