PACKING
PACKING LIST
ESSENTIALS
Please take note of all the essential items in the list below!
Since these requirements change frequently (especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic), please be sure to keep up to date on the latest requirements related to Health, Visa’s and Covid-19 testing requirements.
- A valid passport is required for your trip; be sure to check the expiry date ( you need 6 months validity from your departure out of Africa date and 6 empty pages) It is a good idea to carry a photocopy of the photo page and the entry stamp page of your passport as an additional piece of identification.
- YOUR PHOTO-COPIES SHOULD BE STORED IN A DIFFERENT PLACE TO YOUR TRAVEL DOCUMENTS.
- Valid visa – if required (see section pertaining to your trip- Not needed for USA citizens traveling to South Africa or Namibia. Zimbabwe visas are issued at the port of arrival for $ 50 – Please bring cash. While this websites contains Visa Information correct at time of publication, it is impossible to track political fluctuations daily.
Please check regularly, as well as your own Internal Foreign Affairs Department, passport office, or local travel agent as to what visas you require. - One other picture ID (e.g. driver’s license)
- Photocopy of passport page to carry in wallet / take a snapshot with you phone camera
- Air tickets
- Expense money. Credit cards are widely accepted in Africa. Note that Visa and Master as American Express is not always excepted.
- Please note IMPORTANT visa requirements for each country
NECESSITIES
- Sunglasses
- Camera and memory card. Camera charger, power converter (if applicable), adapter and and batteries
- Binoculars
- Sunblock cream
- Power adapters – Most electronics these days have a built in power transformer, like cell phone and camera chargers, so they can handle 110v – 220v input. However, you will need an adapter to be able to plug into the wall outlets. South Africa and Namibia both use Type M adapters, which you can easily buy from “Ebay” – Use search term “South Africa power adapter Type M”. Zimbabwe uses Type G adapters, so use the term “Zimbabwe power adapter Type G”.
CLOTHING
Please pack and travel light!
On safari most people wear lightweight cargo pants and a T-shirt during the day and put on long sleeved shirts in the evening for warmth as well as protection from mosquitoes. Should you be particularly sensitive to the sun a loose cotton shirt is essential during the day
White is not a suitable color for these activities:
Firstly it increases your visibility quotient to the animals you are wanting to get a closer look at, and secondly, it will get dirty very quickly.
Fleece or sweater and a windbreaker for the back of the safari vehicle, because it is highly possible that you may go out on a hot day, but be faced with a chill evening on your return. Some areas have a steep temperature gradient, ie. Very hot days and very cool nights.
Remember that layering your clothing will keep you warmer than relying on one thick item.
Clothing (May vary depending on the length of your safari, location and safari dates)
Note: If you are prone to sore feet, heavier socks and one pair of sturdy hunting boots may be advisable. Whatever your choice, shoe or boot soles should be of rubber without lugs or cleats so that you can move quietly while stalking and tracking game. Dark colored boots/shoes are recommended, NOT WHITE
- 4 Shirts, 2 long and 2 short sleeved
- 2 Long trousers
- 2 Walking shorts
- 1 Lightweight hunting jacket
- 1 Light to medium down jacket
- 1 Lightweight raincoat
- 4 Sets of underwear
- 1 Wool sweater
- 1 Sweat or jogging suit
- 1 “Boonie” hat or wide brim field hat
- 6 Pairs medium weight socks
- 2 Pairs walking shoes
- 1 Pair camp slippers
- 1 Pair of gloves
PERSONAL KIT
- Toilet kit including shampoo and soap
- Sunscreen or block. Sun can be very strong a #10 or higher screen will be needed for the first few days if you are pale; #4 or 5 may be adequate thereafter. The African sun is harsh most of the year
- Malaria medication (if applicable – Zimbabwe and north of Zimbabwe)
- Aspirin or Tylenol for mild pain or headache
- Moisturizer, lip balm
- Imodium for diarrhea
- Topical antibiotic (e.g. Neosporin), for cuts, bites or sores.
- Insect repellent. The principal active ingredient is N, N-Diethyl-Metatoluamide (DEET), an effective repellent will have 75% content or higher. Liquid drops are best for skin application unless your skin is sensitive, sprays may be taken for clothes.
- A-Fil Sun Sticks are best for lips and nostrils.
- Moleskin or Second Skin adhesive pads for blisters
- Personal and prescription drugs
- Cold capsules and/or allergy capsules
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel insurance is your personal responsibility and at your own discretion.