What to pack on safari in South Africa

We all know that familiar feeling when you're getting ready to head off on a holiday... 'What do I pack? Will it rain? Will I need a dressy outfit?' Don't stress if you're about to set off on safari, we're here to help. We have chatted to the experts and come up with this comprehensive list of items not to be left out of your safari suitcase.

Essential items

• Binoculars
• Camera (include a big lens if you want to take close up wildlife images)
•  Clothes should be in light neutral colours, make sure they are made from breathable materials as it can get warm out on the tracks
• Sunglasses
• Hat
• Bird identification books and field guides
• Corkscrew to enjoy the amazing local South African wines
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Warm jumper/fleece for when the sun starts to go down
• Head torch/flash light
• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen
• Roll of toilet paper (you never know when this might come in handy!)
• Local language phrase book

Packing tips

• Soft luggage is always really useful instead of a hard suitcase, they’re easier and generally lighter to pack into cars and trucks
• Take some washing liquid to hand wash your clothes when you’re on the road (and a portable clothes line will help too)
• Pack a small travel pillow if you can fit it in, the early starts are worth it for the amount of wildlife you'll see but you may want to nap on the drive back to camp!

If you've got some packing tips for heading off on safari in South Africa share them below in the comments section or visit us at our twitter and Facebook pages to keep the conversation going.

If you're ready to experience the thrill of a safari for yourself, why not take a look through all our trips to South Africa. There's bound to be something to get your heart pumping! Then order a free brochure and sign up to our monthly eNews for trip updates, deals and competitions. 

Play!

Play Finders Keepers and win a 12-day tour for two in South Africa! Just like us on Facebook to start playing today! 

Fundraiser!

Come along and support St Jude’s in their fight against poverty through education in Tanzania and you could win a Gecko's trip for two to Africa!

Where and when: Thousand Pound Bend, Lonsdale St, Melbourne on Friday, March 23, 2012 at 6:30pm. Tickets are $35 and RSVP is essential. Find out more 

Sale!

Take 25% off all Gecko's trips Africa. Simply book from Feb 27 to 31 March 2012, and travel by October 2012 to take advantage. Visit the website for more details.

• Tweet