Planning to go on vacation is fun and planning to visit the Serengeti Safari is definitely something that you need to put some thought into it.
This type of vacation is completely different than anything you’ve experienced before. It’s a whole new world and a whole new adventure. You are probably overwhelmed about what you should put on your gear list and want to get the essentials without packing too many things.
Most of the people who go on Safari are newbies and this is their first time doing that. If you are one of those, or even if you’ve already been there and you want to recheck your list, here is our guide to you about the best gear for Serengeti in 2024.
1. Clothes
Let’s talk about the essentials when it comes to clothes and why you need them.
Waterproof Jacket
A waterproof and windproof jacket is something you will need for those freezing early morning drives, so you don’t catch a cold and ruin your trip. Chances are, it will rain there, so you need something that will protect you from the rain as well as the wind.
Hooded Jumper
Try to get at least two of these with you. Once again, you will need a hooded jumper for the cold nights camping or the early morning drives.
You need two of these because one of them will be always dry and you won’t have to sit without a sweater, or even worse, with a wet one.
Singlets / T-Shirts
T-Shirts are great for when you have to protect your shoulders from the sun and the singlets are something that you will need on warm, sunny days.
Try to pack a mix of the two and bring enough for your vacation so you won’t have to wash them. If you are staying for a longer period of time, bring enough to last for a week without washing.
Long Thin Trousers
This is something that will protect you from the mosquitos. Long trousers are also the right way to go when it comes to visiting places where you have to dress moderately.
Choose natural fabrics like cotton or linen that will keep you warm when it’s chilly, and at the same time, let your skin breathe when it’s hot.
Shorts
You cannot say that your safari gear list is complete without packing shorts. They will be great for those warm, beautiful days.
Try to get at least two pairs for a one-week trip, but if you can pack more, you will need them.
Beach Dress
It is a far better look for evenings or dinners than just shorts. Pack at least one beach dress that you can use if you plan on going to the beach or want to look a bit more formal for evening plans.
Other clothes you should pack:
- Thin Long-Sleeved Tops / Base Layers
- Leggings
- Sports Bra
- Socks
- Underwear
- Bikini
- Woolly Hat / Beanie
- Wide-Brimmed Sun Hat
- Scarf
- Sunglasses
2. Gear
Now let’s talk about the additional gear you will need for your Safari trip. Here is the list of things you will need:
Flashlight or headlamp
You need some kind of light for those nights when you want to walk around the campus or go exploring. A small flashlight will save your phone’s battery and you will be safe from tripping on rocks or trees.
Insect/Mosquito repellent
There are a lot of mosquitos in Serengeti so if you don’t want to look like you have the chicken pox in every picture you take, you definitely need an insect repellent.
There are also other insects you need to protect yourself from, so make sure you pack several different kinds of repellents. Get a small one as well that you can put in your bag and carry it with you at all times.
Hunting Binoculars
You need binoculars because you want to see all the wildlife in Safari, and sometimes you won’t be able to get as close as you would.
There are a lot of different types of binoculars on the market and Target Frog recommends getting a pair that is waterproof so they don’t get damaged in the rain.
Camera
If you want to take photos that seem professional, your phone will not help you that much. Investing in a good camera means investing in your memories.
You need some serious zoom, preferably up to 300mm if you want your pictures to look amazing.
Other gear you will need on your trip:
- Waterproof Bag
- Daypack
- Batteries and Adapters
- Guidebooks
- Phone/Tablet/Laptop
- Chargers
- Mosquito Net
3. Shoes
For your trip, you will need different shoes. Here is the list and why you need them:
Sandals
You need some kind of flip flops that will be easy to put on or take off when you go in and out of the truck, the tent or when you jump in the shower.
You can also get some old or cheap pairs to trade with locals when you get to Africa.
Sneakers
These are great for any fun activities you want to do while on Safari. They are great for walking, running or just to protect your feet in the early mornings.
Waterproof Boots
This is something you might need depending on your activities. If you plan on trekking to the gorillas or if want to visit anything in the altitude, you need a pair of waterproof boots.
There can be a lot of rain and with that a lot of mud as well. Save your feet and your sneakers and pack a pair of boots that will protect you and keep you safe.
4. Toiletries
Last but not least, these are some of the toiletries you will need.
- Sunscreen
- Shampoo and Conditioner Bar – try to get the bars and not the plastic bottles, they are easier to pack and do the same work
- Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Floss
- Antibacterial Soap
- Deodorant
- Moisturizer
- Hairbands
- 50+ SPF Sunscreen
- Medical/First Aid Kit
These are the things you will need for your Safari trip. However, if you have a friend who already visited Serengeti, you better ask them for advice.
Check the weather before you start packing, so you know on which things you should focus on. If you are not sure about anything, it’s better to talk to an expert or the tourist guide. Have a safe and fun trip!
