What to pack for a safari

Here are simple guidelines/a list of essential items that are a MUST have as you plan for your safari to Africa. The list covers general requirements that might be useful while on safari, so it’s not only limited to Gorillas tracking adventure.

Daytime temperatures are generally warm in most parts of Uganda and Rwanda, so bring enough light clothing according to your safari duration.

The evenings tend to be cool in most parts of Uganda and Rwanda, so bring some warm clothing.

In most forest National Parks like Kibale, Nyungwe, Bwindi, Mgahinga, Volcanoes National Park, weather can change anytime, so slightly heavier clothing is useful.

When packing, please ensure valuables like cameras, phones, computers and money/cash are in your carryon bags. Adventure Consults may not be of help in an event such items go missing since we do not have control over what happens in the airlines’ cargo department.

Over the years, we have had cases when international airlines do not get checked-in bags/luggage to the intended destination in time. Given such incidences, Adventure Consults recommends that you pack a few important items in the carryon bags that can take you through the first two days.

The ultimate travel packing list.

  • A small, lightweight, frameless, waterproof back/day pack.
  • Light, waterproof hiking or walking boots or shoes with treaded soles.
  • Thick, high socks.
  • Gaiters to protect you against stinging nettles
  • A pair of binoculars, small light ones recommended.
  • Long pants (jeans/khakis) and a long-sleeved shirt.
  • Leather or heavy canvas (gardening-style) gloves to grip vegetation (gardening gloves can work well).
  • Waterproof rain pants, a rain suit or poncho with a hood.
  • Moisture wicking undergarments, lightweight wool socks, long-sleeved shirt.
  • Sturdy trousers, sunglasses.
  • Sunscreen, a sun hat, a breathable lightweight rain poncho or parka with a rain hat.
  • Thick sweaters not necessary on the trek, as it gets very hot during tracking. Best to have layers of clothing, as temperatures tend to change.
  • A waterproof, squash-able hat.

Personal First Aid Kit: Advisable to check with your personal doctor is necessary but these are recommended; anti-diarrhea medicine, rehydration sachets, aspirin, cold medication, antiseptic cream, band-aids, motion sickness pills, lip balm, eye drops and personal medication.

If you wear contact lenses, cleaning fluid is not readily available in most parts of Uganda and Rwanda. given that dust or sun might be inconveniencing, it’s best to bring a pair of glasses along.

Adventure consults provides walking sticks, drinking water, soft drinks and picnic lunches/snacks.