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The Complete Africa Safari Packing Guide

Everything you need to pack for game drives, bush flights, gorilla treks, and beach extensions — curated by our safari experts.

Safari luggage packed neatly ahead of a game drive
Introduction

Pack Smart, Travel Light

Packing for a safari requires careful thought — you'll be in the bush, on small aircraft, at beach resorts, and in cultural sites. Our guides have distilled years of experience into one practical checklist.

Interactive Packing Checklist

Check items off as you pack — your progress is saved on this device.

Destination-Specific Packing Tips

Every safari is different — here's what to pack differently for each destination.

Kenya Safari

  • Mara season (Jul–Oct): pack extra layers — cool mornings in open vehicles
  • KWS parks require closed shoes for bush walks
  • Amboseli is very dusty — protect cameras with sealed bags
  • Avoid blue/black clothing — attracts tsetse flies
Explore Kenya Safari

Tanzania Safari

  • Ngorongoro Crater is cold and misty
  • Serengeti camps require soft bags
  • Kilimanjaro climbers need layering
  • Zanzibar extension: reef-safe sunscreen
Explore Tanzania Safari
Important

Luggage Weight Rules

Internal light aircraft (Cessna, Caravan) used for bush flights typically allow only 15kg total per person in a soft-sided bag. Excess luggage is stored at the first lodge. Plan accordingly — pack light and smart.

International Flight

23kg checked baggage

7kg carry-on

Bush Aircraft

15kg total

Soft-sided bags only

Gorilla Trek

10kg daypack

Porter carries the rest

Beach Resort

Standard airline limits

Any bag type

Download the Complete Safari Packing Checklist

Take this printable checklist with you and ensure you never leave behind an essential item.

Free, and regularly updated by our safari experts.