Regardless of where or when your safari takes place, there are a few essential things to keep in mind if you want to enjoy this incredible experience in the right spirit.
That’s why we decided to write this article, bringing together the seven best tips for planning your safari wardrobe.
Let’s get started!
Seven tips for the perfect African safari outfit
#1 Wear long sleeves and long trousers
The golden rule for the perfect outfit for safaris in Africa: long trousers and long-sleeved tops. They are essential because they cover your skin and protect you from cold, wind, sun, and insect bites.
Although it can be very hot in many parts of Africa, remember that in other areas it can also get veeeery cold, especially inland or when you are on an early morning or night safari.
Long trousers are especially useful if you are taking part in a walking safari or a game drive where you may sometimes be allowed to get out of the vehicle. In fact, they help protect your legs from scratches or bites (no, not lion bites—you won’t be saved from those).
#2 Choose neutral, earthy colours
The idea of a safari is that you spot the wildlife, not the other way around, right?
For this reason, it is best to blend in with the environment as much as possible, so you do not draw unnecessary attention to yourself. This is especially true for cycling or walking safaris, where you may get quite close to certain animals.
Avoid camouflage clothing—which in some African countries is reserved for the military—and opt instead for earth tones and neutral colours such as brown, khaki, and grey. It is probably best to avoid white, cream, and other light colours, because they show dust and dirt easily.
Black, on the other hand, is not ideal in high temperatures! 🥵
You heard that right: leave the sequins and neon T-shirts at home—you will not need them.
#3 Wear closed-toe shoes
Closed-toe shoes. The holy grail of closed-toe shoes. Holy because they are important, essential, vital! Especially if you plan to get out of the vehicle. The ground can be uneven and thorny, not to mention that there may be snakes, spiders, and other creatures around!
For walking safaris, it is best to wear well-broken-in hiking shoes and trekking socks.
Why broken in?
Because setting off in brand-new shoes is never a good idea: can you imagine being on safari with your feet covered in blisters?! No, thanks.
#4 Bring a suitable sun hat
Safari vehicles vary depending on the model, but they are often very exposed to the sun and the elements.
During a safari, it is necessary to wear a sun hat to avoid sunburn. A wide-brimmed hat is much better than a baseball cap or visor, because it protects both the back of your neck and your face.
You will be grateful you read this tip when you find yourself standing still for hours under the sun, photographing a pride of lion cubs.
#5 Avoid strong perfumes or colognes
You do not want wild animals to move away from you because they are bothered by your fragrance, right? Instead, let the animals—and your fellow safari-goers—enjoy the smell of the great outdoors (this obviously does not apply to deodorant, which should be applied generously under your arms in the morning! For the good of the whole savannah, travelling companions included).
#6 Protection from the cold
Game drives often take place at first light and around sunset, because this is a great time to observe animals, as they like to move around and hunt during the cooler hours of the day.
Depending on the location and the time of year, these photographic safaris can be cold—veeeery cold.
That is why it is advisable to wear:
-
a warm fleece;
-
long trousers;
-
socks and closed-toe shoes.
Some parks allow night safaris, which are just as breathtaking as they are freezing!
Convertible trousers are a great clothing choice for safari, as you can remove the lower legs when it gets warm.
To be safe, we recommend keeping a rain jacket in your backpack or vehicle, even if the day is warm and cloudless. The weather can change, and you do not want the cold or rain to ruin the adventure!
#7 Protection from heat and sunburn
Many African safaris take place in very hot regions, and the sun can be extremely strong. Humidity can also be quite tricky.
It is therefore essential to cover up to avoid sunburn.
This also applies on cloudy days: you can still get sunburned even when the sky is overcast.
When going on safari in Africa, it is a good idea to protect yourself from heat and sunburn by wearing:
-
a loose long-sleeved top (you can always roll up the sleeves if you get too warm);
-
a wide-brimmed hat that covers your face and neck (even better if it is made from materials specifically designed to protect against UV rays).
It is advisable to wear closed-toe shoes (yes, even during a midday safari), so that your feet are protected from possible sunburn as well.
But if you choose sandals—or go full tourist and wear sandals with socks—make sure you apply sunscreen!
It is best to choose a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Many African safaris take place near the Equator, where the sun is extremely strong. So protect any exposed skin with a good-quality sunscreen. And do not forget the backs of your hands!
As well as protecting your skin, make sure you combat the heat by bringing plenty of water with you, especially in humid regions where you sweat a lot.
Conclusions
In this article, we have looked at how to choose the right outfit for a safari in Africa.
By following these tips, you will be able to savour every single moment without having to worry about heat, cold, scratches, or sunburn.
Would you like to experience the thrill of a real adventure among the great animals of the African continent? Check out Sto Gran Safari in Africa and discover all the most sought-after destinations.
We look forward to seeing you!
