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What to Pack for Africa

Packing for Africa is different from any other destination — weight limits on bush flights are strict, neutral colours matter on safari, and the right footwear can make or break a gorilla trek. In our experience, packing for Africa is less about what you bring and more about how simply you travel. These lists are designed to be shared directly with your clients before they travel.

CoversSafari · Gorilla · Beach

Bush flight limit15kg soft bag

ColoursNeutral only on safari

LaundryMost lodges included

East & Southern Africa

Safari Essentials

What to bring for a classic game drive safari — whether in Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, Zimbabwe, or Zambia. Neutral colours are non-optional; bright clothing disturbs animals and can affect game viewing for everyone in the vehicle.

Neutral-coloured clothing — khaki, olive, tan, beige, greyNo white, no bright colours, no camouflage

Long-sleeved shirts (2–3)Sun and insect protection

Lightweight trousers (2–3 pairs)Zip-off styles are versatile

Comfortable walking shoes or ankle boots

Wide-brimmed sun hat

SwimwearMost camps have pools or plunge pools

Light fleece or jacket for early morningsGame drives before sunrise can be cold

Smart casual outfit for eveningsSome lodges are semi-formal at dinner

Sandals or flip flops for use in camp

Camera with zoom lens (200mm minimum)APS-C or mirrorless recommended

Extra batteries and memory cards

Binoculars (8×42 or 10×42 recommended)

Universal power adapterSouthern Africa uses Type D/M, East Africa Type G/G3

Malaria prophylacticsConsult a travel doctor; start before departure

DEET insect repellent (50%+)

High-SPF sunscreen

Personal medications with a letter from your GP

Basic first aid kit

Hand sanitiser

Headlamp or torch

Reusable water bottle

Small daypack or bag for game drives

Rwanda · Uganda · DRC

Gorilla Trekking Additions

In addition to the safari essentials above, gorilla trekking requires specific gear. The forest is wet, steep, and thorny — the right boots and clothing make a real difference to your client's experience.

Heavy-duty waterproof hiking bootsAnkle support is essential — non-negotiable

Long, thick trousersProtection from nettles, thorns, and insects

Long-sleeved shirt or light layer

Garden or work glovesFor grabbing branches and roots on steep sections

Waterproof rain jacket or ponchoIt's a rainforest — expect rain even in dry season

GaitersKeeps mud, ants, and insects out of your boots

Trekking polesOften provided but consider bringing your own

Strong insect repellentForest mosquitoes are persistent

Small waterproof daypack or dry bag

Altitude medication if prone to AMSRwanda/DRC is at 2,200–4,500m elevation

Water and snacks for the trek

Camera (no flash permitted near gorillas)

Zanzibar · Mozambique · Seychelles

Beach & Coastal

Many Africa itineraries end with a beach extension. The Indian Ocean islands and coastline are spectacular — but reef-safe sunscreen is important, and coastal areas often require malaria precautions.

Reef-safe sunscreenEssential for Zanzibar, Mozambique, Seychelles — protect the reefs

Lightweight cotton or linen clothing

Sarong or coverup

Rash vest for snorkelling

Waterproof sandals

Snorkel mask and finsUsually available to hire, but own gear is better

Light layers for eveningsCoastal evenings can have a breeze

Mosquito repellentMalaria is present in most East African coastal areas

Waterproof bag or case for electronics

Key Rules

Things Clients Always Ask

Charter flight luggage limits

Luggage is typically restricted to soft bags of 15–20kg on light aircraft, which is an important consideration when packing. No rigid suitcases — particularly in Botswana, Zimbabwe, and remote Tanzania. Total weight often includes hand luggage.

Pack light

Most luxury safari lodges offer complimentary laundry. Pack for 3–4 days and use laundry services throughout your trip. You'll thank yourself when fitting into a bush plane.

Leave room for souvenirs

Africa has extraordinary craft markets, art, and textiles. Leave space in your bag — or pack a soft fold-away bag for the return journey.

Check domestic airline allowances

International allowances don't apply to African domestic and charter flights. Many impose 15–20kg total weight limits and strict bag size rules. Check at the time of booking.

Related Guides

Destination Guide

Comparing Safari in East and Southern Africa

Choosing between East Africa and Southern Africa? We break down wildlife, landscapes, exclusivity, and price — and how to match your client to the right destination.

Planning Guide

When to Go

Month-by-month seasonality for 11 regions — from the Great Migration in East Africa to gorilla trekking, Victoria Falls, Zanzibar, and the Indian Ocean islands.

Destination Guide

Gorilla Trekking: Rwanda, Uganda and DRC

Rwanda, Uganda, or DRC? A complete comparison of permits, trek difficulty, lodge quality, and which destination suits which traveller.

Ready to Plan?

Let's Build the Perfect Africa Itinerary

These lists are a starting point — every trip is different. Talk to us about what your client is planning and we'll tailor the advice to their specific itinerary.

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