Safari means 'journey'

Whenever someone mentions Africa and tourism, people usually think about African safaris. In case you are not sure why African safaris are so popular we will mention three advantages of being part of a safari – observing unique wildlife found only on this continent, learning more about the rich culture of Africa and sightseeing stunning African nature. This should be more than enough for any adventurous individual looking to experience something completely new and memorable on their next trip. However, if you want to enjoy all these things, you must first make a plan. Of course, the most important part of this plan is the list of things that you should bring on your African safari. Now here’s the list of must-have things for this special activity:

If I have ever seen magic, it has been in Africa.

— John Hemingway

Vaccination

Let’s be clear – you will enter a territory that is much different compared with the place where you live. This wilderness is unique and hides many dangers, so you must be careful. One thing that each traveler must do is to get vaccinated before they travel to Africa. Every country in Africa usually provides a list of common diseases and vaccines used for their prevention.

Bug repellent

While we are talking about our health, we must mention the bugs that dwell in Africa and especially the mosquitoes which can make you frustrated while you are on your African safari. So, find an effective bug repellent and use it on a regular basis. Depending on the location where you are going, you may need to take certain prescription drugs like Lariam in order to protect yourself from malaria.

Patience

Pole Pole – pronounced Polay Polay – means slowly, slowly in Swahili. Things in Africa can go slow at times. Not just the wildlife, but other aspects of travelling through Africa don’t have a strict sense of time. Just hang loose and you’ll be alright.

Africa has her mysteries and even a wise man cannot understand them. But a wise man respects them.

— Miriam Makeba

Camera

The things you’ll see on your African safari will be remembered forever, but you won’t regret bringing a camera to capture these special moments. Make sure you are able to shoot smaller and larger focal lengths (wide or zoomed in) as African nature has so much to offer.

Sun-protective combo

You can expect to get exposed to sun most of the day while you are on a safari. That’s why I suggest having bringing a hat, a pair of sunglasses and sunscreen cream or lotion to protect yourself from the damaging effects of African sun,

Travel guides and maps

Whether you are travelling in an organized tour or with friends it’s always a good idea to know where you are headed and get up to speed on your surroundings. I have always enjoyed having travel and wildlife books to study nature and the environment I am in. If you have a trained game warden along he will probably have some books to show you what his trained eye has spotted. Which is what brings us to the next check on the list:

The only man I envy is the man who has not yet been to Africa – for he has so much to look forward to.

— Richard Mullin

Binoculars

The vast plains of Africa often seem endless and the bumpy roads means it may take ages to get where you want to be. Next to that there are often limitations in place to ensure wildlife doesn’t get too comfortable with humans. This means you won’t always be able to get as close to that animal in your dreams as you want so I can highly recommend borrowing or investing in a good pair of binoculars.

Jacket

Even though Africa is known for its hot climate, in many cases nights can be quite cold, so bringing a jacket is always a smart idea.

Power Banks

You’re going to need lots of juice if you’re navigating with your phone. Besides that you always want to be able to call someone if the shit hits the fan.

“If there were one more thing I could do, it would be to go on safari once again.”

— Karen Blixen

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