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When on safari, one of the most important things is to be comfortably and practically dressed. There are some points you may want to consider before you start packing:
“Safari colours” are always green, khaki, brown or grey. The reasons are fairly obvious: they help you blend in with the surrounding bush making you less conspicuous to animals. This is especially important if you’re going on a game drive or approaching wildlife on foot.
Many people believe red is the worst colour but it is in fact white which can easily be spotted by animals. So don’t forget to take these points in to consideration when choosing your safari clothes.
Please also remember that army-style camouflage clothes are illegal in Tanzania.
The members of the first British expedition who reported back
to England that they had seen a mountain in Africa with snow on it were thought to be mad.
For those considering climbing Kilimanjaro it goes without saying that appropriate clothing is vital. But even if you are not going up any mountains – please bring some warm clothes! It gets very cold in some high altitude areas, especially in June, July and August. Warm fleeces and sweaters are perfect.
Having said that, this is Africa and we are very close to the equator so it does get very hot sometimes, especially in December, January and February. It is best to dress in layers so you don’t get chilly in the morning, then as the day gets progressively hotter, you can remove heavier clothing and stay cool in the lighter clothes you’re wearing underneath.
Cotton is best – it is comfortable, it does not irritate the skin and you don’t need a specialist dry cleaner to get it washed. Best not to bring any clothes that need special treatment for cleaning, they might suffer!
As far as shoes go – four pairs should be all you need. One pair of
lightweight walking shoes with good ankle support. One pair of comfortable closed shoes for when it’s cool. One pair of sturdy sandals when it’s hot. One pair of rubber flip-flops – they always come in handy. That’s your footwear sorted!
You need to think about protecting yourself against the African sun as well as insects. A hat and sunglasses are very useful. Long trousers, socks, closed shoes and long sleeves work to keep you from being bitten by mosquitoes which are especially hungry at dusk.
It may also get quite windy and rainy on occasion – a lightweight, water and windproof jacket is always good to have, just in case.
Socks and underwear – well you know all that… possibly a swimsuit and of course toiletries, which should include insect repellent and a strong sunscreen (SPF 30 or more).
Please note: Some ladies may want to consider packing a sports bra as the roads can be particularly bumpy at times.
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