(101 things to know when you go) ON SAFARI IN AFRICA. Patrick Brakspear
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forget a pair of comfortable walking shoes which you have ‘worn in’ before you leave home.
You might also like to consider a pair of open sports sandals (Tevas or similar) for general daytime use in the warmer months (my choice of footwear – comfortable and cool).
Take a swimming costume too - a number of lodges and camps have swimming pools.
Dull and/or neutral colours are more suitable for safari, white and/or bright colours are not practical as they tend to stand out – definitely not advisable on a walking safari.
Cotton clothing is recommended although the newer synthetic safari clothing lines are quick drying and extremely comfortable.
Ladies – despite being loathe to offer advice in this area, I should mention that game drives can be VERY bumpy and a good (sports) bra would probably not go amiss!
Think about packing a bandanna or cotton scarf and a sarong (kanga, pareo, kikoi). They might just be the most useful and versatile items you take on safari.
Bring an elegantly casual outfit for dinner at the smarter hotels.
Consider a light, compact raincoat if it is likely you will encounter rain (gorilla and chimp trekking). Fantastic lightweight raincoats are available these days.
Pith helmets and zebra-striped pyjamas are no longer mandatory!
Camera, video and binoculars
Whilst most people will remember to take their camera and/or video (or will use their mobile phone) not everyone thinks they need to take binoculars! In my opinion, binoculars are ESSENTIAL for optimum wildlife viewing on safari (and a GOOD pair of binoculars will make a BIG difference to your safari). I strongly recommend a pair of binoculars on safari – get the most expensive you can afford, at least 8x or better still 10x magnification*. You WILL thank me.
Africa is a photographer’s dream. Not only does the boundless wildlife come in all shapes and sizes but the continent is also blessed with stunning landscapes, colourful people and fabulous light! Don’t miss out – buy a camera if you don’t already have one.
For more insights on what camera equipment to take on safari, or if you are considering taking a 'drone' (UAV) for aerial photography, please refer to the section below on Digital photography.
* If you wear prescription glasses, look for binoculars that have dioptric compensation (allowing you to set each side independently to match your prescription for left and right eyes) and twist-in eye cups for a more comfortable fit. Size (and weight) should also be a consideration - too heavy a pair of binoculars will come to be somewhat uncomfortable over time (if worn around your neck).
Phone, music, tablet or laptop
Again, I doubt you will leave these behind but don’t forget their respective chargers and the correct adaptor plugs for the countries you are visiting (and perhaps even a double-adaptor if you have multiple devices plus a camera or video which will also require charging).
Passport, itinerary, travel insurance docs and etickets
I know, I know. Not rocket science…but we do need to have these on the list.
Prescription glasses (sunglasses, hat, sunblock et al)
If you wear prescription glasses be sure to pack more than one set (in case you lose one or they get broken). You will be outdoors for much of the time, so be prepared – hat, sunblock, long sleeves, and lip balm.
Prescription meds
Do not forget to put your prescription medications in your hand luggage (in case your check-in bag goes astray – it happens!)…and make sure you have enough of each type to last your entire safari.
Preventative pharmaceuticals
Here I am talking about 'meds' that you might need if the worst happens: diarrhoea, headaches, heartburn, insect repellent, hand sanitizer, bites (antihistamine), indigestion, sore throat (lozenges), eye drops, and most important – anti-malarial tablets.
A ban on ALL plastic bags
Plastic bags are now banned in Rwanda, Kenya and Botswana (including duty free bags) and all visitors to these countries need to be aware of this. I suspect that this prohibition may soon spread to other countries in the region. Please respect these initiatives.
Odds & ends
A good torch (flashlight) is a must - it can be pitch black in the bush or in your tent in the middle of the night. A rechargeable torch is ideal but a small battery-powered torch is sufficient. The new LED miner’s lights that fit on your head (and leaves your hands free) are also a good option. A smaller (pencil) torch for your camera bag or looking at star maps is also worth considering. Most camps will provide a torch, or will walk you back to your tent as required, but being self-sufficient is always a good idea.
A good book. It never hurts to have an interesting book when travelling – you never know when you are going to be delayed at the airport or fall victim to Africa time!
A travel diary or journal is something I do recommend. You will see and experience so much in such a short period of time on safari that the only way to maintain a good record, and the correct chronology, will be to write it down. It does require discipline, but will serve as an invaluable record of your safari adventure.
Finally, don’t forget your sense of humour, patience and some common sense!
A word of warning:
It is not advisable to wear any form of clothing that may be construed as “camouflage”. By this I mean any form of brown/green “combat” style colouring. Even if it is the latest fashion statement - and even if it is only your 12 year old wearing it - and even if it is just a cap. Many African authorities have a disproportionate phobia about such garments and this could conceivably result in you being questioned or harassed by the police. It has the potential to cause you grief – don’t do it.
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