You’ve booked your safari and it is now time to pack your suitcase for your upcoming African adventure. While some find the task of packing daunting, I always find that it fuels my excitement for my upcoming travels.
When it comes to picking out your safari attire, comfort is key. Wearing clothing that you feel comfortable in will definitely enhance your safari experience – it is however possible to fuse functionality and style by incorporating some stylish pieces to elevate your safari look.
For a comprehensive list of what to pack – click here. But if you’re wondering how to safari in style, here is a list of items to pack to make sure you’re safari chic.
1. A Safari Hat
If there’s anything that will tie a safari look together it will be a safari hat, which is why it is first on my list. While out on safari, you’ll be spending a great deal of time under the African sun in search of wildlife. This is why a safari hat is a must when packing for your trip. When searching for the perfect safari-style hat, I would recommend a Panama sun hat or a wide-brim leather hat. These classic styles are not only great for sun protection but also the perfect accessory to compliment your safari chic look.
2. Sunglasses
A good quality pair of sunglasses is another essential accessory you’ll need while you’re out on safari. From the classic aviator style to tortoiseshell frames, there are endless options when it comes to choosing which pair to bring along with you to the bush.
3. A Light Jacket for Sunrise and Sunset
Layers are key when packing your safari outfits as it enables you to either be warmer or cooler during temperature changes throughout the day. A neutral-coloured light jacket is a stylish way to ensure you’ll be comfortable during the slight temperature drop in the early mornings and late evenings.
4. Scarves
A scarf is a wonderfully versatile accessory that can be worn in many ways while on safari. They’re especially great for game drives as you can use it to drape over your shoulders for protection against the sun or to wrap around you for warmth as the sun starts to set and a cool breeze sets in.
A scarf can also be a wonderful addition to your dinner-time attire – bringing a touch of nighttime elegance to your safari chic look.
5. Boots
When it comes to footwear, a good pair of ankle boots is an excellent choice for your safari, not only are they extremely practical and comfortable, but also a stylish addition to bring your safari look together.
Let us know what your safari chic staple is in the comments section below…
Whilst these things are very important , a phial of Tea Tree oil works wonders
for??
Those nasty bites , I also leave the lid off as the smell works to deter mosquitoes and other less welcome creatures.
Megan. Thanks for the great reminders for our next visit! If anyone has seen all the styles for safari, you sure have!!!
Looking forward to your next visit, Michael and Terri!
Great deals! Winter morning safari drives can be very chilly – I like to bring a lightweight packable down jacket and a warm beanie. A pair of cycling gloves is a good idea to stay warm and yet still be able to use my camera. And those stylish wide-brimmed safari hats – be sure they have an under-chin strap. Bad form for your hat to go flying off as you’re off-roading after those wild dogs!
Those are all wonderful suggestions, Mary Beth!
Loved the hat options!
Thank you, Vin!
I believe you’ve covered all of the essentials plus a few that make the safari chic list. I’ve found as a photographer a comfortable, multi-pocket vest is invaluable and I recommend to everyone, leave your good jewelry at home – take fun costume jewelry to wear to dinner or buy something fun during your trip. I treasure my silver leopard head necklace purchased two years ago in the Londolozi studio. Thanks for the tips!
Thank you for those wonderful suggestions, Denise. It is lovely to hear that you still have your leopard necklace!
Mine is the hat for sure – finally got a chic one last year and it was so worth it -make sure it has a strap or tightener though or it keeps flying off in the vehicle.
I agree, Kara, mine is also a safari hat. I’m glad you managed to find one!
Interesting blog on Safari wear.
Thank you very much, Christa.
Can’t wait to visit, hopefully sooner rather than later. And your post, Megan, makes the anticipation even greater!
We can’t wait to welcome you to Londolozi, Paul! Hopefully in the very near future.
I’ll be arriving to Londolozi with my family (myself, husband and two children, 24 & 22) the first week in January 2024 and am beyond excited for this bucket list-dream trip! I am wondering about the attire for around the lodge and dinner…I’ve been told and read that people just go straight to dinner from the afternoon safari and don’t change, and then the opposite…to bring a lightweight dress or pants and blouse with sandals, and to “dress nicer” for dinner. So I’d love to know which is correct! We are staying in Cape Town for 5 days before Londolozi and we are trying to only bring carry on luggage…a struggle for this chronic overpacker! Any advice and info would be greatly appreciated!