Many first-time visitors to Africa aren’t quite sure how to dress for a safari. Do I need to buy all khaki? Is a traditional safari hat required? Are shorts okay, or do I need pants? The bottom line: on most game drives, you can wear whatever you feel comfortable in. There are a few rules worth knowing, though, so keep reading for the safari attire do’s and don’ts, including what to avoid packing for your African safari.
On my most recent safari I had to keep it really simple, just what was already in my suitcase while I was traveling through Europe, luckily it is really simple to dress for safari.
Safari Packing List: The Do’s
Do wear shorts OR pants — whatever feels right for you. Khakis, jeans, gym shorts, stretch pants, it’s all fair game. A couple of notes: shorts are fine for game drives, but walking safaris call for long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes since you’ll be moving through the brush. Also check the forecast, since temperatures can drop fast after sunset.
Do wear a hat. Baseball cap, wide-brimmed safari hat, bucket hat — whatever suits you and keeps the sun off.
Do wear shoes you’re comfortable in. You don’t need heavy-duty hiking boots for a typical game drive, since you’ll spend most of your time in the vehicle (with the occasional hop out for sundowners in the bush). Slip-ons like TOMS, sneakers, or sandals all work. One warning: mosquitoes get active at night, so if you’re in sandals or shorts, spray your legs and feet with bug repellent.
Do wear neutral colors — tan, brown, white, black, and soft pastels blend into the landscape and keep you comfortable in the heat.
Do wear a comfortable shirt and bring a fleece or jacket. T-shirt, button-down, sweater, sweatshirt — your call. Always pack an extra layer or two, since early morning and evening game drives can be surprisingly cold even after a hot day. On a recent trip to Marakele National Park, daytime temps were in the 80s (Fahrenheit) while mornings and nights dipped into the 50s. Layers are non-negotiable.
Safari Attire Don’ts
Don’t wear bright colors on safari. They stand out to wildlife and can spook the animals your fellow travelers are hoping to see.
Don’t wear camouflage. It’s illegal for civilians to wear camo-patterned clothing in many African countries, so leave it at home.
Don’t wear heels or wedges on your African safari. The steps up to a 4×4 are narrow and high and heels make that climb genuinely risky. Flat, closed shoes are the safer (and honestly, more comfortable) choice. There’s no one to dress up for out there but the animals anyway.
Final Thoughts on Packing for Your Safari
Dressing for a safari doesn’t need to be complicated. Stick to neutral colors, pack layers for temperature swings, choose shoes you can move in, and leave the bright patterns and camo at home. Beyond that, wear what makes you feel like you.
And you won’t have to figure any of this out on your own. Every Hills of Africa traveler receives a detailed packing list tailored to their specific itinerary, so you’ll know exactly what to bring before you ever step off the plane.
