Essential Packing Guide for Your Southern Africa Safari

Welcome to an essential packing guide for your Southern Africa safari tour! Get ready for an amazing adventure as we go down the list of items to bring along. From safari clothing to binoculars, and sunscreen to a sense of excitement, we’ll ensure you’re well-prepared for an incredible journey through the stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife of Southern Africa.

Let’s dive in!

Safari Packing Essentials for Namibia

Safari Clothing: Lightweight and Neutral-Coloured Attire. Pack breathable, neutral-toned clothing. It helps you stay comfortable and blend into the environment.
Hat: Bring a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face, neck, and ears. Choose one with UPF for extra sun protection.
Sunglasses: Invest in UV-protected, polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and protect your eyes from the bright African sun.
Sunscreen: Use a high SPF sunscreen liberally, especially during outdoor activities.
Insect Repellent: Apply a reliable repellent to keep mosquitoes and other insects at bay, particularly during dawn and dusk.

Wildlife Viewing Gear

Binoculars: Enhance your game viewing with a good pair of binoculars to observe wildlife from a distance.
Camera: Capture your adventure with a quality camera. Ensure you have enough memory and batteries.
Comfortable Walking Shoes: Opt for sturdy, closed-toe shoes for safari walks and game drives. They protect your feet from rough terrain and thorns.

Electronics and Power

Travel Adapter: Namibia uses Type D and Type M outlets. Bring the correct adapter for your electronics.
Power Bank: A portable charger ensures your devices stay powered, especially on long drives.
Local SIM: We recommend getting an MTC Local SIM card to ensure you have coverage during your travels, even in remote areas. The SIM card can be purchased at the airport before exiting or at most grocery stores and fuelling stations.

Health and Hygiene

Medications: Bring all necessary prescriptions and a basic first aid kit with pain relievers and band-aids.
Toiletries: Pack essentials like toothbrushes, toothpaste, and eco-friendly personal hygiene items in travel-sized containers.
Water Bottle: Stay hydrated with a refillable water bottle to combat the African heat. If you have a particularly sensitive stomach, it’s advisable to drink only bottled water. Lodges will often provide clear signage about whether tap water is safe for drinking or not.
CPAP Machines: Guests who require CPAP machines can bring them along, as all lodges are equipped with electricity to support such devices.

Safety and Convenience

Travel Documents: Secure your passport, visas, and important documents in a waterproof pouch or organizer.
Money Belt or Pouch: Keep cash, credit cards, and important documents safe in a discreet money belt.
Guidebooks and Maps: Bring along regional guides for insights into Namibia’s wildlife and culture. We’ll provide you with a detailed map.
Travel Insurance: Ensure comprehensive coverage for medical expenses, cancellations, and lost items.
Travel Backpack: A sturdy backpack with compartments is perfect for carrying essentials during excursions.
Headlamp or Flashlight: Essential for navigating in the dark or around the campsite at night.

Extras for Comfort and Convenience

Travel Towel: A quick-drying towel is handy for showers, swimming, or wiping off sweat.
Snacks: Pack durable, nutritious snacks like energy bars for long drives or hikes.
Rain Jacket: Be ready for sudden rain with a lightweight, waterproof jacket.
Wildlife Field Guide: Bring a guide to help identify and learn about the animals and plants you encounter.

Ziplock Bags: These are incredibly useful for keeping electronics, maps, and other items dry during unexpected rain or while out on excursions.
Wet Wipes/Hand Sanitizer: While travelling in remote areas, access to running water can sometimes be limited. Wet wipes or hand sanitisers come in handy for cleaning your hands and face, especially before meals.
Small Notepad and Pen: These are handy for jotting down your experiences, wildlife sightings, or any travel tips you might want to remember.
Plastic or Reusable Bags are good for separating dirty or wet clothes from clean ones, especially after a hike or swim.

Road Conditions and Safety Advice

During the rainy season, road conditions can change quickly, and some routes may become completely impassable—especially in Botswana. It’s always a good idea to ask a local for advice. Lodge management or park rangers can provide valuable insight into which roads to avoid.

Additionally, we never recommend driving through running water, especially rivers, as this is extremely dangerous for obvious reasons. Always prioritise safety and, when in doubt, turn around and seek an

alternative route.

Top Destinations for First-Time Visitors to Namibia

For an unforgettable introduction to Namibia, start with Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, where towering dunes meet striking white clay pans. Head north to Etosha National Park for incredible wildlife sightings at its famous waterholes. Swakopmund and Walvis Bay offer adventure and marine life encounters along the coast, while the Skeleton Coast stuns with shipwrecks and rugged beauty. Inland, Damaraland captivates with ancient rock engravings and desert-adapted wildlife. The dramatic Fish River Canyon is perfect for breathtaking views and hiking, while the lush Zambezi Region promises boat safaris, birdwatching, and riverine wildlife.

Mindset

Sense of Adventure: Embrace the unique experiences of a Southern Africa safari. Stay curious and open-minded to create lasting memories.
Important Reminder: While no destination is entirely crime-free, it’s essential to take a few precautions. Never leave any important documents or valuables in the car, even if it’s locked. Unfortunately, smash-and-grab crimes do occur throughout Southern Africa. Additionally, stay vigilant while visiting shops and convenience stores.
For safety reasons, it’s advisable to avoid picking up hitchhikers. Following these guidelines ensures a safer and more enjoyable Namibian safari. Embrace the awe-inspiring landscapes and incredible wildlife while maintaining your comfort and safety.

Ready to Embark on Your Southern Africa Safari?

As you prepare for your unforgettable Southern Africa safari, this packing guide will ensure you’re well-equipped for every adventure that awaits. With the right gear, a sense of excitement, and a bit of foresight, you’ll be ready to experience Namibia’s stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife to the fullest.

Ready to start planning? Check out some of our most popular tour itineraries, where you can explore unique destinations and activities tailored to your interests. If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re here to help you create the safari of a lifetime!

All Photos sourced from Unsplash