Preparing For an African Safari

Most safari travel specialist will tell you never toAnother item not to be left out is a pair of
leave behind any essential item as they may bequality, polarized sunglasses. Polarized sunglasses
difficult to get once you are in the wilderness. It isare best for the strong, bright sun.
therefore essential to do a proper inventory of5. Walking Shoes
what to carry for your African Wildlife Safari.Remember to have a good and comfortable pair
1. Safari Clothingof walking or running shoes that fit you well. Don't
It is important o take note of the clothes youforget to pack quality socks too. You'll probably
carry on safari as they shouldn't only be forwant to also bring a pair of comfortable walking
protection but also for comfortability. Long sleevesandals.
shirts and long pants are essential to protect you6. Rain Gear/warm Jacket
from annoying mosquito bites and to keep yourDepending on the timing of your African Safari ,
skin covered from the hot sun. Most safari guidesthere is need to bring a light rain gear for short
will tell you to avoid brightly colored clothingrains (October - Early December) and long rains
because it can attract animals the reason why(March - April) and a warm jacket for the cold
most safari clothing come in khaki, tan, and lightseason (May - June).
brown. Neutral colors are also effective in keeping7. Swimming Suit
you cooler during warm days. They are mainlyMany lodges in the national parks and game
cotton. Always remember to carry something forreserves have swimming pools. Many safari
warmth as the nights might be a little bit chilly.experiences include the opportunity to swim in
2. Back Packthese pristine pools. Be sure to bring a good
For many people on an African Safari a sturdy,quality swimming suit so you can enjoy the water!
waterproof backpack is an ideal way to bringOther items you may want to bring include:a)
your essential items. As a rule when packing, tryPersonal toiletriesb) Camera equipment - always
not to have your pack weigh more than 50ensure that the equipment plug and electric cables
kilogram since you will be lugging it around fromconforms with that of the country you are
one safari lodge to the other. Make sure thevisiting.c) Extra contact lenses or glassesd)
straps on your pack fit you comfortably. Talk toBinocularse) Basic medical suppliesf) Waterproof
your travel specialist because you may only needbags - for your camera and other electronic
a few days of clothing supply because many ofdevices
the camps and lodges do have laundry facilities. ItFor first timers to Africa, an Africa safari to
is also important to ask your tour operator whatKenya, Tanzania and/ or Uganda would be an
to carry when on specialized outdoor activitiesexcellent choice. The countries boast of amazing
that include mountain climbing, bungee jumping,and magical wilderness with high probability of
gorilla trekking and/ or water raftingseeing big game. What you are likely to see here
3. Sun and Mosquito Protectionincludes:i) elephants of Amboseliii) the Great Rift
In the wild you will encounter mosquitoes so it isValleyiii) Wildebeest migration at the Masai Mara
important to have a strong mosquito repellent. BeNational Reserveiv) Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro the
sure to spray your clothing and any exposed skin.highest point in Africav) Exploring the mankind
Avoid the use of perfume, hairspray and otherarcheological sitesvi) Explore the cultures of the
scented products because they may attractpeoplevii) Explore miles of pristine white sand filled
mosquitoes. Around the equator and especiallybeaches
Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania being located on theNo matter what your interests, aspirations and
Equator the temperatures are high. It is thereforedreams are, always ensure that you choose a
important to have a good sunscreen to protectgood tour operator to make your African Safari
you from the sun raysnot only memorable but a dream turn reality.
4. Polarized Sunglasses