South Africa is endowed with breath-taking nature reserves which have become secure natural habitats for the diverse animal and bird species which the country is blessed with. These nature reserves and game parks have become the perfect environment for human beings to experience nature at its best through fly-in safaris, mobile guided safaris, camping safarsi, specialist safaris and self-drive safaris.
True to its safari English meaning which is journey, touring and voyaging, local and international tourists are spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing the best safari destinations around the country. While choosing the destination should be high on the priority list, knowing what to carry during safari travels should be considered highly important.
What are the key items you should carry on a safari trip? Small essentials file
You need to secure your most important documents in a secure handy bag. These documents include your passport, booking documents, flight tickets and other small but vital items. A small essentials bag will assist you to do this and you can carry it along as you go on safari. Such a bag should be water and dust proof to prevent important items from getting soiled in dust or being damaged by water.
Camera and binoculars
Safari is about enjoying the natural landscape, unspoiled vegetation as well as the animals and birds. You need a binoculars to view all these from a distance without difficulty. A good pair of binoculars will assist you with optimum wildlife viewing. A camera on the other hand will assist you to capture unforgettable moments and preserve these memories.
A pair of safari trousers
Safari trousers are a must. Not only are they comfortable but they will protect your skin from dust, uncomfortable wind and harsh sunshine.You need to buy a pair with a zip-off at the knees so that you can easily zip it off when it gets too hot or uncomfortable.
Raincoat
Depending on what type of climatic conditions are prevailing, you will need a light and compact raincoat which you can use if it rains as you do some trekking in the game parks.
Sunglasses and prescription glasses
Your eyes are your way to viewing enjoyment, so treat them with care. Buy and pack some sunglasses for those sunny days when your eyes need protection. To avoid frightening animals, don’t carry glasses with metallic parts because the sun might reflect on them and animals get scared by the glinting. If you use prescription glasses, try to carry an extra pair just incase the one you are wearing gets damaged or broken during your safari experience.
Comfortable and suitable shoes
Shoes can make or ruin your trip. Carry shoes which you can wear for the better part of the day without discomfort. A pair of sturdy hiking boots should also be considered especially if you are considering venturing out on foot. The shoes you choose must have a firm grip to avoid slipping during wet slippery conditions. You can consider a trail runner shoe or boots with excellent grip, tread and high ankle support in order to comfortably deal with rough terrains and conditions.
Hat
A hat will protect your hair from getting caught in tree branches and just getting messy from the wind and possible dust. They key is to get a comfortable hat which is gas permeable so that the heat generated can escape allowing you to cool off. You can consider different options such as a fishing hat, Panama sun hat, sun hat with neck cord, straw hat with sun protection, etc.
Sunscreen
Closely linked to a hat is sunscreen. You will need it to protect your skin from the harsh direct sunlight during your safari.You can consider between mineral and chemical sunscreen.The difference between the two is that mineral sunscreen sits on top of the skin while chemical sunscreen is absorbed into the skin.
Insect repellent
Mosquitoes and other insects can prove to be a nuisance during your safari travels and evening fun time outside your lodge. You can prevent any irritations by packing long-sleeved comfortable shirts with long collars. The markets now also offer insect repellent clothing for such purposes. You can also consider carrying a bottle of insect repellent, to use when the need arises. Other repellent options you can consider include clip on fan which is a device which you can attach to your waistband to repel insects through a chemical called metofluthrin. Ultrasonic repellent on the other hand generates high-frequency ultrasonic buzz which scares mosquitoes and other insects.
Medication
Being on safari will expose you to a new and strange environment. This means you can easily trigger allergies which you are not even aware of. Some antihistamines for blocked nose and decongestants will come in handy if you react to the environment. If the area you are travelling to has malaria prevalence, take anti-malaria before you travel. It’s also not a bad idea to pack some medication for any stomach issues you may experience.
Travel insurance policy details
Travel insurance is key during your travels. What is important to note is that during an emergency like an accident or severe illness, it will be the people around you making calls and arranging an evacuation. So keep your policy number and the contact details for claims and emergencies close by.
The items listed above if carried and applied well will assist you to have safe, secure and fun safari travels.
