Here are a few tips to pack for a safari in South Africa and beyond.

Don't Overpack

The number one thing to consider when packing for a safari of any kind is to avoid overpacking.  You can do laundry at most properties. Plus, small charter flights adhere to strict weight restrictions, so it is best to pack light. Below you will find our tips for packing light.

Clothing Color

Ideal clothing is lightweight and darker shades of green, khaki, brown, or lighter shades of blue in color. We do not recommend black and darker shades of blue for safaris to Kafue National Park in Zambia and some areas of Zimbabwe as they may attract tsetse flies. Also avoid wearing bright colors like red, pink, and white especially when on a walking safari. Finally, keep in mind that camouflage clothing may be reserved for the military. 

Climate

The weather in Southern Africa is generally pleasant throughout the year, with warm to hot days, and cool to warm nights.

The summer months (September to April) are often a lot hotter, while the winter months, (May to August), can become very cold at night and in the early morning but tend to warm up during the day, so we suggest that you pack with layers in mind. 

Luggage Weight Restrictions on Flights

Charter flights within Zambia limit passengers to a total of 33lbs (15kgs) luggage per person. In other regions of Southern Africa, the weight limit is 44lbs (20kgs) per person in soft-sided bags. This includes hand baggage and camera equipment.

We therefore recommend soft-sided luggage due to limited space in the light aircraft hull (no hard suitcases). It is best to travel with one medium or large water-resistant duffle bag and one small daypack.  

Personal Weight Information

Because of safety reasons the local charter companies require that we collect all travelers’ weights in advance. The weight limit is 220lbs (100kgs) body weight per person. We understand this can be a sensitive topic, but the safety of our travelers is our top priority. Should an extra seat be required, we can work to secure one at an additional cost. 

Plastic Bags in Namibia

It is illegal to use plastic bags in Namibia’s national parks, and they will be confiscated on entry to the parks. Therefore, please pack eco-friendly bags for your trip. For travel size liquids in hand luggage, use transparent toiletry bags.

Namibia is also working to ban all single-use plastics, such as water bottles. This ban may come into force prior to your safari, so please leave any such products on the plane. We suggest you carry a reusable water bottle while visiting Namibia. Most hotels and lodges provide filtered drinking water. 

Recommended Packing List for Southern Africa

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Pants & Shirts 

• 3 lightweight shirts with long sleeves (styles with tabbed, rollable sleeves are most versatile) 
• 3 pairs of lightweight long pants or long pants that convert to shorts  
• 3 pairs shorts and/or capri pants 
• 3 pairs of lightweight short sleeved shirts/golf shorts/t-shirts 

Outerwear 

• A fleece or sweater for evenings and early mornings on game drives or when near the ocean in South Africa and Namibia. 
• A lightweight rain jacket, especially for Cape Town and the east coast of Madagascar during winter (June – August) and all other locations during summer (October - April).

Shoes and Accessories 

• 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, ideally lightweight and worn-in to avoid blisters 
• 3 pairs of socks  
• 1 pair sandals/lightweight shoes (for wearing at the lodges) 
• 7 pairs of underwear 
• 3 bras (sports bras are recommended for the bumpy roads) 
• Buff/bandana for dry/dusty areas 
• Sun hat with a wide rim and/or baseball cap 
• Sunglasses with UV protection 
• Swimsuit  
• Flipflops 
• Pajamas (lightweight for summer September – April and warm for winter May – August) 
• Scarf, gloves, and a beanie for the winter months (May to August) 
• You may need a formal outfit for dining if you are staying at a luxury hotel or traveling on a luxury train. Consult with your designer to determine if this is necessary for your safari packing. 
• 1 pair water shoes if snorkeling/diving 

Personal Items

• Don't forget passports, visas, tickets, credit cards, insurance documents, cash, phone, etc. 
• Cash — for gratuities (You may want to bring envelopes for discreet presentation.) 
• Personal refillable water bottle 
• Daypack for carrying water bottle, camera, binoculars, etc. 
• Waterproof/dustproof bag for your camera equipment 
• If you wear contact lenses, we recommend that you also bring a pair of glasses. 
• Camera with plenty of memory cards and at least one spare battery with its charger. You may also want to pack a zoom lens. 
• Travel adapter 
• Binoculars 
• Dive card and logbook (if applicable) 

Toiletries

• Personal toiletries (including toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo & conditioner) 
• Basic medical kit (aspirins, bandages, anti-diarrheal, antiseptic cream, eye drops and antihistamine cream, etc,) 
• Bring enough of any prescribed medication that you are currently taking to last the length of your trip. Keep it in its original packaging with your name and the prescription information clearly indicated on the label. Note: If you are traveling to Zambia, please do not bring any over-the-counter medications containing diphenhydramine (active ingredient in Benadryl). This ingredient is on Zambia’s list of controlled substances. 
• Brush/comb  
• Facial tissue and waterless hand sanitizer 
• Antihistamine tablets if you suffer from hay fever 
• Anti-itch cream 
• Anti-nausea tablets if you suffer from travel/air sickness 
• Moisturizing face cream and sunscreen – SPF 30 or higher recommended 
• Insect repellent for body application 

Use this Southern Africa Packing List 

Are you ready to book your trip to South Africa and beyond? Then contact a Ker & Downey travel designer to start planning. For even more inspiration, follow us on Facebook and Instagram. 

For even more Africa packing tips, see our Men's Safari Packing Guide, Women's Safari Packing List, East Africa Packing List, and Primate Safari Packing List.