What to Pack for a Safari in East Africa

Are you planning a guided or self-drive safari in East Africa? We assist you to plan a perfect safari to Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania basing on your interests, budget and time frame.

Here is what to carry for your gorilla safari in Rwanda, Uganda and DR Congo, as well as wildlife viewing in other countries of East Africa.

Clothes and Accessories

4-6 t-shirts (Depending on how long your tour is)
1-3 long-sleeve shirts for forest walks and gorilla tracking
Money belt
Ziploc bags to keep your dirty laundry, and separate it from clean ones.
3-5 pairs of underwear (cotton, so that you can easily wash and dry them overnight)
1-3 pairs of cotton trousers/pants
1-3 pairs of cotton trousers/pants
A raincoat (Lightweight)
At least 3 pairs of comfortable shorts
3-5 pairs of socks
1 pair of lightweight, durable walking shoes and hiking boots for gorilla tracking and nature walks
Pyjamas
1 pair of sunglasses (preferably with UV protection)
1 sun-hat
Warm clothes
1 warm woollen hat
1 pair of flip-flops or sandals (for wearing around camp)
Garden gloves
1 swimsuit

Top Tip for ladies: African roads are bumpy, pack a decent sports bra.

Toiletries and First Aid

After-sun cream
Antiseptic gel (for washing your hands when there’s no water around)
Painkillers, such as aspirin or Tylenol
Personal toiletries such as shampoo, soap, moisturizer, deodorant, toothpaste and toothbrush
Insect repellant (DEET highly recommended)
Antihistamines for bug bites and allergic reactions
Malaria pills (if needed)
Cold and flu medicines
Diarrhoea medication
Sunscreen (minimum SPF 30+)
Sanitary products for ladies
Band-aids
Antiseptic cream

Electronic Devices

Camera
Spare camera battery (consider a solar charger if you’re going to be camping, and some jeeps have charging sockets)
Electrical adaptor
Spare memory cards
Binoculars
iPad or tablet for storing e-books, photos and handy travel apps
Small flashlight (to use inside your tent or to find your way around camp at night)