What to Wear on Safari

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What type of clothing should I bring on safari?

What to Wear on Safari

When it comes to packing for a safari, practicality is typically much more important than fashion. For instance, you will want to choose clothing that can protect you from the elements and insects, especially mosquitoes, which may carry malaria. That is why even if the weather will be very warm at your safari destination, it is best to choose long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Keeping your skin covered is also important if you are taking Doxycycline as a malaria preventative, since one of its side effects is to make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.

As for the color of your clothing, most safari companies recommend that you wear natural and light-colored clothing so that you will be able to blend in with your surroundings. More importantly, avoid wearing blue if you are heading into an area where tsetse flies are common, as this color will attract them. The bite of a tsetse fly is not only painful, but it could carry sleeping sickness, as well.

On many safaris, travelers are only allowed to bring one luggage bag, either because they will be flying on a small plane or because the jeep they will be riding in will only have limited luggage space. While some safaris will offer laundry service, it may not be available at all times, especially in the bush. In these situations, the best types of clothing to bring are ones that you can rinse in a bowl of water and that will dry quickly.

Many people have an image of Africa as being a mercilessly hot continent, so they are often surprised to hear that it can be downright chilly on safari, especially in the mornings. To combat the cold, you should bring a medium-weight jacket and clothes that you can layer.

In addition, don't forget to bring a good pair of sunglasses and a hat to protect your head from the elements. Some people also recommend wearing a bandana that you can cover your nose and mouth with, as it can get very dusty as you rumble down the dirt roads.

   

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