What can you expect on a safari regarding the wildlife, geography, and interaction in South Africa? However, you should remember in your mind that organizing a safari entails much more than simply planning for a trip and packing bags. A proper dress code is paramount, as one needs to be comfortable and safe while in the African field. This article details the proper attire required for a safari in South Africa considering the weather, the things you will be doing, and the social requirements of the trip.
Headgear: Sun Protection and Comfort
The climate has been described earlier. Well, let me remind you that the South African sun is rather hot and will not stop even during the night. Covering the head and face regions is critical to prevent sunburn or dehydration. Purchase a large floppy hat or a sun hat with the option for a chin strap so the hat stays put while walking. A cap with a UPF rating is also possible, so long as it is indeed quality shade.
Do not forget to pack sunglasses that will protect your eyes as well, and those that have 100% UV protection. Polarized lenses are a plus because they cut glare and enhance peripheral vision in the bushes.
Machine washable, lightweight clothing for comfort.
Almost all regions of South Africa have daytime temperatures between 20-30 °C during the dry season, which is from May to September, and 25-35 °C during the wet season, which is from October up to April. Putting on extra clothing layers when it gets cold will help you deal with changes in temperature and during game drives.
In hot conditions, choose natural fiber garments like cotton, linen, or synthetics, which ‘wick’ sweat from the body. In the layer directly exposed to ambient conditions, clothing should include long-sleeve shirts and long pants for protection from sun, insects, and tall weeds or plants.
If you intend to go for a walk through the countryside, long trousers are ideal for the lower half of the body, whether it is a pair of casual trousers or khakis, cotton trousers, etc., the advantage besides protecting against insect bites from insects like mosquitoes and ticks among others, is that your legs will not be hot. If you are going for a trek, then walking on guided trailing means that your pants will always be in contact with thorny shrubs or branches therefore, consider getting solid pants.
Subtlety and Class: Dressing for Safari Etiquette
A safari is a civilized visit to a place, bestowing as much politeness to nature as possible. Wear natural shades of clothing that would allow you to exert least possible conflicts with your surroundings. To avoid, stay away from bright coloured items, neon colours and loud prints because objects or structures can be misinterpreted as a threat to wildlife.
Men should endeavour to provide cover to the upper body while ensuring elegance and simplicity through providing fashion that are collared shirts for men and conservative blouses for ladies. Do not wear short clothes like shorts, leggings or exercise wear; instead wear trousers, skirts, or even dresses that touch the knee.
Footwear: Comfort and Versatility
Safari shoes should be a supreme quality but a pair of worn out boots or comfortable closed shoes should suffice. From your shoes, chose sturdy shoes, with high ankle that would allow you to trek in hilly areas, for long hours, and ability to cross small rivers.
If you’d like to do too, nothing heavy at all but a good pair of canvas shoes, boat shoes, or deck shoes should suffice when it comes to comfort, and that can cover the long drives, long walks too.
Change is the nature of life and so when it comes to layering
It will help to prevent too sudden temperature changes, which are quite possible during morning and evening rides for example. Wear multiple layers of clothing to immediately add or remove a layer as necessary. For instance, you can wear a short-sleeve shirt to work, a long-sleeve shirt over it, and a light jacket or fleece, if it’s still cold in the morning.
Don’t leave without other layers, like a light jacket or vest that’s waterproof and windproof, in case the weather decides change suddenly and start raining or getting too misty during the drives.
Other Stuffs to Wear for Safari Attire
Be prepared for various scenarios on your South African safari with the following essential items:
- A lightweight, quick-drying towel:Ideal for rubbing on after a game drive or shower in your camping lodge.
- Personal care items:This is a list of essentials; insect repellent, sunscreen lotion, lip balm with SPF, hand sanitizers.
- A small backpack or daypack: Take this with you when going for a guided walk, game drives or any other excursions that you need your necessities.
