Clothing:
Casual and semi-casual clothing is best suited to the relaxed informal style of African Safari and tourist lodges. Bright colours and white are not suitable for game viewing. Stick to neutral colours.
General Packing suggestion: Sunglasses, binoculars, camera with telephoto lens, notebook and pen, mammal or birding bird (depending on your interests), alarm clock, small torch/flashlight, sunscreen lotion, sun hat, insect repellent, swimwear, light cotton trousers, cotton shorts, light cotton shirts (long and short sleeved), sandals, walking shoes, waterproof/windbreaker jacket, polar fleece. During winter pack an additional warm jacket, woolen hat, scarf and gloves.
Luggage:
Pack light, especially if you are travelling on a multi-destination safari where you may use different methods of transport (light aircraft, trucks, boats). Most lodges have a laundry service so you do not need a lot of clothes. Luggage should be kept to the following restrictions - Two pieces of soft (not hard case) luggage per person and one carry on (backpack which you will use to carry you safari gear when game viewing) bag. Total weight should not exceed 20kg (40lbs). Certain baggage restrictions apply on small charter aircraft, as well as the requirement of a soft bag. Restrictions vary from 20kg (40lbs) to 12kg (depending on the size of the aircraft) and this includes camera equipment and carry-on baggage.
Photography/Binoculars:
African Safaris offer many excellent photo opportunities. As the game drives usually occur early morning and late afternoon we suggest using a high speed film (200/400ASA), and a telephoto lens (at least 80-300mm). A ultra-violet filter and lens hood are also a good idea as well as a sturdy protective bag and a dust cover or plastic bag. Film and batteries are usually available en route but it is advisable to purchase before departure. For digital cameras make sure you have large capacity memory cards.
One essential piece of equipment for game viewing is a good quality pair of binoculars. It can be very frustrating seeing an animal in the distance and not being able to take a closer look because you only have a cheap pair of binocs.
Health:
Lodges do have first aid kits, but remember to take any specific medicine that you need with you. Anti-malarial medication is a must if you are vising a malaria area. A course of basic anti-biotic is always a good idea to carry with you in Africa, cold/flu tablets, allergy tablets, immodium (for diarrohea), travel sickness pills, bite relief cream, paracetamol.
Toiletries/General:
Sun block, skin cream, insect repellent, mosquito coils (do not use in a tent), body soap or shower gel, toothpaste, toothbrush, wet wipes, band aids/plasters, pocket knife, plastic bags (for muddy shoes, wet washing), sanitary products for women.
Marcelle was born and raised in South Africa on an african safari wildlife farm. View her stunning wildlife photo gallery, wild news and african luxury safaris at www.wildafricasafarico.com or her Wild Africa blog at www.wildafricasafari.blogspot.com
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