What to wear on a Safari

Packing up for a Safari needs to be smart and efficient. You will find a lot of lists around mentioning the essential items that you absolutely cannot miss. The clothes however, are a different ballgame altogether.

You cannot overpack but can’t pack less either. Unless you are a first-time safari traveler, you will realize that you might not require or even have time to change 3 times a day. Experts say Safari clothing need to be casual, comfortable and color sensitive. Quick dry and lightweight fabrics in pastel or neutral colors like beige, brown and green are great. Avoid whites since they get dirty very fast. Make sure to read about the place before you pack, in some parts of Zambia and Tanzania tsetse flies are attracted to black and blue. In case you plan to track wildlife, avoid bright colors since studies prove that animals notice bright colors.

Weather is another big consideration point when you think of buying or packing clothes for your safari. Convertibles are a great option in case you want to cater for both cold and hot weathers over the same day. Pants that zip into shorts, large brimmed hats and shirts with vents will help you stay cool and protected from the sun. In any case don’t forget your sunscreens. Carry light weight fleece pullovers or apparels that layer up for the early morning games and the cold nights. Insect repellent apparels are a rave these days but can also be replaced with external methods of insect repellents.

Ladies might want to carry along a skirt or a dress in case you have an elegant dinner on the cards. Men can carry a few collared shirts for dinners at hotels and resorts. Otherwise khakis are the best things you can carry. Denims and flannels might not be optimum since they do not dry quickly.

Though flip flops and sandals are good enough for the game drives, covered shoes are a better option. Hiking boots aren’t necessary for safaris but carry hard soled shoes that are comfortable enough to be in for long stretches of time whether you are walking on simply sitting.

If you aren’t too happy with the beige look, pick up a nice tan belt or a good-looking pair of boots to contrast your outfit with. Want a dressy look over dinner? Add beaded necklaces or some extra bangles.