What to Pack for an East African Safari (and What to Leave Home)

Every guest overpacks the first time. Internal flights allow 15kg in a soft duffel, and lodges do same-day laundry — so here is the list that actually works.

Clothing

Three or four neutral outfits (khaki, olive, stone — never blue or black, which attract tsetse flies), one warm fleece (dawn game drives are genuinely cold), a light rain shell, swimwear, and one “smart-casual” set for dinner. That is all.

For Gorilla Trekking

Add: waterproof hiking boots (broken in), long trousers you can tuck into socks, gardening gloves for grabbing vegetation, and gaiters if you have them. Porters carry the rest — hire one, always (see why in our permit guide).

The Kit That Earns Its Place

Binoculars (8×42 — one pair per person, non-negotiable), camera with a 200mm+ lens, spare batteries, headlamp, power bank, high-SPF sunscreen and DEET repellent. Lodges provide nearly everything else.

Documents & Health

Passport (six months validity), East Africa Tourist Visa, yellow fever certificate (checked at borders), malaria prophylaxis, and travel insurance details. Carry crisp post-2009 US dollars for tips.

Leave at Home

Hard suitcases, drones (banned in all the parks), camouflage clothing (illegal in several countries) and anything you would mind losing.

Packing is Step 7 — if you have not done Steps 1–6, start with how to plan a luxury East African safari, then check seasonal notes in our Mara and Migration guides. Enquire when you are ready.