All The Gear You’ll Need For Safari
- Need to know
Packing for a trip to Africa can be a tricky task. Here’s a checklist of what you’ll need… and what you won’t.
Pack It
- Sun Protection: The African sun can be harsh, even in the Winter months. Sunscreen (cream or spray) will help keep you shielded from sunburn.
- Binoculars: Africa’s wild animals instinctively know how (and where) to blend into the bush. A good pair of binoculars will help you find them.
- Camera: Sabi Sand Game Reserve is a nature photographer’s paradise, and you’ll want to take some pictures of your safari adventure. A smartphone camera will only take you so far, though: an SLR with a good zoom lens will leave you with pictures you’ll want to hang on your wall.
- Prescription Medication: Sabi Sand Game Reserve has no pharmacies (drug stores). Emergency medical treatment and medical evacuation procedures are in place at all safari lodges, but access to medication will be limited. Pack yours ahead of time.
- Day Bag: Whether you’re on a bush walk or a safari game drive, a small bag will keep your personal belongings organised and accessible. Most safari lodges will provide you with a water bottle on arrival, so be sure to take it along!
- Charging Units: Yes, you’re on a digital detox… but you may need to check your device, so be sure to pack the necessary chargers (and power point adapters).
Forgot something at home? Don’t worry. If you can’t get it in the safari lodge’s curio shop, the staff are always available to help you track it down.
Wear It
- Hat and Sunglasses: We can’t over-emphasise this. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses will protect you from the glare of the sun, while also helping you spot the wildlife!
- Comfortable Clothing: The African bush is all about comfort, and blending into your surroundings. Wear natural shades like greens, olives, tans, and light browns. Avoid whites (which show up the dust!) and brights (which animals will see from a mile away)!
- Layers: Africa’s weather is pleasant all year round, but it can get chilly in the Winter, at night, or in the early mornings. Wear layered clothing that you can take off or put on as the temperature changes.
- Trousers & Sleeves: In keeping with the layered approach, go with long-sleeved shirts that can be rolled up or down as the temperature changes. Trousers have the added benefit of protecting you from both the sun and (at night) insects.
- Lightweight Fabric: You can’t go wrong with simple cotton, or with a quality synthetic material that lets your clothes breathe while providing much-needed protection from the elements.
- Sturdy Footwear: While you won’t need specialised boots, a sturdy pair of comfortable shoes will keep your feet protected from bushveld vegetation.
Leave It
- Bulky Coats: Many of Sabi Sand Game Reserve’s safari lodges provide blankets for winter safari game drives – so even if it does get cold, you’ll be fine. Layered clothing is far better than a heavy jacket.
- Bright Clothing: The animals will see you coming from miles away, and will hide. The trick to spotting wildlife is to blend into your surroundings.
- High Heels: The ground on the reserve’s pathways can be uneven, especially if you’re out on a safari game drive. Wear shoes that are easy to walk in, and which won’t lead to a rolled ankle.
- Single-use Plastics: Sabi Sand Game Reserve is a natural wilderness area with a commitment to sustainable living and environmental preservation. Plastic litter has no place here.
Curio Shops
Sabi Sand Game Reserve safari lodges that offer on-site curio shops:
Dulini River Lodge
Londolozi Pioneer Camp & Private Villas
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