Worry not; this blog is an educational piece around what to and not to wear on an African safari. Here are a few Do’s and Don’ts that can be helpful:
Don’t: Wear white
Though white might be a versatile color that can go with various things, it does not mix in well in the African bush. The terrain, as breathtaking, is also slightly dusty, especially during the dry season. Besides from the challenge of keeping your crisp white shirt clean, you will also look like a bright searchlight among the khaki tones of the surrounding bush.
Do: Wear light but earthy colors
The most common color to sight on safari is khaki. This is as it is the best option for the environment it’s in. It is quiet light enough that it does not absorb heat (the way black clothing does), while at the same time it does not show the dirt that you are bound to come across at the time on African soil. And it’s less conspicuous as compared to those wearing white or other bright colors.
Don’t: Bring high heels
While this may be obvious, some people still take the chance to look a bit stylish. This is a terrible idea, avoid wearing shoes with any sort of high heel or platform unless you want to get stuck in the ground or twist your ankle. You will surely not need this kind of footwear on your whole safari trip.
Do: Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes
Hiking boots or sturdy sneakers are your best choice for a safari trip. You’ll surely need something that’s going to be comfortable enough to go walking in, so ensure that you’ve worn them enough to know that no blisters are in your future. Even in the summer heat, its best option to wear closed shoes that will protect you from sweltering sand, harsh thorns as well as bug bites.
Don’t: Forget your sunscreen and hat
People from cooler climates many a times don’t realize how hot the southern African sun really is. You would definitely need a hat to keep the sun off your head, face and neck.
Do: Lather on sunscreen before you leave the room
Red faces as well as burnt noses are almost as common as lost hats. Make sure that every inch of your bare skin is covered with sunscreen before you even step outside the room.
Don’t: Wear loads of perfume
Although everyone wants to smell fresh and zesty – it’s a bad idea in the African bush as insects will wish for that same closeness to you. Yes, the mosquitoes and tiny flying bugs might be all over you if you soak yourself in perfume and roam out smelling like a flower.
Do: Take insect repellent with you
Bugs are more troublesome during the summer, but in some game reserves, flies are a pest even in the dry season. If you’re planning to go on evening safari drives, there are chances that the mosquitoes will be joining you at some stage, so try to carry a stick of insect repellent with you in your day bag.
Don’t: Take your favorite handbag on drives
On safari drives, it’s best to carry what you need like water, insect repellent, sunscreen, camera, a light jacket and scarf, some snacks, a flashlight for after dark, and my personal tip: lip balm. Try not to carry your best handbag, as it can get dirty as well as it might get scuffed on the rough floor of the safari vehicle.
Do: Pack a day backpack
You’ll require something to carry your goodies and why not endow in a small backpack with cushioned straps. It’s necessary that your backpack is comfortable enough to carry so that you can carry it on hikes to picnic spots etc. It should not be big, but at the time of morning drives in the middle of winter, as the day warms up you will need enough space to pack away all those warm jackets, which you’ll had wrapped up in against the early morning chill.